Urban Life News Issue 8: Free The Real

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As I was embracing all the highs and lows of my life and trying to maintain my sanity, I realized we all go through negative things in life that we need to heal from, but if we look forward with a positive mindset it will bring us peace. Genuine Chaos is a positive movement, inspiring positive changes, breaking all negative views and it stands for (Generally Everyone Needs Understanding In New Experiences, Change Has An Omnipotent Serenity) G.E.N.U.I.N.E. C.H.A.O.S. Never judge a book by its cover because you can always turn a negative into a positive! I wanted to put my entrepreneurial endeavors to the test, so I created this clothing company to prove that I could be a positive force in the lives of others. This was no overnight success, it has come with many challenges, and there are times where I want to give up but when I think about what I created it gives me the strength to keep going...

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WHAT’S INSIDE? HIGHLIGHTS FROM ISSUE 8: FREE THE REAL

SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT Page 101

LISA EVERS - GIVING BACK BACK COVER STORY - Page 96

S.O.U.L. B

THE STORY NEVER TOLD - COVER STORY - Page 32

PLUS: 13

AZIA Star of BET’s Hustle in Brooklyn

SHOUTOUTS: A Voice From Within

A Conversation with Entrepreneur Delson Holloway

URBAN LIFE NEWS MAGAZINE

CEO & Publisher Copy Editor Business Services Layout & Design Advertising Director News Stand Consultant

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PUBLISHER’S WORD IS BOND P ower concedes nothing without a demand. If we can get to it, we can get through it. Tough times don’t last long but tough people do.

Real people do real things. Many shall come but the chosen are few.

These are wise sayings, anecdotes and/or positive acclamations that you tell someone in prison in an attempt to help them get through a rough patch, day, moment or situation that is seeming to challenge their ability to cope with prison life or life in general. Whether one is incarcerated or not, life still happens to all of us. In prison however; it’s more difficult to escape whatever issue may be testing your personal power. There is no escaping ourselves, especially when we are locked in a cell. However; The way this world works; is miraculously whenever we are faced with a crisis or so-called problem. Right within the very thing that is giving us issues, usually lies the (seed) remedy. I am not a civilian writing this from the sidewalk. I’m writing this from the perspective of someone like yourself, who’s been locked up several times and is using this moment to connect with you sitting in that cell, cube or cot. From a position of contemplation and reflection. Doing a bid isn’t easy, by far. Especially if you value your life and have family and friends that you love as well. That only compounds your pain. However; If you can get to it, you can get through it. When we get into a situation, regardless of how we may feel, the worse is usually upon us and the thing that stops us from mastering It; is our acceptance of our situation. Even the darkest of situations provides us with insight, because in the darkness of the soil is where the seeds grow. Power concedes nothing without a demand. Power comes to us as the result of an action or thought.

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You develop a stronger chest as a result of doing chest exercises. That’s in the physical world. In the immaterial world this power comes to us when, we go deep into the causes of what landed us in our situation(s). Which only comes from reflection and introspection, and this is a personal journey. One that we all must take alone. As a result, of our choices in this life, we can only be where we need to be in the moment that we are there. The universe makes no exceptions. One can either accept or reject this. This acceptance or rejection is connected to ones’ sanity, when we live in an illusion, it robs us of our personal power. When we accept whatever reality our choices have brought upon us, we increase our power. Power is directly connected to truth.

In this issue We are bringing you the truth of those men and women who has been there. By reading their stories you can find similarities to your situation, wherein you can find some remedy to a situation you previously thought to be hopeless.

Peace!

DemarJahliekTyson

P.S How do you sit in prison complaining about your situation, if every time, they announce “On the Law Library!”, you lie in bed, waiting to go play basketball or cards?

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REALTY CO.

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LETTERS

TO THE

EDITOR

ars My name is Blue Note. I’m 20 ye ! ing pp po is ” ine gaz Ma ws Ne DeFirst off, “Urban Life ntly incarcerated In the Nevada rre cu I’m ia. rn lifo Ca ton mp Co hole H.R.P. young and I’m from prison. I’m in a hole, inside the te Sta Ely um xim Ma s, on cti #7 special edipartment of Corre e across your magazine; Issue com to ed en pp ha I nt. tur too e. The whole For being way with the tribute to Nipsey Hussl ng alo 7 18 la Kil y sex so oh tion, with the since I was 16 and to be real, wn do n bee e I’v t. les rea the s entire section on everything wa e. Fasho, I’ll be ordering my gam the g lin kil lly rea is l fee I t this is the first magazine tha as doing time with me. Yall got dd bru my all d an me for ak spe one year’s subscription. I na....

E News is a bust down thottie on LIF n ba Ur st! we the on ct pe our res BLUE NOTE Compton, California

Hello, My name is Charles Howard and I saw an ad for your magazine in another magazine. I’ve never heard of it until then. It was Walls periodical.com. Your magazine looks very interesting and informative, so I was wondering if you are willing to send me a complimentary copy to promote and attract new subscribers. I am currently housed in the S.M.U. program in Thomas Illinois; All the inmates be buying the latest magazines. Myself included. I would gladly, pass the ordering information around. Thank you.

CHARLES HOWARD Thomas, Illinois

Done. ULN

My name is VICTOR I am at Hagerstown Maryland RCI, I was referred by Homie to that I should write you guys for a free copy of Urban Life News. This magazine is fire; dudes be fronting but they always wanna see a copy if It’s around. I just want my own copy. I’d appreciate if you could send me a copy.

VICTOR Hagerstown Maryland

Spread the word. And make sure your paperwork is good. ULN

Write to:

Urban Life News 2270 Grand Avenue Suite 6 Baldwin NY 11510 Or Send an E-mail to:

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PAPPY MASON

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mperor Haile Selassie I worked to modernize Ethiopia for several decades before famine and political opposition forced him from office in 1974.

His power only grew. In 1928 he appointed himself king, and two years later, after the death of Zauditu, he was made emperor and assumed the name Haile Selassie (“Might of the Trinity”).

Born in Ethiopia in 1892, Haile Selassie was crowned emperor in 1930 but exiled during World War II after leading the resistance to the Italian invasion. He was reinstated in 1941 and sought to modernize the country over the next few decades through social, economic and educational reforms. He ruled until 1974, when famine, unemployment and political opposition forced him from office.

Over the next four decades, Haile Selassie presided over a country and government that was an expression of his personal authority.

His reforms greatly strengthened schools and the police, and he instituted a new constitution and centralized his own power.

Haile Selassie I was Ethiopia’s 225th and last emperor, serving from 1930 until his overthrow by the Marxist dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam in 1974. The longtime ruler traced his line back to Menelik I, who was credited with being the child of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.

He was born in a mud hut in Ejersa Gora on July 23, 1892. Originally named Lij Tafari Makonnen, he was the only surviving and legitimate son of Ras Makonnen, the governor of Harar.

Among his father’s important allies was his cousin, Emperor Menelik II, who did not have a male heir to succeed him. Tafari seemed like a possible candidate when, following his father’s death in 1906, he was taken under the wing of Menelik.

In 1913, however, after the passing of Menelik II, it was the emperor’s grandson, Lij Yasu, not Tafari, who was appointed as emperor. But Yasu, who maintained a close association with Islam, never gained favor with Ethiopia’s majority Christian population.

As a result Tafari became the face of the opposition, and in 1916 he took power from Lij Yasu and imprisoned him for life. The following year Menelik II’s daughter, Zauditu, became empress, and Tafari was named regent and heir apparent to the throne.

For a country trying to gain its foothold in the young century and curry favor with the West, the progressive Tafari came to symbolize the hopes and dreams of Ethiopia’s younger population. In 1923 he led Ethiopia into the League of Nations. The following year, he traveled to Europe, becoming the first Ethiopian ruler to go abroad.

In 1936 he was forced into exile after Italy invaded Ethiopia. Haile Selassie became the face of the resistance as he went before the League of Nations in Geneva for assistance, and eventually secured the help of the British in reclaiming his country and reinstituting his powers as emperor in 1941.

Haile Selassie again moved to try to modernize his country. In the face of a wave of anti-colonialism sweeping across Africa, he granted a new constitution in 1955, one that outlined equal rights for his citizens under the law, but conversely did nothing to diminish Haile Selassie’s own powers.

By the early 1970s famine, ever-worsening unemployment and increasing frustration with the government’s inability to respond to the country’s problems began to undermine Haile Selassie’s rule.

In February 1974 mutinies broke out in the army over low pay, while a secessionist guerrilla war in Eritrea furthered his problems. Haile Selassie was eventually ousted from power in a coup and kept under house arrest in his palace until his death in 1975.

Reports initially circulated claiming that he had died of natural causes, but later evidence revealed that he had probably been strangled to death on the orders of the new government.

In 1992 Haile Selassie’s remains were discovered, buried under a toilet in the Imperial Palace. In November 2000 the late emperor received a proper burial when his body was laid to rest in Addis Ababa’s Trinity Cathedral.

Art by Chris Gool, BuhayBohemio.com

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WHO IS...

J NICE

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P

JN- Thank you.

certain morals and principles, right? And one of those principles was women and children were/are/is off-limits. We don’t violate women and children and then call yourself gangsta. So when they went in there, you know, my comrades tied up the 2 dudes that had the trap spot.

But it was a female in there as well and they didn’t tie her up. They said “you just sit down”, we will do what we gotta do and then we up outta here! They tried to treat her with courtesy and with respect. So they did that, got what they got and about a half an hour later, came out with duffle bags. I pulled off and that was that. Then what happened was; that same female who they chose not to tie-up. She ran out of the building. You know, she was gangster too because that took courage she didn’t just crumble up. So she saw my license plates. They called the police. They ran the plates and it came back insured in my name, which is how they got me.

Okay. So I refuse to snitch. I wasn’t about to take the stand.

ULN- So for the people locked up. Who are you, man? What’s your name and where you’re from?

ULN- You felt it would have made you appear to be cooperating?

JN- I mean; my government name is Jason Gordon off the rip. You know, somebody is official too when they give their government. A lot of people won’t just give out their name like that.

So when I went to your Instagram to check you out, I saw you had on the shirt your wearing now.

(Paperwork Good) I saw you also posted your actual paperwork. If you are about it, then show it.

I respect that. But everybody knows me as J-Nice.

JN- Exactly. So we not gonna play that game at all. And being that you’re not going to come up here and say, who did what. You might as well just sit down. Which is what I did. I didn’t take the stand. So they were like, guilty and I blew trial. Yea I blew trial and they came back with a guilty verdict. I blew to all charges. So that’s 20 years! On a positive note; I just graduated from college, on a full-ride, full scholarship. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Before that, I got a free ride to Bard College and earned my Associate degree.

eace, peace, peace. This is. Tyson from Urban Life News Magazine. I was scrolling through Instagram yesterday and I saw a young man in a picture with the rapper Casanova 2x. And I believe the caption said, @ Harvard University. So I assumed that he had to have a story behind him. So we reached out to the brother. The brother turned out to be Jay Nice. And he represents or he’s rather the CEO of an organization called Glass Walls New York. Turns out, He does have a story. (Interview recorded @ the office of Urban Life News Magazine, Before Covid19) ULN- As you can hear, my man showed up. He came through. It’s good to meet you, brother.

ULN- Copy, where are you from?

JN- From Queens, New York. From South Side. Like I was telling you earlier for me, growing up, life was good. My story is not one of struggle. But the thing that was missing from my childhood was my dad, you know, what I’m saying, I had no father. I met my father actually when I was up north. When I turned 32. That’s a whole other story though. He flew in, to see me. So for 32 years, you know, I didn’t know the man.

JN- About three years.

ULN- And you got two degrees already?

ULN- And so, you were caught and the guys who did the actual robbery were never caught?

JN- Three years bro. I just posted on the gram, that I graduated from college, with a free ride.

When I was Up North: you know we all scream when we are up north about how bad that we want to go home. But the emptiest place of up north be the law library. This is a fact and I’m analyzing all this shit. So I said thinking to myself, you know what? I got two options. I could go home, when it’s my time to be released and I could turn everybody Ape. I could do all this nonsense, which is expected of me. Or I could do an about-face; and I chose to do an about-face and be a man. I said to myself, Imma do something different. I’m going to man up and I’m going to live out what the constitution and things of that nature say according to what blood, is. Which is supposed to be brotherly love override oppression and destruction.

And I’m going to display it and not just talk about it. I said to myself I can’t go home and do that and try to fix other people until I fix me first. And so that’s when I started to program.

I began grooming (preparing) myself to get home and do this positive work out here. So I came home and like I said to you. I have only been at home for three years now. And my credit score is 760 I know this may sound foreign or whack to certain individuals, but this is the real shit. My credit score is 760. Currently, I work at Horizons. That’s a detention center in the Bronx for kids.

JN- They were never caught. Just me. Back then, even though we were doing crime we did have

ULN- You, work at Horizon?

ULN- What brought you to prison?

JN- So what landed me there... I participated in a crime, Robbery in the first degree. I was the getaway driver; I didn’t ever get out of the car.

ULN- You weren’t even the one who did the crime?

JN- Exactly. I was just the driver.

ULN- So just for clarity’s sake, you’re saying you were just a driver in the armed robbery and you never actually went into the place to do the robbery?

JN- Precisely. Never got out.

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ULN- How long have you been home?

JN- Yes. Currently; I facilitate groups. I also currently work for the Fortune Society with adults.

I facilitate groups for adult men and women who are returning citizens that just finished serving 20 - 25 years in prison. They are just coming home and don’t know anything about job readiness, social skills and things of that nature. So we’re down here teaching them; job readiness, how to conduct themselves during an interview, what you wear, what you do, the best practices of getting established and becoming gainfully employed. I also work for Department Education in Queens.

Which is called ALCS Alternative Learning Centers. There are about nine suspension sites in Queens. I work for all of them. Every morning I go to suspension sites and I do groups with the kids that get suspended for whatever reason. Everybody’s reason is different, teaching them different skills, life skills. You know, not just, oh, Christopher Columbus discovered America because that curriculum is outdated and it is bullshit. And we both know that’s a lie as well. I work for Cases currently. It’s called the Choices Department. That’s a program for 11 to 16-year-olds. So I’ve got five jobs, Bro. Like right now, I just bought a house. Me and my girlfriend, you know. In Bay Shore, Long Island. And I got three cars, Bro. I got a Benz, a BMW. Right. And I got a Honda Odyssey with three rows for the family. For whenever we take a trip. When I say all this, people will ask, well, how’s that relevant? It’s relevant because when I was young and I would cut someone, Tyson, I would let that be known. When I beat someone up, I would let that be known, when I was banging I would let that be known. So now that I’m legit and I’m doing positive and productive things, I want to let that be known. And like I said, I just graduated. I got my associates and also I got my bachelor’s. I’ll be starting in January, at Columbia University to get my master’s in Social Work. And I’m going to talk about this day because........... What I’m saying, .......my message is: It can be done. So don’t tell me you can’t do it. And the icing on the cake is; I’m still on parole.

ULN-So say it right now. Say it to the brothers and sisters that are sitting in a cell, sitting in the cube or maybe sitting around the dayroom somewhere who’s going to be reading your message?

JN- The message is It’ not easy. Don’t let anybody out here tell you that it is. That’s number one.

