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The Battle Against Banned Substances in Track and Field

Track and field, one of the oldest and most celebrated sports in the world, has faced a long and complicated struggle against the use of banned substances. From anabolic steroids to blood doping, the temptation to gain a competitive edge has led some athletes down a dangerous path—one that not only risks their careers but also their health and the integrity of the sport itself.

The Rise of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Athletics

Since the 1960s, performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) have become a persistent issue in competitive athletics. Initially, the use of substances such as anabolic steroids was poorly regulated, and testing was minimal. As athletes began breaking world records at astonishing rates, suspicions grew about unfair advantages.

The 1988 Seoul Olympics marked a turning point when Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson tested positive for stanozolol, a powerful anabolic steroid, after winning the 100-metre final. His disqualification shocked the world and exposed how widespread doping had become in elite sports.

Types of Banned Substances

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) maintains a strict list of prohibited substances and methods. These include:

• Anabolic Steroids – Used to increase muscle mass and strength.

• Erythropoietin (EPO) – Boosts red blood cell production, enhancing endurance.

• Human Growth Hormone (HGH) – Promotes recovery and muscle development.

• Stimulants and Narcotics – Used to improve focus or mask pain during competition.

• Diuretics and Masking Agents – Help flush drugs from the body to avoid detection.

Each of these substances poses serious health risks, including heart problems, liver damage, hormonal imbalance, and long-term psychological effects.

The Cost of Cheating

Athletes caught using banned substances face severe penalties—disqualification, loss of medals, sponsorships, and bans from competition. Beyond official punishments, their reputations are often permanently tarnished. Some never recover from the public shame or the psychological toll that follows.

But the damage extends further: doping undermines the spirit of fair play and diminishes trust among competitors and fans. It casts doubt even on clean athletes, making every record-breaking performance a potential source of suspicion.

Modern Testing and the Fight for Clean Sport

In recent years, advances in testing have made it much harder for athletes to cheat undetected. Random out-of-competition tests, biological passports, and stored blood samples allow agencies to detect doping even years after an event.

Still, the battle continues. As testing methods improve, so too do the ways athletes and coaches try to evade them. Some turn to designer drugs—chemical variants of known substances created specifically to avoid detection.

Education and Prevention

To truly eliminate doping, education has become as important as testing. Many sports federations now focus on teaching young athletes about the dangers and consequences of banned substances. Emphasis is placed on nutrition, recovery, and natural training methods that can boost performance safely and legally.

Conclusion

The use of banned substances in track and field is not just a breach of the rules—it’s a betrayal of the sport’s core values: integrity, hard work, and fairness. While progress has been made in catching and deterring cheaters, the fight is ongoing. Only through vigilance, education, and a shared commitment to clean competition can the world of athletics maintain the purity and pride that make it so inspiring.

Attached is a News article on banned track substances 

https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/sep/12/world-athletics-championships-doping

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Understanding Narcissistic Behaviour: Its Impact and the Path to Overcoming It

Narcissistic behaviour, often misunderstood or oversimplified, is a complex psychological pattern that affects not only the person displaying it but also those around them. Rooted in insecurity, fear of inadequacy, or past trauma, narcissism manifests through an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. While it may initially appear as confidence or assertiveness, the consequences of unchecked narcissistic behaviour can be deeply damaging — emotionally, socially, and psychologically.

What Is Narcissistic Behaviour

Narcissistic behaviour stems from narcissistic personality traits or, in more severe cases, Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). People who exhibit such traits often:

• Constantly seek validation or admiration.

• Struggle to handle criticism or rejection.

• Believe they are superior to others.

• Manipulate situations to maintain control or power.

• Show little empathy or emotional understanding for others.

While everyone can display narcissistic tendencies occasionally, true narcissistic behaviour becomes harmful when it dominates one’s personality and relationships.

