$1.2 Million Mansions.... Guy Code... and the NBA

Bizzack!!

I hope everyone found my earlier speech today uplifting and motivational. I just wanna motivate the world in harsh times.

So we're back at it! And the first thing I wanna talk about is how the feds raided a couple who were claiming public assistance while living in  $1.3 million dollar home!!... Word... So y'all was just living of the government. It's cool.... Most people doing the same too... Just not living in a million dollar waterfront mansion (Someone is playing the game wrong huh?!). But here's the kicker.... They've been doing it since 2003! So the government been cutting them checks for a lil over $1,200 a month for rent, on top of them receiving benefits from social security, on top of them receiving food stamps! Now in all actuality; they did nothing illegal! The owner was truthful about her address when filing for public assistance, but the system only based the compensation on how much you make as well.... not where you live. BUT...... lol... Her husband is a chiropractor (here's where it gets interesting); so what they did was to say that the woman rents the house from her husband (smart sh!t).

(ever wonder why you see Jews in the welfare office??..... no offense... But you do the math on how they own Williamsburg, BK)....... Am I My Brother's Keeper!

SO THE NBA IS BACK!!!.... and I'm proud of Bron-Bron!! Admitting that he f*cked up.... Hopefully he gets back on the good foot with his fans...... 6 games on Christmas!!!

Now.... I had to say that the show "Guy Code" is definitely a hit. A lot of you fellas are f*cking it up for us real dudes..... Or making us look good too.. I dunno. One way or another... This show states how somethings need to stop with the guys!! But I had to shout out to the homie Vann (twitter @MrEstradaN) for this #GuyCode of the day.... "A man should never touch another man's earlobe"... I'll say this..... Let another dude touch my ear!!

That's it for today..... Check y'all Friday again at 8pm!!

-The Gifted One

When the going gets tough.....

OK.....

So I'm not gonna speak on any Gifted news or any current events..... nah!

Today it's all about you guys!!

I know sh!t gets tough in this cruel world... But one thing I was told that;

"If success was easy... Everyone would be successful"

This is the realest statement I've ever heard!! But the world is real.... VERY REAL! I've come to realize that we all need some words of wisdom to get us thru these hard times. Some of you young entrepreneurs trying to better your lives all while working a 9-5 to provide.... I know... It gets tedious! Young single-parent homes... Yea... I see you trying to be mommy and daddy; just trying to be the best parent you can be for your child(ren). Feeling overwhelmed and it's hard trying to keep your composure? Yea... I see you trying to keep ya head up! We're living in a world where everyone is trying to make a great legacy for themselves. But these decisions that you make also come with choices that have to be made. Some will be easy... but most will be hard. But know that there is always some light at the end of the tunnel.

Just Keep Grinding! One day... All of your hard work WILL pay off!

Bustin' ya @ss at work..... Keep an eye out for that promotion you've been trying to obtain.

Gotta cook, clean, teach ya son how to stand up for himself and be a man. Take your daughter to get her hair and nails done....... Keep an eye out for that future doctor or lawyer sitting in your kitchen eating dinner!

Endless days and night pushing your business... Making people believe in you and support what you feel so passionate about......... Keep an eye out for that large pay-out that you've been working towards for years now.

One thing I've learned about success; It does not come over night. Sometimes after you plant the seed, the only way for you to have a beautiful tree is you gotta take care of it... love it... and be patient. Now watch the fruits of your labor finally become a reality.

It's hard...... But it was said.... "If you're at your very bottom... only way is up from here"

It's been a great pleasure bonding with the people who actually appreciate me. I will continue bringing the GIFT that keep on giving! (pun intended)

See ya at 8pm tonight!

- The GIFTED One

MY MIC CHECK.... and Happy Thanksgiving

Hello world!!

So I had problems uploading last week's "My Mic Check".... So I'm dishing it to you TONIGHT!! Yup... My Mic Check on a Wednesday ((Just when you thought your day couldn't get any more GIFTED)).

And just because I love you guys.... This Friday will be a continuation of My Mic Check!!...
Can I get a SWAGGGGG?!?
Tonight we have the beautiful ladies of "A Plate Of This A Cup Of That" (http://www.aplateofthisacupofthat.blogspot.com/). These ladies definitely blessed us with a dope interview!! Ya'll check them out!

LMAOO!! This was cool.... Wait till y'all see what happens Friday when 1st Class Ladies take over My Mic Check!!... Y'all gotta tune in then!

But It's finally Thanksgiving time... and Christmas is right around the corner. I see that a lot of stores are also doing online sales for the Black Friday Madness (Let's see how this works out for the masses) But this is great for us "lazy" shoppers! I'm ready for thanksgiving tho.... I hope Kev's moms is cooking again!! I want everyone to enjoy the long holiday weekend. I'll be house hopping all day tomorrow. So place my plate to the side and I'll be coming thru with a duffel bag of tableware (and don't front on me at the door).

Until next time world... Hope you all enjoyed!

- The GIFTED One

SHOTS FIRED!!.......

Yea... And I mean literally!!

So evidently there was an assassination attempt on President Obama.... Crazy right?!... But nah... Here's the kicker. They're saying that the REPUBLICANS may even be responsible... (Word... That's how ya'll wanna play?!). But I mean seriously... I doubt that the Republicans had anything to do with it. Why you ask?... Think about it... I'm pretty sure even they know that the windows in the White House are BULLETPROOF!!!.... Duh!

So let's scratch that.... So Shout Out to Oscar Ramiro Ortega-Hernandez!!... ((Tilt ya "DUNCE" hat playa))

Now I had to enlighten my people on this.

Well about a group of about a dozen millionaires marched to Capitol Hill and asked to push for the expiration of the Bush Tax Cuts Bill. Yup.... They want to pay more taxes ((I don't see any billionaires commanding the same thing tho.... I wonder why))... Among those millionaires was one of the actors from the HBO series "The Sopranos" Ms. Edie Falco (Tony's wife Carmela). Glad to see SOMEONE is on our side!!

The millionaires want Congress to allow the tax cuts passed during the George W. Bush administration to expire. Some want higher taxes generally.

They planned to push lawmakers to reject any deal that the so-called super committee delivers that doesn't raise taxes on millionaires. The 12-lawmaker panel has until next Wednesday to agree on $1.2 trillion in savings over the next 10 years or risk automatic spending cuts.