Let me not make it seem like it was easy. It was a struggle. There was plenty of sacrificing that was being done. I mean, when I first came home, I took jobs where I was working for free. From free, I went to do internships. That’s why when I go into prison because that’s another job I have, which I didn’t even mention yet. I started my own business, which is called Glass Walls... So I go into Detention sites, Prisons, Jails, wherever they say people are bad and they don’t listen. I’ll arrange to go to the location and then they listen. And it’s been proven. People be like, I don’t know how you do it. I know how I do it. But whatever that is, there is a fee for that. So I started my own business.

So when people saw me working for free, there were homies around the way like a “yo-yo, that’s stupid blood, what are you doing? You the big homie you don’t have to do that.” Yeah, I hear you, I’m not going to stop you and deter you from whatever you are doing. But I also know they got a cell for you! They got it. They got it. They gonna make room bro. And I ain’t going back. I made that decision. I am not going back there under those terms because I do go back. But that’s when I speak. I get paid and I leave. Right. So when people said I was stupid for working for free. But when you go back to job readiness it’s the same thing as being blood in the blood culture. So I take that and I equate that to the job readiness world. We have an expression; “Never heard of you”.

Keep working. Right. You need a resume. You need references. I never heard of you, so I had to work for free to establish a resume, and names of people a company could call to establish and verify my work ethic. And when my name started buzzing and it started working, I went again from free to internship, from internship to hourly, from hourly to salary. Then I added other streams of income.

We have to get over that fear of worrying about what everybody outside of you thinks. Once you establish that, you start thinking like, I don’t care what you’re talking about. Because when you analyze all of the gun busters and the get busy dudes. We know where they are at right? We know they are either in the FEDS, Up north or Dead. Those are the three. Those are usually the three options. And that seems to be the pattern. And everybody that we called Lame back in the day, Tyson and all that, are who these brothers that come home are going to be sitting in front of, asking for a job. Facts. It’s just not worth it. You know, for the brothers reading this or hearing this; got to admit to themselves. Not to me. It doesn’t work, bro. It doesn’t work. And I’ve lived both lives. So I can wholeheartedly say what works and what does not. That’s what gives me the power to say what I want. I lived the other life. I played the game fair. I saw what that got me. And I’m telling you, I’m next to senators. Congressmen, I’m next to some serious people since I’ve been home and it’s only

been three years. Not that these people validate me or give us value. But in terms of making a transition these people are not embracing any felons if their ethic, work habits and character are not solid. And I’m on parole. You know what I’m saying? I’m on parole and my PO be like, whatever you want to do, just do it because I’m just so positive and I’m out here getting busy.

I’ve done things that people that have been home, that have never been locked up, haven’t been able to do. Like being a homeowner. My crib is big, bro. I don’t have a little crib. My crib is big. My girl and I did that. We built our credit. We built up capital. We saved, my car is not leased. I own all of my cars Tyson. But I sacrificed. I put that work in. While dudes were chilling, doing what they do? I was going to work. And like I said, I’m going to get my master’s degree because I’ve finished my Bachelor’s in Sociology. And once I get this Masters in social work, that’s when you then can apply for many positions as being the program director.

I utilized my experiences, job positioning’s and work ethic to open doors for me and to go to colleges. I’ve gone to Columbia University. I’ve spoken at Columbia about six times. I should be going back there may be in the next week or so to speak with a Doctor. Robert Fullilove.

He’s Associate Dean at Columbia and the head of the Mailman School of Public Health. I’m going to have a conversation down there, I’m at Harvard often. Harvard is not going to call me if I don’t Know what I’m talking about.

ULN- Great, while we on that topic, before we close out? Tell us about the whole Harvard experience and what led to you bringing Casanova 2x out?

JN- So for me; Akeem Browder I don’t know if you know Akeem Browder. He’s the brother of Kalief Browder. The guy that was wrongfully held on Riskers Island. I think it was two or three years for stealing a backpack. Who ends up killing himself. (respectfully) And that’s all due to the system. But we’re going to get into that another time.

I did a panel at Harvard with Akeem Browder. I did so well that the people were like, yo, we want more of this kid. You know, who’s this Jason kid? We need more. They invited me back to do another panel. I did another panel. Altogether I did about four lectures up there (@ Harvard) already. One day, I was speaking to my comrade Eddie, who’s a recent graduate of Harvard. I said, yo I think it would be a great idea if we bring Casanova up there (Harvard University). Basically, you know, the homie was receptive. He came up there and he did his thing. And we were just speaking about, you know, prison reform and reentry. It was great.

It was great. I’m looking forward to doing more work with him, I’m hoping to do a podcast with him soon. Additionally, I’m preparing to do a podcast called; Product of my environment. Where we’ll be speaking about all of these type of issues. The reason why it was so important for him to do it, and I congratulated him because although I’m doing my thing, I’m not an entertainer, nor am I a celebrity. These celebrities have a lot of power. Casanova, if he posts, that he went to Harvard. He’d probably get a million views. If I posted it. I would probably get like 20 views. So it’s like, OK. Collaborate with someone like me that knows the work. Right. So I’m lending you what I know and you’re giving me what you got. Right.

You reach people at the touch of a button. You’ve got a huge following. That’s how that came about. And it was just a beautiful thing and it’s just starting.

ULN- Anything you want to say to anybody on a closing note?

JN- Wow, I hate stuff like this because there are so many of the brothers that I would like to shout out. So many men. But for sure. You know, I want to shout out, you know, Lou Banga.

You know, he’s serving a serious sentence. The homie Snipe, Dick Wolf just went back, I think, with 55. When I Think of these main three, there’s so many I don’t want anybody to feel like I forgot them or anything. But those main three when I think about them and their sentences. That’s what keeps me focused man. I gotta keep going. I got to keep going. And for those that are on the verge of coming out, you know, there’s help out here! You just have to sacrifice. You got to be ready to grind. Got to be ready to do what you gotta do, because, ya’ll already know what it is.

That’s it.

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S.O.U.L. B THE GREATEST STORY

NEVER TOLD

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ULN S.O.U.L.B | B.O., Peace. How are you doing, brother?

the big homies were once a part of the nation of God’s and Earth’s, and it seemed at that time we were the only ones that had the solution to the evSoul B Salute my people you know I’m here with my brother Tyson. Man me er-growing problem. At that time? You feel me? And even with the Gods, and this guy you know we just clicked. I guess because of, you know, we just because many of the Gods used to say, well, if you are an 85 percent, you had a meeting of the minds. are not my responsibility. You feel me. This is just the God’s mentality. If you aren’t willing to get knowledge of yourself and you aren’t a part of the ULN Today we’re gonna build, and in the process of building, we’re gonna 5 percent Nation they don’t feel that you are their responsibility touch on a lot of things. I first came into the awareness of you was, through my God brother; shout out to James. He told me about your interview on ULN What year is this?

Queen’s Flip. He said yo you heard the brother Soul B? and I was like, Soul B. Who is that? Because I don’t like to not be in the loop. So he put me onto Soul B We are talking about, this is 91, 1992. bloods were not in existence you and I watched it. And I was blown away. The reason why I was blown at this time. But Latin Kings because of Blaze. As you see, the Latin Kings away was because of the historical perspective that you were able to put on that were on the @Queensflip Show spoke about Blaze. Not the Blaze that the organization. formerly known as the NYC Bloods.

Wildcat said he cut, but little Blaze who came from Connecticut, which was my boy. Blaze came in and I know him before he became a Latin Soul B Indeed, in nineteen ninety-six, is when we first established the king. But he came from Connecticut. And we were in the Bullpen. When Pound. The Pound is when individuals who are affiliated could rest assured, I came back from court, I’ll never forget it. He was like Ay-yo BO! What’s that they were safe. That was at Sink Sing Correctional Facility. But you’re up, bro? Because technically Latin kings their history. Like there fiveright. Prior to that, brothers who were coming up and if they were banging point format is similar to the Gods, or the Nation of Islam, which the and slinging instead of ducking and tucking, they couldn’t live anywhere in Gods and Earths are a derivative of. So we kicked it a little. OK, cool. the state. Although they already solidified themselves on Rikers Island. But Like about a month later, I came in contact with him again when as I the Latin Kings and Netas had the state. explained.... then I got cut. I got cut as a mistaken identity. So although individuals are saying, oh, he got cut because he was a dope fiend, I never ULN Can it be said if you were blood at that time, and if you weren’t getting sniffed dope in my life. busy, then it was safe to say that you were ducking?

ULN- OK. Soul B Actual fact.

Soul B You feel me. Well, the truth of the matter, the individual that made ULN Why is that? a statement came back later to recant the statement and apologize.

Soul B Because. What I’ve come to realize; some individuals are trained to deal one on one. You get your grip and go one on one. But now when it comes to three on one. You’re not prepared for three on one and you may fold. A different type of fear comes into play when it’s three against one. You feel me. And at that given time in the state, it was like that, five to one. So if you came out and you said that you were blood and you weren’t prepared for the aftermath. Because it wasn’t any fair ones with those guys. One of us -10 of them. That’s why we built the persona to be militant. Now I remind you, they never gave fair ones even before the Bloods came. Salute! our Latino brothers. They were always grouped. In the majority of how they think? they think collectively, they move collectively because they understand the factor that unity is one’s strength.

ULN- Strategically, those statements are designed to diminish the credibility of the individual that we’re talking about.

Soul B Yes. It’s like calling somebody a rapo or rat in prison.

ULN So you’re not a dope fiend?

Soul B Not at all. Never touched the needle. I never touched a bag in my life. This happened over as I say, you know, when you’re in an organization everybody looks for an establishment to instill fear. Historically gangs are predicated upon instilling fear. So 2 Lil homies of mine ended up getting into it with them. Long story short, we’re in the yard C-95. Those who were there, y’all know what happened. And I told my little homies to come . over next to me because they were kind of scared, so I’m like stand over ULN You know the thing that everybody’s waiting to hear your expose ‘on; here with me because I knew one of the individuals, he was one of the The Big Homie of the real big homies. That caused a lot of stir.. You have the head Crowns and the time. I saw a guy come around to stand next to me, right to speak about your perspective and your experiences in this game as but I didn’t even have no beef with these guys. So there’s no reason to be you please, as long as it’s historically sound. on point. Although I was watching him because of the incident that happened with him. The next thing I know; I see the dude backing away from Soul B Yes. me. That’s how quickly it happened. So my little man and I were standing with he said, BO he cut you. So when I put my hand to my face; whoosh!

ULN Because when you’re giving out information and you make it a stance and at that time the boys are right there, all I remember from that time I to say this is what it is, the information that you give out, it should be a story just blanked out and it was like a cloud of smoke the yard went up. My boy that can be; Alijab was in Salah, big homie Jeffrey Young, he came out of it like they cut BO, the whole yard went up in smoke. That was the first time in C-95, Soul B confirmed earned and reaffirmed. which we later called San Juan because the majority were Spanish brothers in that one prison, which is one of the largest prisons on Riker’s Island ULN Yeah, yeah, yeah. It’s like your paperwork? holding bout twenty-one hundred. They’ve never seen guys retaliate for a - brother – ever at that time.

Soulb Yes. ULN So that was the first real historical incident where you guys disULN- Right. Yeah. You need to be able to prove if you’re good or not? played unity?

Soulb- yes ULN- But you are the big homies...?

Soulb- I’m the big homie of the real big homies.

ULN What does that mean?

Soul B This is what that means. Before the establishment of Bloods. All the homies that became big homies. Yes. I was their big homie. Meaning I was the individual when they came into the jail, my name was in lights. I was putting it in. I was a very knowledgeable brother being a renegade God at that time. Because you gotta remember the foundation of bloods. Many of

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Soul B Yes. With these guys. Homies weren’t in existence then; homies didn’t come till 18 months later. So after that, and this is what the police (c.o.’s on Island) are saying. They cut that boy it’s gone be some hell. See but the thing about me? I was conscious, so I wasn’t just going to cut any Spanish dude because I had a rapport with my Spanish brothers. But these were a new type of Latino brothers. These weren’t the Latino brothers that we grew up with us. These were Latino brothers that just came over here from whatever country they were from. They got into a new thing and they’re trying to establish themselves. It just so happened they cut me and I wasn’t trying to hear anything. I didn’t have to go to anybody. All I wanted was blood in my eyes and I wanted the individuals who were responsible. So let me tell you what the administration did. The administration shipped me out of the building because they knew as long as I stayed there

they knew it was gonna be a blood bath.

Soul B Yes!

ULN They usually move you anyway when it’s serious enough.

ULN - But I’m not utilizing this platform for you to be in a position to go back and forth with other brothers. We love those brothers. Their story is their story. Your story is your story. We’re just trying to.... establish

Soul B Yeah they did that intentionally. So when I went to the hospital, when I came back, I was packed up. The beacon just opened at that time. They sent me to the Beacon. Now I’m over in the Beacon, I couldn’t get any redress. I got snuffed as far as I was concerned. We could of went head up, or whatever.

So I’m in the beacon, I’m tight. I ain’t gonna forget. You know, in jail. The word spread so quickly. Now, my established Latino brothers like the rat hunters and a few others at the time. They know that it was boiling in me.

But I didn’t want to make it a racial situation.

ULN- OK. Soul B Because I understood, OK. I was a Casualty. I knew the group responsible. And at this time they weren’t really established yet as they were the following year. So they were over the in C-95. So long-story-short two days later, we end up going to the mess hall. Me and one of my Latino brothers, my big bro, you know was a mentor to me, Cabeza | Head. We were talking in the mess hall and Captain Whitehead, a known sadistic captain, would jump on you in a second. He told us, what the fuck is going on in my mess hall? We were like huh, back to what we were saying, man. He said after you finished eating. Imma take both of you. Take you down to the rotunda.

Imma handcuff both of ya’ll and whoop ya asses. We looking at each other.

Long story short, we came out. Me & Head we ended up beaten up eight of them., We went off. Riot popped off right in the mess hall in the Beacon. That was July 91. First riot in the Beacon. They never saw anything like that. So me and Cabeza, they sent me to Queens House CMC. They sent Cabeza to Brooklyn House. He got bailed out and went home. From there; now I want to make my rounds back to C-95. So now they sent me to Queens House CMC. Long story short, about a month later, they did not want me in the Bing. They send me back to C-95.

ULN They didn’t want you in the bing?

Soulb- Dates. Very important. Because we are dealing with the history of things... Of, before and then after.

ULN Yes. So they were saying in reference to that incident how could that incident be the catalyst, be the foundation when in the Bing they were already unified?

Soul B No, that’s not true. Remember, Bloods didn’t even exist. We are talking about 91’ I just said July 91. Blood didn’t start until July 1993.

ULN So do you know you have relationships with those other brothers?

Soul B That’s why I spoke. After the situation happened with me, then my bro skully; that happened on a visit with his mom’s, his grandmother.

ULN Did somebody get cut on a visit?

Soul B Yes. That was in 92. This is the following year. And then another incident took place involving a brother by the name of Sean Green with his aunt.

ULN Let me ask you another question. For the sake of what we’re talking about when this took place, that cutting on that visit. Where were those other brothers at?

Soul B They were there. Listen, bloods did not exist. So if they were there, they were individuals. In the melee of this happening. There were no bloods yet.

ULN Copy.

Soul B So we just talking about individuals who, isolated situations are happening to, with this organization. So homies didn’t exist. So when I said it was the catalyst, it was the catalyst of black unity. Because brothers ULN- Okay. Question. So some of the brothers who had an interview after stood up for me knowing that I was a warrior. I told you before I don’t you said that. And I’m not saying they said it like to stir up controversy. I’m care if it’s a hundred. Cause if you do something to me. I’m coming at you. only using that as a point of reference so that we can get some historical Win, lose, or draw. And that’s what dudes know me for. I don’t need any perspective on a time and date. crew. I’m coming at you myself because you violated me. So at this time, Soulb- They didn’t’ want me in the bing!