The Impact on the Individual

Ironically, beneath the façade of confidence and self-assuredness, narcissistic individuals often suffer from deep insecurity and emotional instability. Their self-worth is fragile, built upon the opinions and approval of others. This inner conflict can lead to:

• Loneliness and isolation: People often withdraw after repeated manipulation or lack of empathy.

• Anxiety and depression: When their self-image is threatened, narcissists can spiral into emotional distress.

• Addictive or destructive patterns: They may use control, anger, or even substance abuse to mask inner pain.

Over time, this behaviour erodes genuine self-awareness and prevents emotional growth, leaving the individual trapped in a cycle of self-protection and denial.

The Impact on Others

Being close to a narcissist — whether as a friend, partner, colleague, or family member — can be emotionally draining. Those around them often experience:

• Manipulation and gaslighting, where reality is twisted to maintain the narcissist’s control.

• Loss of confidence, as the narcissist diminishes others to feel superior.

• Emotional exhaustion, from constant conflict or the need to “please” them.

• Toxic relationships, where empathy and balance are replaced by dominance and fear.

Over time, the emotional toll can lead to stress, low self-esteem, and trauma, sometimes requiring therapy or support to heal.

Overcoming Narcissistic Behaviour

Change is possible — but it requires self-awareness, humility, and consistent effort. Here are some key focus points for overcoming narcissistic tendencies:

1. Acknowledge the behaviour:

The first and hardest step is recognising that the problem exists. Honest self-reflection and feedback from trusted people can help break denial.

2. Develop empathy:

Practice understanding others’ emotions without judgement or comparison. Listening and validating others’ experiences helps reduce self-centredness.

3. Manage ego and control:

Learn to let go of the need to dominate or be right. Accepting vulnerability and imperfection fosters genuine connections.

4. Seek professional therapy:

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy can uncover the root causes of narcissism, such as childhood trauma or unmet emotional needs.

5. Build healthy self-esteem:

True confidence comes from self-acceptance, not admiration. Focus on personal growth, accountability, and gratitude.

6. Practice mindfulness:

Meditation and reflection can help a person observe their thoughts and reactions without acting impulsively on ego-driven emotions.

A Journey Toward Self-Awareness

Overcoming narcissistic behaviour is not about destroying one’s confidence — it’s about transforming false pride into genuine self-respect. With compassion, honesty, and professional support, individuals can rebuild healthier relationships and live with greater emotional balance.

Ultimately, the journey away from narcissism is one of healing the self — learning that true strength lies not in being admired, but in being authentic, empathetic, and kind.

Attached is a news article regarding narcissistic behaviour in a relationship 

https://www.cnbc.com/amp/2023/11/09/harvard-psychologist-shares-red-flags-of-highly-narcissistic-people-in-relationships.html

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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The Hidden Weight of Obesity: How Excess Weight Impacts the Mind, Body, and Life

Obesity is one of the most pressing health challenges of the modern age, affecting millions of people worldwide. While it is often discussed in terms of diet, exercise, and body image, the deeper psychological and emotional consequences are often overlooked. Beyond the visible physical toll, obesity has a profound impact on mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.

The Physical Strain on the Body

Obesity increases the risk of numerous chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and certain cancers. Carrying excess body fat places immense pressure on joints and organs, often leading to mobility issues and chronic pain. Sleep apnoea, liver disease, and hormonal imbalances are also common side effects. For many, these health conditions limit independence and daily activity, creating a vicious cycle of inactivity and further weight gain.

The Psychological Burden

The emotional toll of obesity can be as debilitating as the physical effects. Individuals struggling with their weight often experience low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Society’s emphasis on appearance and thinness contributes to stigma and discrimination, leading many to feel isolated or ashamed. Studies have shown that obese individuals face higher rates of workplace bias, social exclusion, and bullying, which can trigger or worsen mental health disorders.

This cycle can be self-perpetuating: emotional distress leads to comfort eating or disordered eating patterns, which in turn lead to more weight gain and deeper psychological pain. The brain’s reward system becomes tied to food, turning eating into a coping mechanism rather than a source of nourishment.

