Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Donald Trump Defends Decision to Demolish White House East Wing

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked outrage and fascination in equal measure after defending his controversial decision to demolish the East Wing of the White House — a move he claims is part of a “historic renovation” project to modernize America’s most iconic residence.

The East Wing, traditionally home to the offices of the First Lady and key support staff, has been a central part of the White House complex since its completion in 1942. However, Trump has described it as “outdated, inefficient, and unfit for the greatness America deserves,” arguing that the building’s aging infrastructure justified its removal.

“The East Wing was falling apart — everyone knows it,” Trump said during a televised interview at Mar-a-Lago. “We’re not destroying history; we’re making it better. The White House deserves to be as strong and beautiful as our country, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”

A “Vision of Renewal” or a Blow to History?

Critics, however, accuse Trump of disregarding history and overstepping boundaries by altering a national landmark. Architectural historians have called the demolition “unprecedented,” warning that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for future administrations.

“The East Wing is more than bricks and mortar — it’s part of America’s story,” said Professor Alan Brooks, a historian at Georgetown University. “To remove it without broad consultation undermines the integrity of the White House as a symbol of continuity and democracy.”

Trump’s Plans for a “Freedom Pavilion”

According to early reports, Trump intends to replace the East Wing with what he has dubbed the “Freedom Pavilion” — a gleaming glass and marble structure featuring exhibits on American innovation, presidential history, and “the triumph of the Trump administration.”

Renderings leaked online show a large domed hall with gold accents, gardens, and an amphitheatre for public addresses. Critics have called the proposal “egotistical,” while supporters say it could become a new tourist attraction celebrating patriotism and progress.

Political Reactions

The Biden administration has reportedly condemned the move, with officials calling it “reckless” and “unauthorised.” White House historians and preservationists have urged a full investigation into how demolition permits were approved, given the building’s historical protection status.

Still, Trump remains defiant.

“We’re not tearing America down,” he insisted. “We’re building it up — bigger, better, and stronger than ever before.”

Public Opinion Split

While some Americans see the demolition as an act of destruction, others view it as a bold step toward modernization. Online polls show a sharp divide along political lines, with Trump’s supporters praising the decision as a “refreshing change,” and opponents calling it a “national disgrace.”

As debate intensifies, one thing is certain — the future of the White House’s East Wing, and the legacy of this controversial transformation, will be discussed for decades to come.

Attached is a news article regarding Donald Trump defends demolishing White House east wing 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czxn7lwzx5po.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561

Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

George Stiebel: The First Black Jamaican Billionaire Who Built an Empire from Grit and Vision

George Stiebel, often remembered as Jamaica’s first Black millionaire—and widely regarded by historians as the nation’s first Black billionaire by today’s standards—was a man whose story epitomises ambition, perseverance, and self-determination in the face of racial and social barriers. Born in 1820 in Kingston, Jamaica, Stiebel rose from humble beginnings to become one of the island’s most influential businessmen and property owners during the 19th century.

Humble Beginnings

George Stiebel was born to a German Jewish father and an African Jamaican mother in a time when Jamaica’s social hierarchy was deeply influenced by race and class. Despite limited opportunities for people of African descent, Stiebel showed a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit from an early age. He began his working life as a carpenter’s apprentice before venturing into trade, where he quickly demonstrated a natural gift for business.

From Merchant to Mogul

Stiebel’s fortunes began to rise when he became involved in maritime trade. He invested in small ships that transported goods between the Caribbean islands and South America. This early success laid the foundation for his empire. However, his major breakthrough came in South America, particularly in Venezuela, where he invested in gold mining during the mid-1800s.

His gamble paid off enormously. Stiebel struck gold—literally—and became immensely wealthy. By the time he returned to Jamaica in the 1870s, his fortune had grown so vast that he stood among the richest men in the Caribbean.

