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STRI'CTL Y BUSINESS

, "Ignorance is no Excuse"

Volume 3, Number 1

Winter, 1991

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t])ecficatecf to tlie9vfemory oi'Ecf'Win f}./eneI!lwe

Memorials, page 1

A Day, in the Life by Jose Respeto, page 4

Put Out the Burner by Radames Clavell, page 6

Wise Advisors

by Benito Jimenez, page 8

Me and Ll.D.

by Tyrone Henry, page 10

Teacher, Teacher by Jose Respeto, page 12

Letters page 2

At Essays page 14

AIDS Assembly

Tyrone Henry, page 16

The Choic;e js Yours Mark Gonzalez, page 3

The I.I.D. Pro2ram

Kenny Meikle (Big K), page 10

Editorial: Ma2ic .Johnson and HlY Gerrard B lake, page 17

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Library on Wbeels Radames Clavell, page 11

Editorial; Violence Dartagnan Lowe, page 11

Hispanic Herita2e Assembly Radames Clavell, page 18

Herb or Not a Herb? Radames Clavell, page 21

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Rikers Island Educational Facility 11-11 Hazen Street

East Elmhurst, NY 11370 (718) 626-7835

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Stephen E. Phillips

Superintendent, Alternative High Schools & Programs Sharon Jones

Project Director, Rikers Island Educational Facility Gertrude G. Cromwell

Assistant Principal, Administration

James Reed

LA. A.P. Sp. Eel./Administration

Matthew Hejna-Luque .Waterways Teacher & Newspaper Advisor

A Waterways Publication Barbara Fisher & Richard Spiegel Codirectors

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Production assistance by Stanford Dunkley

Special thanks to the RlEF staff for encouraging and supporting their students' involvement with the Waterways Project.

Publication by the Waterways Project has been made possible with funding support from Rikers Island Edu-' cational Facility, AltemativeHigh Schools and Programs (New York City Public Schools), New York State Council on the Arts, Office of the Manhattan Borough President and Con Edison

©1991 Waterways Project

In 9vfenwry of our dear teacher, colleaque and [riend,

!Mr. 'Edioin. 9Vj.ne Igwe (1954- 1991)

AN INSPIRING MAN by Justin Innis

This is written in the memory of a great

. man who we all knew and cared about very much. Mr. Igwe was more than just an ordinary teacher who taught science and mathematics at Rikers Island. He was very fond of his work while at this facility and insisted if you were in his class you were going to have to work and work very hard. But he was more than just a teacher here, he was a man you could call your brother or even father. The tragedy that has happened to Brother Igwe came as a shock to us all, especially me. It was uncalled for and unjustified.

Mr. Igwe was shot several times by unknown assailants who came into his house that he and his wife lived in. After being shot, I was told, he was able to call 911. Then after getting to the hospital and going through surgery, he made it so far, but then Brother Igwe passed away. Now may he rest in peace. He has crossed over to the other side to continue his great work. Wherever he went he always made a good impression on people, that is why he was easy to get along with. He was one of a kind.

Here was a very positive person, a man that would give you his last just to make sure you were happy. Why? That's just the way he was. If you ever came to him with a problem, he would do his best to help you out. This man was full of knowledge like he was born with it. When a student would ask, "Mr. Igwe, how come we do so much work?" He would reply, "I've come to give you some of my knowledge. You never have too much. There's always room for more." He was a very hardworking man who encouraged his students

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MR.IGWE

by Thomas Moorer aka King Divine

At this moment I now feel many ways .

I'm upset, disappointed, shocked, wondering and thinking. I'm also bothered and most of all broken-hearted as well as ashamed, because I really enjoyed Mr. Igwe while he was alive. He has taught me some things during my stay here at Rikers Island, such as how to be a respectable person.

I sincerely apologize to all of his family and friends who suffer the loss of a very intelligent and special man. I even apologize to myself as well because he means a lot to me as a teacher and a friend. Now we have to suffer sueh a great amount of grief of losing him.

Mr. Igwe is a man that I admire in many ways. The way that he'd speak, carry himself and the clothes that he wore showed what type of person he was. I see him as being nice, kind, generous, caring, sharing, helpful, respectful and there's not even enough words to explain the precious beauty that stood out in this man. But I'll have to use the words that are available until more are created, if any. I will always remember Mr. Igwe thoughout my entire life.

I still remember the days back in 1989 and 1990 when I used to watch Mr. Igwe as he entered the classroom during the change of periods of the school day. The respect that he received as well as gave was tremendous. It gave me a good feeling because he would come in the classroom and his first two words of the day were, "Good Morning." I then often found myself using the same words that he'd use. I must say from my heart with true blessings that I am

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Thank you for your recent letter and copies of Words Up-Stream and Strictly Busi- ness.

The two publications appear to have one theme or motto, e.g., "Ignorance is No Excuse" and "Don't Give Up on Knowledge." We believe that those emphases are very important and should be continually considered and reconsidered at this crucial period of your students' lives. Society can, and is, quick to forgive past mistakes if youngsters devote themselves to the pursuit of learning and to use education as a prepartation for employment and life.

Your instructors and administrators are to be commended for providing the leadership that has made these publications possible.

Sincerely. :Mario:M. Cuomo Governor

Thank you so very much for sharing with me the latest issues of Strictly Business and Words Up-Stream. I was truly engrossed in each essay. Both publications are fine examples of introspection and sincere interest in communicating the thoughts, feelings, and experiences of the students at Rikers Island Educational Facility.

Once again, the students have demonstrated their excellent writing skills and creative abilities. The ability to communicate thorugh writing is an experience which can bring much satisfaction. Because the students' essays are personal accounts and are strongly written, they make a lasting effect on the reader. This is a valuable contribution.

r- I personally appreciate the efforts ex-

pended by those involved. Please convey my sincere best wishes to each and every-. one.

Sincerely.

Joseph JI. 1'emantfez Chancellor

New York City Public Schools

Thank you for sending the most recent issue of Strictly Business and Worru Up-

Stream. .

Once again, you and your students have crafted publications that are thoughtful and realistic. I was particularly struck by "Jail, The Black Hole" by Doctor. It has immediacy and anguish and deserves distribution to youngsters who may not realize that prison is such a terrible place.

I enjoy reading the publications very much. I appreciate 'continuing on your mailing list.

Sincerely,

~ Lancaster Crowfey Program Officer for District Superintendents

The State Education Department

Thank you for sending me a copy of your school newspaper, Strictly Business. I was extremely impressed with the articles and standard of writing throughout the paper.

I especially appreciated the understanding shown by the students in a variety of articles. Shawn Farray ably expressed the feeling that people must change their habits and lifestyle in order to return home and not return to prison in the article "SprungTime." Albert James had the ability to make one know how it felt to be placed in prison in his article "The Justice System through the Eyes of an Inmate."