Impact on Daily Life and Relationships

Obesity can affect nearly every aspect of daily life—from mobility to personal relationships. Tasks that most people take for granted, such as climbing stairs, travelling, or playing with children, can become increasingly difficult. Social withdrawal is common, as individuals may avoid public situations due to embarrassment or fear of judgment.

Relationships can also suffer. Feelings of inadequacy or guilt may strain marriages and friendships, while partners or family members often struggle to understand the emotional complexities behind obesity. The result is a loss of intimacy, trust, and mutual support—further feeding the cycle of emotional eating and depression.

The Link Between Obesity and Mental Health Disorders

Medical research shows a clear link between obesity and psychological disorders. Conditions such as major depressive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and anxiety are significantly more prevalent among those with obesity. Hormonal and inflammatory changes in the body may also directly affect brain chemistry, contributing to mood disturbances.

In some cases, medications prescribed for depression or anxiety can lead to weight gain, complicating treatment and discouraging individuals from seeking help. This dual struggle—managing both weight and mental illness—can be exhausting and overwhelming.

A Path Toward Healing and Balance

Tackling obesity requires more than diet plans or gym memberships—it demands a holistic approach. Effective treatment should address both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), support groups, and nutritional counselling can help individuals understand their relationship with food and develop healthier coping strategies.

Governments and healthcare providers must also play their part by promoting mental health awareness within obesity treatment programs. Reducing stigma, encouraging empathy, and ensuring access to mental health services can transform how society views and supports those living with obesity.

Conclusion

Obesity is not simply a matter of willpower—it is a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. The true burden of obesity extends far beyond physical appearance or health; it reaches into the mind, emotions, and every aspect of daily life. Understanding this connection is key to offering compassion and effective support. By addressing both the body and the mind, society can help those affected find balance, health, and renewed self-worth.

Attached is a news article regarding kindergarten teacher weighs nearly 700 pounds | too large 

https://tiphero.com/700-pound-kindergarten-teacher

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Man Eats Over 32,000 Big Macs — And Has No Plans to Stop

A Wisconsin man has taken his love for McDonald’s to record-breaking extremes — eating more than 32,000 Big Macs over the past five decades.

Don Gorske, a 70-year-old retired prison officer from Fond du Lac, has been officially recognised by the Guinness World Records as the person who has eaten the most Big Macs in history. His obsession began on May 17, 1972, when he purchased his first three Big Macs from a local McDonald’s. He loved them so much that he ate all three on the same day — and decided he’d never stop.

“I like everything about them — the taste, the size, and the consistency,” Gorske told reporters. “McDonald’s has kept them the same for years, and that’s what I like — reliability.”

Since then, Gorske has kept detailed records of every Big Mac he’s eaten. He claims to eat about two Big Macs a day, and he’s only missed a handful of days — often because the restaurant was closed due to bad weather or travel.

Despite what many might assume, Gorske insists he’s in good health. He rarely eats fries, soda, or other fast food items, sticking almost exclusively to Big Macs and some home-cooked meals. His doctor has reportedly described him as being in “surprisingly good shape” for someone with such a unique diet.

Gorske’s dedication to the Big Mac even earned him a cameo in the 2004 documentary Super Size Me, which explored the effects of excessive fast-food consumption. Unlike the film’s main subject, who suffered negative health effects after eating McDonald’s for 30 days straight, Gorske’s cholesterol and weight have remained relatively stable for years.

When asked if he ever gets tired of the same burger, he laughs.

“Never. I still get excited every time I unwrap one,” he says.

With more than 32,000 Big Macs consumed, Don Gorske shows no signs of slowing down. His goal? To keep eating them as long as he lives — and maybe even hit 40,000 before he’s done.

