Business
Minty-Swap 2.0 real or fake?
There is another pandemic infecting investors, that is deadlier than Covid-19. “Rug pull” isn’t a word that has any positive connotations attached to it. The collateral damage of losing a lot of money on useless Tokens and total economic despair will be felt by many. “Rug pull” leaves the NFT community members orphaned, picking up the scraps of a failed investment, while the founders have fled with golden parachutes. In an effort to police the NFT Metaverse, exchanges like OpenSea have delisted such NFT projects entirely, but new NFT projects are being created at an alarming rate.
NFT’s/Token’s original rug pull company will launch version 2.0 of the Token/NFT before a new investor can collaborate with the victimized Alpha group. In order to double dip on further proceeds, the original Token company claims all “so-called problems” with its Token or NFT have been resolved, plotting yet another rug pull on its community members and Token holders. Does this sound a little bit like fraud? If you are nodding your head in agreement, I believe that is the textbook definition.
Rug pulls in recent years have served as evergreen reminders of the risks associated with NFT/Tokens. We’ve compiled a short list of some of the most memorable (and costly) events in ecosystem history. The bright side of these events is that they have helped educate people about identifying and avoiding NFT scams.
Frosties freeze rug pull nets $1.3 million
Frosties, launched on January 7, 2022, was an ice cream-themed collection of 8,888 NFTs that marketed itself as “cool, delectable, and unique”. Ethan Nguyen (known as “Frostie”) and Andre Llacuna (known as “Heyandre”), the two founders of the project, had already been able to build up a sizable community in their Discord channel, as well as promised collectors merch, raffles and a fund in the hope of ensuring the project’s success for the long term.
It was estimated that the NFTs would sell for 0.04 ETH each, so, after the collection had been sold out a few hours later, the team behind the project had been able to generate 335 ETH – just over a million dollars. There was a brief period of time where the project’s website and Discord dropped, and the funds from the sale were transferred to a variety of wallets; the founders were now ghosts.
Evil Ape dupes the Evolved Apes NFT community
The founder of Evolution Ape, known as Evil Ape, stole 798 ETH ($2.7 million) from investors just a week after the collection launched. The Twitter account and project website of Evil Ape are no longer available.
The Evolved Apes project was originally intended to be a fight game, but has now become just another scammer rug pull statistic.
MintySwap , Swaps investor dollars for Lamborghinis
Layth Samarah created MintySwap Token to fund his Lamborghinis, houses, and vacations using investor money. Developing Legends of Mintonia, a game that earns Minty tokens, was a lie, used to sell project tokens and deposit money into exchange accounts, estimated at $2-3 million. Hundreds of people have been scammed out of millions of dollars by Layth’s Token Minty-swap by blacklisting their wallets (preventing them from using the contract, transferring, or selling their investments). When people start asking questions, Layth then blocks and kicks them out of the investment chat.
MintySwap also sold 10,000 copies of its NFT called “Mintonians” stealing funds from investors, claiming that a so-called “Whale” purchased all of these NFTs when Layth himself sold “mintys” Tokens and bought mintonians, misleading investors.
Openseas has now permanently delisted mintonians NFT which deems them 100% worthless. Users were supposed to receive a certain amount of staking rewards with each mintonian, but the amount has changed 4-5 times since initial promises. Mintonians were only purchased because of the staking reward promise. Token holders have either not received their Tokens or the investors money has gone straight into the founders account. Mintyswaps platform is now planning a 2.0 release, Buyers Beware!
Delisted MintySwap Tokens
Billboard Top Hip-hop
Platinum Audio Engineer & Award-Winning Writer Mark “Savage” on Entering Management and Tackling Patriarchy
For years, Mark “Savage” Sanders bold, dynamic mixing style has landed him work behind the boards of major tours and hit records alike. Working with artists like Shordie Shordie, Lizzo, Coi Leray, Kevin Gates, Fetty Wap, Kelly Rowland and more, Mark sports an ever-expanding discography of cutting edge of popular music. We spoke with Mark to get insights into his career arc, workflow, and to understand how his unique sound is built upon a firm foundation of technical skill, knowledge and deep listening.
For starters, could you tell me how you got into engineering?
So at my high school they had an early college program where you could get your associates or a certificate by graduation. I wasn’t looking to be an audio engineer. I don’t even think I really knew what an audio engineer was, which makes it all the more crazy. I saw music production schools, but I went for audio engineering at Full Sail University.
What boards were you working on when you were doing live sound?
It was whatever the house had. Working on Mackie boards or Yamaha boards that only had seven inputs that worked—Avid and Midas consoles, the M32s, the Behringer X32, a lot of different stuff. Being a live sound engineer taught me so much signal flow and having to adapt to different spaces and different gear all the time. If I’m on tour and we’re generally using the same board, we’re probably never using the same monitors for front-of-house. The rooms are bigger or smaller—different places have different problem areas—being in a stadium or doing a festival where you have delays and all that stuff is just insane.
So you were ghostwriting, engineering, producing, and rapping in the beginning?
Yes I did it all except play an instrument.
Now today you’ve received a BMI Award, 2x Platinum, and over 12,000 sync placements how does it feel?
If I had to be honest I don’t care about any of it anymore. I want to see my Son win big like this. I’m more into family these days. I did everything I wanted in life and overachieved. I’m good!
We see you have Royalty ENTERTAINMENT & managing as far as entertainment goes what else can we expect?