I believe anyone considering committing crimes would think carefully about doing so after reading these and the other articles in Strictly Business.

My congratulations to the students and staff on an outstanding publication.

Sincerely, C{a.ire Sfiufman President

Borough of Queens

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THE CHOICE IS YOURS by Mark A. Gonzalez

Editor's Note: Mark Gonzalez was one of the founding editorial board members of Strictly Business (then the R.l.E.F. Journal) back in 1989.

Peace & Love My Brothers,

I hope this letter from the heart finds you all in the best of health and that your spirits are up.

I know there's not much to be happy about within these cold, gray walls, and for those of you who'll have to lay up for a bid before seeing New York, there most definitely ain't nothing to be happy about (and excuse me for being frank) but s--t ain't gonna get any better unless you decide to get your act together and make the proper changes. (I'm sure you know what they are.)

Listen my brothers, I'm not about to preach a fire and brimstone lecture, and that scared straight approach ain't scaring s--t straight, but I am going to tell you how I see it--straight up

(continued on page 19)

LI£/]!I'E/R.J (continued)

look forward to the next issue.

Thank you for sending me a copy of Strictly Business. I was impressed by the caliber of the writing and moved by the heartfelt content Especially moving were Shawn Farray's pieces on Black history and sprung-time. They were full of hope, too. I also enjoyed Albert James' article on the SAID Program.

Keep up the good work!

Sincerely,

.9I.mina JlWau.r·~man Deputy Chancellor for External Programs and

Community Affairs

New York City Public Schools

Thank you for sharing with me the latest issue of your school newspaper, Strictly Business. I found the articles thought provoking, informative and extremely well-written. The artwork served as a fine complement to the narratives. Please extend my congratulations on a job well done to all the students and staff involved in this exciting educational endeavor. I

Sincerely,

9{tft£a So to 1?,p.iz

Chief Executive for Instruction New York City Public Schools

Thank you for sending me a copy of Strictly Business, the school newspaper of Rikers Island Educational Facility. This issue is especially meaningful in sharing with all readers the thoughts, experiences and hopes of the students in the facility. Surely, for those who have not visited Rikers Island, it provides clear insights into the life of students there.

I congratulate the students for their achievement in producing this publication. It is evident that they put a great deal of effort into writing the articles. You and the teachers are also to be commended for making this publication a first-class magazine. The articles are all interesting and give the readers an appreciation for the environment and life for students and staff at Rikers Island. You are to be commended for the important job you are doing.

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Sincerely,

Carmen o/areCa.1{jLsso Executive Director Division of High Schools

New York City Public Schools

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A Day in the Life by Jose Respeto

What's up, man? You wasn't getting up 7:30 in the morning in New York, but if I don't get up now the C.O. will be by my cell in about five minutes and then I'll have to answer to him. Man, if he ain't have that badge on his chest he won't be shit. If I was in New York ... Damn the world. damn this place and everyone in it. Got to brush my teeth, wash my face and comb my hair. Got my fly clothes on. Gats to show brothers I'm living large. Yup, got the fly kicks on too. I'm looking proper.

Time to walk out for school. Hold up, let me just flex in the mirror right quick and make sure everything is in the right place. Yup, just as I thought. Oh man, almost forgot the burner. Can't go nowhere without my burner. Just in case a brother try and front. Alright got some brothers checking me out. How do they do it? Oh yeah, just keep your arms pretty much still. Don't swing 'em, just move your shoulders and bop to the side a little. Yeah, now you got the walk, let's work on the face I'm gonna wear for the rest of the day. Okay, keep your jaws tight. squint your eyes a little. Now, drop your eyebrows. That's it. I'm on a roll now. Man, am I a trooper or what? Yeah.that'll put fear in their heart. They won't even look at me no more. They better not.

Man, I hate walking in damn line, like we're in grade school or something. We're passing another house. Look hard. You ain't new to this. A little more on the walk ... right, riiight. What's that? Mod II? Man, them brothers are ass! Get ready, if any jump off, just keep swinging. Keep on looking hard. Yeah, they know better. Our house is the chop shop. I really.could do without the riot squad though. The riot squad. Man, listen ... if I was in New york ....

Man, these teachers be bugging out.

What I need to know all this geometry stuff for? As long as I can count my money, I'm straight. Man, what I need to come to school for anyway? I wasn't go-

ing to school in New York. Well, I was, but it sure wasn't for no geometry--them girls was fly. These teachers be looking good, too. Man, if I was in New york ....

Good, it's time to go back and eat chow.

That's just the word to describe it. Chow. Chow-chow is more like it. They must be bugging if they think I'm gonna eat this. Besides, that lady C.O. over there looks kind of good. If she sees me eating this it'll cramp my style. Man, I shot fifty bags every week in commissary. Moms be looking out. Yeah, I know things are kind of rough at home, but I'm her son. She can't dis me like that. Yo, the C.O.looked at me. Yeah, you know I look good. I'll take her out for some steak any day, 'cause man if I was in New york ....

Man, I hate locking in for this count. Four-thirty, time to lock out. Right on time. Oh yeah, I'm gonna watch cartoons today, and if those brothers change the channel we'll just have to get it on. Yeah, you better not change that channel, 'cause when I was in New York ... What's that new jack with the fly kicks on? He's gonna have to hop out of them. Let me send my little man to get them, 'cause if I got to take this razor out my ass, man, listen ... Look at him-she's scared to death. Yeah, that's it, give up them sneakers. Man, that jacket looks kind of fly too. Naw, I'll leave him with that at least. Herb. But if we was in New York. ...

What time is it? Yup, it's about that time for me to get up on the phone. Yeah, you see me coming, get up off that horn. What? Oh, calm down baby, he only asked for one more minute. Man, I was ready to blow something. I'll give him that minute, but if we was in New York, ...

"Hi, Ma. Yeah, I'm okay, how are you?

Good. Well, Ma, I just called to see how you were doing. Are you coming up to see me tomorrow? Ma, put some money in my commissary. About fifty dollars, alright? Yeah, Ma, I know you need to pay the bills, but I need money too. Okay,

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then just put forty dollars." Damn! "Oh and Ma, you didn't forget the sneakers, right? No, I don't want Reeboks. I wanted Nikes. Forget it! Just bring the sneakers. Ma, I gotta go, okay? Love you.

Bye." .

Man, I send my moms out to get me something and she gets me something else. Got to keep up with the style. Then she's telling me about bills and stuff. I don't need to hear about no bills. Anyway, she does look out though. Why do these guys have to be all in my face when I'm on the phone? At least they know I get what I want. 'Cause when I was in New York.: ..