Attached is a news article regarding a man who has eaten over 32,000 Big Macs 

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14542405/amp/donald-gorske-mcdonalds-hamburger-big-mac-health.html 

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Gang War Erupts in Kent and Essex: “Essex Raiders” Locked in Violent Feud with Albanian Mafia

A violent gang war has erupted across parts of Kent and Essex, as a ruthless local crime group known as the Essex Raiders clashes with the Albanian mafia over control of drug routes, territory, and money laundering networks.

Police say the ongoing conflict has led to multiple shootings, arson attacks, and assaults, leaving residents in towns such as Basildon, Southend, and Gravesend living in fear. Officers from the National Crime Agency (NCA) and regional organised crime units have been drafted in amid fears the violence could spiral out of control.

Origins of the Feud

The Essex Raiders are believed to have emerged from a network of smaller British gangs that dominated the county’s drug scene in the early 2010s. They built their empire through street-level cocaine distribution, high-speed car thefts, and violent debt collection.

But their dominance came under threat when the Albanian mafia moved into Essex from London and East Anglia, offering purer cocaine at lower prices and using brutal intimidation tactics to seize local markets.

Sources close to the investigation claim that the Essex Raiders initially attempted to broker a truce with the Albanian factions, but talks broke down over territory in Thurrock and Dartford, sparking a wave of retaliation.

Violence and Retaliation

Over the past six months, police have linked a string of violent incidents to the turf war:

• A car bombing outside a nightclub in Basildon in May, injuring three people.

• A drive-by shooting in Tilbury in July that left a 28-year-old man fighting for his life.

• A series of firebomb attacks on suspected gang safe houses in Rochester and Maidstone.

Detectives believe both groups are heavily armed, with weapons sourced from Eastern Europe and smuggled into the UK via container ships docking at Tilbury Docks.

Police Crackdown

Kent and Essex Police have launched Operation Ironclad, a major joint initiative to disrupt both organisations. Dozens of arrests have been made, and large quantities of cocaine, cash, and firearms have been seized.

Detective Superintendent Alan Reid, who is leading the operation, said:

“We are dealing with highly organised and extremely violent individuals. Their greed and rivalry are putting innocent lives at risk. We will not stop until both groups are dismantled.”

Impact on Local Communities

Residents say the once-quiet towns of South Essex and North Kent now live under a cloud of fear. Local shopkeepers have reported being extorted for “protection money,” and several community leaders have called for increased patrols and CCTV.

A shop owner in Grays told reporters:

“We’ve seen young men in balaclavas on motorbikes, cars speeding through at night, and police raids every week. It feels like a war zone now.”

Conclusion

As the Essex Raiders and the Albanian mafia continue their bloody battle for dominance, authorities warn that the violence could spread further into London and the South East. The NCA has described the feud as one of the most dangerous gang conflicts currently active in the UK, and investigations are ongoing to track the leaders believed to be hiding overseas.

Attached is a news article regarding gang war Essex raiders vs Albanian mafia 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-65954737.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Drug Dealer Jailed for 16 Years After Cache of Sub-machine Guns, £143,000 Cash and Cocaine Found

A 25-year-old man, Terence O’Connor of Webb Street, Bolton, has been sentenced to 16 years and 3 months in prison following convictions linked to a serious firearms and drug trafficking operation.  

The Offences and Arrest

O’Connor came under police surveillance by the Metropolitan Police’s Proactive Money Laundering Team after he was observed handing over a large sum of cash to a man who was already being monitored.  

On 30 April 2020, officers watched O’Connor sitting in a parked car in Silverston Way, Edgware. When he began moving items in the vehicle’s boot, detectives moved in. A search revealed a large quantity of cocaine in a black rucksack by his feet. O’Connor denied ownership.  

Further searches followed: his home address on Amias Drive, Edgware, was also raided. There, police uncovered £143,080 in cash, a money counting machine, and additional quantities of cocaine.  