Dope sh!t right?!

Well that's it for today folks... Until next time

- The GIFTED One

NBA Lockout Continues.... And the Holiday Season Has Returned!!

So let me get right to this....

What the f*ck is up with the NBA players and owners STILL not coming to an agreement with new contracts?? Now they're saying there may not be a 2011-2012 NBA Season... Ya'll buggin!! The players and owners been beefing for some time now. I'm not the one to choose sides on whats fair and whats not... But at the end of the day... The NBA is a CAREER... Not just for players... but everyone! Everyone is affected by this lock-out and people lively hood is at stake. Bad enough the country is struggling with debt. Now because of the lockout... There's a lot of people suffering!

((Sorry.... I am a man of the PEOPLE!!... lol))

But on a lighter note..

The holiday season has returned!! And man- o-man.... I'm excited!! Ready for Thanksgiving to bust down some fried turkey, sweet potato pie, candied yams...... and BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE!! (Some of you call it "Macaroni Pie".... where is the crust tho??)) Then BLACK FRIDAY... I'm trying to cop a nice 55" Flat screen.... But it ain't worth my life tho! lol So I'll just get some minor things for my self and start my Christmas shopping! But there's nothing like having a hearty meal with the family full of laughter... Then rounding the shopaholics up to go shopping in 20 degree weather ((You don't feel it after a few cups of spiked apple cider))... Good times!!

Well that's it for today folks... Until next time!!

- The GIFTED One

MY MIC CHECK!!!!

Ok ya'll.... Its about that time!! **checks watch**

It's time for MY MIC CHECK!!

This week we have Ms. BROOKLYN herself.... Brooklyn BABS!!.. Most of ya'll probably know Babs from "Making The Band" from MTV... Well we managed to link up with the Brooklyn female rapper for this weeks My Mic Check.... Check it out!

LMAOOO!!.. I ain't gonna front... I love cheese and crackers too!! I'm happy to see that Babs is still grinding and stays in contact with the rest of the crew ((Even tho Chopper City is always on World Star!))

Well that's it folks.... Hope ya'll enjoyed!!

-The GIFTED One

IT'S FRIDAYYYYYYY!!! **does Friday dance**

Wow.. .It's been a long week and I haven't checked in on you guys at all!!.. My bad!! But the GIFTED One has been working!! Got a few cool interviews for My Mic Check.... ((Of course you'll have to tune in to see who we got these next few weeks)).

But first I wanna start by saying RIP to Heavy D and "Smokin" Joe Frazier!!  Heavy D was definitely an icon for me growing up! I'm sad that he departed us so early in his life. I found out that he did the theme song to In Living Color!!... Talk about royalties!! And everyone knows Joe Frazier as the man that knocked out Muhammad Ali!! Both of these men were definitely icons of their day. Heavy D made big light skinned men look cool..... especially dancin like he's only 140 lbs.... and Frazier for taking down one of boxing's greatest fighters.

Here's a video of my favorite song by Heavy D.... And highlights of "Smokin" Joe Frazier!!

Heavy D definitely got down back then... And I don't see how people were able to stand after those vicious left hooks from Frazier.... If you would've ducked one of those punches... The wind behind it would've knocked me out!!

Oh yea... I had to bring this up!!.... Wassup with all of these sex scandals going on??? Between Herman Cain and Jerry Sandusky... I dunno... Ya'll need counseling!!

((First off... I can't trust someone with the name "Herman".... Pee-Wee Herman... Herman Cain.... Nah.... It ain't gonna fly!!))

LMAO!!

Well... that's it for today y'all... My Mic Check is up next at 9pm... And you gotta check it out to see who we have this Friday!!

Until next time...

- The GIFTED One

MY MIC CHECK!!!!

OK... It's FRIDAYYYYYY!.. **Does Friday dance**

So Ya'll know what that means... Time for MY MIC CHECK!!

This week we have the beautiful Sydney from Party Pops by Dazzle Divas!!... Check it out!

I ain't gonna front... Those cakes were cute as hell... Russ.. Why you had to steal the chocolate one tho?!?! You don't never like sharing huh?! lol... Much success to these ladies!!

FYI....... 1-800-BROOKLYN!! (Kev... Make sure you pick up the phone when someone calls that number!)

Well that's it for tonight folks!! Hope you enjoy!

- The GIFTED One

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

It's October 31st... and it's that that time around where all the ugly folks get to walk among us!!.. LOL

Even tho most of our Halloween plans were postponed due to the huge SNOW STORM.... yea... I said SNOW STORM that hit the North East this past Saturday putting many residents out of power. Guess that was just a taste of what we will be experiencing this winter huh?!

But yea... It's Halloween and of course this city is doing it big again! So everyone be safe out here and enjoy the show..... wherever you're are... (of course the village has the most fun!!) Most you already seen the silly costumes already. But this kid... (wherever he's from) definitely... uhmm.... well.... I'll let ya'll comment on the pic.

Now... I had to post this pic of Money Russ' younger brother out in VA (2 up... 2 down)... Kev's costume had me in tears... I see that it runs in the family huh Russ!

Really didn't expect anyone to be "Loc Dawg" from Don't Be A Menace To South Central While Drinking Your Juice In The Hood (......long @ss title).... BREAK YO' SELF FOOL!!!!...... wait.....

Are those Shrek slippers??

Has anyone heard the "Viva La Brooklyn" song yet by the homie D-Chamberz??......... STRAIGHT FIRE!!!

Listen to it here: "Viva La Brooklyn" Commercial

Hope every one stays safe tonight... Don't get egged!!

Until next time world!!

- The GIFTED One



My Mic Check!!

We're back with another MY MIC CHECK!!!....

This week we have my official DJ... DJ FLY TY!!! Ty has been supporting Gifted since day 1.... And I commend my brother so much for all the love he has showed to the line. We got a great future ahead of us bro!!

Check out his Mic Check!!

WOW!!!... So you passed out huh?!?! Glad the fellas looked out for ya!! Google DJ FLY TY and support the homie!!

Well that's it for "My Mic Check"... Until next time world!!

- The GIFTED One

Beavis and Butthead (Yea... I'm excited)... Game 7.. and My Mic Check!!