. Man, this day went by crazy fast. We had some dog food for dinner today again. Man, I couldn't even eat it and I was type hungry. If that guy didn't get cut in the mess hall, maybe I could've at least gotten a chance to eat my rice. That dude cut him up bad, too. At least thirty stitches right next to his eye. Not but four yards away from me either. I seen it coming, too. Thought he was coming for me.

Would have cut him right back though, . 'cause I don't be having it.. They don't . call me Killer for nothing. 'Cause when I was in New york ....

Man, I hate watching the cell door close every night. Be locked in like some animal. I ain't no animal.

"Yo! Y'all stop yelling out your cells.

I'm trying to go to sleep." Bunch of cell gangsters. It's kind of a relief though to have this door closed behind me. At least now I know I'm safe. Ain't no razor

Illustration by Jose Respeto cutting through that

Almost forgot to pray. Lord, thanks for keeping me safe. I could have been the one who got cut, and man was I scared. I could feel myself shaking while we were on the wall. I'm glad no one else saw me though. I thought they were gonna pick me for a herb. But they didn't. Thanks for that too. I know what I did wrong when I took that guy's sneakers, but they were all looking at me when I came in the day room. You know, all my friends waiting to see what I would do. I'm really SOfry though. I gave him another pair and they weren't that bad. Lord, I hate having to act like a gangster, but if I don't then I'll be nowhere with no respect. But Lord, why do I feel that even if I'm acting this way, I get no respect?

Lord, my mother seemed pretty upset today. I really hurt her. I wanted to tell her how much I love her and not to worry, but my mans was around me. I know they were listening to my conversation. I had to keep strong 'cause I know she would have made me start crying and that would have been it.

Oh Lord, I'm so scared. I'm so lonely.

I don't know what to do. I want to go home. Please, God, if you let me go home, I'll stop selling drugs and stuff. I'll stop acting like a gangster. God, please. Amen. Good night.

What's up, man. You wasn't getting up seven-thirty in New Y ork. ...

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Put Out the Burner by Radames Clavell

Bang, bang ... My first reaction was to go for my waist but then I remembered that I had left the steel in the car. I opened the door, grabbed the joint and got it ready to spit. I jumped to the ground because they were still shooting. Who can this be? Is it that kid I shot last week? Can it be Jose trying to run niggers out? Nah, they don't want none. I look up. He has a Batman mask. Wait, there's another one. I better go out. I aim the 9. and started shooting. I hear sirens. I don't care. Those punks tried to play me. Bang bang! I hit one. The gun jams. I throw it. I start running because there's still one more somewhere. Where did he go? I stop running. turn my back. All I see are lights. I quicken my pace. Now the police are following me. They're on my tail. They catch up to me. All I hear in a heavy, angry voice is, "Freeze! Move and I'll blow your head off. 11

Violence is a part of life which a lot of people in our society have to deal with. Even though all of us have been through the court system and many other eccurances, it still leads right back to the same way of life. If you live in New York it's not too hard to get involved with a situation that has to do with violence. I can remeber a few times when I was in New York just hanging out thinking I was untouchable with a gun in my waist. For some reason,

: you can always find a loud-mouthed per, son that has a worse attitude than you do. .. The next thing you know, the both of you

are busting shots at each other. That normally happens just because everybody

'. wants to be the top dog and live the fast life. If you keep that same attitude, you're going to run into somebody that will be your worst nightmare. After running into

that person, you'll either be dead or right where you are now.

Jail is it's own world which is called the Department of Corrections (DOC), but there's not much correction going on for most In jail there's plenty of violence because most everybody here was involved with some sort of violent activity and this facility has few rehabilitation programs for you to want to start a new way of life. Schoolis one of the only programs here that can really help you, but not too many people take advantage of it. That's just another effect on us from the way the system is set up. You can do what you want and then DOC gets upset when somebody gets cut or hurt. For instance, one afternoon I was in the pens and the officer on tour let a kid get stomped. At "the end of the day when other officers saw the kid's eyes were bruised, the officer on tour tried to put a front on that he was keeping things under control. That's no sweat because many officers will turn away from the problem and then you have more of a chance 10 catch some wreck.

A problem people have is they let their frustrations get them into things. You might not realize it, but it does happen to all of us. You just can't let your frustrations affect others. For instance, just being locked up, having somebody you don't know from a hole in the wall tell you what to do and when to do it can get you "aggie." I know it gets to me, but I don't let my feelings affect the people around me. But we also get frustrated when family and friends don't come to see us. That can affect you because you won't have any money for commissary and you feel like you're all alone and you need support. But going around taking clothes, commis-

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sary or just picking fights isn't solving your problems.

Instead of acting violent, do something that could take. your mind off the problem, maybe something you enjoy. If you enjoy violence, then you have a problem that needs professional help.

What we need to do is stop and look around at the few positive outlets so we can change our attitudes. You can go to the Law Library and ask the adults who are there to help you out with your case. By doing that, if your case sounds good, your

. mind could be at ease. When I first came through, I didn't know anything about my case but I started going to the Law Library and started finding out a lot of different strategies that could be used to get me home. As soon as I found out things like different hearings, suppression of evidence and speedy trials. I knew I was as good as

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Illustration by Jose Respeto

home. When I realized that, I was at peace with myself and the people around me.

Other things you can do is write a letter or go to mental health. By visiting mental health, you could talk out your problems and try to overcome things that you feel deep inside. The counselors could help you find a solution. You could also write to somebody. By writing a letter you can express your feelings to someone, and if they write back you'll feel a lot better.

Where we all fmd ourselves at the present time doesn't help our state of mind. Attitudes make this system of so-called corrections a circle for all of us. The Department can see a large percentage of us don't want to change, so they're not going to make the facility any better for you or the next man who does want to get his life together.

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Wise Advisors by Benito Jimenez

Have you ever asked yourself what it is that your grade advisor does? Well I did and I asked a few extra questions of our grade advisors Ms. Tate (OED), Ms. King (HSII) and Ms. Richards (HS!).

I found out that our grade advisors are responsible for placing new students in the appropriate level class, retesting for interclass transfers and report card distribution and collection.

They're also responsible for one to one personal and academic counseling. This involves the encouragement of the students to become more serious about education and making the most of their time here. Some of their other responsibilities include giving teachers information and feedback on students. They're sometimes called to discipline and be mediators for student to student or student to teacher conflicts.

The advisors provide information on educational programs that are beneficial on the outside such as community outreach, referral to MAPS (Montefiore Adolescent Preventive Services) and social services.

Some of us may ask, what can they do for us dealing with cases? Unfortunately, they have little input in cases except for personalized letters of recommendation for students who show a serious Interest in their work and their own rehabilitation and a productive return to society.