A Symbol of Black Excellence

At a time when colonial Jamaica still operated under racial prejudice and economic inequality, George Stiebel’s success was revolutionary. He became a symbol of Black achievement and economic power in a society that rarely acknowledged such possibilities for people of colour.

He used his wealth not only to elevate himself but also to contribute to Jamaican society. Stiebel invested heavily in real estate, building and purchasing some of the most impressive properties on the island.

Devon House: A Monument to Legacy

His most famous creation remains Devon House, built in 1881 in Kingston. The grand Georgian-style mansion stood as a symbol of pride and independence. At a time when affluent residences were primarily owned by Europeans, Stiebel’s home was a direct challenge to colonial social norms.

Today, Devon House is one of Jamaica’s most celebrated national heritage sites—a museum and cultural landmark that honours Stiebel’s contribution to the nation’s history. The property attracts thousands of visitors each year, serving as a lasting reminder of his pioneering legacy.

Philanthropy and Influence

Beyond business, Stiebel was known for his philanthropy. He funded community projects, supported education, and provided opportunities for those less fortunate. His wealth, however, also drew envy and scrutiny, and his achievements were often met with resistance by Jamaica’s colonial elite. Still, he remained undeterred, continuing to expand his enterprises and influence.

Legacy of a Visionary

George Stiebel passed away in 1896, but his story continues to inspire generations of Jamaicans and the wider African diaspora. He was more than a businessman—he was a trailblazer who redefined what success could look like for Black people in a colonial world.

From a carpenter’s apprentice to a global entrepreneur and property magnate, Stiebel’s life is a powerful reminder that vision, courage, and determination can defy any barrier. Today, as visitors walk through the halls of Devon House, they are not just seeing a mansion—they are witnessing the enduring legacy of Jamaica’s first Black billionaire.

Attached is a news article regarding George stiebel the first black Jamaican billionaire 

https://www.my-island-jamaica.com/who_was_the_first_jamaican_millionaire.html

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561

Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Boris Johnson’s Children ‘Paid a Huge Price’ After Exam Results Fiasco

The fallout from the 2020 exam results fiasco — a scandal that rocked Britain’s education system during the pandemic — continues to cast a long shadow, with fresh reports suggesting that Boris Johnson’s own children were among those who “paid a huge price” for the government’s mishandling of the situation.

At the height of the COVID-19 lockdowns, exams were cancelled and replaced by an algorithm-based grading system designed by Ofqual, the exams regulator. The controversial algorithm downgraded nearly 40% of A-level results across the country, disproportionately affecting students from state schools and sparking nationwide outrage. Within days, protests erupted, and the government was forced into an embarrassing U-turn — but the damage, for many families, was already done.

Now, sources close to the former Prime Minister have revealed that Johnson’s own children were “deeply affected” by the chaos. Though details about his family are often kept private, it is understood that at least two of his older children were directly impacted by the algorithm scandal. They reportedly suffered academic and emotional setbacks during a period already fraught with uncertainty and pressure.

A family acquaintance described the episode as “a bitter irony,” given that it occurred under their father’s premiership. “It’s one thing to face public backlash as Prime Minister,” the source said, “but it’s another when your own children are caught up in the same system that your government failed to protect. They paid a personal and emotional price for those decisions.”

The fiasco, often cited as one of the Johnson government’s most damaging education blunders, left thousands of students scrambling to appeal their results or defer university offers. While Ofqual and the Department for Education later apologised, the sense of mistrust in the fairness of the education system lingered.

Education campaigners say the case highlights the human cost behind political missteps. “This wasn’t just a policy failure — it was a generation-defining trauma,” said one education reform advocate. “Even those with privilege or connections couldn’t escape the consequences.”

For Boris Johnson, the episode remains a painful reminder of the unintended personal consequences of political leadership. While he has largely avoided discussing his family in public, friends say the former Prime Minister was “furious” behind the scenes and deeply concerned about the toll it took on his children.