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in 1992, it was just me and dudes who aligned themselves with me that was there and dudes who just felt me. You know, it was just a reactionary thing.

So that’s when I said it was the catalyst because remember when the homies formulated the same thing was continuing where they would just arbitrarily be assaulting brothers. You feel me? And it just so happened. Conditioning response. OG Mac was there along with other renegade gods and they were like, yo, look at what’s going on! Yea well this how we doing you ever heard of this blood thing or whatever. Formulated.

ULN You glossed over that. You might have glossed over it for strategic purposes, but you glossed over an important part. And I don’t want you to go into details if details are not important because of other things. But. OG Mac. when did he come into the picture?

Soul B 1993, when he was arrested with two of his co-defendants.

ULN So from 1991 to 1992. Your incident happened in 91, 92?

Soul B May 26, 1992.

ULN Where you still in the jail in 1993 or did you go?

Soul B No. I went upstate on August 8, 1992.

ULN You weren’t blood yet?

Soul B No, I was not blood.

ULN You were just a brother who was a...

Soul B I was a renegade God ULN So you were up north.

Soul B Yes. ULN and then Omar came to the Island in?

Soul B 1993. A year later. And at that time, Residue of the brothers that I left, the Gods that was supporting me. Who was aware that I had issues with these guys. And it was continuously happening. So it wasn’t a planned thing. It was like; what worked! The Muslims say, OK, well, if you aren’t taking your Shahada we are not to going against these guys. The Gods were saying, well, you gotta get knowledge of yourself. You know, we are not going to address this issue unless it has to deal with us, personally. So the renegade brothers, along with him.

Rudy. You had Rudy red, who is one of the first brothers, Sha-120. You feel me, Supreme. Hollywood. May he rest in peace. Some of these brothers were even before killer Kev, before Mark Kross. But the politics that happened when we started to organize. Pushed those brothers out of the picture because everyone who starts it doesn’t mean they end it. That’s something that I did not go into.

ULN Okay, cool.

Soul B So now the brothers that you did see, (on Queensflip) you know, many, many of them came from my neighborhood who watched me as they grew up. And, you know, some adapted to how I moved, you know, and they were influenced by me. They were my little homies, feel me and even brothers who weren’t when they came to the jail and you heard of BO. Then they got to be amongst me and liked how my gangster was. I was sharp, I was fly you know I was just the average guy who didn’t take anything. So now I’m up north. Now I’m banging against them up north because I don’t want to hear anything. You know, now they’re starting to come up north and I started banging against them up north. So when the homies actually developed, there was an organization that developed in the state (NYS) called BGF Black Guerilla Family, which was founded by D-Whiz from Fort GREENE in 1989.

ULN Feds magazine?

Soul B Yes, The Feds magazine, that was in nineteen ninety-nine. He was arrested in 2000 after that, but in 99, when they interviewed with the New York City Bloods, individuals from all around the country were saying, well, who is this guy? Did he get a charter? Who is he?

Nobody knew him from out West. So I started communicating. I would communicate with T Rogers from Black Pstone Bloods. Out in Baldwin Hills, South Central. I was in communication with G1, who was a triple OG at that time. From Denver lane. None of these individuals knew Omar. So in the melee of our dialog back and forth through correspondent T Rogers said, well, listen since ya’ll don’t have a charter we want ya’ll to become Pstones. I was like, brother hold up Nah. I said beloved you know; because he also comes from a Nation of Islam perspective. Being a part of the Moorish Foundation. You feel me. The Moorish Science Temple. So we used to build. They stand on a 45-degree angle, right, over left, you know. They deal with Mystic science. So that’s how we formulated a bond outside of the alleged affiliations as blood. So I said Nah I think it’s different here bro. I said we don’t have Crips here.

ULN- So. Omar formulated the Bloods while he was on Rikers Island?

Soul B Yes. ULN- OK. And where were you at this time?

Soul B I was Up top.

ULN- OK. Was there a point when you came home from on top?

ULN So getting back to Omar. OG Mack.

Soul B No, I was still Up top.

Soul B OK. now?

ULN Did you get brought back down to the Island?

ULN He is?

Soul B No, not at that time.

Soul B The founder, the sole founder of Bloods, NY. Yes. He’s brought the concept and the idea.

ULN This is when you did your stretch?

ULN Where did he get the concept from?

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Soul B Well, he got the concept and ideal from Alabama. Everybody thought it was California because the story that he told us, which was in our history, was that he was out on Normandy, which is 112th. That’s why he was telling us that Miller gangsters. You feel me? Is where he came home, with a chick named bloody Mary. but later on, after he interviewed with the Feds, and I came in contact with a lot of the...

Soul B This is when I did the stretch, the 25 years.

ULN- For the sake of clarity. When did you formally become known as being blood?

Soul B Nineteen ninety-six. OK. ULN Did these other brothers formally become blood before or after that?

Well, as I explained to you. The founding, the initial brothers that came, many of them are not around today. So it was many brothers who were there before the brothers who came on the show. I knew Kev which he says 94. He said Mark Kross brought him in, in 94. But you had other brothers, but by the time ninety-four came. He wasn’t even really a part of the organization because the sets came later. So it’s just the blood gang. So you had many individuals at that given time who were just a part of the blood gang. And as I mentioned, Rudy Red. You know, I say my prayers for my brother Rudy.

You know, he’s in a hospital right now. (at the time of this interview) He’s one of; from the point of 93. but because of internal politics. His name’s not mentioned. Rudy was at the foundation, Sha-120, because of politics, also Supreme. Because you got to remember right after 93. OG Mack came upstate. So those were the brothers who were down on the Island, building this movement.

ULN So he came up in 93?

Soul B Yeah.

ULN That’s when it spread throughout the state?

Soul B No, it didn’t do it. It didn’t go out to the state until 96. Look at the brothers’ numbers. Go back and look at all their numbers. S.I. Had, may he rest in peace salute to SI. His number was 95., He was one of the first adolescent bloods, S.I. Garland Tyree, who was murdered by police, on Staten Island. He was the big homie. He became the big homie and the face of nine trey gangster bloods. He wasn’t the first big homie. Because of his actions and his deeds. He superseded those who came before him. So it’s not when you come in. It’s your deeds. And who you are that, Yes. You may have bought me. But- because I became who I became and for whatever reason, you may have fallen back. Gotten disciplined and violated. Some people were sat down. Some people were kicked out.

ULN Some people’s paperwork has turned out to not be good.

Soul B So for whatever reasons we aren’t saying you didn’t’ contribute but as time went on your track record. didn’t substantiate who you were. Or if it was, you know, just like rap. You could have been the toughest gangster on the planet, when you rat, it doesn’t count anymore. So it’s the same thing. So whatever politics, that happened, you know, I’m saying thereafter you feel me. I didn’t believe it was for me to discuss. Although individuals knew and my interview just brought guys from under the table, out of the crib. No, this real talk, you guys I didn’t see in 20 years. I didn’t want to say, oh, no. Who’s this guy? I know you from then So I’m like that’s the homie. Go ahead and do your thing. but you must have had ulterior motives now. Because it’s new to me. This crowd thing, this Internet thing. You feel what I’m saying. So I didn’t feel that because I know these guys prior to them becoming homie and we would always be amongst them. It was always big, bro. So now we out on the street. I do an interview. I say I’m the big homie of the real big homies. Now it’s an issue. How is that? I watched you come through, I was the protector!

Soul B Of course. Of course, that’s always going to be - that’s history!

ULN Just in closing, right. And closing with that particular point. It just was important because we needed to clear that up when we needed to.

People wanted to hear your insight because you never responded.

Soul B I didn’t have too because truth out of season could be unsuccessful and the truth will only be affirmed, confirmed, and reaffirmed.

ULN So in closing. Right. What makes you like, because you say there are other big homies, right? and there are other influential brothers. There are other foundational members. What makes you the big homies of the real big homies?

Soul B Because prior to Rudy, I’m in contact with all these guys. Rudy, if you say... I could pull my phone out and show you texts from him I’m big bro because I was big bro before he became who he became in the movement. The Respect, Sha-120 from the neighborhood when he addresses me he addresses me as big homie. You feel me? Uh, Hollywood may rest in peace. He was a comrade. We grew up together. You feel me? But the respect was there. Uhh, Majesty. He went sour. So I’m not going to build on him but all these dudes in our rank and file. Respect me for who I am and what I stood upon you feel what I’m saying? My homie Macko Blacko, Robo may he rest in peace. Even today. La Brim respects me. Ask him what’s up with Soul B, Stacy Knight? He’ll say That’s big bro. Watch when the magazine hits the Feds! Now when you mention other names you might not get the same response that the individuals on these internets and individuals portraying themselves to be may get. So this is just real.

So one of our viewers wanted to know what is a renegade God? A renegade God is an individual who adhered to the teachings of the 5 percent nation of Gods and Earths but he doesn’t follow letter for letter, he does his own thing. But he loves the nation and is willing to uphold & show and prove. However; he’s usually at the forefront. I think that started because I have to say this minister Raheem one of. If not, the founding, but one of the pivotal Gods in Brooklyn. You say; Minister Raheem, Respect. You’ve got to remember a lot of the brothers in Brooklyn before they were in the Nation, they were gang members. They were chaplains so Raheem and all of them were Chaplains so they were gangsters before they became God. So once they’ve got the knowledge of self that didn’t take from who they were. That’s where we get the term renegade gangsta gods. These were the gods who were actually at the foundation and they fought for the nation and they did anything in their power to help build the nation. So when it was beef who did they call because all the Gods weren’t warriors. That’s why they said Medina was the land of the warriors because of that. So these are two brothers who influenced me. You feel me.

So when I came into prison, all the old Gods BJ, Second-born Minister it was all love and education.

ULN-Is there anybody who is in those mountains right now Up North or in Feds that you want to speak to right now?

Soulb-Yes. Yes. Man, it’s so, so many of my brothers. First, I want to say Peace to the God Shakim, Shakim Allah.

Soulb- Shakim has been in since he was 16. He’s been in like 45 years now from the age of 16. I gotta get at my brother. Salute to Shakim. Salute to ULN You are older than the brothers? my brother Ace, I got you, Ace. You know, they still talking about Paid in Full, you and Rondu. I got your best interests in hand. And eventually, Soul B way older! you know, I’ll be there if you’re willing to tell your story. My brother, who was pivotal in my life by the name of Paul Clark, a.k.a. Positive, you know, ULN- The funny thing about this all is that you have remained a gentleman he’s coming up for clemency. He’s been in since 1980 since he was 18. He during that whole climate and you remain a gentleman even when we talk has about 40 years in now, 39-40. That’s my big bro. off-camera.

ULN- You know, see, a lot of times we’re on these platforms and someone Soulb- Yes. Humble and positive, that’s me. I’m the same way as you see me will say this brother got 25 in and this brother got 15 in and this brother now if you ever run into me in the penitentiary. Same way. No different; got 30 years in. We understand what that means. So when we say a person education is always first and foremost because a mentor of mine told me got 40 years in, a person who hasn’t been through that experience or had he said the strong rule the weak, and the wise rule them both. So when you that journey, they’ll say in their mind, wow, he got 40 years in prison. become strong and wise you’re invincible. I don’t have to show my hand That’s a lot of time. But they really can’t grasp what 40 years in that world because then I give you a strategy to defeat me. So what you don’t know can’t is. You can’t grasp if you never did it. How did you make it? hurt you.

Soulb- I’m going to share this. I was conditioned from an early age to be ULN So you’re still the real the big homie of the real big homies? institutionalized. And I say that to say from boys’ homes to group homes

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to DFY, to Rikers Island to Upstate. When I went from levels, you know, Meek says there are levels to the shit, that’s how my life was, I went through levels and all the guys that I experienced this with when I was in boy’s homes then we went... salute to my boy, Blue Boy. One of the big Crips, he and I go from when we were eight, in the boy’s home. His name resonated right now because I interviewed with, salute to my boy Kurup from |City of the Godz |the big Crip. Imma link you with him and this is going to be a great network of positive works. We did a neighborhood thing. You know, Flatbush -his podcast was about linking the missing links of Flatbush to Bloods and Crips that came into Flatbush. Because Flatbush was technically, a majority Crip. That’s just what it is. You got homies there, but Flatbush is the Mecca of Crips. So those are my little homies. I was with them. They love me to death.

B and C’s, it doesn’t matter I’m their big homie.

ULN Got you.

Soulb- Although I’m blood, I’m their big homie feel me. So long story short.

Yeah, me and Blue go back to when we were kids he’s been in now 36, 37 years.

ULN- All right.

Soulb- In another situation and it slipped my mind to mention him, see when you are on these platforms a lot of time our minds be rolling and it doesn’t be that you intentionally forget about individuals because those individuals are still soldiering. You know, you out here in the free society. But they are still soldiering remaining strong under the most adverse, traumatic, and oppressive conditions known to man. So I try to always acknowledge these brothers still behind the wall, to keep their names and spirits alive, and to acknowledge their contributions to the game. but you can’t mention everyone so I do my best to honor them all as their names come up.

Many times individuals, because I had that same experience when I went back after doing a stretch. Going back this last time, I just came home; a hundred and three days ago. (at the time of the interview.) When I returned.

Oh, you forgot about me. But it was still open arms. Because, you know, not that I was who I am, but I did reach back out to some individuals. But I couldn’t reach everybody. Sometimes it was a letter. It was a picture you wanted. You might have saw dudes getting pictures. And you may have been my main man and I’m sending another guy things, who you felt wasn’t as close as you. I understand I’ve been there before. But at the end of the day, when I returned; I remember when I was in downstate, I said, man, I’m going back. I’m in downstate, I’m on the bus and my whole life was repeating.

Even when I left, it was an escape for me. Like I never thought I was going to get out. I went to seven boards. I got deuced every time. And now I left my five-year-old son; my other son he’s like 13. my wife! I’m like before It was just me? Now I have people who depend on me because I stayed out for a while. That made it a different kind of pain. And it was. And it was always a possibility. That I could go in and not come back out. The part we all can take for granted. Because, based on your past actions, and you have to respond where it may be a life or death situation.

ULN That’s key. That’s key. Because you changed doesn’t mean the people who you may bump back into has changed. Where are you from?

Soulb- I’m from Flatbush, Brooklyn. From Crown Heights but I grew up in Flatbush, but I’ve always been back and forth. You know, Flatbush, is what actually gave me the character for who I became as a man. You know, as far as street credibility is concerned, character building etc.

Shout Out to K.O Smitty that’s our George Jackson, of New York state. He’s been in Forty-six years. Put it this way. I haven’t met a man in my entire life that stood strictly upon principle. Win, lose, or draw. Straight. No chaser.

Black and white. He’s an unsung hero of mine.

ULN He’s the who? of New York State?

Soulb- He’s our George Jackson.

ULN Who is George Jackson?

News Mag and Mr. Free through media. Enjoy.