. As do all unique and important people, the grade advisors had some unique and important answers to some of my questions.

Ms. Tate's desk was weighed down with her heavy work load. This made her

desk look cluttered with many papers pertaining to school business. Ms. Tate also seemed very busy and pressed for time. Considering the cramped space and that there wasn't much room to move around or get comfortable, Ms. Tate's attitude was very happy and upbeat. She seemed very happy with her present position. It also seemed to me that it made her expecially happy when she gets the chance to help a student with his problem or problems, whether it be personal or academic. In Ms. Tate's own role as grade advisor she finalizes lists for the GED. She bases her list on classroom academics, behavior and testing. Students must also be recommended by three out of five teachers. She has information on preparation for college and would be more than happy to give it to anyone who is interested. She also tries to help students get closer to God because she feels it can help in this transitional period of their lives.

Concerning teachers, she said that she might have a problem with one or two styles of teaching which should be able to be worked out, but she did say that teacher motivation is up. She feels that it is hard to measure students' improvement in academics because of the ever changing population. Concerning improvements in the school area, Ms. Tate thought that a graduation ceremony would be a nice addition. Another improvement would be to take some school pictures and maybe even begin a yearbook with pictures. It was a pleasure to interview Ms. Tate because she is a compassionate person who cares a lot about the students.

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Automotive Adult Training Center 1590 Bedford Avenue

Brooklyn, NY 11225

(718) 756-5525/5567

Ask your grade advisors how the following agencies might help you:

Kings County Occupational and Vocational Rehab Center

415 Clarkson Avenue

Brooklyn, NY 11203

(718) 245-4845

Aspira of New York Career Counseling 332 East 149th Street Bronx, NY 10451 (212) 292-2690

Ms. King's desk was surprisingly clear considering the amount of work that grade advisors have to do. She also seemed organized in her daily plans. Her attitude was very calm, low key and serious. She answered my questions with short answers in a very straightforward manner. She also expressed a special interest in working with people.

She feels that teachers are cooperative and in her opinion she sees some student improvement. She also feels that as a grade advisor and a teacher she's legally able to give her all. She expressed a wish for smaller class sizes so that teachers could put more attention on individual students in need of guidance. It's a shame that I didn't have more time to really get to know Ms. King so that I could touch base with some of her opinions more in depth.

Ms. Richard's desk looked organized with many test papers and planning books piled neatly within arm's length. She seemed busy and pressed for time but took the time to try and make her points crystal clear. Her attitude was very serious and seemed to give her work a high . priority. I got the impression that she cares more than the average teacher about students.

She considers part of her job to be the encouragement of students to be leaders as opposed to followers and academically strong students to be role models for those who aren't as strong. She also tries to work a bit harder for those who have a

If you're ever in a crisis situation, call the R.I.E.F. hotline to direct you to other services:

(718) 274-4077

Make a note of it!

little more of a problem with their work. Ms. Richards feels the staff is extremely overwhelmed with work and that overcrowded classrooms result in a lack of attention to the students. This also causes the process of communication and help to be hindered. In spite of this she also sees definite progress in students' work. She would like to see more hands-on types of activities such as technical types of training or vocational courses implemented in the . school curriculum. During the interview it was nice to see the amount of care and time she took to explain each point that she wanted to make. She ended our interview by saying, "I am a strong believer but for the grace of God, there go I," which means if she can help to save just one of these people, it would make a whole world of difference for her.

Surprisingly enough, all the grade advisors said that they were not intimidated to work with known criminals. They said that if they were intimidated, they wouldn't be able to do their jobs effectively. Ms. Tate went on to say, "If I was (intimidated), I'd be in the wrong school."

To make an appointment with your grade advisor, tell your homeroom teacher your need for counseling. He/she in turn hands in a list of students who wish to make an appointment and the grade advisor in turn makes an appointment usually within two days. If it is urgent they may make a special pull-out for individual problems.

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ME AND I.I.D. by Tyrone Benry

Despite its little tiffs and taffs I feel the I.lD. Program is the most positive place in C-74. It consists of 100 or less inmates and several caring C.O.s. Everyone is there to help each other. We are all one big family, all brothers. lI.D. can be your first step to changing. All you have to do is participate and you can become a part of the love and warmth of the program. Help comes from every angle. People from the outside world visit the program to help us learn how to apply for jobs when we go home to the tricks and trades of society. They teach us certain trades, skills, help us master what we want to be in life. And for those of you who don't know what you want to become yet, we welcome you. We will help you find what it is you do best.

Instead of being known all over the building for cutting or fighting or just plain out being disrespectful and thinking that it's cool, you can be known for helping yourself and becoming a positive individual. Instead of beating up or cutting your brother because you think you're better than he is, why not try teaching him something instead? It's a lot easier, it's a lot more fun and you'll probably feel better about yourself afterwards too. It's

definitely a lot better than spending 180 days in the BING.

For all of you that really do want to become part of the program but are afraid of what your man is going to say, become a real man and do what's best for you, because you and your man won't be together forever. Sooner or later he'll be trying to change too. We do have it harder because we are black in a white society but if you love yourself and you care about where you'll be tomorrow, you'll try to do the right thing and change.

I feel the program has done a lot for me.

It's helped me realize where my place is in life as a black man. It's helped me to see the struggle I'm going to have later in life as well as the progress and happiness I'll receive from it all in the end

Our message to you is that we can all do it. We can all change. If you don't become a part of the program for whatever reason (you feel it's garbage or it's not for you or just unable) you can still change. All you need is a little heart and determination and you can accomplish anything you want.

THE INSTITUTE FOR INNER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (Ll.D.)

by Kenny Meikle (Big K), Program Coordinator

I.lD. consists of 50 adults and 50 adolescents living together under the same conditions, but unlike other housing areas.

MOD 4 Lower is a self-achievement process enabling participants to attain an increased measure of self esteem and personal enrichment, insight and sensitivity. It is a place to conceive and realize a more

.. self-fulfilling life. A place to reconstruct your lifestyle through a system of attitude and behavioral change. A forum for enhancing vital living skills through mastery of systems and techniques in problem solving, decision making, anger management, financial responsibilities, etc. A

way of life hopefully resulting in a more productive, socially responsible member of society.

Our logo, the pyramids of the Nile, are the oldest surviving monuments of art, mathematics and engineering. These pyramids with their four cornerstones and one capstone represent the agreement of different points of view and the perfection of cooperation. They also represent our induction into and the graduation from past to present. So shall our students be inducted into and graduate from the Institute for Inner Development

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LIBRARY ON WHEELS by Radames Clavell

Illustration by Jose Respeto

The New York Public Library has granted RlEF students the chance to borrow a book of your choice. They sent two gentlemen from the public library and I asked them some questions. Their names are Stephen Likosky and Samuel Ansah and they work at the branch at 455 Fifth Avenue (at 40th Street) in Manhattan. Mr. Likosky and Mr. Ansah also are involved with distributing books at state prisons, hospitals and different centers.