Five years on, the 2020 exam algorithm scandal still stands as a cautionary tale of how rushed policymaking — even during a crisis — can ripple through classrooms, families, and the very households of those in power.

Attached is a news article regarding boris Johnson left ina mood after exam result fiasco as children paid a huge price 

https://www.itv.com/news/2025-10-21/boris-johnson-denies-failing-to-plan-for-covid-school-closures

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561

Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Background

Kieran Hayler, aged 38 and from Northchapel in West Sussex, is the former husband of Katie Price. The pair were married from 2013 until they eventually separated, with their divorce finalised in 2021.  They share two children together: a son, Jett, and a daughter, Bunny.  

Hayler’s public profile has been marked by multiple controversies over the years, including infidelity, public relationship breakdowns, and legal issues (such as a previous arrest for suspected firearm offence and child neglect in 2023) — though those previous allegations are separate from the current case.  

The Charges

In October 2025, Sussex Police formally charged Kieran Hayler with three counts of rape and one count of sexual assault against a girl who was 13 years old at the time the alleged victim offences occurred.  

The alleged offences are said to have taken place between 1 June and 13 October 2016, at an address in West Sussex.  

The alleged victim is reported not to be a member of Hayler’s or Katie Price’s extended family.  

Hayler has responded through his legal representatives, stating that he “strongly denies the allegations made against him in their entirety.” They also say he has “fully cooperated” with police.  

He is due to appear at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on 19 November 2025. The case is expected to be sent to the Crown Court given the seriousness of the charges.  

Impact on Katie Price & Wider Context

Because the alleged offences occurred while Hayler was still married to Katie Price, there is the possibility that she might be called as a witness in court. A source is quoted as saying:

“Katie may well be called to court to give evidence. She was married to Kieran when these offences are said to have happened – it wouldn’t be surprising for her to be called up.”  

Katie Price has publicly said she is suffering from “off-the-scale anxiety” amid the situation.  She is continuing with her UK tour, but the ordeal has clearly taken a toll. 

It’s worth noting that under UK law, the presumption of innocence applies. Hayler is charged, not convicted. The details are subject to strict rules due to the involvement of a minor.  

What Happens Next

• The court appearance on 19 November is the next formal milestone. At that hearing, initial legal procedures will be carried out; the case will likely move to the Crown Court owing to its severity.  

• If Katie Price or others are called as witnesses, their roles and what they might testify about would depend on what the prosecution and defence determine.

• Because the alleged victim is a minor, many details will be anonymised, and the courts will restrict what can be reported in order to protect the victim.  

• In the meantime, the public and media must refrain from speculation or publishing content that might prejudice a fair trial.

Why this is being reported

This case has drawn significant media attention for a few reasons:

• The severity of the charges (rape and sexual assault of a minor) involving a public figure.

• The timeline overlapping with the marriage to a well-known personality (Katie Price), which raises additional public interest.

• The legal and social implications: how institutions respond to allegations of sexual crimes against children, how victims are supported, and how public figures are subject to heightened scrutiny.

Final thoughts

At this stage:

• Kieran Hayler is charged with very serious offences but remains innocent in the eyes of the law until proven guilty.

• Katie Price is unwittingly drawn into the case by virtue of her past relationship and may be required to take part in legal proceedings.

• The case will proceed through the courts, and much of the finer detail will only emerge in time.

• The human elements are complex: the alleged victim (very young), the children Hayler shares with Price, Price’s own well-being amid this situation, and the broader public interest.

Attached is a news article regarding Kieran hayler arrested and charged over the rape of a 13 year old girl 

https://www.standard.co.uk/showbiz/katie-price-testify-ex-husband-kieran-hayler-rape-b1254122.html

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561

Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

YouTuber Ringo Becomes a Beacon of Hope for the Homeless Across the UK

In a world often dominated by online drama and viral trends, one YouTuber is using his platform for something truly meaningful. Ringo, a fast-rising UK content creator known for his down-to-earth style and compassionate nature, has captured the hearts of millions by dedicating his channel to helping the homeless across the United Kingdom.