WORLD!!!

uhahahhaahhhaa... yeaa.. uhahhaaaa (Beavis and Butthead laugh).... YO!!! I know I'm not the only one excited that Beavis and Butthead is coming back to TV.... Now all I need is Ren and Stimpy to make a comeback!! I ain't gonna front... I thought these 2 were retarded and annoying growing up. But watching them now.... IM IN TEARS!!! This show definitely brought back childhood memories. I hope the new episodes are just as funny... and them being critics to all these dumb videos out now... Let's see what happens.

Here's a clip of them commenting on Rihanna's "Hard" ft. Young Jeezy

GAME 7 is tonight!!! I swear... I almost lost my mind with that home run to tie the series in Game 6 (the 8th inning was epic!!).... Good luck to the Rangers and the Cardinals. Sorry ladies... The fellas may not be home tonight!! This has to be the greatest World Series EVER!!!!

Shout Out to Dereck Freese with the game winning homer!!

So "My Mic Check" is up at 9pm tonight... Shout to Gifted Apparel NYC's OFFICIAL DJ... DJ FLY TY

Check out his Mic Check at 9pm!!

Until next time world... My Mic Check is up next!!

- The GIFTED One

Occupy Oakland... And Libya (and what you didn't know about the country)

We're at it again world!!....

But I think we forgot about the Oakland riots.... and the police brutality over there in Cali. Evidently... THEY STILL DON'T GIVE A F*CK!! So the Oakland police force felt the need to bomb the protesters with tear gas!!... Really?!? At the same time I'm confused.. and upset; mainly because.... It seems they have sympathy towards anyone!!.. You're bombing citizens who are fighting for a cause.... and that cause effects you as well!! Don't people realize that these protests effect ALL citizens.

Ya'll are bombing the wrong people!!... They say "choose your battles wisely"... But are you that confused about who is the RIGHT team??

Now I read this article today... And I had to share this information with MY PEOPLE!!

16 Things Libya Will Never See Again

1. There is no electricity bill in Libya; electricity is free for all its citizens.
2. There is no interest on loans, banks in Libya are state-owned and loans given to all its citizens at zero percent interest by law.
3. Having a home considered a human right in Libya.
4. All newlyweds in Libya receive $60,000 dinar (U.S.$50,000) by the government to buy their first apartment so to help start up the family.
5. Education and medical treatments are free in Libya. Before Gaddafi only 25 percent of Libyans were literate. Today, the figure is 83 percent.
6. Should Libyans want to take up farming career, they would receive farming land, a farming house, equipments, seeds and livestock to kick start their farms are all for free.
7. If Libyans cannot find the education or medical facilities they need, the government funds them to go abroad, for it is not only paid for, but they get a U.S.$2,300/month for accommodation and car allowance.
8. If a Libyan buys a car, the government subsidizes 50 percent of the price.
9. The price of petrol in Libya is $0.14 per liter.
10. Libya has no external debt and its reserves amounting to $150 billion are now frozen globally.
11. If a Libyan is unable to get employment after graduation the state would pay the average salary of the profession, as if he or she is employed, until employment is found.
12. A portion of every Libyan oil sale is credited directly to the bank accounts of all Libyan citizens.
13. A mother who gives birth to a child receive U.S.$5,000.
14. 40 loaves of bread in Libya costs $0.15.
15. 25 percent of Libyans have a university degree.
16. Gaddafi carried out the world’s largest irrigation project, known as the Great Manmade River project, to make water readily available throughout the desert country.

All I can ask is..... Why were we at war with Libya/Gaddafi again?? I guess the world can read up on this a little more now.

That's it for today folks.... Until next time

- The GIFTED One

I Don't Know What To Do....

Ok...

Ya'll know I'm heavy into current events... All the latest news, gossip, trends etc.

But today as I was trying to catch up on everything thats going on in the world... I could find nothing GIFTED enough to talk about!! I know!! It's sad that we live in a world where I had nothing possible to talk about that's GOOD news!! I'm trying to lift everyone spirits with humor or something positive... Just couldn't find nothing today.

I read up on Matthew Knowles trying to buy a baby for Jay and Bey...

The REAL reason for Gaddafi's killing...

The man who held a knife to an infants neck robbing a woman...

Netflix lost 800,000 subscribers...

Occupy Wall Street...

Hopefully Wednesday I'll have better news

Until next time world

- The GIFTED One

Those GIFTED Boys are working!!!...**does cooking dance**

So let me say how proud I am of Kev, Larry and Russ.... The fellas have definitely out did themselves this round!!.. Shout Out to Gifted Apparel NYC now available in Revolutionary Minds in CALIFORNIA!!

Sure didn't see that one coming!!

For all my fam out in the West Coast... You can visit the store below:

Revolutionary Minds

7711 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, CA  90046

The fellas did a quick clip over the weekend for the homie DJ Fly Ty... Check it out!!

So fellas..... ya'll working on a documentary next??

Until next time word... This is My Gifted Life

- The GIFTED One

Inspiration.....

Today I won't talk about much... But I will post these videos!

Definitely inspirational!

After watching this video.... Shout out to our FUTURE!!

That's all for today.... Until next time

- The GIFTED One

Occupy Wall Street.... The Nationwide Blackberry Outage.... And the newest additions to #TeamGIFTED

**throws Blackberry to the ground**

Really?!?!?..... So how is the ENTIRE NATION without service because of their typical outages?!.. But wait... This outage has even effected Europe, Asia and Latin America!! Ya'll are really pushing it; especially with the new iPhone launching last week! That Siri app is a bit serious! I can't let the BBM go.... But at the same time.... If I can't use it.... what's the point?!

I'm just gonna woo saaa...... WOOOOO SAAAAA!!

**pulls out iPhone**

Better!! Good ole' iPhone never lets me down! ((S/O to makers over at Apple))

So now... I initially wondered why people were protesting on Wall Street... Then I said... ABOUT TIME!! We're finally fed up with the richer getting richer.... at the poor expense! Enough is enough huh?! This protest has rallied up citizens all over the country... And I'm proud to see our people standing up and fighting for what's right. We all know how "corporate greed" has taken a toll on our nation. So now instead of it effecting us... we're going to hit em' where it hurts!! The rally may not effect their pockets, but eventually they will understand, see and stop looking over the little folks! For years we're bickered and complained of our country's economy and the people responsible for it. So since no one wants to take action.... now it's time to take the matter in our own hands! Shout Out to all the folks in NYC, Boston, LA, Chicago and so on for not being afraid to stand up for themselves and their livelihoods!