R.I.E.F. 's library has been running for two months and the subjects of books range from fiction to criminal justice. Also, R.I.E.F.'s library is going to expand the quantity of books and the librarians are going to inform us of job opportunities and many other programs you can join. Mr. Likosky and Mr. Ansah see that the students enjoy borrowing books. They also enjoy working at R.lE.F., so I guess they will be here for a while.

If any student would like to borrow a book, you need an lD. The books are due in one week but can be renewed. Mr. Likosky and Mr. Ansah will run the library every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. to serve your reading pleasure.

"

1

~:

11

Teacher, Teacher by Jose Respeto

There are all kinds of people on this earth. Prison is no exception. There are all kinds of different personalities here as well. But all people in prison are not inmates. This article is about the teachers who work here and how their personalities can have a direct affect on us and their effectiveness in the classroom.

There are those that are mean, noncaring, too serious and always crabby. They don't usually get too much respect. The funny thing is that they don't realize that the reason they can't get along is because they try too hard, always on their toes and too rigid as if someone is out to get them all the time. Then there are some teachers who are kind, funny, easy-going. I have a few people in mind who I will use as examples. (The names have been changed to protect the innocent and the not-soinnocent)

Meet Mr. Laughalot. Now here's a guy who knows how to be a teacher and one of the guys. The funniest part about it is

Illustration by Jose Respeto

that he can be no taller then 5 foot 7 and Jewish. I'm sure that most will agree he's the coolest teacher. He's got the laugh lines on his face because he's forever laughing and cracking jokes. Funny ones, too. There was an incident that could have easily blown out of proportion if dealt with by, let's call him Mr. Tragedy. Thank god it was dealt with by Mr. Laughalot.

There was this guy (it's really quite simple) who was in a seat that another guy had just left to get a pencil. When he returned he asked for his seat back which the other did not want to give up. They exchanged a few words, but before things could get out of hand Mr. Laughalot jumped right on it. Be drew the attention off them and put it on himself. He told them that they weren't fighting for a school seat in New York (which is something often said as a joke, like "You wasn't .,. in New York.") Everyone laughed, including the two involved.

So now that the atmosphere cooled down, he simply asked the one in the seat to get

12

up and sit in another chair. The manner that he handled it, no one lost face and he prevented a possible fight. Of course the guy who left the seat wasn't about to just let it go. The one who Occupied it wasn't about to get tip. One or the other would have been looked upon as a sucker. But this way they were able to make it seem that they complied for the teacher's sake. Well, Laughalot, as we call him, saved the day. He deserves a Mars Bar. Actually he deserves more than that. But the point is he had to somewhat make himself one of us, and not so much an authority figure, to handle it.

When ready to fight, we will listen to a friend telling us to stop before anyone else. Someone else might have handled it in another way, like demanding that the guy who left his seat sit somewhere else. You can't do that. It won't look right. Not when things are tense. We won't go, and if we do it still wouldn't resolve anything. It would simply prolong it and then we're not only mad at each other but at the teacher as well.

There are also teachers that handle things in a motherly or fatherly way and that seems to work just fine too. They make you feel like they really care about you, not just collecting a paycheck. It's not just

. the way they act in the classroom but in the hallways as well. They always seem to have time for you and always have an encouraging word to say. It makes you want to do well for them.

Not everyone can deal with situations the way some can. And it often results in something bigger than what it was. You have the teachers that will "snitch" over anything, those that are "scared to death." They call the C.O. as soon as a few words are exchanged, and man, are we mad then because we have to stand facing the wall. STOP! It shouldn't have gone that far and wouldn't have if it had been handled otherwise.

- For example, there was this teacher who in my opinion should have never been a teacher. I was helping her pass out pencils and at the end of the class when it was time to collect, I was one short. I had to

think twice about telling her because I knew she would bug out. Before I could finish thinking, she was counting them and realized one was missing. When she asked everyone about it, naturally everyone denied having it. She started off badly by threatening to call the officer to get us all searched. From there, things started to get out of hand, but what really blew up the spot was when she started calling us a bunch of thieves and telling us that if our mothers would have beaten us good when we were little, we wouldn't be here now. That of course provoked everyone to dis her and call her all kinds of names. As soon as she heard them, she ran out in the hallway and called the C.O. She said nothing about what she called us but repeated everything we called her, plus told about the pencil. It set off a whole lot of commotion and two more C.O.s ran in and started pulling people out, half of whom had nothing to do with it. It started them up. Anyway, at the end of it all, two guys wound up getting slapped and given tickets. Four people were on the wall and the missing pencil was never missing because it had been handed in earlier by one guy who left to go to a visit. After that she got no respect at all, all over a pencil. That definitely could have been handled differently.

Although everyone isn't gifted with a good sense of humor, it does help to be a little more relaxed. When you are teaching. you have to keep some kind of composure. Want a hint? If you try being yourself once in a while I'm sure you'll begin to see people repeet you much more. We may be somewhat hard-headed, but maybe if you tried opening up a little, it may just help a few of us to open up too. Let's face it, we're all here because we have a problem dealing with authority. If we're not going to respect a cop with an attitude, what makes you think we're going to listen to a teacher with an attitude? Think about it. Try being yourself.

13

Yl+ 'Essays

Ms. King CHS ID

A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN by Al Romero

Well the woman I want to talk about is my mother. She is the biggest thing in my life because she's been a mother and a father at the same time. She's always been there for me. In the days of pain, in the days of sadness and in the days of happiness she's always been there.

In this time of pain here in jail she comes to visit me every weekend and doesn't ever miss one. She always makes sure I have money in my commissary and makes sure I'm all right. When I was in New York she gave me everything I've always wanted, and when I wanted it too.

So you know why she is my beautiful woman.

BEA TIFUL WOMEN by C harazz York

What do I find beautiful in a young lady?

I find it beautiful when a girl is very good looking and has a very cute smile. She also must have small feet and be kind of short. If a girl has a nice personality and is smart in school that makes me like them more. Also a beautiful woman to me has to be faithful and full of love and always wanting to be with me wherever I go. I like girls that are kind of mean and do not take no bull when it comes to her man. I also like a young lady that appreciates everything I get her and understands I am a man and men make mistakes when it comes to women. When a woman is ready to

" fight another girl over her man that makes "me feel like she really cares and in her own way.

I also like when a girl likes to wear my big sweat hoods or jackets outside. It looks funny but it feels good. Plus when a woman is serious about a relationship and takes care of me when I am sick or in need for "lovin." I love it when my girl makes the first move on me.