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AZIA

STAR OF BETʼS HUSTLE IN BROOKLYN AZIA (Pronounced as “AY-Z-YAH”) is an Electric Recording Artist, Singer, Songwriter & Star of BET’s new reality show, Hustle in Brooklyn. Azia loves to showcase her multiple talents such as acting, modeling, and designing. Before all the success, she was following her dreams in New York City. Brooklyn to be exact, and that is where all the sassy came from. “Haitian mixed with Trini” was something Azia was never timid to talk about. Even one of her hottest singles titled, “Pull Up” shows her embracing her coconut Caribbean roots. Her musical influences began very early on from her father who has more than enough credits in the music industry to back her up. As a teenager, she hosted parties and a cable access tv show called Flex in Brooklyn. Her video credits include “Panda” from Desiigner, “Change Your Mind” from Trey Songz and “Pick it Up” from Famous Dex, just to name a few.

Azia was featured in Kanye West’s “Yeezy Season” collection and served as a contributing designer for Nike’s Caribbean Pack sneaker line. After releasing her Debut EP ‘The Audacity” she has proven that she can matriculate amongst the greats. Scheduled to come sooner than we think, her new EP will release in the winter of 2020 aligned with some other big projects in the works.

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Azia has always been enthusiastic about giving back to the community, specifically the youth. In September 2019, Azia will launch the Our World School Tour. This tour visits middle schools, high schools, and colleges across the globe in partnership with socially conscious organizations to fight against bullying, incite social responsibility and provide valuable tools and resources to aid in personal growth and hone life skills. The content of each tour is tailored towards the grade level. The tour features guest speakers, music, dance, double dutch, slam dunk contests, and artistic celebrity performances.

With the release of her newest single “Plates with Snakes,” the launch of her cosmetics line, her upcoming celebrity performances, and her school tour, Azia is growing her brand at rapid speed while maintaining a high level of social consciousness. This Caribbean marvel is more than meets the eye. In all that she does, she comes with one mission in mind, to conquer. Azia is an undeniable impact in the entertainment industry.

FOLLOW AZIA ON INSTAGRAM: @azia.iam

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Depicted: Issue 7: “Honor Up” (Special Edition Nipsey Hussle Tribute)

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Olivia Georgette Studios LLC is a black woman-owned art studio in Long Island, New York. Olivia is a young entrepreneur that uses her art and graphic design background to promote black beauty, self love, and corporate branding to clients from coast to coast.

Being an artist and creative designer has always been her main focus in life.

She later attended Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI, graduating with a Bachelors degree in Graphic Design and Digital Media. Since then, Olivia has displayed her work at numerous art events and exhibits in NYC and surrounding areas, exhibited art throughout NYC and surrounding states, selling a multitude of products ranging from Prints, Pillows, backpacks, tote bags, t-shirts and a plethora of other beautiful treasures.

Sold at oliviageorgette.com Now Available in Black

Outside In addition to being an exhibiting artist and event vendor, Olivia provides a multitude of services as a creative graphic designer including but not limited to brochures to promote your brand, custom art work, and home decor pieces.

She also provides custom design services for events including custom wedding invitation suites, banners, greeting cards, calendars, brochures etc.

Whatever your needs are, Olivia Georgette Studios can make your vision come to life..

Check more work and merch at oliviageorgette.com Follow us: @oliviageorgette @invitationsbyolivia

Dope Bag Set Custom Orders welcomed

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THE TAKE-AWAY: What is a 401(k)?

I

t’s a plan that lets you set aside money from your paycheck into a 401(k) account and invest it in the market. The idea is that the value of the stocks and bonds you invest in go up over the years you spend working, leaving you with a fluffy cushion of cash when you retire. Your employer, along with a 401(k) administrator, handles this for you.

If you are among the professionally jobless, or part of the rapidly overpopulating 1099 generation, you’ve probably daydreamed your way through or actively repressed a few conversations about 401(k) plans. Maybe you read that widely ridiculed, abundantly memed advice saying that by age 35, you should have twice your salary saved, and wanted to disintegrate into the atmosphere.

Maybe you also had more basic questions, like: What is a 401(k)? Why do human-resources directors and the financial media use words like “defer” and “pretax” as if they explain themselves?

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What Is A 401(k)?

A 401(k) is a plan that allows you to defer — or, in human English, set aside — money from your paycheck into a 401(k) account and invest it. The idea is that the value of the stocks and bonds you invest in, hopefully, go up over the years you spend working.

You don’t pay any federal tax on the money you set aside (or, when the market climbs, the money you earn) until you actually withdraw it. When you do take that money out, the tax rate at that time is the rate that applies. Your employer handles setting aside this money by automatically taking it out of your paycheck.

What Is A 401(k)’s Contribution Limit?

A word of caution: Plans vary. Minor exceptions are all over the place. Retirement plans can get as complex as the needs of the people trying to save their money. Also, companies sometimes match your contributions with their own cash,

but they contribute shares in the company itself. That can be risky if your plan isn’t diversified enough, and the company’s stock tanks (i.e., Enron).

But generally you can dial up or down how much of your paycheck you put into your 401(k) account — the thing that contains the money you’ve invested. You can’t access any of this money before age 59-1/2 unless you’re willing to stomach a penalty.

As of 2018, if you have a 401(k) plan set up through your job, you can put up to $18,500 of what you get paid into your account. At age 50+, you can contribute extra, but you have to take money out by age 70 (assuming you have the luxury to wait that long).

What Is A 401(k) Administrator?

A 401(k) administrator — like Vanguard, Fidelity or T. Rowe Price — oversees your actual 401(k) account. Those administrators make sure that the money from your paycheck is invested according to your demands. They also offer information about the money in your 401(k) account or changes to your plan, and can answer questions you might have about the plan.

“We are in charge of keeping it all organized,” said Meghan Murphy, a vice president at Fidelity Investments.

For many plans, you can go online to a website overseen by the administrator, and decide how much money you want to take out of your paycheck and put into your 401(k). With a Fidelity account, for instance, Fidelity would send your request to the payroll company your employer uses to give you your paycheck.

Say you wanted to put $10 worth of every paycheck you get into your 401(k). Before you get your paycheck, the payroll company takes that $10 and sends it to the 401(k) administrator. From there, the 401(k) administrator sends that $10 off to be invested.

How Does A 401(k) Work And, Hopefully, Grow?

On your paycheck, for federal taxes at least, you’d only be taxed as if you made $90. As for state taxes, it depends on the state; FICA taxes still dock you as if you made $100.

The administrator puts that $10 ment portfolio, often a fund of sically that fund is a big pile of by a fund manager who invests certain criteria.

into an investsome kind. Bamoney overseen it according to

The administrator allows you to choose from eral investment portfolios. You can choose that best suits your tastes. But you have to yourself: “What is a 401(k) risk profile that OK with?”

sevone ask I’m

Funds invest in a mixture of stocks and bonds and are designed to do different things, depending on what you want. Some are more aggressive, taking on bigger risks with stocks of younger, smaller companies for potentially bigger reward. Some are more pedestrian, a bit heavier on bonds, but are less likely to startle you with massive heaves in the market.

What Does A 401(k) Stand For? The 401(k) is named after the section of the IRS code, added in 1978, that allows an employer to create a retirement plan that employees can put pretax money into.

And if you’re wondering, was born in 1981 after Ted IRS tax code section for efits consulting company co-owned.

the first 401(k) plan Benna tried using that Johnson Cos., a benin Pennsylvania he

This all may seem far away. If you haven’t saved anything, you’re not alone. Forty-five percent of people in the U.S. haven’t saved a penny toward retirement. But time is dumb and unfair. And it moves much faster the older you get.

Say you get paid $100 every week, and you want to set aside 10% of your gross pay and put that money into a 401(k). Ten percent, in this case, is $10. That $10 — the pretax money — would be put into your 401(k) account.

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BETTER YOU BETTER SOCIETY Better You Better Society is a positive movement that is meant to push all men and women forward in a positive direction. The organization that was founded in 2016 by Samuel Emmanuel Dickerson Jr in order to provide everyday people with access to information and services to improve the quality of their lives. While this seem like a difficult goal to accomplish Better You Better Society makes strides to accomplish this goal through hosting health and wellness seminars, youth programs, personal development workshops and producing positive and constructive media. Stay up to date with Better You Better Society at www.betteryoubettersociety.org or follow us on all social media platforms at Better You Better Society.

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betteryoubettersociety.org

BUYING A LUXURY HOME W

hen buying a luxury home, not only are you sitting in the lap of luxury, you’re living in it. A luxury home is more than a mere structure, dwelling, or residence. It represents your tastes, and it’s a place where you can live in high style.

If you’re a first-time luxe home buyer, you need to make some informed decisions before you sign on the dotted line. Then your home will, indeed, be your castle. Here are some tips for buying your first luxury home.

FIND A REAL ESTATE AGENT VERSED IN LUXURY PROPERTIES Luxury homes can be difficult to locate because of their exclusivity.

Often, they don’t appear on multiple listing services (MLS)because owners want to safeguard their privacy.

A high-end agent knows the luxury market and works solely with elite buyers. Your agent has access to pocket properties, which are not openly advertised. There are even agents who specialize in a particular niche such as beach houses.

DONʼT JUDGE A PROPERTY BY ITS PHOTOS Pictures, brochures and video walk-throughs don’t duplicate the feeling of actually being in the home. Even if you have to travel across the country or visit from overseas, a personal viewing is imperative – after all, this is a huge purchase you’re making! Gauge the house’s appeal by visiting it several times at different times of day.

MAKE A CHECKLIST Know what you want before looking at houses, and make a checklist.

By doing this you’ll rein in your emotions and thwart an impulsive decision. That home theater looks amazing and so does that wine cellar, but they won’t be so amazing later when you’ve paid for them and never use them.

INSPECT THE HOME Just because a house appears opulent and awe-inspiring doesn’t mean it’s unblemished. A closer look could reveal pests, mold, faulty plumbing or outdated appliances. Don’t do this by yourself.

It’s important to enlist a professional home inspector specifically versed in high-end properties.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Your dream home can quickly morph into a nightmare if you don’t carefully investigate its surroundings. It may be situated in an exclusive neighborhood that bumps up against a questionable area six blocks away. Ask your agent what will happen to the area in the future. For example, is there a projected high rise or housing development that will obstruct your gorgeous views? Even if you’re eyeing a gated community, check out possible issues with the location.

ENSURE THAT THE HOME HAS EXCELLENT RESALE VALUE You haven’t even finished looking at potential homes, yet you need to consider their resale value? Yes. Be certain that you can comfortably recoup what you spent on the house if you need to sell it. Again, a fantastic location factors into this scenario. The home’s condition is also crucial to its salability.

When you buy your first luxury home, you enter an elite realm of taste, refinement and dreams-come-true. However, you can’t just make an emotion-fueled plunge into this purchase. Preparation and restraint will help you discover a luxury house that truly is a home.

DOCUMENT EVERYTHING The high-end market examines buyers under a microscope, so financial documentation is imperative to prove that you can afford a multi-million dollar home. This shows the seller whether you’ll need to obtain a loan or pay in cash. Cash is the favored luxe home payment.

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A CONVERSATION WITH...

Delson Holloway is a successful businessman that has also partnered with other established entrepreneurs. In partnership with the founders of Geno Green Global since 2014, Holloway has launched a chic urban baseball cap and t-shirt line “last word’’ under Toshio Yori (meaning Brilliant Man and Servant of the People).

Ironically a definition that perfectly describes Delson Holloway! In 2014, the same year Delson partnered with Toshio Yori, he also became a partner at DonDiva Global Media, Inc. A well-known company in urban culture, where he has worked since 2007 serving as Executive Vice President, when it was known only as DonDiva magazine. Today it’s a global giant.

ULN- This is Tyson from Urban Life News. Today I’ve got Delson (@sharponeent) Executive Vice President of Don Diva Magazine, up in here. He just stopped by to say What’s up real quick. I appreciate the big bro., for coming through and chopping it up with me. what’s good Del.?

D- Everything is good.

ULN- Well, what I like you to do real quick; because I know you know a couple of people who are locked up, I just want you to give them a shout out before we build.

D- Shout out to my boy whistle. who’s out in North Carolina, Whistle Time. My bro Big Sha is locked up in NC. There are so many dudes I know that are locked up. Shout out to Tut, Lou Hobbs, Scooter, my man Blue; a lot of my people are locked up man.

ULN- I saw on social media they were doing a petition for TuT right now. The people working hard to get him out.

D- You know, can’t hurt you.

ULN- Have you Chopped it up with TuT? D- He’s called the office. I haven’t spoken to him in a minute, but he has called the office over the years. Everybody, Calls the office. Everybody is tapped in with us, locked in with us. I spoke to Lou, maybe last year sometime. Shout out to Lou, Scooter, TuT, Shout out to Blue. Shout out to Harlem Dirt, Mata from the BX. If I forgot ya’ll, ya’ll gotta forgive me. I know just too many brothers who are locked up to name them all. Just some of the old-timers off the top.

ULN- We almost forgot the most important reason you are here today!

D- Yea, I brought you a copy of “ The Crack Era” the book, The Rise and Fall, The Redemption of Kevin Chiles. Serious, serious, serious, serious, serious. Joint man.

Ya’ll needs to cop that, support that. We show all of our brothers and sisters in the penitentiaries, one can make a mistake and come home and redirect one’s energy and change one’s life.

ULN- So on that note; there is going to be a guy that is in solitary confinement somewhere reading a copy of Urban Life News magazine. What do you gotta say to him right now? To this young man or woman that’s in

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the box?

D- Man. You know what? I caught 30 months in the box, and that’s when I found myself. When I first got locked up. I didn’t like being in the cells. And what I found out and what I realized was; from building with an old-timer locked next to me. One day he was like, man, young blood, you always fishing around. I was trying to work out and all that. he said to me. sit down. You know, what’s wrong with you? I asked, what’s that? He said, man; You don’t know yourself. And he said. And if you do, you don’t like yourself because you can’t seem to sit still and be by yourself. He said; Man, take your time and get to know yourself? Figure out who you are inside. He said, Write down all of your strengths and | or your weaknesses. So two days go by, and I say, OG, I got the list. He said, Oh, really? He said, okay, now take that and throw it away and go sit back down and write the real list because it shouldn’t have taken you just two days to write that list.

And what I found out; was it took me about four or five days to write the list. To really get past what you think of yourself on the surface. And when I really looked at all of my weaknesses, I really didn’t like myself. A lot of times man. We spend a lifetime running from ourselves; because we don’t know ourselves. We don’t like ourselves.

So I made a conscious, commitment to address all of my weaknesses while I was in the box. Maybe one won’t be in the box that long, but if you are in S.H.U.| Box, that is where the work begins. What else are you going to do? That is an opportunity for you to become great. Learn a new language, study history, perfect your religious studies, master working out. Most of all you should be reading everything. Put yourself to the test. Maximize your potential.

Don’t let your mind slip, tell yourself the truth.

ULN- I didn’t do the whole thirty months because I came out on appeal. Which isn’t always easy to achieve. You gotta hit the books though. Not to try and be a lawyer. But you can develop solid legal insight if you don’t confuse yourself and see things that are not in black and white. How you feel does not change things. Use the law books to prove your point. The point is, I found

myself in a box. One of the most profound things that can happen to you. It’s to learn how to be all right with your own company and learn how to entertain yourself and to learn who you are. That really can’t happen when you are in the general population in jail. It can be achieved but in general pop. There are more noise and distractions.

Because you could be around a thousand people, a thousand convicts. You’ll still be lonely. You feel what I’m saying. So when I was in the box. That’s when I found myself, really found myself. And I said you know what? I’m going to go home and turn it, all the way up and get on some different shit. And I’ve been home 19 years. Humbly.