Now..... I'm really ecstatic of the newest members of #TeamGIFTED...... Thanks for Joining the Movement!

Sean "P.Diddy aka Puff aka Shiny Suit Man" Combs

Cory Gunz - YMCMB!!

Oun P

SPIKEEEEEEEE

Them GIFTED boys are working over there.... who ya'll got next?!

Until next time world!!

- The GIFTED One

I AM TROY DAVIS.....

So this is an issue I had to talk about... Justice in America?? I think not!!

On August 28th, 1955... An African-American male named Emmit Till was kidnapped, beaten then shot by 2 white men.... who were acquitted of all charges...

On September 15th, 1963... 4 African-American females were killed by a bomb which was linked to four white men...

Only 1 was tried.... then acquitted... and was given a $100 fine...

In March 1988, Samuel David Crowe shot and beat with a crowbar then a can of paint Joseph Pala. Then admitted to his crime and sentenced to life in prison and was to die of lethal injection.

Crowe was granted clemency and was sparred death by lethal injection....... Because he was sorry!

On August 19th, 1989, a white police officer was shot and killed. African-American Troy Davis was tried, convicted and sentenced to the death penalty. No physical evidence, confessions proven to be corrupt, and no weapon ever found...

Troy Davis was executed by lethal injection on September 21st, 2011 at 11:08pm.

I'm sorry family and friends... But when will it be enough?? It's obvious that our judicial system isn't quite in order.... tainted! But it hurts me to see a system that we must abide by.... continue to be.... WRONG!

Until America decides to come forward and revamp our systems... (i.e. political, judicial, etc...)... Our country will continue to be bias.... unethical... and unjust!

Troy Davis could be any of us.....

When will we see justice??

-The GIFTED One

Mayweather vs Ortiz..... OR..... Fabolous vs. Ray J??

First things first....

The Mayweather and Ortiz fight..... LOVED IT!! Haven't watched a good entertaining boxing fight in so long... (Maybe that's why everyone watches MMA and UFC fights now) This was worth my $59.95!!

But this I can say WOULD'VE been a great fight if Ortiz didn't intentionally head-butt Mayweather... Looked more like a move from Street Fighter!

But at the end, Mayweather prevailed! After the head but... Ortiz tried to shake hands (... even kiss) to make-up and apologize for his actions. But like the old sayin "One dirty trick deserves another"... And Ortiz had it coming. Once the ref deducted a point from Ortiz, the fighters came in, the ref said fight.... and just that fast... Mayweather landed a 2 punch combo to Ortiz's snout!! And Ortiz didn't get up from the 10-count.

All I have to say is this....... KEEP YOUR HANDS UP AT ALL TIMES!!!

Now..... I couldn't speak on this issue until I heard both sides of the story....

Fabolous vs. Ray J!!

Really?!?! So Evidently Fab and Ray got into a lil scuffle in Vegas after the fight... OVER TWITTER!! Fab tweeted a few jokes on Ray... And He didn't like it! The 2 got in a altercation, and in the end... Ray was kicked out of the Palms Hotel. THEN!!..... Called the Breakfast Club on Power 105 ranting about what he's going to do when he sees Fab if he doesn't apologize about the tweet. So FINALLY.... Fab called in to DJClue's show on Power105 telling his side of the story.... I'm not taking Fab side cause he's from Brooklyn........ wait.... Maybe I am... But I mean really?!?! R&B Thugs?!? Ya'll need to quit and continue making bedroom music!!

All I can see is RayJ getting pounced on.... singing "One Wish"... Wishing he would've shut the f*ck up!!.... LOL

OH.... And that lil raping comment you said......... PAUSE SON!

I just hope this doesn't escalate further... Neither party gains credibility from the beef!

Well.... That's it for today...Tomorrow something more serious... Stay Tuned!

- The GIFTED One

My Mic Check!!

Yup... its that time.... time for MY MIC CHECK.... This week we're featuring Chief Major (follow him on twitter @ChiefMajor) on My Mic Check Fridays'... Check him out folks!

I aint gonna front.... Those are my favorite too... MY Mic Check seems to get better by the week. LOVE IT!!

Hope you enjoyed this week's MMC Fridays!!

Until next time...... stay GIFTED!

- The GIFTED One

Gifted Love..... Bey's new baby... Miss Universe!!

**Grabs a stack of Gifted shirts**..... **Talks in the the stack**

"You know people love us??... nahh... nahh... they really do tho!! Like we had Melo show love last week... Now we got Angela Yee from "The Breakfast Club" on Power105 in the mornings."

Now did anyone see 50cent and Floyd Mayweather on HBO's 24/7?? That was hilarious!!

But yea... shout out to the sexy Ms. Yee for joing #teamGIFTED!! and soon the world will all come together and join me in my takeover!! HAHAHAHAAA **evil laugh**

OK... I'm done... Check out Ms. Angela rocking our Anti-Diva shirt!

NICEEEE Angie!! thanks for the love!!

Now really..... is Beyonce pregnant?? or is she giving birth to a baby David Blaine?? And now there are rumors that Jay has a secret baby in Trinidad. I mean... can we let these 2 live without anyone stirring up some sh!t in some celebrities household?? First Will and Jada... Now this!

But I do love the juicy stories tho.... keep'em coming!!

Now I want send a special congratulations to the beautiful Ms. Leila Lopes "Miss Angola" who was crowned Miss Universe 2011!!...... Now That's beauty!!

Guess that's it for now.... My Mic Check is up next... Hope everyone enjoys!! But in the meantime.... FELLAS..... Love this pic!!

Until next time....

- The GIFTED One



My Mic Check!!

So tonight we have on "My Mic Check" is C-Biz from http://www.kicksaddict.com/ So you guys get familiar!! Enjoy!

LMAOOOO!!! Really tho?! Nicki's ass or Kim Kardashian's ass!!!! "RAW DAWG!"... I def agree with you bro!! Hope you  enjoyed our segment of this Friday's "My Mic Check"... Until next week!!

#CertifiedGIFTED

- The GIFTED One

TGIF....

Another day and finally the weekend is here....