Firearms Discovered

Hidden behind a false wall panel in the Edgware flat was a holdall containing multiple illegal weapons:

• A fully functioning 9mm Uzi sub-machine gun  

• A Czech-made .32 auto Skorpion sub-machine gun  

• A silencer compatible with the firearms, plus magazines and a total of 332 rounds of ammunition including .38 calibre rounds.  

Legal Proceedings & Sentence

O’Connor pleaded guilty to a number of serious charges, including:

• Two counts of possessing a Class A drug (cocaine)

• Being concerned in the supply of cocaine

• Possession of criminal property

• Two counts of possession of an automatic weapon with intent to endanger life

• Possession of a silencer and ammunition  

At Harrow Crown Court, he was sentenced to 16 years and 3 months in prison.  

Wider Implications

Police emphasized that this case illustrates the close ties between drugs, firearms, and money laundering in organised crime. The discovery of such dangerous weapons — capable of causing serious harm or loss of life — hidden in a domestic setting underlines the threat posed when such arsenals fall into the wrong hands.  

Detective Constable Kevin Davies described O’Connor’s involvement as both in large-scale drug trafficking and laundering of its proceeds.  

Sentence in Context

• The value of the illegal drugs seized was approximately £36,000 in wholesale cocaine.  

• The cash seized was approximately £143,080.  

• The case also included possession of weapons with intent to endanger life, which is among the more serious offences under UK law with high potential prison sentences.  

Key Takeaways

• Hidden weapons and illicit firearms remain a significant threat, especially when combined with drug trafficking.

• The use of false panels, holdalls, and domestic properties for storing weapons and drugs complicates detection, requiring high-intensity intelligence and surveillance work.

• The combination of drug supply, firearms offences, and large sums of cash leads to very long sentences in UK courts.

Attached is a news article regarding a man caught with a UZI and skorpion machine gun with a 140k cash and cocaine is jailed for 16 years 

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9565465/amp/Police-machine-guns-bullets-hidden-false-wall-raid-drug-dealers-house.html

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Trump’s War on Drug Cartels in South America: An Escalation

Background

Recently, the U.S. under President Donald Trump has dramatically escalated its strategy against drug cartels operating in Latin America, particularly those based in Venezuela. Key components of the escalation include:

• Designation of several criminal groups (cartels / gangs) as foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs).  

• Authorization of military force against these groups, including strikes on vessels in the Caribbean said to be trafficking narcotics.  

• A formal notification to Congress declaring that the U.S. is in a “non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels, treating cartel operatives as “unlawful combatants.”  

This marks a significant shift from more traditional interdictive, law enforcement-led approaches (seizures, arrests, cooperation with partner governments) toward more direct use of military power, including lethal force, in international waters and possibly beyond.  

Key Operations & Recent Strikes

Some of the most notable recent actions include:

• A U.S. strike on a boat in the southern Caribbean, allegedly operated by Tren de Aragua, originating from Venezuela, killing 11 people.  

• Subsequent strikes on other vessels accused of narcotics trafficking, with several deaths. The U.S. claims these were acts of self-defense or justified under the law of armed conflict.  

• Deployment of naval and air assets in the southern Caribbean and broader Caribbean Sea to facilitate surveillance, interdiction, and strike capacity.  

Legal, Ethical, and Political Issues

This escalation raises several critical controversies and concerns:

1. Legal Basis and Presidential Power

Declaring cartels as terrorist organizations and treating their members as “unlawful combatants” opens up the possibility of using wartime powers (e.g. military force without trial). Critics warn this could bypass standard law enforcement due process, and may stretch or violate U.S. domestic law and international law.  

2. International Law & Sovereignty

Using force in international waters is one thing; entering a country’s territorial waters or acting on land (Venezuela or elsewhere) risks violating sovereignty. There is concern about whether enough evidence is being publicly produced to justify these strikes under the law of armed conflict or self-defense. Venezuelan authorities have protested the strikes.  