I grew up and I learned who I was. Because I wrote all my weaknesses down. My weaknesses outweighed my strengths. And I spent a lifetime running from myself.

One of the main reasons why a lot of us get into trouble, bro, is because of peer pressure. Trying to please other people, older brothers, older homeboys, older cousins, kids on the block; women. But when you know yourself and you know who you are, people can’t influence you like that. When you know what’s right or wrong. We were (ULN-Offices) just watching Drink Champs, and when Fab was saying; when “Tre told them to get out the car”, (Fab Speaking on a Movie) that was the wisdom his father instilled in him.

D- He knew he wasn’t built for it. I respect that way more than the dude who fronts.

Because everybody called him a pussy. For getting out of the car. You know the scene from Boyz N the Hood. He was a real man because; look if you call me and I mess with you. You say; I got a beef come hold me down, and I go with you. You don’t ever got to look over your shoulder when I’m behind you. Both figurative and literal. You know why? For one I’m trustworthy. Secondly, I know everything that entails (comes with) when I’m going to go make that move. I’ve already thought it out. Jail, Death, it could go bad. So when I go, I’m fully committed. Because I’m man enough to say Tyson I ain’t going if I couldn’t handle it. You ain’t never got to worry about me telling on you because I’m committed. I’m man enough to say, yo homie, I ain’t going, if I didn’t want to go. The consequences, ramifications, and repercussions. I can’t deal with them anymore. I’ve got too much to lose. If you respect me, then you gotta respect me when I say no.

ULN- Do you think these young guys; don’t know how to get out of the car?

D- Nah, they don’t know how to get out of the car, because for starters a lot of these young guys haven’t been through anything yet. They haven’t been through anything real yet. Not all of them but most. Because times have changed. Coming outside isn’t the same as coming outside some years back. What’s acceptable now wouldn’t have

worked before. See, to kill somebody from across the street with a gun is always different than being up and close. There was just a boy in Queens who got killed from a stray bullet. You can shoot a dude from down a block and never see the damage that you do. So it doesn’t even hit your conscience. You never really saw it, so you can block it out. We are talking real not make-believe.

When you in the joint, you’ve got to really put it in. There is no across the street.

That’s a different element. That’s a different level of drama. But when you really go put work in and walk upon somebody, put it in and the blood splattered all over your shoes, and clothes. That’s different from shooting a person from down the block. Because they’ll shoot a kid down the block. they’ll die. Then they will go upstairs and smoke a blunt; play the video game. They don’t understand the repercussions and the ramifications of taking a life and how serious it is. The majority of them be shooting each other because they can’t fight and are punks. They can’t fight. They don’t want to take a, EL they don’t want to get beat up and say, they lost especially with the internet exposure that comes with it. Now they are filming them on Facebook and all that Instagram bullshit. But the majority of that shit is because they don’t know themselves.

That boy Trey (movie | boyz n da hood) knew himself. He was like; I don’t have any business in that car because Imma tell; I can’t handle this. So I have way more respect for him getting out of the car. Not putting his boys in a position where they would have made him get busy, that’s what would happen in reality.

He had the principles and morals that his father instilled in him? He knows, he wasn’t built like that. So I have nothing but respect for him. I don’t respect a dude who’s feeling that way and still go put work in? Because when it goes bad, that’s the dude that’s gonna tell.

So when a person tells you who they are, you gotta believe them. You have to listen.

These young people get caught up in peer pressure. The ’30s are young people.

Again not all. But definitely our 19’s and 20-year-old young men, “You’re pussy, you ain’t’ gonna come, we gotta put that work in”. Instead of him saying yea I am and I ain’t built for that. He goes because of peer pressure. And now when it goes bad and they end up in the interrogation rooms. What happens? “I ain’t really want to do that anyway”. It’s real bro. This is why telling is so prevalent.

Number one, it’s too easy to bust a gun. Anybody can bust a gun. However; everyone can’t handle being in that interrogation room. Everybody isn’t built for

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that. No matter what they say because paperwork has shown us that everyone in this game is not who they say they are. I was locked up with this kid, I ain’t gonna say his name. He had about 75 years to do. He is a good kid. He was about 24. He had about 6, 7 years in. He used to play basketball all day. He knew every rap lyric out of that time. He knew about every key basketball game. How many points, Michael Jordan made? He knew all of that right. Every day I’m going to the Law Library trying to give my time back. One day I just asked the kid; I said yo, how much time you got? We were in Comstock at the time. He said, OG, I got seventy-five to life! I asked him?

You did your appeal? He was like, man Nah. So I ended up getting him in the Law Library with me, and a couple of cats. Harry McGruff, Irish Carl West, was really good with the law. I was trying to help this dude because I said, boy, you’re gonna be doing a layup one day and it’s gonna hit you like a ton of bricks. You got 75 years. At 24, that’s a life sentence. But this is what a lot of kids are up against because they go in there and they just play basketball and hang out with their homeboys. Next thing you know, they are 36. Went to jail when they were 17. I got homeboys that did 30 years. Salute to:” Loggie” and Lil gangster (Shadael). Who went to jail at 17, 19. That is a lifetime, homes. A lifetime. I’m sure each one of them would tell you, man. If I had to do it over again. I wouldn’t have done that. That’s too much time bro. That’s why these kinds of magazines and sh*t like that are good. That’s what our aim is. To spread knowledge and awareness. Look, bro, if you gonna be about that life. I’ll never tell a ni**a not to get no money and don’t put any work in. I just say if you do that; this is what you better be ready to deal with. Because, if you ain’t? Then you don’t need to be doing that. I hate people who are like this. I hate people that have gotten all kinds of money, killed all kinds of people in the game. When they come home; they tell the kids, oh, just don’t do that. Without a why? No explanation, only just don’t do this.

Don’t sell drugs, don’t play with guns, but don’t give them anything to replace that way of life with. Don’t sell drugs, read a book, start a business. Do something. But they just preachy cause the game is over for them because they got caught. You did a hundred years. Now you mad. You mad at the kids out there. But you were the same kid out there doing it. I don’t take that approach. I try to hear a kid out. I say, OK? Why are you out here getting money like this, in this way? what’s happening? You hustling, you swiping, you selling drugs? OK, ok. I hear you. Now, what’s the end game, though?

You can’t swipe forever! You can’t sell drugs forever. So what’s the end game? You got to have a definitive purpose. What will be your next step? If you don’t have the next step, regardless of how much you may manage to save you are still living day to day because you have no purpose. No end game. Success requires you to think. At the end of the day the game is still a business, not only do you have the watch out for the boys you have to manage your financial affairs.

Anyway, I’m giving it to a motherfucker real. I’m not gonna be up there saying.

Y’all don’t do that. That sh*t is corny because what happens is they just turn a deaf ear. They will say, OG, how you gonna tell me not to do the same things you did.

You got mad money. I saw your flicks, jewelry heavy. Everybody wants that. They want that. So now I gotta find a different way to give them the game. You can’t just look at one’s success in the game and try to duplicate it without knowing the whole story.

But the part you didn’t see; you didn’t see when I got that big bid. You ain’t see when my girl left me and started messing with somebody else. You ain’t see, when everybody ran off with all my money and sh*t like that, nobody was there for me. You ain’t see when I was in the cells, doing this bid, calling people who wouldn’t accept my collect calls. Me the ni**a taking care of everybody. You don’t see that part. All you see is my pictures of me driving nice cars, rocking jewels; because that’s when you take a dope picture - when you fly.

Know what I’m saying. Like, even in my jail pictures; I’m in shape, you know what I mean, I’m looking good. That’s what we take a picture for. To represent, I ain’t taking a picture when I’m in pain, sitting in that cell, because we always want to put our best look forward. Under every circumstance. However; I needed to show that aspect of the bid, so you younger dudes reading this or seeing me on another media outlet could have seen the complete story. Most of all, I need to see that for myself, to remember that for my reflection and contemplation. You know, I still got my jail I.D Right now. And it’s hung over the door of my place; every time I got out of the house.

I Touch it. To remember. Trust that it’s better to remember than to forget.

ULN- On that note. That’s a wrap. Free Thru Me. Peace! Thank you, Big bro. We appreciate your time. Thank’s for my copy!

D- No Problem Bro and everybody make sure you buy your copy of “The Crack Era” The Redemption of Kevin Chiles.

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AVAILABLE NOW

on amazon 54

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URBANLIFENEWSMAGAZINE.COM 56

THE

LAWYER

LAST RESORT OF

Michael “Minkah” Norwood

(Minkah Anane Abubakar) @LawyerOfLastResort

“When all else

has failed, I am the last line of defense. I am America’s top jailhouse lawyer.

Have a question?

Just ask Minkah.”

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I want to thank the publisher of Urban Life Magazine, Demar Tyson, for allowing me this opportunity.

I am America’s top jailhouse lawyer. My track record can be corroborated by the people that have sought me out for help. Ask “Big Meech” and “Fat Cat” Sills, from the BMF case. Ask the “Willie” Falcon, from South Florida. Ask Myles Coker, from the “Blue Thunder” case of the 1990’s, prosecuted in NY. For most people, the task of finding the proverbial loophole is a lot like trying to find their car keys. The reason they have trouble finding their car keys is because they keep looking in the same place. That’s precisely what happens when they are looking for their own loophole: they focus on one particular area of their case to the exclusion of all others.

The reason I have won so many cases is because I always start my legal investigation from the begining, starting with the initial arrest, and methodically work my way through each proceeding. My method is scientific. As a matter of science, every criminal conviction has to contain an error because all of the participants in that process were human; and as a matter of science, no human is flawless. As I used to say in the law class I taught at the federal penitentiary at Lewisburg, Pa, in 2006, “somebody blinked”.

My prison reform platform on Instagram, Lawyer of Last Resort, and on Facebook, Michael Minkah Norwood, serves as a source of information for prisoners and their loved ones regarding important points of law, both past and present. I answer any brief question posted on the pages about law.

Please check out my books, entitled I’m Not Crying, Looking For a Way Out, and Minkah’s Official Cite Book.

The goal of my platform is to start helping our Queens who are in prison, first.

Women in prison receive much less support than their male counterparts. I have several starting points in mind and will be bouncing them off Brother Tyson, entertainment promoter Shawn Hartwell, publisher Wahida Clark, and Cardi B, in the near future.

Respect the Queen.

Peace.

SUPREME • PRINCE Salute Kings -Never Forgotten

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SHOUTOUTS MY HANDSOME HUSBAND When You Entered My World You Made My Life Complete The Man That I Only Dreamed Of Was Finally Placed In My Real Life And I Can’t Thank God Enough For My SUPERMAN And My Blessing Of Unity.

A Real Stand Up Man With a Heart Of Gold & The True Definition Of A Gentleman That’s Knows How To Treat, Love, Spoil And Protect His Queen My King I Forever Got Your Back & Will Forever Be By Your Side Bonnie & Clyde Shining As We Make One Another Greater #VirgoConnectionMy Soulmate MY Best Friend My King My Husband #LoyaltyIsRoyalty I Love You PAPI

KOACH KARTER The system took everything but your integrity, your principles & morals.

Youve displayed nothing but love and loyalty stood firm & remained solid when the odds were against you.

For that the same n more will 4ever B reciprocated.

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TO MY FOREVER, You never cease to amaze me! I have love watching you become the man you are today!

You are not only my backbone, but also my soulmate as well as my protector.

Thank you for all that you do for me!

I love you to the moon and back.

FROM Erica

ANGELA I wanted thank you Angela (my queen) for the love and support over the years. You exemplify Moral greatness! Your faith and confidence in me has helped me become a better man. We are one. My loyalty to you is unquestionable.

Thank you Chooka. Through your support I am proof that a rose can truly grow from concrete.

Love, communication, and loyalty for life.

FROM Clayton Peace lil bro. I aint forget you FROM Jahliek

FREE MULA

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TO MY LOVING WIFE AND QUEEN, Continue to be that strong black woman I fell in love with.Thank you for your loving support through all the good and bad times.

Always us Neva them Tilpac & KeKe.

MY WIFE, MY QUEEN AND MY LOVE. The one that holds it down and took time on our 5 count indictment.

She’s home and is still rocking out with ya boy.

I love you baby who is a beautiful mother and wife.

2 magnets stuck together= 4 ever FROM Your Hubby Kapone.

ASHLEY, MY QUEEN we have been traveling this road for over 5 years now and in 3 months we will finally be together for the rest of our lives.

The strength and determination you have shown me is amazing. I love you with all my heart and soul. No one knows us like us.

FROM your king, George

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Check out my book: Jail-born.

Prison Raised: The Pamphlet to Success - Terror 62

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Co ns tit to Lim utio Ce na i t l Se ll P s ar ho ch ne es T

he Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects citizens from unlawful searches and seizures by the government. Under the Fourth Amendment, a warrant is generally required for a search and seizure to be reasonable, although subsequent Fourth Amendment jurisprudence has established limited exceptions to the warrant requirement, including the search incident to arrest exception.

In 2014, the U.S. Supreme Court addressed two cases, Riley v. California and United States v. Wurie, dealing with cell phones searches and the search incident to arrest exception to the warrant requirement.

In its analysis of the propriety of the search, the Court discussed the specific rules that apply when police search items that are on, or near, a person when they are being arrested. During searches incident to arrest, the high court has not required warrants under certain circumstances where protecting officer safety and preventing evidence destruction are at issue. Under Chimel v California, a search incident to arrest is limited to the arrestee’s person and the area within the arrestee’s immediate control. In United States v. Robinson, the Court applied the rule of Chimel and found the warrantless search of the arrestee’s cigarette pack (that was in the arrestee’s pocket and contained heroin) to be reasonable. The officer was entitled to search not only defendant’s person, but also a physical object found on his person. In Arizona v. Gant, the Court concluded that searches of a car are permitted where the arrestee is unsecured and within reaching distance of the passenger compartment, or where it is reasonable that evidence of the crime of arrest might be found in the car.

How do these established search incident to arrest guidelines apply to a cell phone found on a person? Is a cell phone like a cigarette pack? Or is it different?

In both Riley v. California and United States v. Wurie, the police arrested the defendants, and during a search incident to that arrest, the police seized each defendant’s cell phone that was located on their person. Evidence of gang and weapons activity was discovered on Riley’s phone, after police looked through text, photographs, and videos.

In Wurie, police searched the defendant’s phone finding he had received multiple calls from “my house.” They accessed the call log, traced it to the defendant’s apartment, and then searched the apartment, finding drugs and firearms. Both defendants were convicted. The California Court of Appeals upheld Riley’s conviction, but the First Circuit Court of Appeals overturned Wurie’s conviction.

The U.S. Supreme Court heard both cases together, and in a 9-0 opinion, held that the police generally may not, without a warrant, search digital information on a cell phone seized from an individual who has been arrested.

DIGITAL DATA IS DIFFERENT

terests. Although the risk of harm to officers and destruction of evidence are present in all custodial arrests, Roberts concluded that these risks are not a concern with digital data on a cell phone. Digital data does not present a risk of harm to an officer, nor help an arrestee to escape. Officers can of course ensure that the cell phone cannot be used as a weapon, but once the phone is physically secured, the digital data itself does not endanger anyone. The Court was also not persuaded that the loss of evidence risk was implicated. Once secured, there is no longer a risk that the arrestee will delete information from the cell phone. The government was also unable to establish that remote wiping or data encryption were a prevalent problem, or that other technologies could not be used to address these concerns.