What began as a small social experiment has evolved into a nationwide movement. Ringo’s videos document his journey through cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow, where he spends time talking to homeless individuals, learning their stories, and offering direct support — from warm meals and clothing to temporary accommodation and even job opportunities.

“I just wanted to make a difference,” Ringo said in one of his recent uploads. “These people are not invisible. Every single person on the streets has a story, and they deserve to be heard.”

Unlike many charity-focused creators, Ringo keeps his approach personal and transparent. His videos not only highlight the challenges faced by those living rough but also explore the deeper systemic issues contributing to homelessness — including the cost-of-living crisis, lack of affordable housing, and mental health struggles.

Ringo’s work has attracted widespread attention and praise. His YouTube channel, which now boasts hundreds of thousands of subscribers, has become a platform for both awareness and action. Viewers frequently donate through his live streams and crowdfunding campaigns, helping to fund his ongoing mission. Many have even joined him in person to distribute supplies or volunteer at shelters.

Local councils and charities have taken notice too. Several have collaborated with Ringo to help connect individuals he meets on the streets with longer-term housing and rehabilitation programs. His efforts have been described as “real, raw, and life-changing” by supporters across social media.

Despite the growing fame, Ringo remains humble. “It’s not about views or fame,” he insists. “If one person finds safety, if one person gets another chance at life — that’s worth more than anything.”

Through his selfless acts and heartfelt storytelling, YouTuber Ringo has not only inspired millions but also reminded the UK that compassion can start with one person and a camera — and ripple across an entire nation.

Ringo’s message is clear: everyone deserves dignity, hope, and a helping hand. And thanks to his ongoing mission, countless people across the country are finding just that.

Attached is a news article regarding Ringo the you tuber who supports feeding homeless people on the streets of the uk 

https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news/24933291.ringo-vision-feeds-homeless-given-police-warning/

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561

Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

The Verdict

On 25 September 2025, a Paris criminal court found former French President Nicolas Sarkozy guilty of criminal conspiracy in relation to alleged campaign funding linked to the government of Muammar Gaddafi of Libya.  He was sentenced to five years in prison, a fine of €100,000, and barred from public office for five years.  

The court ruled that Sarkozy would start serving the sentence even while his appeal is ongoing, a decision described as reflecting the “exceptional gravity” of the offences.  

The Allegations in Brief

• The case involves Sarkozy’s 2007 presidential campaign, and the accusation that his campaign received funding from the Libyan government under Gaddafi, in exchange for diplomatic favours.  

• Evidence cited by prosecutors included statements by Libyan officials, documents published by investigative outlet Mediapart indicating a possible agreement to provide around “€50 million”, and meetings between Sarkozy’s close aides and Libyan figures.  

• The court, while finding the conspiracy proved, did not find that Sarkozy personally received or benefitted from the funds.  

Why This Matters

• It marks the first time in modern French history that a former president has been sentenced to actual jail time in connection with his presidential campaign.  

• It raises serious questions about foreign interference and undue influence in democratic elections — in this case, the involvement of a foreign autocratic regime in the campaign of a Western democratic leader.

• It reflects on the relationship between France and Libya under Gaddafi, especially since France (under Sarkozy) later took a leading role in the NATO-led intervention in Libya in 2011. The alleged deal preceded that collapse of the Gaddafi regime.  

The Defence and Reaction

• Sarkozy denies all wrongdoing, calling the verdict a “scandal” and stating he is “innocent”.  

• He argues the case is politically motivated and has announced his intention to appeal the conviction.  

• After the sentence, Sarkozy said: “If they absolutely want me to sleep in jail, I will sleep in jail, but with my head held high.”  