So NYC and Washington is in a scare due to the terrorist threats from Al Qaeda! Word.... So ya'll still mad we knocked off Osama's coofy?! LOL. Let me stop tho... this is a serious matter! Everyone please be safe (wherever you're at) in your travels not just for the weekend; but PERIOD!

(Al Qaeda don't want nothin from Brooklyn anyway!!)

I was on World Star Hip Hop today (yes... I visit the site daily just to see what nonsense society is getting themselves into)... But you all seen when I spoke about the "planking" phenom, so now there's a thing called "Batmanning". The planking was cool.... But now this is just a serious injury waiting to happen! There's no way in the world I'm hanging upside down on anything!! So anyone that decides to play... GOOD LUCK!

Well I'm going to keep this short and sweet to get ready for "My Mic Check Friday" (kinda excited) hope everyone enjoys it.

Plans for tonight you ask?? Well I'm gonna keep it low-key and hit the movies up! What your pick tho.... Kevin Hart's "Laugh At My Pain" or "Columbiana"?? (I may just sneak and see both!)

Well that's it.... Get ready for "My Mic Check" at 8pm.

- The GIFTED One

The Cypher Continues. . .

GIFTED FAMILY!!

So the world has been screaming "MELOOOOO..." since Saturday! Believe us... we love the love! lol. Believe me... We have plenty more surprises over at Gifted Apparel NYC coming real soon!!

Finally recouping from the Bed Stuy Fly x Gifted Apparel NYC Fall Launch event, and we managed to get a few artists from #teamGIFTED to drop a few bars. Talk about "The GIFTED Cypher"!! Had the opportunity to snatch up @Cortez_HSP, @ChiefMajor and @RdoubleE_F, brought them in a circle and drop some bars!!

Unscripted..... All freestyle!! Fellas did a great job!!

You can follow Cortez on twitter at @Cortez_HSP, Chief Major at @ChiefMajor and Reef at @RdoubleE_F

That's it for today... Tomorrow we will be premiering "My Mic Check Friday" at 8pm. You guys are gonna love what Larry and MoneyRuss has in store for you all!

Until next time...... GIFTED!

- The GIFTED One

**yawns**.... Good Morning All

**sips cup of coffee**

Sorry everyone! It's been an exciting weekend and I've been up preppin' for the success that is near! I know most of you seen the pic of Carmelo Anthony rockin my Viva La Brooklyn shirt in Atlanta this weekend... I know... I know.... BIG THANGS!! lol. Trust me.... I'm just as excited as most of you are for the fellas; finally those late night inventory sessions are finally paying off huh?! peep the pic tho...

Can I get a SWAG?!?!..... Lol

Good lookin on the Gifted love Melo! As Larry would say... "The homie Melo really threw on a Viva tho!!" Yea bro.... That's a big step for ya'll. So this came as a big surprise to the fellas Saturday afternoon moment before their line launch event at Bed Stuy Fly. Here's a quick interview Anthony did while in Atlanta.

BROOKLYN........ WE MADE IT....... AGAIN!! lol

So Saturday, Gifted Apparel NYC and Bed Stuy Fly teamed up to launch GA's fall line along celebrating (there's always a reason to celebrate) and it was a GIFTED outcome (we even managed to get a small cypher going). Shout out to all the family and friends that came out and celebrated with us.

That's all for today.... tomorrow I'll have more GIFTED news!!

- The GIFTED One

Bed Stuy Fly x Gifted Apparel NYC

So... Due to Hurricane Irene sweeping across the East Coast last week, a few events and meetings had to be postponed!! No worries tho... We're still GIFTED!!

**Friday's "My Mic Check" will premier next Friday, September 9th @ 8pm**

So I'm please to say that this Saturday, September 3rd WE'RE AT IT AGAIN!!

Bed Stuy Fly x Gifted Apparel NYC 

Saturday, September 3rd 2011

287 Ralph Ave Brooklyn, NY

6p - 12a

Open Bar... Goodie Bags....

and THE GIFTED BOYS!!

So BAMM!!!... See ya'll Saturday!!

- The GIFTED One

YOU'RE ASKING FOR IT!!

SUP!

Ok... So the opening of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Site was finally opened this past Monday in DC. You know of course there's always some controversy, miscommunication, or some mis-perception when it comes to minorities finally accomplishing something great in our generation. First ESPN's "What if Michael Vick were WHITE!" article, MLK being perceived to the future generation as being an "arrogant twit" stated by Maya Angelou, or the NY Post constantly bashing Obama in someway shape or form. So I'll start with this...

Michael Vick isn't WHITE!!.... So no need to wonder if his case would've been handled differently because of his skin color. Mike did his time owed to society and he's now back in the NFL dominating!! No need to try to make minorities feel "better" knowing that Mike would've been handled the same or differently (In fact... If you were to prove that he would've been dealt with lightly because of his skin color... wouldn't you expect some sort of organized expression of objection to your company?!).... "YOU PEOPLE" are asking for it!

So the uproar with MLK stems from the quote stated from his monument which says

"I was a drum major for justice, peace and righteousness"...

OK... Cool!! I see where you guys were going... BUT! His actual words spoken at a sermon moments before his assassination...

"If you want to say that I was a drum major, say that I was a drum major for justice," King said. "Say that I was a drum major for peace. I was a drum major for righteousness. And all of the other shallow things will not matter."

Was this too much to state?? Given the fact that it shows how much of a humble and profound man that King was..... Not him being conceited! It's bad enough that most of our generation is driven by things of value and glamour... Not for what better for us and our future to come. So stating something about African-Americans that gives off a mis-perception.... it's offensive!... "YOU PEOPLE" are asking for it!!

So with this said.... If something is gonna be done for OUR people; do with the intentions to UPLIFT and MOTIVATE us.... Not make us @ssholes!

That's it for today my GIFTED family and friends... tomorrow

- The GIFTED One

Shake Em' Up.... Shake Em' Up.... SHAKE EM'!!

     Ok. . . I still don't understand how we felt the earthquake in NY! But I'm happy no one was injured. . . Shout Out to all my peeps on the East Coast checking in letting the GIFTED one know that they're fine.

     So the fellas are fresh back from Atlanta. . . some potential expansion to the A. . . But we're still working a few things out. No worries tho. . . the deal will go down sooner then you think! In the meantime. . . we caught up with this GIFTED individual in Atlanta who dropped a few lines on what's GIFTED!