All of that makes a girl beautiful to me.

Ms. McCants CHS D COMMUNITY LEADER by Eddie Serrano

Hello, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, sons and daughters! Today I'm here to talk to my fellow people and let them know why I'm running for community leader.

First let me give you some history about myself. In 1973 I was born in Cumberland Hospital in Fort Greene Projects. I lived here for many years. At the age of 10 I moved to Coney Island. This is where my teen-age life started.

I was one of those kids who went to school every day and never hung out in the streets. At the age of 12 my lifestyle started changing. I started hanging out with the wrong people in the projects.

I started to go to the Play Park in Coney Island and that's when I started coming home late. My mother used to try to beat me to death every time I came home late. Now I know why she did that. It was because she didn't want me to become a hoodlum. Only if she could have talked to me and let me know how she felt about me coming home late at night. My mother wasn't a talking type of person. She was more aggressive.

At the age of 13 I started wanting new sneakers, new pants and other things but

14

my mother couldn't supply that for me. She only bought me something every time she got her check. Since I didn't have a lot of clothes, I stopped going to school. Since I stopped going to school my mother didn't want me in her house. So I started staying in my friend's house. I always had my grandmother's house to go to, but I didn't because I never had any friends over there.

From that point on I started to live a fast life. From the age 13 I went back and forth to jail. At the age of 18 I was a high school drop out and I didn't have my parents any more. I wanted to make money so I sold drugs 'cause I couldn't get a job. I was under a lot of peer pressure.

If I was to become the community leader of the Grassen Projects I would have after school programs. I would have meetings with families in the projects. I would try to talk to the drug dealers and get them a decent job. .L~t them kn?w that the people they are kilhng are their brothers and sis~ers. I would have security in every buildmg. I would have a rehabilitation center for drug addicts.

So my fellow friends of this community, we must get back together and fight the power because if we don't start now this community will be hell itself. Ladies and ~ent1emen, as you can see I've had a rough ume when I was young and the only thing that changed me was jail. I say jail because I got tired of being away from my loved - ones and I got tired of people telling me

when to eat, drink, sleep and wake up. I 'got tired of being incarcerated=period. I --felt I had to better myself. But maybe if we

had all those things I mentioned before maybe, just maybe, my teen-age life would have been a happy one instead of a sad one. And I don't want these young kids of the future to have it like I did. That's why we must reach them before it's too late.

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.

r

l

Ms. Kay (OED)

IF I COULD CHANGE A MOMENT IN MY LIFE by Clarence Mayfield

If I was capable to change a moment in my life, what would it be? It would be the moment that I started following my peers by "cutting school." I started to cut school when I was still in elementary school and it led to dropping out of school, going back, getting transferred to other schools and eventually dropping out for good.

It was when I was in the fifth grade and about 11 or 12 years old when I started to cut school, to sell drugs with my peers, and my mother used to try to make me stop and disregard my peers. This was on and off and on type of cutting school so that I could continue to sell drugs.

At about 7th and 8th grades I started to cut again. The teachers began to constantly get on my case, telling me that I was too bright to be cutting school. But I didn't listen and when I was more than enough money for a person of the age of 15, I dropped out of school.

My mother was quick to let me know that it doesn't matter how much money one has, he can never have enough to buy himself knowledge. So with those words in mind I decided to try and go back to school.

High school was the same routine for me: boring and monotonous. But I tried to stay in school. It seemed as if everything the teachers taught us shot through my head before everyone else's and then I would become bored and want to leave.

I then left school to continue my illegal activities. Now I am in jail for being a foolish follower and still in school. So I guess since I am here and now have the timet I will use it wisely and continue my

education to the fullest. .

(continued on next page)

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J2l. + 'Essays

(continued from previous page)

CRIMINAL JUSTICE by Darren Passion

Criminal justice means when you are arrested and accused of a crime, you are supposed to be innocent until proven guilty. Well it seems to me that there are two separate rules for blacks and whites.

A black man is guilty until proven innocent, whereas a white man is innocent until proven guilty. I say this without prejudice but because of the overwhelming weight of the facts. For example, if a white man and myself were accused of the same crime with similar circumstances. I undoubtedly would be given an extremely high bail such as the one I have received already. This fonn of punishment is to assure the white man who is usually the judge and prosecutor that I will be doing time before conviction. Then, if I'm not convicted. who really cares? It's not that much of a loss because I have already done some time just for being accused, whereas the white man with similar status and circumstances of the crime was allowed to go home with a much more affordable bail.

The point I am trying to make is not a prejudiced one. The point is that the people that enforce the law are just as corrupt as the ones who break the law, but there is no legal way of proving discrimination against criminals. There should be a review of every case by a higher official or officials that are in the same position as the one accused of the crime, therefore making it much more difficult for a corrupted. prejudiced, inconsiderate judge or D.A. to cor-

, rect an injustice with an injustice. Then I think the criminal will be able to receive justice, but not until then.

AIDS Assembly by Tyrone Henry

On October 18 all the houses that attend school attended an assembly in the chapel. We were to listen to a presentation regarding health. They said they were mainly going to speak about AIDS and syphillus, but they spoke mostly about AIDS. The first speaker's name was Vidal Bastian, community coordinator for the Department of Health's Correctional AIDS Prevention Program (CAPP) .. He was trying to get across to us that we as inmates are all candidates to the danger and spread of the HIV virus and that it is attacking blacks and hispanics the most

I think this subject had just about everyone's full attention. As I glanced around at the audience, everyone seemed interested. Pertaining to this facility, in 1987 only 2% of our population was infected with the virus. Today, over 25% is infected. Those words especially caught everybody's attention. Mr. Bastian himself feels that males are primarily responsible for the spreading of AIDS. AIDS is passed through blood, semen, bowel secretion and many sadly are born with it. Some of us in here who get tatoos are also subject to the virus, especially if the needles are not clean. Some of the symptoms or 'signs that you may be carrying the virus are night sweats, swelling in areas such as underarms, under testicles and behind the neck, having diahrrea five to fourteen days and thrush, a fungal infection in which white spots and ulcers appear on the tongue and mouth. Thrush can be contagious. You cannot catch AIDS sharing the same toilet, eating on a tray after someone whose infected with it or sleeping next to someone with AIDS.