Whatever God does. I’m not chasing anything anymore. Focused on living life, family, and wealth/health. Definitely support my DJ, DJ King, Ashley Blaire, and Pretty Liyah. Other than that I’m about to be out the way. (He laughs) I’m so burnt out. I’m chilling.
Last question, seeing that you did everything you wanted is there anything left that you haven’t 2025 going forward?
No just travel more that’s it. Like when I say I’ve given life everything I’ve had. I’ve given it everything. Plus I think most people are waiting for me to be famous or something which I’m avoiding and praying never happens.
Fast Food Chicken Chain “WestCoast Wingz N Sliderz” team up with Hip-Hop Artist Marc “Mayjah” Payne and Baldwin Hills Lawyer Chris Allen and Malcolm Jordan for a Secret Santa Toy Giveaway Extravaganza in South Central Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA – December 2024** – This holiday season, South Central Los Angeles experienced an unforgettable gift of joy and community spirit, as a popular upcoming restaurant @wingznsliderz teamed up with the incomparable hip-hop artist Marc “Mayjah” Payne and Top 40 black local legal advocate “Baldwin Hills Lawyer” to host a Secret Santa Toy Giveaway Extravaganza for the children in the Crenshaw neighborhood. The event took place on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at the restaurant’s flagship location in the heart of South Central.
The giveaway of over 250 toys was created in order to bring a sense of holiday cheer and community unity to local families, especially those who are struggling during these challenging times. The experience was a heartwarming celebration of generosity. The event featured a surprise toy distribution for children, along with live entertainment, music, good vibes, great food, and special appearances by Marc “Mayjah” Payne and Baldwin Hills Lawyer, who were both on hand to distribute gifts and engage with the community.
WestCoast Wingz N Sliderz, known for its commitment to quality and community outreach did a remarkable job with Marc “Mayjah” Payne and Baldwin Hills Lawyer, a well-respected local attorney known for his dedication to improving the lives of South Central residents. Together, they used their platforms and influence to spread holiday cheer to children who might otherwise go without toys this Christmas.
“We wanted to create an event that embodies the true spirit of giving this holiday season,” said Chris Allen. “By teaming up with Marc ‘Mayjah’ Payne and West Coast Wingz & Sliderz, we are able to not only provide toys to children in need but also build stronger bonds within our community. This is about more than just gifts—it’s about coming together and making a positive impact.”
Marc “Mayjah” Payne, best known for his hit songs “Shh”, “Down for the Cause”, and “Temptations” ft G Eazy was in high spirit during the event. With his community-driven initiatives, he shared his excitement for the event, saying, “I’m honored to partner with such a strong community-focused restaurant and my brother, Baldwin Hills Lawyer, to make Christmas special for kids who deserve to feel the magic of the holiday. We all know how hard the holidays can be, and if we can bring a smile to even one child’s face, we’ve done our job.”
Malcolm Jordan, a staunch advocate for social justice and local empowerment, added, “This is the season of giving, and it’s important that we, as a community, support each other. I’m excited to be a part of this event and to help give back to the children of South Central, who are the future of this city.”
The event featured a variety of fun activities for kids, including holiday games, music, and special holiday-themed meals from the restaurant. The toy giveaway was fully stocked with a wide variety of toys, from educational games to action figures, dolls, and sports equipment, ensuring that every child left with a smile on their face.
The Secret Santa Toy Giveaway Extravaganza was open to children of all ages in the South Central Los Angeles area. Families are encouraged to attend next year and participate in the festivities as they celebrate the season of giving and unity.
For more information about the event, or to stay up to date for future events, please reach out.
West Coast Wingz N Sliderz
@wingznsliderz
(323) 403-2038
*About West Coast Wingz N Sliderz*
@WingzNsliderz is a black family-owned fast food chicken chain dedicated to providing quality food and outstanding customer service. With a strong focus on community outreach and local engagement, West Coast Wingz N Sliderz has become a staple in South Central Los Angeles, serving delicious meals and supporting local initiatives.
*About Marc “Mayjah” Payne*
Marc “Mayjah” Payne is an accomplished hip-hop artist/producer, philanthropist, and community advocate known for his positive influence in the entertainment industry and his dedication to giving back to the community. Follow him @mayjahpayne or www.mayjahpayne.com.
*About Baldwin Hills Lawyer*
@BaldwinHillsLawyer is a respected attorney and advocate for social justice, focusing on providing legal support and community empowerment in South Central Los Angeles. @AllenLawWins is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of local residents.
WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz collaborate with West Coast artist & producer “Mayjah Payne” for a Thanksgiving Holiday Food Drive in the heart of Los Angeles.
“Today was a good day” on Crenshaw boulevard, as a long line filled of all ages were given free thanksgiving dinner for the holiday season.
“We just wanted to give back to the community,” @MayjahPayne commented when asked why the event was put together.
On November 27, business owners from WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz organized an impromptu free dinner give away for the residents of the Crenshaw area. Promoted through social media and word of mouth, WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz brought together local business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, and volunteers to give out cooked meals to the community.
The event was held in the Crenshaw area “District 10” and brought together the residential community alongside family members from all walks of life. With 20 plus volunteers from all ethnicities it was a groundbreaking day for Crenshaw. People ate, talked, laughed, and walked away with free groceries! https://www.westcoastwingzandsliderz.com/
WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz is located in the Baldwin Hills Mall Food Court and the business is committed to the unity and empowerment of the residents in the community. Follow @wingznsliderz on instagram and visit https://www.
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