     With that said. . . MoneyRuss and Mr. Viva La Brooklyn are coming together each week to bring you "My Mic Check" each Friday at 8pm starting in September.

     Here we feature the artists part of the Gifted Apparel team. . . #teamGIFTED. This list consists of hip-hop artists, poets, singers, or someone with some GIFTED words to share! Catching the artists in the raw element. . . No big camera crew. . . No scripts. . . Just the GIFTED Life!!

     Last but not least. . . Shout out to Bed Stuy Fly. . . The newest addition to the great line-ups where you can purchase Gifted Apparel NYC! You can visit the Bed Stuy Fly Boutique at 287 Ralph Ave in Brooklyn!! (and follow them on twitter @TheBedStuyFly)

That's it for today folks. . . We're finishing up our Fall Collection and new colors for the line. . . So keep a look out for us.

- The GIFTED One

Watch the Throne. . . BHHF. . . and we're cooking!!

OK. . .

I have to say. . . After watching the Jay-Z and Kanye West documentary of them making "Watch The Throne". . . This has taken me to another level of motivation! !. . . Really. . . Who packs up an entire studio and go to Sydney?!?!

But that's the good life for ya!

Check it out the documentary if you missed it! (and before it gets deleted off the site) http://www.hiphopstan.com/jay-z-kanye-west-watch-throne-documentary-video/

Watching these 2 in their element is undeniably amazing. . . no gawking tho!

I haven't updated you guys on the recent GIFTED news!! Sorry. . . But last weekend The GIFTED boys tore down the Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival on July 16th!! Man it was a great day. . . Kanye shut the show down (MoneyRuss had a lil groupie moment. . . No judgement tho Russ). . .But on top of the fellas making a killing. . . They always know how to have a great GIFTED time!! S/O to everyone who came and supported. . . even lent a hand (especially E-Money "@LoveISMusic19"). . .

Check out this pic of Kev and Russ battle dancing!! (Can't put these 2 together and not expect for them to act a fool)

It's good to see that these guys still like to have a good time!!. . .

Well we got a few things cooking over at the home team. . . I've been working a bit. . . We'll have updates on new store locations. . . news. . . and anything else that's GIFTED!!

Until next time family and friends.

- The GIFTED One

. . . . . Who Is Dremur??. . . .

Heard of him??. . . . Well get familiar!!

There's very few individuals I can say that can instantly capture your undivided attention. . . Funny thing is. . . When DREMUR grabs your eyes and ears; you have no choice but to submit to this man's words.

The intro of most of his performances. . . a microphone isn't even needed!!

The Bronx native has been shaking up the rap scene with his latest mixtape "One Step Away. . . Miles To Go". The single "Gotta Get It" which is available on iTunes, has been called "game day music" on http://www.lebronjames.com/. Performing across the country, Dremur has been demanding everyone to ask. . . . Who Is DREMUR??. . . Know the man's struggle. . . his passion. . . his story. . .

We all know Hip-Hop has been on loose strings. . . So many up and coming artists trying to make their way to the top. . . But DREMUR has the qualities to be "one of the greatest". . . Drive. . . Passion. . . LOVE. . . and something to say!!. . . And he wants everyone to hear him!

This Thursday, July 14th at 7pm in one of Gifted Apparel's prime boutiques, The Vault in Harlem. . . DREMUR will be doing a live performance along side Julian Stephen and Beano. Hosted by Puma of Black Ink Gallery and sponsored by Budweiser, Nude Vodka, Deadstock Ric and Gifted Apparel NYC.

Come out to shop and enjoy GOOD music!!

RSVP @ Events@theimgway.com (RSVP is a must!!)

Also check out http://www.whoisdremur.com/ and download the mixtape "One Step Away. . . Miles To Go".

Enjoy folks. . . And hope to see everyone Thursday!!

- The GIFTED One

Friday's Swag. . .

Killin'em!!! Tonight we have Mr. GIFTED himself as our feature for Friday's Swag!!! Kevin a.k.a. BAWSE!!! lol

Let's see what Kev put together for tonight. . .

So to start. . . (Kev puttin out sh!t that ain't even drop yet)... Threw on these exclusive Diesel jeans (http://www.diesel.com/) paired with red/white Adidas (http://www.adidas.com/). . . Russell Simmons bracelet (http://www.macys.com/) topped off with the Basquiat tee from Gifted Apparel NYC (http://www.giftedapparelnyc.com/). . . in case it gets chilly tonight, Kev is gonna cover up his tatts with this exclusive burn-out Viva La Brooklyn hoody (not available in stores.... yet!)

So Kev. . . when is that hoody dropping on the site?? That's a good look bruh-bruh

Music.... and what's to come of it...

Good day world -

So I'm gonna get right to it. . . Wacka Flocka Flame is retiring from the rap game!! Why?!? because of all the industry phonies and fakes. . . Brother. . . The world is full of fakes and phonies!! Don't let no one have control of your path and what you may be destined to do. Honestly; your music gives the energy most of us need!! Like getting hyped in the gym while working out. . . before hitting the clubs we blast your music getting our energy pumped up. . . Just screaming out "FLOCKAAAA" releives stress. People may feel hip-hop is better without you. . . But not everyone is a Jay-Z fan. . . Not everyone likes 2Pac. . . And everyone isn't a Common fan. But they still continued to put out music they love.

Now I normally don't get too excited about reunions (But if the Fugees get back together. . . I may just lose my mind). . . But State Property has finally gotten back together after the fall of Roc-A-fella!! And honestly seeing the fellas from Philly back together brings back old memories of the great dnasty that ALMOST came to be. Hopefully the guys can get their movement back going again. Here's a clip of SP in the studio on Philly's Power99 FM.

Sigel has always been a problem. . .

So has anyone peeped Lloyd new hairstyle?? Evidently it's stirring up heat between him and Miguel. . . It's just a hairstyle. . . But I aint gonna front. . . It's kinda dope!! The whole "Guns N' Roses" tattoo is cool!! What ya'll think?

Well that's it for now. . . Next up is Friday's swag!! Until next time world!!

- The GIFTED One

PLANKING???

Good Day world -

I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend. . . . I sure did!