On the other hand, the intrusion on an individual’s privacy is substantial. Unlike physical items, a cell phone can store millions of pages of text, thousands of photographs or hundreds of videos. The term “cell phone” may in fact be a misnomer, wrote Roberts. “They could just as easily be called cameras, video players, rolodexes, calendars, tape recorders, libraries, diaries, albums, televisions, maps, or newspapers.” As a result, the information is far more pervasive than any physical item would be. Further complicating matters is that data on a cell phone may be stored elsewhere, such as in the cloud, which would render the search far more expansive than originally contemplated by the officer.

Citing a Pew Research Study that found that 90% of Americans owned cell phones, this is also an issue that officers are likely to encounter frequently.

For all of these reasons, the Court concluded that the privacy interests involved clearly outweigh any governmental interests, such that a warrant will generally be required to search digital information on an arrestee’s cell phone.

EXIGENT CIRCUMSTANCES EXCEPTION STILL APPLIES Importantly, other exceptions to the warrant requirement remain in full force. The Court specifically left open the possibility that the exigent circumstance exception could apply to a cell phone search on a case-by-case basis.

In determining whether an exigency exists, the Court will look to the totality of the circumstances.

GET A WARRANT The Court stressed that cell phones can indeed be searched -- officers must generally just obtain a warrant first.

Writing for the court, Chief Justice Roberts weighed the degree of intrusion on an individual’s privacy against the need for the promotion of legitimate governmental in-

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New York Consolidated Laws

Criminal Procedure Law: CPL § 440.10 Motion to Vacate Judgment 1. At any time after the entry of a judgment, the court in which it was entered may, upon motion of the defendant, vacate such judgment upon the ground that: (a) The court did not have jurisdiction of the action or of the person of the defendant; or (b) The judgment was procured by duress, misrepresentation or fraud on the part of the court or a prosecutor or a person acting for or in behalf of a court or a prosecutor; or (c) Material evidence adduced at a trial resulting in the judgment was false and was, prior to the entry of the judgment, known by the prosecutor or by the court to be false; or (d) Material evidence adduced by the people at a trial resulting in the judgment was procured in violation of the defendant’s rights under the constitution of this state or of the United States; or (e) During the proceedings resulting in the judgment, the defendant, by reason of mental disease or defect, was incapable of understanding or participating in such proceedings; or (f) Improper and prejudicial conduct not appearing in the record occurred during a trial resulting in the judgment which conduct, if it had appeared in the record, would have required a reversal of the judgment upon an appeal therefrom; or (g) New evidence has been discovered since the entry of a judgment based upon a verdict of guilty after trial, which could not have been produced by the defendant at the trial even with due diligence on his part and which is of such character as to create a probability that had such evidence been received at the trial the verdict would have been more favorable to the defendant; provided that a motion based upon such ground must be made with due diligence after the discovery of such alleged new evidence; or (g-1) Forensic DNA testing of evidence performed since the entry of a judgment, (1) in the case of a defendant convicted after a guilty plea, the court has determined that the defendant has demonstrated a substantial probability that the defendant was actually innocent of the offense of which he or she was convicted, or (2) in the case of a defendant convicted after a trial, the court has determined that there exists a reasonable probability that the verdict would have been more favorable to the defendant. (h) The judgment was obtained in violation of a right of the defendant under the constitution of this state or of the United States; or (i) The judgment is a conviction where the arresting charge was under section 240.37 (loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense, provided that the defendant was not alleged to be loitering for the purpose of patronizing a person for prostitution or promoting prostitution) or 230.00 (prostitution) or 230.03 (prostitution in a school zone) of the penal law, and the defendant’s participation in the offense was a result of having been a victim of sex trafficking under section 230.34 of the penal law , sex trafficking of a child under section 230.34-a of the penal law , labor trafficking under section 135.35 of the penal law , aggravated labor trafficking under section 135.37 of the penal law , compelling prostitution under section 230.33 of the penal law , or trafficking in persons under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (United States Code, title 22, chapter 78); provided that (i) a motion under this paragraph shall be made with due diligence, after the defendant has ceased to be a victim of such trafficking or compelling prostitution crime or has sought services for victims of such trafficking or compelling prostitution crime, subject to reasonable concerns for the safety of the defendant, family members of the defendant, or other victims of such trafficking or compelling prostitution crime that may be jeopardized by the bringing of such motion, or for other reasons consistent with the purpose of this paragraph; and (ii) official documentation of the defendant’s status as a victim of traffick-

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ing, compelling prostitution or trafficking in persons at the time of the offense from a federal, state or local government agency shall create a presumption that the defendant’s participation in the offense was a result of having been a victim of sex trafficking, compelling prostitution or trafficking in persons, but shall not be required for granting a motion under this paragraph.

2. Notwithstanding the provisions of subdivision one, the court must deny a motion to vacate a judgment when: (a) The ground or issue raised upon the motion was previously determined on the merits upon an appeal from the judgment, unless since the time of such appellate determination there has been a retroactively effective change in the law controlling such issue; or (b) The judgment is, at the time of the motion, appealable or pending on appeal, and sufficient facts appear on the record with respect to the ground or issue raised upon the motion to permit adequate review thereof upon such an appeal. This paragraph shall not apply to a motion under paragraph (i) of subdivision one of this section; or (c) Although sufficient facts appear on the record of the proceedings underlying the judgment to have permitted, upon appeal from such judgment, adequate review of the ground or issue raised upon the motion, no such appellate review or determination occurred owing to the defendant’s unjustifiable failure to take or perfect an appeal during the prescribed period or to his unjustifiable failure to raise such ground or issue upon an appeal actually perfected by him; or (d) The ground or issue raised relates solely to the validity of the sentence and not to the validity of the conviction.

3. Notwithstanding the provisions of subdivision one, the court may deny a motion to vacate a judgment when: (a) Although facts in support of the ground or issue raised upon the motion could with due diligence by the defendant have readily been made to appear on the record in a manner providing adequate basis for review of such ground or issue upon an appeal from the judgment, the defendant unjustifiably failed to adduce such matter prior to sentence and the ground or issue in question was not subsequently determined upon appeal. This paragraph does not apply to a motion based upon deprivation of the right to counsel at the trial or upon failure of the trial court to advise the defendant of such right, or to a motion under paragraph (i) of subdivision one of this section; or (b) The ground or issue raised upon the motion was previously determined on the merits upon a prior motion or proceeding in a court of this state, other than an appeal from the judgment, or upon a motion or proceeding in a federal court; unless since the time of such determination there has been a retroactively effective change in the law controlling such issue; or (c) Upon a previous motion made pursuant to this section, the defendant was in a position adequately to raise the ground or issue underlying the present motion but did not do so.

Although the court may deny the motion under any of the circumstances specified in this subdivision, in the interest of justice and for good cause shown it may in its discretion grant the motion if it is otherwise meritorious and vacate the judgment.

4. If the court grants the motion, it must, except as provided in subdivision five or six of this section, vacate the judgment, and must dismiss the accusatory instrument, or order a new trial, or take such other action as is appropriate in the circumstances.

5. Upon granting the motion upon the ground, as prescribed in paragraph (g) of subdivision one, that newly discovered evidence creates a probability that had such evidence been received at the trial the verdict

would have been more favorable to the defendant in that the conviction would have been for a lesser offense than the one contained in the verdict, the court may either: (a) Vacate the judgment and order a new trial; or (b) With the consent of the people, modify the judgment by reducing it to one of conviction for such lesser offense. In such case, the court must re-sentence the defendant accordingly.

6. If the court grants a motion under paragraph (i) of subdivision one of this section, it must vacate the judgment and dismiss the accusatory instrument, and may take such additional action as is appropriate in the circumstances.

the offenses which it contained and charged at the time of the entry of the plea, except those subsequently dismissed under circumstances specified in paragraphs (b) and (c) of subdivision six. Where the plea of guilty was entered and accepted, pursuant to subdivision three of section 220.30 , upon the condition that it constituted a complete disposition not only of the accusatory instrument underlying the judgment vacated but also of one or more other accusatory instruments against the defendant then pending in the same court, the order of vacation completely restores such other accusatory instruments; and such is the case even though such order dismisses the main accusatory instrument underlying the judgment.

7. Upon a new trial resulting from an order vacating a judgment pursuant to this section, the indictment is deemed to contain all the counts and to charge all the offenses which it contained and charged at the time the previous trial was commenced, regardless of whether any count was dismissed by the court in the course of such trial, except (a) those upon or of which the defendant was acquitted or deemed to have been acquitted, and (b) those dismissed by the order vacating the judgment, and (c) those previously dismissed by an appellate court upon an appeal from the judgment, or by any court upon a previous post-judgment motion.

8. Upon an order which vacates a judgment based upon a plea of guilty to an accusatory instrument or a part thereof, but which does not dismiss the entire accusatory instrument, the criminal action is, in the absence of an express direction to the contrary, restored to its pre-pleading status and the accusatory instrument is deemed to contain all the counts and to charge all

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AN AN OVERVIEW OVERVIEW OF OF THE THE

FEDERAL SENTENCING GUIDELINES How Howthe theSentencing SentencingGuidelines GuidelinesWork Work

The The sentencing sentencing guidelines guidelines take take into into account account both both the the seriseriousness of the offense and the offender’s criminal history. ousness of the offense and the offender’s criminal history.

Offense OffenseSeriousness Seriousness The The sentencing sentencing guidelines guidelines provide provide 43 43 levels levels of of offense offense seriousness the more serious the crime, the higher seriousness - the more serious the crime, the higher the the offense offenselevel. level.

Base BaseOffense OffenseLevel Level Each Each type type of of crime crime isis assigned assigned aa base base offense offense level, level, which which isis the starting point for determining the seriousness the starting point for determining the seriousness of of aa particular offense.

More serious types of crime have highparticular offense. More serious types of crime have higher er base base offense offense levels levels {for {for example, example, aa trespass trespass has has aa base base offense level of 4, while kidnapping has a base offense level of 4, while kidnapping has a base offense offense level levelof of32).

32).

Specific SpecificOffense OffenseCharacteristics Characteristics In Inaddition additionto tobase baseoffense offenselevels, levels,each eachoffense offensetype typetypicaltypicallylycarries with it a number of specific offense characteristics. carries with it a number of specific offense characteristics.

These Theseare arefactors factorsthat thatvary varyfrom fromoffense offenseto tooffense, offense,but butthat that can increase or decrease the base offense level and, can increase or decrease the base offense level and, ultiultimately, mately,the thesentence sentencean anoffender offenderreceives. receives.Some Someexamples: examples: •• One One of of the the specific specific base base offense offense characteristics characteristics for for fraud fraud (which has a base offense level of 7 if the statutory (which has a base offense level of 7 if the statutory maximaximum mumisis20 20years yearsor ormore) more)increases increasesthe theoffense offenselevel levelbased based on the amount of loss involved in the offense. on the amount of loss involved in the offense. IfIf aa fraud fraud involved involved aa $6,000 $6,000 loss, loss, there there isis to to be be aa 2-level 2-level increase increase to to the thebase baseoffense offenselevel, level,bringing bringingthe thelevel levelup upto to9.

9.IfIfaafraud fraud involved involved a$50,000 a$50,000 loss, loss, there there isis to to be be aa 6-level 6-level increase, increase, bringing the total to 13. bringing the total to 13.

•One •One of of the the specific specific offense offense characteristics characteristics for for robbery robbery {which has a base offense level of 20) involves {which has a base offense level of 20) involves the the use use of of aa firearm.

If a firearm was brandished during the robbery, firearm. If a firearm was brandished during the robbery, there there isis to to be be aa 5-level 5-level increase, increase, bringing bringing the the level level to to 25; 25; ifif aafirearm was discharged during the robbery, there is to firearm was discharged during the robbery, there is tobe be aa7-level 7-levelincrease, increase,bringing bringingthe thelevel levelto to27.

27.

Adjustments Adjustments Adjustments Adjustments are are factors factors that that can can apply apply to to any any offense. offense. Like Like specific offense characteristics, they increase or specific offense characteristics, they increase or decrease decrease the the offense offense level. level. Categories Categories of of adjustments adjustments include: include: vicvictim-related adjustments, the offender’s role tim-related adjustments, the offender’s role in in the the ofoffense, fense, and and obstruction obstruction of of justice. justice. Examples Examples of of adjustments adjustments are areas asfollows: follows: •• IfIf the the offender offender was was aa minimal minimal participant participant in in the the offense, offense, the offense level is decreased by 4 levels. the offense level is decreased by 4 levels.

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• If the offender knew that the victim was unusually vulnerable due to age or physical or mental condition, the offense level is increased by 2 levels.

• If the offender obstructed justice, the offense level is increased by 2 levels.

Multiple Count Adjustments When there are multiple counts of conviction, the sentencing guidelines provide instructions on how to achieve a “combined offense level.” These rules provide incremental punishment for significant additional criminal conduct. The most serious offense is used as a starting point. The other counts determine whether and how much to increase the offense level.

Acceptance of Responsibility Adjustments The final step in determining an offender’s offense level involves the offender’s acceptance of responsibility. The judge may decrease the offense level by two levels if, in the judge’s opinion, the offender accepted responsibility for his offense.

In deciding whether to grant this reduction, judges can consider such factors as:

parting, the judge must state in writing the reason for the departure.

In January 2005, the U.S. Supreme Court decided United States v. Booker, 543 U.S. 220 (2005). The Booker decision addressed the question left unresolved by the Court’s decision in Blakely v. Washington, 542 U.S. 296 {2004): whether the Sixth Amendment right to jury trial applies to the federal sentencing guidelines. In its substantive Booker opinion, the Court held that the Sixth Amendment applies to the sentencing guidelines. In its remedial Booker opinion, the Court severed and excised two statutory provisions, 18 U .S.C. § 3553 (b) (1), which made the federal guidelines mandatory, and 18 U.S.C. § 3742(e), an appeals provision.

Under the approach set forth by the Court, “district courts, while not bound to apply the Guidelines, must consult those Guidelines and take them into account when sentencing,” subject to review by the courts of appeal for “unreasonableness.” The subsequent Supreme Court decision in Rita v. United States, 551 U.S. 338 {2007), held that courts of appeal may apply a presumption of reasonableness when reviewing a sentence imposed within the guideline sentencing range.

• whether the offender truthfully admitted his or her role in the crime, • whether the offender made restitution before there was a guilty verdict, and • whether the offender pled guilty.

Offenders who qualify for the 2-level reduction and whose offense levels are greater than 15, may, upon motion of the government, be granted an additional 1-level reduction if, in a timely manner, they declare their intention to plead guilty.

Criminal History The guidelines assign each offender to one of six criminal history categories based upon the extent of an offender’s past misconduct. Criminal History Category I is the least serious category and includes many first-time offenders. Criminal History Category VI is the most serious category and includes offenders with serious criminal records.

Determining the Guideline Range

For additional information about the United States Sentencing Commission, contact:

The final offense level is determined by taking the base offense level and then adding or subtracting from it any specific offense characteristics and adjustments that apply. The point at which the final offense level and the criminal history category intersect on the Commission’s sentencing table determines the defendant’s sentencing guideline range.

Sentences Outside of the Guideline Range

Office of Legislative and Public Affairs United States Sentencing Commission One Columbus Circle, NE, Suite 2-500 Washington, DC 20002-8002 (202) 502-4500 • FAX: (202) 502-4699 E-mail: pubaffairs@ussc.govIIwww.ussc.gov

After the guideline range is determined, if an atypical aggravating or mitigating circumstance exists, the court may “depart” from the guideline range. That is, the judge may sentence the offender above or below the range. When de-

Disclaimer: The characterizations of the sentencing guidelines in this overview are presented in simplified form and are not to be used for guideline interpretation, application, or authority.