3. Risk of Escalation & Regional Relations

Venezuela has warned it will defend its territory if attacked. States in the region are watching carefully, as these steps could provoke diplomatic tensions or even conflict. Also, designating cartels as terrorist groups could affect relations with Mexico, Colombia, and others.  

4. Transparency & Accountability

There are questions around transparency of the evidence supporting claims (drug loads, cartel involvement, etc.), as well as oversight of military operations. Congress, human rights groups, and news organizations have demanded more clarity.  

5. Effectiveness & Unintended Consequences

This kind of hard power approach may reduce some immediate drug trafficking, but it may also have unintended consequences, such as civilian casualties, displacement, the strengthening of cartels through backlash, shifts in trafficking routes, or increased corruption. Also, without addressing root causes — poverty, weak institutions, demand for drugs — the long-term impact may be limited. Analysts warn of these risks.  

Regional Reactions & Impact

• Venezuela, under Nicolás Maduro, has condemned the strikes and U.S. military presence as violations of sovereignty. The government has expressed that it may respond constitutionally, mobilizing militia and making warnings.  

• Colombia has just been decertified by the U.S. as “failing to cooperate in its counternarcotics obligations” for the first time in many years. This signals tension even with historic U.S. allies.  

• Some regional governments are cautious or critical, emphasizing cooperation, evidence, respect for sovereignty. Mexico, for example, has been vocal about needing balanced approaches.  

Strategic Implications & Risks

• Broader Militarization: These actions may mark a shift toward a more militarized U.S. policy in Latin America, which has historically been fraught with consequences (collateral damage, regional mistrust).

• Precedent Setting: Defining non-state criminal groups as terrorist/unlawful combatants could establish precedents for future administrations, potentially lowering thresholds for military force.

• Domestic & Congressional Oversight Tensions: The use of executive war powers without clear legislation or declarations from Congress raises constitutional issues.

• Human Rights Concerns: Potential risks of extrajudicial killings, civilian casualties, and infringement of international law protections.

• Regional Stability: Risk of spillover or backlash, including reprisals, political instability, or escalation with states whose territory or waters are involved.

Conclusion

Trump’s current strategy against drug cartels in South America represents a clear pivot to militarized, high-stakes counter-narcotics action. The use of lethal force in international waters, designations of cartels as terrorist groups, naval build-ups, and the invocation of war powers signal that the U.S. sees the drug cartels not just as criminal networks, but as national security threats warranting military responses.

Whether this approach will reduce drug trafficking, save lives, or foster better security—and at what cost—remains uncertain. Key factors will be legal justification, oversight, maintaining international and regional cooperation, and addressing underlying factors that fuel the drug trade.

Attached is a News article regarding trump war on drug cartels in south America 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cn0xvpxk9dqo.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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What is Black Angus (FTW)

From what I gathered:

• Ticker: FTW. Sometimes called Black Angus or Black Agnus.  

• Nature: It’s a meme coin with added DeFi (decentralised finance) features. In other words, it blends the viral, speculative energy that meme coins are known for with attempts at utility (staking, governance, etc.).  

• Supply: Very large supply. E.g. on CoinGecko, circulating and total supply is huge.  

• Recent activity / volatility: It has had explosive price moves. There are reports of very large percentage gains (over 2000-3000%) in 24-hour spans. But also reports of sharp drops and warnings about possible scams.  

What are the claimed or possible positives. 

Here are some of the reasons people might be attracted to Black Angus:

1. Huge potential upside

Because the coin is very low priced per token and because of speculative interest, small investments could in theory grow quickly if momentum continues.

2. Strong community / hype

Meme coins tend to succeed when they capture attention, get social media buzz, are shared, etc. Black Angus has gotten attention in crypto news sites for its rapid gains.  

3. Some DeFi utility

The project claims to offer staking, governance, being part of DeFi features, possibly real world utilities. That potentially offers more than mere speculation.  