The weather was pleasant all weekend; especially for the Fort Greene Festival in Brooklyn on Saturday!! I heard Mos Def rocked the crowd. . . not surprised!!

But Sunday. . . I have to say. . . The BET Awards. . . between Kevin Hart to me being the best host so far. . . and Free and that dress during the after party!! Let me get right to that. . . Free. . . Ms. Free. . . can we say DAMNNN!!! (Smokey voice from Friday). . . Just give me 3 and a half minutes. . . Maybe even FO'!

I just wanna thank you. . . that dress. . . and that @ss!!

But now last night on twitter. . . the world went crazy with this "planking". . . And I died laughing all night. . . We sure know how to take something and create a phenomenal story out of it. . .

So I took time out and researched what planking is.

Not to be confused with Plank (exercise).

     The lying down game (also known as planking, or face downs) is an activity, popular in various parts of the world, consisting of lying face down in an unusual or incongruous location. The hands must touch the sides of the body, and having a photograph of the participant taken and posted on the Internet is an integral part of the game. Players compete to find the most unusual and original location in which to play. The location should also be as public as possible, and as many people as possible should be involved.

Here's some of the twitpic's from last nights "planking" marvel!!!



@DwightHoward



@IamJulito

 

@TinyTDaBoss

@YungSQDaBoss



Well. . .  Twitter went crazy with the planks!!. . . This one has to be my favorite!

LMAOOO. . . . This baby killed it!!

Well Gifted family and friends. . . That's it for today. . . Until tomorrow!

- The GIFTED One

Been a long time. . . .

I know. . . I know. . . I've been gone for a while. . . and I know ya'll been asking about me

BUT IM BACK!!!

Got a lot of great news for everyone. . . Even tho I've been gone. . . I've been working!!

I'm not giving updates on the current events like Justin Bieber being tackled by his own security guard. . . or R&B singers having their "goons" go after RAP groups. . . I'm not gonna even bring up Kim Kardashian's butt x-rays (I love that @ss whether it be fake or not!!). . . and I refuse to discuss all of these guys I've seen on WorldStarHipHop beating up on these women like they're men!!

Nah. . . Today I'm only bringing to you GIFTED news!! So before we get things back in perspective for "Friday's Swag". . . here's a lil GIFTED update!

As most of you already know. . . Gifted Apparel has been reaching new heights! So we want to announce our NEW store locations where you can purchase the line!

We want to thank everyone at THE VAULT in Harlem, Co-op Boutique and finally VINNIE Styles for supporting the line! Here are the store locations. . . and everyone. . . JOIN THE MOVEMENT!!

The Vault Harlem
2498 Frederick Douglas Blvd
Harlem, NY

Co-op
3513 Church Ave
Brooklyn, NY

Vinnie Styles
160 Flatbush Ave
Brooklyn, NY

Thanks for the love and support everyone!!
- The GIFTED One

The return of Dave Chappelle. . . maybe!

Good Day All -

Crazy day yesterday; so I didn't get to touch basis with you guys and update you on the GIFTED world we live in.

My bad!

I'll make it up to you guys. . . shop at http://www.giftedapparelnyc.com/ and receive 20% off your purchase by using the code "GIFTEDLIFE". . . I knew you'd love that!

Dave Chappelle may be returning back to comedy. . . via Netflix or Hulu tho. After Chappelle's 3rd season of "The Chappelle Show" he disappeared from the TV comedy scene in 2005. Now word is he may be returning. . . through a paid online subscription service like Netflix and Hulu. This may work out good for Dave. . . If it does. . . . I'M RICH BIATCHHH!! Glad to hear you may be coming back bro.

The Boston Bruins defeated the Vancouver Canucks last night winning their first Stanley Cup in 39 years. . . and man-o-man. . . The Canucks we not happy about it! A huge riot broke out last night after the game. Fans overturned cars and set them on fire many patrons we injured (1 in critical condition). Sheesh. . . you guys are as bad as the Cleveland fans! Well congrats to the Bruins!! you guys deserve it. As for the Canucks. . . I hope you guys win next year. . . if not. . . your city will be in my prayers!

Politics. . . Rep. Anthony Weiner announced his resignation from Congress. . . That's all. . . (like ya'll didn't know that was gonna happen)

Now for BROOKLYN news. . . According to the 2010 census, Brooklyn has lost 4 percent of its black residents (Clinton Hills and Fort Greene shrunk about one-third over the last 10 years). I say gentrification is in full effect! With the raised rent, property value and constant increases in public transportation fares. . . I'm not surprised! Seems as if we're moving down South where the standard of living is lower and less stressful.

That's all for today my family and friends. . .  until tomorrow. . . Stay GIFTED!
- The GIFTED One

My President is. . . . . . uhmm. . . .

Good Day world!

Another day living this GIFTED life. . . And I love ever second of it!!

So now. . . .

We're approaching 2012 and it's almost time for a new President! And I normally wouldn't discuss politics being it's a touchy subject for people. . . But hey. . . IM GIFTED!!

But it seems that Obama is content with being in office for just one term. Although his family fully supports him and his presidency; they're OK with it as well. Obama certainly has shaken things up while in office, especially following up behind Bush and cleaning up the mess he left behind; I say Obama did a great job! But the race for GOP has begun. . . and the candidates didn't waste no time taking shots at the "Obamacare" plan. But hey. . . politics has always been the NASTIEST of races. It's literally a "gloves off" match amongst anyone who runs for office. And we have another woman running for president again (nothing like Sara Palin I hope). . . But Rep. Michele Bachmann seems to be one to keep an eye on.

So the FBI changes its "Investigative Guidelines". . . . hmmmm. . . . This definitely raises an eyebrow!
Ya'll check this out! (FBI New Investigative Guidelines)

NOW. . . . Mark Cuban has definitely moved up in the "GIFTED List". . . So after the game Sunday night, MC partied the night away. . . AND. . . bought a bottle of Armand de Brignac (Ace of Spades). . . priced at $90 ,000 (the bottle was half the size of Dirk. . . you do the measurements). . . AND. . . left a $20 ,000 tip when he left!!. . . . Need I say more?!. . . wait. . . AND. . . he's personally paying for the teams parade!!

Now that's GIFTED for that @$$

Well that's all for today family and friends. . . Until tomorrow!

Stay GIFTED!