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FEDERAL SENTENCING TABLE

IF YOU ARE FACING A FEDERAL CHARGE, CONSULT WITH A FEDERAL SENTENCING LAWYER 71

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Freddy D is a hip-hop artist from Hempstead, New York currently positioned for a major come-up in the Urban Music universe. He makes strong, relevant music that’s been compared to Jay-Z, Nas, and Kanye but maintains its own original taste at all times. Freddy’s new album Extant gets liberated on September 13th, 2019, as does the music video for the track “Everybody,” and both are expected to bring him to a much larger audience. D produced Extant on his own and it was mixed and mastered by Michael Nyougen. Tough and wise, it shows Freddy at the top of his game, ready to take it even higher.

Freddy’s mother sang gospel music, his father wrote poetry, and his brother made beats, so stepping up to the mic was inevitable for him. He dreamed of being famous back then and is still grinding in pursuit of that goal. “I feel like I bring something different,” he says, “so I started my own record company and produced my own music without selling drugs, just the hard grit from an everyday job and the hunger to not let my talent go to waste. I believe in what I do and how I do it.”

Fans respond to Freddy because he’s just like them. “I bleed, I cry, I live, I sweat. I’ve been through so much,” he says, revealing the humanity that allows him to connect with so many people.

He’s made the most out of hard times and has been attracting attention with his music since high school when his early tracks created quite a local buzz. Now, he’s a fully-developed artist in his own right with a real shot at breaking through worldwide with Extant. Hip-hop heads everywhere need to speak his name and start listening.

twitter.com/freddydmusic instagram.com/freddydmusic facebook.com/freddydmusic soundcloud.com/freddydmusic GSMUSICGROUP LLC 516 425 2072

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All photos: Anthony B. Geathers 73

Photo: Anthony B. Geathers

DON’T MISS A THING. Did you know URBAN LIFE NEWS MAGAZINE is the home of PRODIGY’s final interview and photoset? Read ISSUE #3: THE REMIX and order other great back-issues of URBAN LIFE NEWS MAGAZINE today.

Buy Online at URBANLIFENEWSMAGAZINE.COM

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Issue 3 Ft. Prodigyʼs Final Interview

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Issue 5 Ft. The Feurtado Bros

Make checks and money orders payable to:

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Depicted: Issue 3: “The Remix” (Featuring Prodigyʼs FINAL Interview and Photoset)

Photo: Anthony B. Geathers

Summertime Shootout 3: Coldest Summer Ever

Fabolous Released November 29, 2019

You ever have a cold in the summer?

That shit be the worse It gets better though [Verse 1: Fabolous] How they turn a top dog to an underdog It’s a cold world even in the summer, dawg Like a hunnid missed calls in my number log I talk to God ‘fore I talk to people from them blogs Gotta see through it when it’s thick as London fog I’m from the city baby, I done grew up under Small Not to bring up old shit, I’m not a plunger, dawg No dalmatian but I come through with a hunnid, dawg And they don’t bark, they bite Let it spark, they might Gotta walk straight, right?

Turn the dark to daylight Let ‘em talk, they right In your heart, stay light Play your part, stay tight Bosses park where they like Don’t you let them trick you out your spot and put that guy on Rather cut ‘em off and let a bygone be a bygone When you ballin’, you that nigga that they got they eye on So I think I know just how it feel to be a Zion Bussin’ out sneakers, swingin’ on rims Being number 1, bringing on M’s Hope the Knicks get him, I’ma bring him Timb’s Tell ‘em lace his boots, I’ma give a king some gems Like look, you the great hope and a scapegoat You gon’ have to make quotes and take notes And some can’t take smoke so they may choke But those who learn to make boats, stay afloat [Chorus] Oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s gon’ be a cold summer Devil tryna take ya soul from ya Callin’ but he got my old number Oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s gon’ be a cold summer Devil tryna take ya soul from ya Callin’ but he got my old number

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Oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s gon’ be a cold summer I’m chillin’ for the whole summer No feelings for the whole summer Oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s gon’ be a cold summer I’m chillin’ for the whole summer No feelings for the whole summer The media promoting fake, they just stampin’ and shit You don’t wanna see us beef then stop ampin’ and shit They was giving Meek an L, said he wouldn’t prevail Next thing you know that boy was in a championship So everyday I’m goin’ in, I’m on some vampire shit And every night I’m in my bag like I’m campin’ and shit The trenches that we grew up in need to know you can win So you see me in my hood on my champion shit See a minor setback, breed a major get back If I lose it ain’t over, I be yelling bet back I come from where they take it, you might never get back Gotta shoutout New Jersey, y’all won’t get the Nets back Play for keeps ‘round here, Prada’s deep ‘round here Shooters creep ‘round here, hard to sleep ‘round here Life cheap ‘round here, Grim Reap’ ‘round here Spilled milk get wiped up, we don’t weep ‘round here We just goin’ harder, we raisin’ sons and growin’ daughters Came a long way and workin’ on going farther Grew up not knowing fathers, seeing no one bother But know my story gets better ‘cause I know the author Keep readin’ it’s a comeback story I told her that if you leave don’t ever come back shawty I be sayin’ word to Mother, she the one that taught me Karma is a bitch who hoes around and come back for me Cold I just feel like life is hot and cold Ups and downs, back and forth Wins and losses It’s gon’ be some sunshine and it’s gon’ some rain And when it rain, it pours But ask yourself, can you weather the storm until the sun shines again?

@livestyle1hunid Chris Live U.N.F. Hunter Fresh Thompson Shaker Von Trap Old New York Ephemeralist, MC, Writer and Hood Archivist

I always had a deep interest in history. I eventually found the study of true crime and the world around me back then was much more interesting to me once I personally went outside. My peoples. My world. This aspect of our collective experience became so much more tangible.

After seeing pages’ like @albeesquare87, @tellenblancosentya, and @hasan_farrock I knew that I, too, had something to contribute. I had been sitting on a bunch of reflections from my family and friends for a while. I just added on to that movement.

Now, I have a lot of contributors to thank for my content.

They know what I do and where I stand.

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[Intro: Casanova] (Brooklyn, Brooklyn, Brooklyn) 2X (Brooklyn), The Family (Brooklyn) Haha, (Brooklyn) You know the fuckin’ vibe (Brooklyn, Brooklyn) [Chorus: Casanova] I’m so Brooklyn. I should get paid for the work I put in I’m so Brooklyn I like that nigga chain so you know I took it (gimme that!)

I’m so Brooklyn. I did the same thing walkin’ out the bookings I’m so Brooklyn. I had to sign with Jay, yo Hov good lookin’

So Brooklyn Casanova Featuring Fabolous Produced by Supa Album Behind These Scars

[Verse 1: Casanova] You ever shot an opp with a MAC? You ever shot an opp in his back? (BOOM BOOM BOOM) Spun the block, made it clap (I miss that nigga) Licked the shot so you spun right back (I got that nigga) I used to keep a Glock, that’s a fact (you know that) I still keep a Glock, matter of fact You never gotta ask me where it’s at (I got it) I bang on a nigga like I’m Shaq (BOOM BOOM BOOM) I bust my gun and I trap (FACTS!) I can show you how to make a stack (get money nigga!)

I can show you how to make it stack (get money nigga!)

I got two bodies, what’s ya stats?

Nigga fakin’ with that paperwork Put money on ya head, watch this paper work My shooter said I gotta pay him first I told my shooter go and slay ‘em first Got a new pistol, gotta name it first (my baby) Before you shoot, you better aim it first (hold it, hold it steady) I start shit then I spark shit ‘Bout to get on some real King of New York shit And I only dig that dog shit When I’m off it, it get awkward Street Fam, that’s my dog, shit If he call 2X, we gon’ off shit (BOOM BOOM BOOM) [Chorus] [Verse 2: Fabolous] What you know about bouncin’ right back (huh?)

Cop bad work, took them ounces right back? (yeah) Back to the wall, yeah, them ounces like that (that) Back against the ropes, gotta pounce and fight back (yeah) When you really do it, don’t announce it like that (shhh) Y’all sayin’ it wrong, you don’t even pronounce it like that (haha) My bitch walk through like she know bouncers like that “Like damn, not even basketball’s bouncin’ like that” (like that) Still do it for my projects (yeah) Still winnin’, I ain’t lose my pride yet (nah) Old town road for my projects Ride ‘til I can’t no more, Lil Nas X Yeah, we the heroes to the zeros Where I come from they don’t hear those other weirdos We the ones who represent ‘em, not Shapiros We they favorite gangstas, nah, not De Niro If you play or you ask ‘til we okay and relax I’m so Brooklyn, my nigga, if I say it, it’s facts If I May it I Bachs, if I Roll I Royce Like every day is Christmas, I got the coldest toys Told my boys, ten toes, hold ya poise For the biggest comeback, word to Soulja Boy Yeah, I slide out like Polaroids Yeah, I’m outside with the older boys Yeah, I tell you in my best Hova voice I can move in a room full of vultures, boy Yeah, my body different, I’m a shooter but I snipe though Her body different, she just came from gettin’ lipo (yeah) It is what it is, still’ll pipe though (still’ll pipe though) I said what I said, ain’t no typo She like “You from New York, which part are you from?”

I looked at her like, “Bitch, are you dumb?”

Brooklyn, Brooklyn Brooklyn, Brooklyn Brooklyn, Brooklyn Brooklyn, Brooklyn

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No puedo dormir Yo veo espíritu (This ghost in my head, ghost in my head) Heatmakerz. Crack Music. Capo

State of the Union Jim Jones Featuring Marc Scibilia & Rick Ross Produced by The Heatmakerz Album El Capo

[Verse 1: Jim Jones] I think my critics need to hear this Or anyone who doubts my political awareness I’m what you call a democratic with an automatic A rebel and a bezel when I just ordered the Patek You could build a wall as tall as the sky (To the moon) We all know the coke still go far from the sky Papi had a room with a wall full of pies This is America, baby, where we fall for the lies (Impeach the president) We never had much, but we had us (Uh-uh) And even when the bills didn’t add up We cooked up coke and it was crills that we bagged up We sold in broad day and police still didn’t bag us I be ready to kill one of you MAGA’s (Fuckers) Shit, I’m throwin’ shots, man, you still throwin’ daggers And my thoughts on the legalization And they tryna turn weed into a legal libation Why won’t they legalize Haitians? (Sak Pasé?)

And throw on the Cubans too I told my jeweler he could throw on a Cuban too Or bust down a Rollie, it’s frozen at two to two (West Side) I took a private jet and you know where I flew the crew (LA) Them coconut drinks that come with umbrellas in ‘em In the rain, we buy Rolls’s that come with umbrellas in ‘em (Facts) The transition, baby, that was the hardest part Police pulled me over and they still ripped my car apart (Don’t shoot) So, I ain’t got to kneel just to stand with you (Uh-uh) I was really in the field with them hand pistols (Facts) I was really throwin’ bullets like the Cap, huh, Cap, huh (Nigga fuck around and get clapped) I mean, uh [Chorus: Marc Scibilia] Shine a light on my feet, Lord, watch my steps This ghost in my head, ghost in my head Got the world after me but I can’t look back This ghost in my head, ghost in my head [Interlude: Rick Ross] Life’s so short but the money’s so long Drop-tops in the summertime, mink coats when it’s cold But I’m cold every night (305) Please Lord, hold me, hold me close (Yes) [Verse 2: Rick Ross & Marc Scibilia] Pushin’ Phantoms, so they feel I’m preachin’ propaganda Say a prayer for my niggas or we light a candle All the squares in your circle, time to change the channel Or unplug the television ‘cause this shit is mental (Huh) My sneakers Chanel, Grim Reaper for real I get beats from Pharrell, you should see how I live Kids in Montessori school, logos in the pool I done put in all my work, no longer holding tools Look into my eyes, you can see the murders Smell the kilos on me, now we flippin’ burgers Ride through the ghetto, look for shit to purchase Do it for the fam, don’t forget your purpose When you sellin’ grams, then you just a merchant, nigga When you sellin’ grams, then you just a merchant Eyes open wide, slither with a serpent (Woo) Closed casket meaning God, close the curtains (This ghost in my head) Meaning God, close the curtains (This ghost in my head) Meaning God, close the curtains (This ghost in my head) God, close the curtains (Ghost in my head) Oh Lord [Chorus: Marc Scibilia] [Outro: Marc Scibilia] Shine a light on my feet, Lord, watch my steps Ghost in my head, ghost in my head Got the world after me but I can’t look back Ghost in my head, ghost in my head

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[Intro] Rain, rain or sunshine I’m gonna love you anyway You can call me day, day or night time Go anywhere you want Know that I’ll follow No matter (They can’t hold me back) It feel so beautiful (Hol’ up) Don’t you agree?

Can you give your love to me?

Kiwi, what’s up baby? Ha ha, ha ha

Produced by Bryan-Michael Cox

[Verse 1] Now let’s go (Uh-uh) As soon as they hear the voice and the flow They already know it’s (Me) Jada And I ain’t even in the game but as soon as somethin’ happen, who the first one they blame?

It’s (Me) Do your time, you a lame, stop mentionin’ my name, my nigga Why you worried ‘bout (Me)?

I’m in a group meetin’ (Uh), they took Pick from us Now it’s just Louch, P and (Me) I’m the one they call on, gotta feed the family, if not then it falls on (Me) Who else?

This is real talk, funeral arrangements whoever put they paws on (Me) Who be in the Wrangler off road, nigga with the roof and doors gone (Me) Hah, and who else be in the field, front line ‘til the war’s gone? (Me) [Chorus] [Verse 2] Who can go the distance? Who? Who’s underrated? Who? Who’s the most consistent? (Me) Who get the real love? Yeah Who the girls love? Huh? Who the jails love? (Me) Jada Good nigga, good heart Lotta lives was saved by (Me) Salute Bad Boy, Ruff Ryder, lotta money was made by (Me) Real talk Large bag from Steve Stoute, commercial with A.I. (Me) Good lookin’ One of the last of the OG to stay fly (Me) Mwah Who else you know went at it with Beanie and 50 besides (Me) Who? Even threatened to throw a refrigerator at Diddy, my God (Me) (Ha, ha) [Chorus] [Verse 3] Who started off movin’ that work?

Put you in a black hearse, never had a wack verse? (Me) Now think, don’t react first Ain’t a wild nigga but he still let his Gat burst (Me) Never got his just due, (Uh-uh) Does everybody feel like that? Or is it just you? (Me) Huh? I don’t know, sometimes I look in the mirror and be like, “I don’t even trust you” (Me) Nah, just me

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Vanessa Cook.

AKA NESS

“Many shall come. The chosen are few” 87

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As a student of the game, I’ve come to realize that we cannot choose where we are born or where we come from. Some of us are born into a working-class family. While others are born from a family of hustlers, number runners, drug dealers, men who took chances. Ness was both. Her mom being a hard working independent woman. While the men in the family were of the independent entrepreneurial type. She however, chose to make her own way, in a Lifestyle and game that was dominated by men, but as a boss.

After recently sitting with her big bro Chuck Cook who shared some family history with me. I learned again that we must value our people while they are with us. I completely forget the history of Monks corner, also of Freeport N.Y. where her father and uncles laid their mark in the game. Nowadays we don’t give people the props and respect they deserve. But back in the day, you had no choice. Ness took her props, but gracefully so. Highly respected by both men and women of stature. She was blessed with a knuckle game and the quick wits to go with it. Known for her sharp witticism and jokes, boss manners, and mercurial business savvy.