AZT and DDI are the only two drugs that are being used to treat AIDS, although there is still no cure. An inmate asked if he can catch the virus orally. To those of you who may not know, you can catch it orally, anally or through regular sexual activity. Then he continued to say

16

that anemia is a side effect of AZT, so DDI was recommended because it has less side effects. Mr. Bastian said that he himself knows an inmate at this facility who has lost two brothers because of the virus and now the inmate himself is infected. We blacks and hispanics may have the virus and not know it and spread it amongst our peers, family, friends or loved ones. Latex condoms are the only condoms that protect you from passing the virus. Lambskins or others do not. Nonoxynol 9 from latex condoms kills virus on contact. And the message for those who like to cut people and fight a lot: he stated that violence amongst ourselves can also spread the virus. Membranes from the blood can easily infect you through the eyes, nose or mouth. Vidal Bastian ended his speech With a message from the Department of Health, to all of us from all of them. While we are here in the system take advantage and get tested for the virus.

It was now Romeo Sanchez's turn to speak. He lead onto a different subject. The crowd sort of got discouraged and began to talk to one another. Although the crowd was rather loud, I still picked up a little .. Mr. Sanchez came from the Commission of Human Rights and he will be heading an agency handling prisoners' complaints of HN related discrimination (i.e. denying visitations, harassment of any kind, etc.) He said that he was once here on Rikers Island and did 7 years upstate. He felt that the educational system today is not doing a correct job and that the health care in prison has been inadequate.

Then he put on a video made by the Commission of Human Rights. The crowd began to get into it, but the TV was so small and the volume so low that only about half of the people in the chapel could even see or hear it. The video and the assembly concluded with Mr. Sanchez saying that lout of every 4 black males in the U.S. between the ages of 20 and 29 are either in jail, on parole or probation. This also applies to one out of every 5 hispanics.

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On Friday, November 15, RIEF presented us with another assembly. The title of it was "Hispanic Heritage Celebra-

_ tion." The first speaker, Mr. Rodriguez, a teacher from the Sprungs, tried to point out that many hispanics do not know much about their own cultural background. He made us aware of Arthur Alfonso Schomburg. Schomburg was brought up in Puerto Rico. Being raised there he was bothered by the fact that hispanic people were discriminted against. As he grew older he had an opportunity to begin a good education. Schomburg participated in many different activist groups such as Los Dos Antilles which advocated the independence of Puerto Rico and Cuba, in which he served as secretary. Schomburg was a hispanic who tried to contribute whatever he could to his culture.

Schomburg also had many of his writings and other documents which he collected contributed to the public library. For instance, his collection consists of 4500 records, 5000 reels of microfilm and hundreds of thousands of manuscripts, prints, posters, tapes and clippings, some of which date back to the first black American newspaper in 1827. His works were not only of hispanic culture but also pertaining to AfricanAmerican history. Schomburg was also a linguist.

I guess most students did not want to learn about their- own background or someone else's. Not too many people were paying attention to the few good points that were being made. '

A speaker named Mr. Reyes from the Division for Youth (DFY) came over to tell us about a couple of positive things we could do while here. Even though Mr. Reyes brought up a topic having to

do with inmates, few people paid him any mind. He pointed out that you could begin to write letters to state and local officials in order for you to be recognized. I'm sure that was a positive suggestion because I have begun to write to prosecutors and city officials so they will not forget about me. He also brought out that if you get in contact with him at DFY he could help you out with your case.

Mr. Rodriguez returned and read a poem which I couldn't pick up because of all the speaking during his presentation. An inmate got up and read something he wrote which again nobody paid much respect to. Next on the program was a special presentation that the staff at RIEF put together which was a so-called march, but it looked like a circus show. One of the staff members couldn't even follow the routine but I guess that was for some humor. Finally, we also had a selection of music that wasn't bad but it definitely was not Luther Vandross.

I feel the assembly went the way it did for many different reasons. First of all, it was held in the gym which caused a change in atmosphere. Assemblies are usually held in the chapel where the officers can keep an eye on everyone a lot easier. There's also more space in the chapel. Having the different housing areas all bunched next to each other caused tension because there was no room to get comfortable.

Also. having the students from the Sprungs attend the assembly along with the main building was like throwing a steak in the lion's cage. The students wanted a reason to draw their attention away from the speakers so they concentrated on each other which caused a major disturbance.

Finally, the problem that affected mostly everybody was that most students were not of hispanic culture and could not appreciate the theme which was presented. Even though some of the presentations are corny and maybe don't concern you. you still should pay attention. Maybe one day there will be an assembly that you can relate to and there will be somebody making noise and trying to disturb the program.

~

18

'I

shining here doesn't mean that it's gone completely, so he will always be remembered in the eyes of his loved ones. The sun travels around the world shining. When it's evening in Europe, it's already morning in China. So I guess we must now take this situation as if he's gone somewhere else to shine his light of intelligence somewhere with others who have passed in similar ways.

I wish the best for his family and friends and I also wish I could help, but I guess the only way that I can help is by writing this sincere documentation full of words that explain the amount of pain that I feel as well as you do, and all of my hopes and wishes for your future. Most of all I wish this situation would have never happened this way

'M'E!M0'.R].9lL (continued from page 1)

AN INSPIRING MAN

to do their best no matter how bad things were. He always looked on the bright side, never in a bad mood. The things that Mr. Igwe has done for us all will never be forgotten.

As we say farewell to our brother and my dearest friend, Mr. Igwe, my sympathy goes to his family. There are no words to. describe my feelings and the impact that he had on me. It's always easy to say hello but in times like this it's so hard to say good-bye. Although he's no longer with us, his soul will always be in our hearts.

Brother Igwe, may you rest in peace.

MR. IaWE

really and truly going to miss Mr. Igwe.

My grandma told me one day that the sun always shines. Just because it's not

(continued on pag e 22)

CHOICE IS YOURS (continued from page 3)

no lies!!!

Some of you may have another chance at $ociety without having to go up north for a bid. What you decide to do is solely up to you. You can decide to parlay and get that G.E.D. while you're sitting up in what ya call a "ain't-teaching-a-nigger-s=t-scliool" and ask all those counselors and teachers you see roaming the corridors to help you get with the proper channels so you can put that G.E.D. to use when you get home. Believe it or not they're more than willing to help and they care. But like I said, the choice is yours.

Or you can go horne and continue to blame your environment, your family and even the "bourgeois crackers in midtown" (the ones with the suits and ties) and just go back to "boosting," "josling," "scrambling," "car thieving," and "smoking" which will eventually lead to your return to that same chair you're sitting in now, or better yet, an enveloping cell.

Or if you prefer to go out in the blaze of glory, caskets corne in all shapes and sizes. Think about it. The choice is yours.

Now here's a scenario a lot of brothers "up north" can relate to. It goes something like this:

"Scram Jones" gets a "skid" bid, a little one-to-three. He was running "buck wild" in the 4 building, but things are different up north. After going through the reception process he gets a shot at a medium facility. Unmonitored movement. New York "walkdogs" and the whole nine, even visits are on a regular. "Hey, I'm only an hour from New York, "boasts Scrams.