• The ruling has divided public opinion in France: some see it as a triumph of rule-of-law and accountability, others as political retribution or a blow to France’s international image.  

Broader Implications

• For French politics: the case casts a shadow on the conservative party that Sarkozy helped lead, and may influence discussions around campaign financing, transparency and foreign influence.

• For international relations: the case underscores how regimes like Gaddafi’s covertly attempted to influence foreign elections, and the long-term repercussions of such operations.

• For the judiciary: the decision to enforce the sentence even before appeal marks a shift in how high-level political corruption is treated in France.

• For public trust: the verdict sends a message that high office does not provide immunity from prosecution when laws on campaign financing and corruption are broken — or at least when judicial authorities decide it has happened.

What Next?

• Sarkozy’s appeal process is expected to continue, and the legal fight may stretch on for years.

• The exact date and location of his incarceration will be determined — reports suggest he may enter La Santé prison in Paris under special conditions.  

• Other defendants in the case (his former aides and others) have also been convicted or are awaiting sentencing, which may further illuminate the network of contacts and dealings behind the affair.  

• There are ongoing questions about whether other related investigations — e.g., witness-tampering, illicit cash flows, or international cooperation — will lead to further convictions.

Final Thoughts

The Sarkozy-Libya affair is emblematic of how the intersections of money, politics and foreign influence can reach the highest levels of power. A former president, who once portrayed himself as a reformer, now faces prison over alleged secret dealings with a dictator. Whether justice has been done — or merely the optics have shifted — will be debated for years.

Attached is a news article regarding sarkozy sent to prison for gaddafi money 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvgkm2j0xelo.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561

Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Apple’s Next Big Move: Your iPhone Could Become Your Passport by the End of 2025

In a move that could redefine the future of travel and personal identification, Apple is reportedly working on technology that would allow the iPhone to serve as a fully functional digital passport by the end of 2025. This development marks a major step in Apple’s long-term vision of turning its devices into secure all-in-one identity hubs — blending convenience, security, and cutting-edge innovation.

A Passport in Your Pocket

According to insiders close to Apple’s development teams, the company is expanding its Apple Wallet capabilities beyond digital IDs and driver’s licences to include a verified, government-approved digital passport system. This would allow users to store and present their passport data directly from their iPhone or Apple Watch — meaning travellers could pass through airports and border controls with just a scan of their device.

The initiative builds on Apple’s existing partnerships with government agencies in the United States, the UK, and parts of the European Union, where digital driver’s licences and national IDs are already being trialled in Apple Wallet. By 2025, Apple aims to have its passport feature recognised in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), ensuring global acceptance for international travel.

How It Would Work

The system would rely on biometric authentication, combining Face ID and fingerprint technology with encrypted data storage in Apple’s Secure Enclave chip. This means a user’s passport data would never be stored on Apple’s servers, only locally on the device. When passing through border control, travellers could simply tap their phone or scan their identity using NFC technology, confirming their identity with a facial scan — no physical passport required.

Additionally, Apple is developing offline verification modes, ensuring that even without internet access, the digital passport can be authenticated by local authorities using encrypted, short-range communication protocols.

Security and Privacy: Apple’s Top Priority

Apple has long marketed its products as being privacy-first, and this new feature would continue that philosophy. The company has reassured that all identity data would remain under user control, inaccessible even to Apple. Each verification request would require explicit consent from the user, preventing unauthorized access or tracking.

Security experts believe that Apple’s approach could set a new global standard for digital identity protection, potentially outperforming existing government-led ID systems in both safety and usability.

Global Trials and Government Collaboration

Pilot programs are expected to begin in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan in mid-2025. Negotiations are reportedly underway with other major travel hubs — including Canada, Australia, and members of the European Union — to make the digital passport a widely accepted travel credential.

Governments are increasingly drawn to the concept as a way to streamline immigration procedures, reduce paperwork, and enhance security checks through AI-powered verification systems integrated with border control technology.