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Although the book “The 48 Laws of Power” was not in existence yet, she could have easily played the role, of anyone of those powerful women of the past based on the way she carried herself. It seemed like her spirit was handed down to her from those Lady Bosses that came before her. With ease, she moved through a room full of vultures because most of them were her friends or a friend of a friend.

anessa Mandella Cook was born on January 26, 1968, and has departed from us on November 6, 1998. Respectfullly. Vanessa, more affectionately known as Ness, graduated from Freeport High. She also had a love for basketball, even excelling at the sport. Ness was definitely nice on the court.

She loved to hang with her friends and was known for putting together some dope parties at her favorite spots. She was a regular Figure at The Colosseum- Shirt Kings and Eddie Gold caps and was on a first-name basis with Dapper Dan. At the request of her mom, we won’t go into the graphic details of her trials and tribulations in the game. If you know| you know. I must admit that social media has brought her name up (thanks to @livestyle1hunid), bringing back an abundance of memories. Reminding us that we had in our midst one of the Flyest to ever do it from N.Y.. Especially when it came to dressing and flossing. Till this day she is affectionately spoken about often, among her family and friends. However, even the best of us can get caught up in the everyday hustle of life and we tend to forget. So I personally wanted to take a moment to really reflect on how dope she was and to give her a shout out and acknowledge her magnetic personality. It is also important that we highlight her cunning ability to transcend the roles that were designated to women by the men in the game.

She again, was her own Boss.

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Pop Smoke

Bashar Barakah Jackson (July 20, 1999 – February 19, 2020) 91

GIVING BACK REFORMED GANG MEMBERS GIVING BACK & SPREADING THE LOVE

version of the show. Now starting its 4th TV season on FOX 5, “Street Soldiers” can claim many firsts, including the first TV Town Hall on Rikers Island with Fat Joe, inmates and correction officers all speaking out on reform measures, ending recidivism, and education.

Lisa and her team are currently trying to get clearance to bring “Street Soldiers” inside a NY State Prison and hold a town hall as they did on Rikers Island with Fat Joe.

by Lisa Evers, FOX 5 News Reporter and Host of HOT 97/FOX5NYʼs “Street Soldiers with Lisa Evers”

“Street Soldiers’” investigations and town halls, as well as Lisa’s ongoing reports on the disastrous conditions in NYCHA Housing - no heat or hot water, mold, rats, and disrepair - played a pivotal role in exposing the scandal that was affecting hundreds of thousands of low-income New Yorkers.

NYCHA is now under a federal consent decree and ongoing investigation by the US Attorney SDNY.

isa Evers is the multiple Emmy-nominated and multi-award-winning host of FOX5NY & HOT 97’s “Street Soldiers with Lisa Evers.” The HOT 97 show airs and streams live at 6 a.m. on Sunday mornings on HOT 97, and across multiple digital platforms including iTunes, Soundcloud, and lisaevers.com. It has been a sounding board for Hip Hop, a voice for the voiceless on the streets, and a forum on key issues - like criminal justice, substance abuse, and gangs - in our urban communities for 25 years.

Many Hip Hop artists have appeared on Street Soldiers, including Prodigy (RIP), Maino, and Cardi B. You can see “Street Soldiers with Lisa Evers” every Friday night at 10:30 p.m. on FOX 5 in New York City and the TriState, and live stream nationally on fox5ny.com and the free FOX 5 NY app, Episodes are available on FOX5NY YouTube when you type “Street Soldiers Lisa Evers” in the search.

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In January 2016, FOX 5’s Vice President of News and Programming, Byron Harmon, who’s committed to expanding inclusivity in news coverage, asked Lisa to try and create a TV

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Hey Urban Life News readers, friends and family! I’m honored and excited to be sharing this amazing story with you and thank you all who have listened to and watched the show over the years behind the wall and in our communities.

How This Story Began One day, not too long ago, I popped my head in the door of our FOX 5 VP for News and Programming, Byron Harmon. He shares my passion for Hip Hop and all aspects of urban culture and never fails to tell me about something new, or suggest a story idea which often turns out to be on the cutting edge of a new movement or cultural phenomenon. It usually starts out with “Have you seen......?”

In the Fall of 2019, it was “Have you seen this podcast called F.D.S. “Flip Da Script” with Queenzflip and DJ G Money? They had this guest on called S.o.u.l B” I said no, but I’ve known Queenzflip for a long time and he’s been a guest on “Street Soldiers” several times. I called Flip, and we started talking about how we could do a “Street Soldiers” episode on the podcast featuring some of the personalities he’s presented.

A few weeks later, we recorded an episode called, “Real and Raw: Stories from the Streets” with Queenzflip, DJ G Money, S.o.u.l B, and Killer Kev. It turned out to be incredible, even more so because it was the first time S.o.u.l B and Kev had seen each other in more than 20 years.

On our “Street Soldiers” episode, they talked about the origin of the Bloods gang on Rikers Island in the 1990s when the Latin Kings basically ran the place. As outnumbered African-American men, they had to band together to survive. They were raw and unfiltered and did not sugar coat in any way what they did, or try to “clean it up.” We were all riveted by their unvarnished honesty.

What really struck me was how genuinely shocked they seemed to be by how pervasive gang culture has become among young teens and in Hip Hop, and how destructive it is in our communities. It has become common for many innocent people, like 14 yo Amir Griffin RIP, in South Jamaica taken from us.

Over and over again, I heard S.o.u.l B and Killer Kev, and Kayo So Frosty, who I met later, tell me “we created this, we started

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this, and it’s destroying our communities. Now it’s up to us to change that, and bring back the real love that joined us together in the first place.”

In my news and talk show career, I’ve spoken with and interviewed, many formerly incarcerated individuals who had been convicted of serious crimes. In our discussions, they’d talk about taking responsibility for their actions and changing their lives, which many did, and are currently doing, successfully, despite the odds. With So.u.l B, Killer Kev and Kayo So Frosty, they were taking that sense of personal responsibility to the next level.....back to where it all started, to right the wrongs.

After the show, S.o.u.l B asked me if I wanted to cover their first Spread the Love “B n C” turkey drive, which he was putting together with Killer Kev, Kayo So Frosty, their families and friends and even former enemies. They were calling it the first “BnC Spread the Love Turkey Drive.”

I went to Mr. Harmon with it and got the green light to do an exclusive report on what actually happened. It was an amazing day in many ways. Everyone answered all my questions and we respected the privacy of those who did not want to be on camera.

This was a historical event.

S.O.U.L. B and the other men involved in this say this isn’t just a one-time thing, and that their “increase the peace” movement will continue to serve the community. Bed-Stuy, Lisa Evers, fox 5 news in December 2019, they went on to do a major toy and coat giveaway in several communities to “spread the love” right before Christmas. we will be following their journey as they work to bring peace and love to our streets. what better goal for 2020?

-- Lisa Evers, New York City

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E.N.V.Y is the acronym for Empower Nurture Value Yourself Which is a brand of bold colors of organic lipsticks founded by Author Esha Jay in 2018 .

E.n.v.y Lipz is the derived from the novel ”Envy That Brooklyn chick“ which is a urban fiction series of novels written by Author Esha Jay , Envy is an American Social drama, that tells a tale about an African American teenager growing up in Brooklyn NY, facing many issues that our youth still fall victim too today . The main issue is the stan-

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A CONVERSATION WITH...

Peace this is Tyson publisher of Urban Life News, The ambassador of the Paperwork Good movement. When your paperwork is good it’s your visa through life, and your passport, through the hood. On my last bid, I heard your name mentioned a few times here and there, in reference to a certain car you was driving, Even now, you are pushing something nice, we all see you on Instagram with either, Busta, DJ Khalid, LIL Kim, and bunch more. So we just wanted to catch up with you and give our reader a deeper insight into what’s so special about special?

I’m black you know I’m saying.

Peace. What’s good?

Exactly. Because to make it now a days in the industry you got to be stamped in the streets as well because there’s a respect level there and people trust you because of you being from where they’re from. So that actually works in your favor. If you’re solid.

Peace what’s shaking with you bro?

Everything’s good man I can’t complain. Special. So let’s start with your name I mean, what’s so special about you?

Everything. And the funny thing is bro, people be like you. How did you get that name? I was like I ain’t gonna lie. When I was a virgin; the first girl I was with, was like boy you Special.

And it stuck with me. the whole time. Nah, nah, keeping it real with you the first time I got shot. I was14 years old and the doctor was like, you know what? God was on your side. You must be a special person, bro, because certain people, they get hit one time and die. You’ve got a few holes in you. And I’m just happy I made it so the name just stuck.

Copy! That’s what’s up. Where are you from? I know you hate that this question keeps coming at you a lot of times, you know?

Yeah, absolutely. I’m actually from Brooklyn, from Brownsville, Atlantic Towers. And at that time. My parents seeing, you know, the future. Seeing that, me and my brother might not make in the Hood. because we were actually wilding out at that time and she was like, I’m getting my kids outta here. My dad brought a house on Long Island and that’s where I was raised.

Okay, okay. So you went back and forth. So you had dual citizenship?

Absolutely.

What’s your nationality, if you like sharing it?

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That’s cool. So you are in the industry, right?

Yes. I’m in both. I’m in the streets and I’m in the Industry.

And you’re in good standing in both?

If your character is good.

Exactly!

What is the difficulty in one navigating their way through the industry, like what is so complex about it that the everyday layperson can’t get it together?

You know, what it is, it’s funny because in the industry sh*t is more hidden and it’s not like when you’re in the streets and somebody’s got something to say, they’ll say it to you; yall will get it on and then it’s over after that. In the Industry, you know, they’re sneaky with it. So coming from the streets, you know, we were raised to just maneuver a certain way and also you just hip to a lot of shit that they might not know that your hip to, but coming from where we come from you are just more alert with it. You know, So I’m able to move through it because simply I give everybody their respect, whether they deserve it or they don’t. Big, small, little or tall.

Absolutely.

I’m not here to judge anybody because if it was up to judgment, then I wouldn’t be either. YOu know what I;m saying shit. It’s like, what the hell? They hated Jesus. So who are you? So at the same time, you know, sometimes you just gotta create the energy. Even when you know the energy ain’t there.

Many of our listeners and subscribers are locked up in the state of New York prison system or throughout the federal system a lot of guys are going to be

reading your words and they’re going to meditate and contemplate on them and treat like the gospel. So I don’t want them to misunderstand what you’re saying in terms of you have to be streets in the industry.

You’re not saying let’s give it some some clarity. And I know, I understand, but I don’t want them to be without your full understanding so they may benefit fro your truth.

You just; when I say street, you got to move the same way you move in the street, in the industry just without the violence.

But with the addition of what?

That same grind. Like you want to educate yourself is just like I’ll compare. The music business, to the drug game. The artists are like “The Work”. So you got to move the work no matter where it is. Like if the work ain’t moving here and then, you know, New York is known for getting on that 95 |85 five and taking it to where they know it will pop at. Just like the Artists; When you get that artist, you’ve got to put that artist where you know he’s going to shake at. Or where you know she’s going to shake at. Then you go up and down that 95 until you hit it? Everything is a chance bro my whole thing is; if you don’t take that chance then you don’t know what’s out there for you. You Gotta take the chance. There’s a lot of dudes out here chasing the wrong dream.

Blacks are winning in this music sh*t so I’m just like them, I’m chasing a dream. I’m just making sure everything that I do is legal. I’m saying because if you don’t think that way and you want to stray off and make a few lefts, hit a few potholes, shit might not work out for you and sh*t get expensive. And at the same time, I’d rather put my time into something legal where I ain’t gotta be turning my head always on the watch. Plus the boys is on a N***a. That sh*t ain’t it no more.

So what would be some advice that you would give to someone starting out where they be incarcerated or in the streets? definitely to my dudes incarcerated It’s never too late to get trades. You know, I’m saying they go doing trades in the system, learn a trade, come home and get it together.

And you know this is for all the bro’s in and the can now, everybody thinks they tough my guy. You ain’t tough until you come home and you make it? That’s tough to me.

You understand what I’m saying? You stabbing and popping off ain’t tough to me.

You coming home and raising your kids. So they don’t gotta go through the same shit you went through. You know, you become successful and financially straight. That’s tough. To me, that’s what I respect. You know what I’m saying?

Yes. So they’re saying. Right. And I can hear them saying this in their mind, OK? You’re telling me to get a trade, but you get that. But you’ve got the RR Truck outside, right. They are gonna be like Special keep it real.

Yeah. But it came from grinding to that sh*t ain’t just come from yesterday. I wasn’t just doing this shit a day or two ago, a month or two ago or a year or two ago.

This is 30 years. So me being like them, I was in those Honda Civics and Accords bro.

It’s just that the more I grinded the better it got. You know what I’m saying? And this is the thing that I hate hearing people tell me; things like - I ain’t working their they only paying ten dollars an hour, they paying fifteen dollars an hour. N***a you making five cents in the system a day when you work. What the hell you mean you don’t wanna work for $10, $15 it’s better than what you’re doing now.

They don’t wanna put no work in!

Man, they better put their work in Bro. And just understand nobody owes you nothing. Nobody. Your parents, your kids, your brothers, your sisters, your friends.

Nobody owes you shit. I’ve been through it the same way everybody else did. I just learned from my mistakes. I came home and I’ve got it together. And if I did it, you could do it. So it’s like, you know, you got to come home with a mentality like I’ve got to do something positive. Because of the negativity sh*t is what got you in there.

OK. So quick question. I know you gotta go; l. Do you? What is your position? If you have a position or in the industry, do you have a particular function that you do?

I mean, I’m an executive. What that means; is I didn’t have to wait for somebody to give me that position. I went out and created that position for myself. So like a lot of people come home and or they might be home and they got a job. The new Air jordans come out. They might buy the new Air Jordans, they might buy the new Givenchy sweater that came out. I missed a lot of that sh*t because I took my brand and I invested in what I believe in so I could get that Givenchy and Air Jordans sh*t all of the time instead of some of the time.

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So you sacrificed?

Exactly. That’s what you have to do. You have to this sh*t just don’t come. Nobody handed this. to me. I had to grind for it.

So you had to miss a few parties. But now I see you at some nice parties. I see you with DJ Khalid, I see you with Diddy. Right. And French Montana and you’re moving around all. It’s probably normal to you. Right. But how does it feel coming where you come from and just seeing the fruits of your labor being manifest?

You know what it is. And like I say, I learned the hard way. Like when I came home and as we all did. We all hustle. We all sold drugs, but when, I came home, my ni***s were like Imma give you this pack, to get on your feet. I’m saying to myself, is this really my man? Like. Bro. you about to send me back to the can? So what I did was I fell back, I got a job and I just stayed away from certain people. When I started building my brand, then I started moving around with the people that were in certain positions, and I liked the positions they were in. So from there, I started Grinding.

And I said to myself, you know what, sometimes you gotta look like them to be them.

So like you said, I missed a lot of parties I put my work in. That’s how it came. The funny thing is; I worked at Roy Rogers, I worked at Fuddruckers, worked at Kings County Hospital, worked in a few trucking companies. I’ve got my shit together and I’m here to talk about it.

Okay. Well, I appreciate your coming through again. any last words you want to say before we go?

To all my G’s incarcerated, as long as you’ve got a date, you’ve got a chance!

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