After a few months he's loungin'. Met the little "rat-pack" from the C-74 days and even met some "cool" brothers who just got reclassified and came from Attica. In other words, he's got it made. But eventually some punk plays himself and tells Scram Jones to "suck his d---." Scrams

(continued on next page)

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CHOICE IS YOURS (continued from previous page) .

has been down for nine and a half . months without beef (even got sent to honor block last week), but one of his "cool" brothers from Attica is just dying to see Scrams "step to business."

"I know you ain't gonna let that slide just like that. He invited you to his joint." he says while handing Scrams a 12-inch flathead screwdriver (minus the handle for easy concealment) "Put that on point lil' bro',"

"Yeah, don't even sweat that!" the phony bravery clearly visible in Scrams voice as he accepts the weapon.

The next day Scrams runs into the "chump" during evening recreation. The only words spoken are the painful screams as the sharp, cold steel is plunged into the boy's chest and back. The C.O.s run to the scene with hopes that the shank wielding madman will stop on his own account. (They won't get involved The job ain't worth their precious blood.)

Reality finally seeps back into Scrams' brain as the fear-induced adrenalin begins to drain. The mental fast moving picture frames slow down revealing a slumped over bloody body, a body who'll never see $ociety let alone another jail cell again.

Scrams was two-and-a-half months from New York. Now he'll be lucky enough just to see another med.iurr. facility in the next 15 years. All because three little words and an adopted male ego his "cool" brothers instilled in him.

Yo, my brothers, I'm not saying this is destined to all, but it's happened, it's happening and it'll continue to happen, Prison is not promised, it's just like New York. You can either chill and make the proper changes or you can choose to do your bid like Scrams did. Programs such as A.S.A.T. (Alcohol Substance Abuse Treatment), A.T.V. (Alternatives to Vio-

.,

lence), A.P.R.E.P. (Adolescent Prerelease Employment Program) and a wide selection of vocationals ranging from art class to commercial building maintenance are here to help. And for those of you who are serious about a higher educaiton, some facilities offer college courses that can enable you to get enough credits to earn your Bachelors in either Business or Individual Studies.

Hey, the choice is yours.

Here's something to think about. Prison statistics in minorities, violence, overcrowding and recidivism are all rising higher and higher every year, and believe me my brothers that's not opening any doors for us. Only we can open our own doors. Playing that tough tony and 1- don't-give-a-f=k attitude ain't gonna accomplish anything.

A few of you are probably asking, "What the f--k makes him an expert on what's going on in my life?" Well I'm no expert.

I'm just another body occupying space in one of the small cells at one of the big jails in New York State's even bigger prison industry $. And I was once a misguided youth with road to riches dreams which ended with an eight-and-a-third to 25 bid. I've been in two prison riots and as of right now I'm doing three years in the box. Elmira, Coxsackie, Attica and now Southport have become vivid realities.

Ayo my brothers, I'm tired of this s--t.

I've decided to wake up and don't you think it's about time you decide to wake up? If you like, you can come up here and find out for yourselves.

. The choice is yours.

One love,

Keep standing & staying strong. MarkO.

~ r.

i !.

P.S. What happened to Scram Jones?

Well he lucked out and got off with a

20

twelve-and-a-half to 25 and five years in the box.got out the box in three years (for-gOOd behavior) and was sent to Clin-

~n Correctional in Danemora, N.Y.) where he met the "mad mob" from "around the wail and even a few of his "cool" brothers from the medium. He received a hero's welcome by his homies and word of what he did in his last camp spread like wildfire. In other words, he had his "props" and everybody feared him. (Well not exactly everybody.)

Scrams was a little Iowan the commissary tip. Visits weren't as frequent as they were in the medium. He decides to bag Poppy. an old-timer from the '70s on the way from commissary. "Gimrne that f---in' bag, old man." Without protest the elder relinquishes his bag. Nothing else was said of the incident that day.

Next morning. the tum-key is making his tour after breakfast, making sure nobody stood in the cell blocks. He walks by Scram's cell and sees he's still in bed. "Get up, Jones, you're late for programs." says the burly, overweight officer. "Stop f-- .. in' playin' with me before I write your ass up, BOY!!!" exclaims the now worried officer after banging on the bars for several minutes.

Fifteen minutes later the alarm is rung.

A crowd of Deputy Superintendents, Sergeants, Captains and Officers are crammed on the small tier glancing at the young body laying in a pool of thick. dark red blood. The body of Scram Jones.

"The one that got killed in his sleep in Clinton?"

"Yeah, that's him."

.'"

l

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fAi'EM O!R...I.9lL (continued from page 19)

MY BROTHER IGWE by Darnell Wiggins

To my brother Igwe. He was a very good and special teacher. For all the years that I've been going to school there was never a teacher like Mr. Igwe. There was something very special about that man. He treated us like we were his children. He would make sure that we learned something

-----

even if he had to get on your nerves. He didn't care if you caught an attitude, you were going to get some knowledge before you left his class. He taught me a lot of stuff that I should have learned many years ago.

To my man, Mr. Igwe, R.I.P. We miss you.

06ituary

On Sunday, June 20, 1954, in the village of Abakaliki in Nigeria, ChlefI.O. Ogboffia and his wife, Ekechi Nwakochi Igwe brought joy and happiness with the birth of a son, Edward Nene.

Edward received his early education at the lzi Boys School and Presco School in Abakaliki.

In May, 1982 he received a Bachelor of Business Administration, with a major in Economics from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. In May, 1985, he received a Master of Economics from the University of Baltimore. Edward was presently enrolled at York College where he was completing several other courses. He was presently teaching math and economics for the New York City Board of Education.

In 1985, the First Presbyterian Church of Jamaica received Edward as a parishioner. He was a faithful member. He served as a Sunday School teacher. He was, also, a member of the IGBO Organization, Inc.

On August 9,1986, he married the love of his life, Nnenne C. Egwu Igwe. They lived as a loving and devoted couple to each other. All who saw and knew them had no doubts regarding the depth of their love for each other.

Edward was a very loving person. He was always willing to help others. His gentle manner made you feel blessed to be in his company. Edward was peace loving and generous. He will be remembered as a man of honor and integrity.

He leaves to cherish fond and precious memories, a loving and devoted wife, Nnenne, his brothers residing here in this country, Henry Igwe, Kenneth Igwe and Humphrey Igwe, many other relatives in Nigeria and many, many friends.

On Saturday, November 30, 1991 when Edward's life was suddenly taken from him, the world became a little sadder and darker.

Edward, we know that God in his infinite wisdom saw fit to call you home from labor to reward. You will be sorely missed by all of us.

. Submitted In Sorrow

--Reprinted from the Memorial Service Program

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