The Future of Identification

If successful, Apple’s digital passport could pave the way for a future where physical identity documents become obsolete. Airline boarding passes, national IDs, medical records, and even birth certificates could all be integrated seamlessly into a single secure platform — transforming how people move and identify themselves across borders.

Attached is a News article regarding Apple iPhone can be served as your passport by the end of 2025 

https://apple.gadgethacks.com/news/iphone-gets-us-passport-support-by-end-of-2025/

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561

Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Dr. Gladys West: The Unsung Heroine Behind GPS Technology

In an age where navigation apps guide millions through cities, seas, and skies, few pause to consider the mind behind the system that makes it all possible. Dr. Gladys Mae West, an African-American mathematician whose groundbreaking work laid the foundation for the Global Positioning System (GPS), spent decades in relative obscurity — her name unknown, her contribution overlooked. Yet, without her precision, persistence, and intellect, the modern world’s most relied-upon technology might never have existed.

Born in 1930 in Sutherland, Virginia, Gladys West grew up in a small farming community during a time of deep racial segregation and limited opportunities for women of color. Determined to escape the cycle of farm labor, she focused on education, graduating at the top of her high school class. Her academic excellence earned her a scholarship to Virginia State College (now Virginia State University), where she majored in mathematics — a field few women, let alone Black women, pursued at the time.

In 1956, West broke barriers once again when she was hired as a mathematician at the U.S. Naval Proving Ground in Dahlgren, Virginia. She was only the second Black woman ever employed there. Her role involved complex calculations and data analysis for satellite models — tedious work often done by hand before the advent of computers.

Her most significant contributions came in the 1970s and 1980s, when she was tasked with developing precise mathematical models of the Earth’s shape — known as a geoid. By meticulously accounting for variations in gravitational, tidal, and other forces, West helped refine the algorithms that allowed satellites to accurately pinpoint any location on Earth. These calculations became the mathematical backbone of the GPS technology now embedded in everything from smartphones and cars to aircraft and military systems.

Despite her pivotal role, Dr. West’s name rarely appeared in reports or patents. Like many women in science, her contributions were folded into the collective achievements of research teams dominated by men. It wasn’t until decades later, after her retirement, that her achievements began to surface. In 2018, the U.S. Air Force formally recognized her as one of the “hidden figures” whose work was essential to the development of GPS. That same year, she was inducted into the U.S. Air Force Hall of Fame.

Now in her nineties, Dr. Gladys West stands as a testament to quiet brilliance and perseverance. Her legacy is woven into the very infrastructure of modern life — guiding ships across oceans, connecting friends across continents, and helping emergency services save lives daily.

Her story serves as both a celebration and a reminder: that behind the technology shaping our world are often the forgotten figures who worked in silence, driven not by fame but by purpose.

Attached is a news article regarding Gladys west who inspired GSP 

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/nov/19/gladys-west-the-hidden-figure-who-helped-invent-gps

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561

Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

How a government ID can — quietly — track almost every part of your life

Governments around the world are rolling out digital identity programmes and expanding existing ID databases. On the surface these systems promise convenience: faster access to benefits, easier tax filing, secure online banking and fewer fake identities. But the same technical building blocks that make those benefits possible — biometrics, centralized databases, service-linking and digital authentication — also make it technically straightforward to connect a person’s movements, purchases, health records, employment, travel and online behaviour to a single persistent identifier. Below I explain how that happens, give real-world examples, show the risks, and finish with practical safeguards societies should demand.

How linking happens — the technical anatomy

1. A unique identifier

Most national ID systems issue a single, permanent number (or digital key) tied to a person. That identifier — whether Aadhaar in India, an e-ID in Estonia, or a future UK digital ID — becomes the common key that different government and private systems can use to match records. When many services use the same key, it becomes trivial to join up otherwise separate datasets.  