4. Low entry price

Because the price per token is very small, one doesn’t need a large amount of capital to own many tokens. This can make it attractive to smaller investors who hope for big gains.

What are the risks / red flags

However, there are many serious warnings and concerns. These are vital to consider.

1. Extreme volatility

The coin has spiked, but also large drops have been reported. Big gains often come with big losses.  

2. Scam / rug pull concerns

• Some users on forums report being unable to sell or swap their tokens, or having very high “price impact” when trying to exit.  

• Warnings about fake/fraudulent contract addresses (people copying the token to scam unsuspecting users) have been raised.  

3. Lack of transparency & possibly weak fundamentals

• It’s unclear how well audited the contract and code are; claims exist, but independent verification may be weak.

• Very large supply dilutes per-token value and makes meaningful long-term appreciation harder unless substantial demand emerges.

• Utility claims are often vague or not yet fully proven in practice.

4. Market sentiment dependency

As with many meme coins, success depends heavily on hype, social media, trends. Once hype fades, price can collapse.

What do some data sources / observations show. 

• The current price is extremely low per FTW token.  

• Very low market cap and low liquidity (in many markets). That means trades can have big price impact; you might have difficulty selling.  

• Reports show that while some short-term gains have been spectacular, over longer periods the token has lost very large percentage from its peaks. 

Should you invest? My take

Given everything, here’s how I think about it:

• If you treat this as a high risk, speculative bet — money you can afford to lose — then it might be okay to put a small amount in, purely for the chance of outsized gains.

• But as a core investment, or something to depend on, it looks very risky. The red flags (scam reports, low liquidity, possible inability to exit) are serious.

• It would be safer to wait for more auditing, more confirmed utility (platforms using FTW, stable governance, clear roadmap execution), and better transparency from the team.

Conclusion

Black Angus / FTW is an example of the kind of crypto where potential reward is high, but so is risk. It might be interesting for speculators or people who like “moonshots,” but for someone trying to build a solid, long-term portfolio, it seems more suitable as a very small position rather than a core holding.

Attached is a News article regarding black Angus cryptocurrency 

https://nairametrics.com/2024/09/17/new-black-agnus-memecoin-surges-by-400-in-a-day-hits-1-8-billion-market-cap/

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Corrupt Police Officer Used Force Computer to Plan String of Burglaries

A shocking case of corruption has rocked a UK police force after an officer was caught using police databases to plan a series of burglaries targeting vulnerable residents. The officer, whose name has not yet been released pending sentencing, allegedly used confidential computer systems to identify wealthy homeowners and check whether they were away before coordinating break-ins with known criminals.

According to investigators, the rogue officer had been working within the force for over a decade and was trusted with sensitive information. However, suspicions arose after several high-value burglaries occurred in areas that had not been publicised or shown obvious signs of targeting. Internal audits later revealed that the officer had accessed records unrelated to his duties, including home addresses, vehicle details, and incident logs of potential victims.

Detective Chief Superintendent Laura Mason, who led the investigation, said the officer’s actions represented a “deep betrayal of public trust.”

“This individual abused his position, his access to privileged information, and the uniform he wore,” Mason stated. “His criminal actions not only endangered the public but severely damaged the reputation of every honest police officer who serves with integrity.”

Prosecutors told the court that the officer sold the information to a burglary gang operating across several counties. In exchange, he allegedly received thousands of pounds in cash and a share of stolen goods. Investigators later discovered messages on encrypted apps in which the officer discussed “easy targets” and provided real-time updates on police patrols.

The officer was arrested after an internal investigation by the Professional Standards Department and the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). During a search of his home, officers found luxury items, cash bundles, and a burner phone linking him to the burglary ring.

At trial, the defence argued that the officer had been under financial pressure due to debt and had been manipulated by organised criminals. However, the judge dismissed the claim, calling it a “calculated and cynical exploitation of police resources.”