2. Biometrics and authentication logs

Fingerprints, iris scans and facial templates authenticate who you are. But every biometric check normally leaves a log: who authenticated, when, where and for what purpose. These logs create a trail linking physical presence to services and locations.

3. Service integration (health, banking, benefits, travel)

Governments and big private providers increasingly require or support e-ID authentication for healthcare portals, banking, tax, social benefits and employment checks. Once those services all accept the same ID, government agencies (or third parties they can access) can reconstruct a wide slice of your life from access logs and linked records. Estonia’s model shows how deeply integrated services can become — both the upside (convenience) and the downside (centralized logs).  

4. Data aggregation and analytics

Modern data platforms and AI make it easy to run analytics across millions of records: identify patterns, flag “anomalies” or create behavioural profiles. When identity keys are present across datasets, analytics can tie disparate events (a hospital visit, a bank transfer, a foreign flight) to a single person and infer far more than the raw records show.

5. Surveillance linkages: cameras, mobile and payments

IDs are often linked to other persistent data: registered SIMs, vehicle registrations, passport stamps, and payment histories. In some jurisdictions CCTV with facial recognition, smart-city sensors or public-service access control can be joined to ID systems, producing near-continuous location and activity traces.

Real-world examples that show the risk

• India’s Aadhaar is a huge biometric identity system that underpins everything from welfare payments to SIM registration. While it enabled inclusion for millions, critics have repeatedly warned about function creep and data exposures; researchers and journalists have documented both privacy problems and large-scale leaks in the ecosystem. The scale and biometric linkage make it a textbook case of how an ID becomes the backbone for many other records.  

• China’s social-credit pilots show how authorities can combine many data sources — financial, legal, administrative and online behaviour — into rankings or blacklists that affect travel, loans and employment. Although “social credit” varies regionally, the demonstration is clear: connected datasets + government policy = powerful behavioural controls.  

• Estonia and the “transparent log” approach provide the counterexample: a highly digitalised state where citizens can see who accessed their records and when. That transparency, plus legal and technical safeguards, reduces misuse — but it is not automatic; it required strong institutions and design choices.  

What can go wrong

• Function creep: An ID introduced for welfare can later be repurposed for policing, employment verification, or immigration control without proportional oversight.

• Profiling and discrimination: Joined datasets can be used to score people, deny services or target enforcement disproportionately at minorities.

• Data breaches and identity theft: Centralized or widely linked records are attractive targets; breaches can expose biometrics, which (unlike passwords) you cannot change.  

• Loss of anonymity and chilling effects: When people know routine activities leave searchable traces, they may self-censor or avoid services (e.g., sexual health clinics, political groups).

• Power asymmetry: State access to linked identity data concentrates power. Without strong checks, that power can be misused.

Practical safeguards citizens and policymakers should demand

1. Minimise data collection — collect only what is necessary; avoid linking unrelated datasets by default.

2. Purpose limitation and legal checks — law must clearly limit what each dataset can be used for, with penalties for misuse.

3. Transparency and access logs — citizens should see who accessed their data, why and when (as Estonia does).  

4. Decentralised or tokenised authentication — designs that use one-time tokens or zero-knowledge proofs can authenticate without revealing full identity to every service.

5. Independent oversight & audits — regular, public audits and judicial oversight of access requests.

6. Strong security & breach response — robust encryption, strict access controls, and mandatory breach notification.  

Where debates are playing out today

Several democracies (including the UK) are actively debating digital ID proposals — supporters emphasise security and administrative efficiency; critics warn about privacy and migration-control use cases. Civil-liberties groups have called for careful safeguards and inclusive design to prevent discrimination.  

Bottom line

A government ID can technically track vast areas of life when it becomes the universal key that ties systems together — but tracking is not inevitable. Design choices, legal limits, institutional checks, transparency and strong security determine whether an ID becomes a convenience with dignity preserved, or a tool for intrusive surveillance. As societies adopt digital IDs, the fight will be about those choices — not the technology itself.

Attached is a news article regarding government ID being able to track every movement of your life 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx20r4vmvx3o.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561

Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Japan develops artificial blood with dramatically extended shelf life — what it means

Japanese researchers say they have made a major step toward a truly universal, shelf-stable artificial blood — a blood substitute that needs no matching, is virus-free, and can be stored for years instead of weeks. If the claims hold up in clinical trials, the technology could transform emergency medicine, military care, disaster response and hard-to-reach health systems.  

What the researchers have created

According to reporting on the work, the new product is an artificial red-cell substitute created by extracting hemoglobin from expired donor blood and encasing it inside a protective shell (effectively tiny, cell-like vesicles). Because the product contains only the oxygen-carrying component and no donor cell membranes, it is claimed to be compatible with all blood types and free of the pathogens and antibodies that make ordinary transfusions risky. The developers also say the material is much more stable than donated blood: press coverage reports storage up to two years at room temperature and even longer under refrigeration.  

Where the work sits in the research landscape

Japan is not the first country to pursue artificial blood. Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers and hemoglobin vesicles (Hb-Vs) have been studied for years; small human studies previously showed these vesicles can function as oxygen carriers for hours in patients with severe bleeding. What appears new in the recent Japanese announcements is the combination of universal compatibility and greatly extended shelf life — attributes that would address two of the biggest problems in transfusion medicine: blood-type matching and the short storage life of donated red cells.  

Clinical trials and timelines

Multiple outlets report that Japan is moving toward clinical trials in 2025 to test safety and effectiveness in humans. Those trials — if they proceed and pass regulatory scrutiny — will be crucial: previous generations of blood substitutes ran into safety or efficacy problems that prevented wide adoption. The coming human trials will need to demonstrate the product safely carries and releases oxygen in the body, does not trigger harmful immune or clotting responses, and truly is stable in real-world supply chains.  

Potential benefits

• Emergency readiness: a universal, room-temperature product could be carried into disaster zones, ambulances, battlefield medicine and remote clinics without the refrigeration and typing infrastructure current transfusions require.  

• Reduced infectious risk: removing donor cell membranes and sterilizing the hemoglobin could lower the chance of transmitting bloodborne infections.  

• Easier logistics: a multi-year shelf life would cut waste and improve stockpiling for pandemics, mass-casualty events and routine hospital shortages.  

Important caveats and past lessons

The history of artificial blood is one of promising laboratory results followed by difficult clinical realities. Earlier products (including perfluorocarbon emulsions and other hemoglobin-based carriers) showed unexpected toxicities or limited benefit once used in patients. That track record means optimism should be tempered: large, well-designed human trials are essential before hospitals can safely replace donor blood with a synthetic alternative. Independent replication, long-term safety monitoring, and careful regulatory review will all be required.  

What to watch next

• Trial data: safety and oxygen-delivery measurements from the reported 2025 clinical trials will be the key early milestone.  

• Regulatory decisions: approvals (or rejections) from Japan’s regulators and, potentially later, from agencies in other countries will determine how and where the product is used.  

• Independent studies: replication by other labs and transparent data on side effects, clotting, renal effects and immune responses will build confidence (or reveal limits).  

Bottom line

Japan’s reported artificial blood represents one of the most promising developments yet in the long search for safe, universal blood substitutes. The combination of universal compatibility and multi-year shelf life would be revolutionary — but the technology must clear rigorous clinical and regulatory hurdles before it can replace donated blood. For now, the announcement is a hopeful step forward; the medical world will be watching the forthcoming trials closely.  

Attached is a news article regarding Japan making artificial blood with extended life span 

https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/japan-to-begin-clinical-trials-for-artificial-blood-this-year/

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

In-- Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36

https://www.legalentityidentifier.co.uk/leicert/894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36/

https://www.zoominfo.com/c/smileband/541441561