The corrupt officer now faces a lengthy prison sentence, while the force involved has promised to review its internal security and data access systems.

Public Reaction and Aftermath

The case has reignited public debate about oversight and accountability within UK policing. Many have expressed outrage that someone entrusted to protect communities instead exploited them. Calls are growing for stronger vetting processes, real-time monitoring of database access, and harsher penalties for officers who misuse their authority.

A spokesperson for the Home Office described the incident as “a stark reminder that corruption, at any level, will not be tolerated.”

Conclusion

The downfall of the corrupt officer serves as a grim warning about the potential abuse of power within law enforcement. While the vast majority of officers serve with honesty and dedication, this case highlights the importance of constant vigilance, transparency, and accountability to preserve public trust in those sworn to uphold the law.

Attached is news article regarding corrupt police officer who used police computer to plan burglaries 

https://www.south-wales.police.uk/news/south-wales/news/2024/july/former-officer-jailed-for-burglary-and-corruption/

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

The Power of Gut-Friendly Bacteria: How Good Microbes Keep You Healthy

In recent years, scientists and nutritionists have begun to uncover just how vital gut-friendly bacteria are for our overall health. These beneficial microbes, often referred to as probiotics, play a key role in digestion, immunity, mood regulation, and even disease prevention. While bacteria are usually associated with illness, the ones that live in our intestines tell a very different story — one of balance, resilience, and well-being.

What Are Gut-Friendly Bacteria

Gut-friendly bacteria are live microorganisms that naturally live in our digestive tract. The human gut is home to trillions of microbes, collectively known as the gut microbiome. Among them are beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces boulardii, which help break down food, absorb nutrients, and protect the gut lining from harmful invaders.

These bacteria can be found naturally in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso. They can also be taken as dietary supplements to restore balance, especially after antibiotic use or digestive illness.

The Benefits of a Healthy Gut Microbiome

1. Improved Digestion:

Good bacteria help break down complex carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into simpler forms the body can absorb easily. This reduces bloating, constipation, and indigestion.

2. Stronger Immune System:

Around 70% of the body’s immune cells are located in the gut. A healthy balance of microbes helps the immune system recognize harmful pathogens while preventing unnecessary inflammation.

3. Mental Health Support:

The gut and brain are connected through the gut-brain axis. Studies show that gut bacteria can influence mood and cognitive function by producing neurotransmitters like serotonin — the “feel-good” hormone.

4. Weight Management:

Some gut bacteria help regulate metabolism and energy extraction from food. Research has linked imbalanced gut flora to obesity, while diverse bacterial populations tend to support a healthy weight.

5. Protection Against Disease:

A balanced microbiome can reduce the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and even certain cancers.

How to Boost Your Gut Health

• Eat Fermented Foods: Add yogurt, kefir, kimchi, kombucha, and sauerkraut to your meals.

• Increase Fibre Intake: Prebiotics — fibres found in bananas, onions, garlic, and oats — feed the good bacteria.

• Avoid Excess Sugar and Processed Foods: These promote the growth of harmful bacteria and yeast.

• Stay Hydrated: Water helps maintain a healthy gut lining and supports digestion.

• Limit Antibiotic Use: While sometimes necessary, antibiotics can wipe out beneficial microbes, leading to imbalances.

The Bottom Line

Your gut bacteria are not just passive passengers — they are essential partners in your health. By nurturing them through a balanced diet and lifestyle, you can boost your immunity, improve your mood, and enhance your overall well-being.

Attached is a news article regarding gut friendly bacteria 

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/diet/gut-health/gut-bacteria-microbiome-probiotics/?WT.mc_id=tmgoff_psc_ppc_google_core_pmax_broad_pmax_content_DSA_BrandExclusions&rm_id=RM_News_UK_Pmax_Ads_Bau_Core_DSA_Exclusions&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21080328644&gbraid=0AAAAADAty5CsA374kubYh6FLbkYAihKku

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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