- The GIFTED One

Monday Madness. . . .

Good Day World. . . .

I hope everyone had a great weekend; I definitely did!

Went to show love to the Puerto Rican side of the family at the Puerto Rican Day parade. . . They definitely know how to celebrate. . . Attended a few events (ya'll know I love the term "Open Bar'. . . because Free is for ME. . . lol)

Well. . . . Our 2011 NBA Champions. . . . The Dallas Mavericks!! Great game guys! It was close the entire game; but the Heat couldn't close out and the Mavs came out on top! Tears of joy and pain was shed after the game (Mostly from Baby of Cash Money. . . Heard he bet $2 million on the Heat). It's the first championship in the Mavs franchise history and I know Mark Cuban celebrated like none other!!

Finally Terry, Dirk and Kidd got their ring!! Congrats Dallas. . . It was well deserved.

Well until tomorrow my family and friend. . . enjoy and stay GIFTED!

- The GIFTED One

FRIDAY'S SWAG. . .

Friday's Swag. . .

This is where we showcase our outfit for the day. Whether it be a pair of linen shorts to keep cool in this heat, or a cardigan to throw over you GIFTED tee. . . The perfect collaboration for any occasion.

This Friday our feature is Russ a.k.a. MoneyRuss and he put together a cool outfit for today. . .
Kept it cool with the custom patched denim shirt by Who.A.U (http://www.whoau.com/) paired with cargo pants by Banana Republic (http://www.bananarepublic.com/) topped off with his Anaheim Angels fitted hat (http://www.lids.com/) with a pair of Stan Smiths on his feet (http://www.adidas.com/) all brought together with the Thank God For Harlem shirt (http://www.giftedapparelnyc.com/)

Damn Russ Money. . . Where it's at tonight?!. . . Well put together bro.
Follow Russ on twitter (@MoneyRuss)

Sad day today. . .

June 10th, 2011. . . I'm sad to tell ya'll that we live in a society where having fun is NOT an option!
Now when we wake up. . . we're on survival mode

I want to take time out and send my condolences to the family and friends of Tysha Jones of East Harlem who was killed yesterday at Brighton Beach. Tysha was a junior at Landmark High School and her life was taken away from here at the young age of 16. While 4 others were wounded at the shooting early in the day as kids went out to the beach to enjoy a fun day in the nice weather: but ended in a nightmare. Us at Gifted apparel NYC will keep everyone in our prayers.

Well now to lighten up every one's day a bit. . . . IT'S FRIDAY!

It's been a long HOT week. . . Now its time to get ready for the weekend chaos. The Puerto Rican Day Parade is this Sunday (I'm brushing up on my spanish so I can mix and mingle with my butter pecan Ricans). . . But we've all heard how crazy the parade can get. . . Let's have a fun and civilized celebration everyone!

And we watched the Mavs break down the Heat last night but in all; it definitely was a great game! Shout Out to all the players. . . Bron-Bron tried to step it up a lil bit. . . But he couldn't stop the fire power of the Mavericks! Down in the series now 3-2, Game 6 this Sunday should be very interesting!

Well that's all for today my GIFTED family and friends. . . Be safe this weekend and enjoy all the festivities to come. . . Up next is our weekly segment called "Friday's Swag"

Enjoy!

- The GIFTED One

100 degrees!!. . . .really tho?!

100 degrees today in NYC. . . It's our first day of 100 degree weather, and already I'm loving it!!

Drink your margaritas fast over at Habana Outpost or Blockheads!! (My 2 favorite outdoor places to hang out at in NYC). So everyone dress lightly and drink plenty of liquids today.

NOW. . . .

I've been keeping up with the news on various things; but first thing I want to address is U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner and his "weiner" floating around on the net. . . Like really. . . that's definitely a "C'Mon Son" moment!! You haven't learned from Schwarzenegger, John Edwards, or Clinton (Bill is my dude tho). . . The saying "Whatever is done in the dark. . . will come to light!" applies to everyone . . . Especially people in high power positions!!
I'm sorry. . . That's definitely NOT gifted!!

I was watching Fabolous' new video "Ya'll don't hear me tho". . . I definitely found a relation to the lyrics to this song (not just because he shot it on the Brooklyn Bridge. . . OK. . . maybe a lil). . .But it's a well put together video. . . Shout Out to Loso.

I also see that Fat Joe is losing weight. . . for health reasons!! That's what's up Joe. . . Now you can fit in a Gifted shirt!! But when you lose all that weight. . . what are we to call you?? "Slim Joe"

Well that's it for now. . . I'm anticipating the Mavs and Heat game tonight!! Let's hope we see what "talents" LeBron brought to South Beach. . . Cause 8 points in game 4 wasn't showing us much "talent" at all!! This is the NBA Finals Bron-Bron. . . The NBA's Elite. . . Better get it together. . . All you're doing is giving Skip Bayless ammunition to slander you!

Catch ya'll later. . . Bout to hit up a beach then maybe Habanas later.

FYI. . . Tomorrow is "Friday's Swag". . . Ofcourse you gotta stay posted on the see to see what it is.

- The GIFTED One

Who Am I?!

Good day world!!

Started my "gifted" reign in 2006. . . . But I'm an 80's baby.
Just a light joke at a bar. . . Then Kev took a thought and created a masterpiece!!
Became the new icon of Brooklyn and everything it stood for;
that "Brooklyn State of Mind" became a slogan for all who knew a struggle!
Went from being sold out of duffel bags in barbershops;
Being pushed out the trunk of cars. . . (remember the Jetta Larry?!)
Never been "just a t-shirt". . . . Always been so much more then that!
A Brand
A Movement

When Big Daddy Kane. . . then Jay-Z wrote the song "Young, Gifted and Black". . .
They were talking about me !!. . . (Yup. . . 2 versions had to be made)

I'm the one who made you decide on whether to "Dry-clean" or to "Regular Wash". . . a t-shirt!
Yup. . . Most of you paid $5 .50 just to dry-clean a t-shirt. . . Just to maintain my freshness.
You can catch me in the VIP section in the clubs. . . In the DJ booth. . . With the bottle girls. . .
Hanging out with the athletes. . . Chillen' with actors. . . In music videos. . . Performing at concerts worldwide. . . Featured in magazines. . . Even snagged me a model or 2 in the process !
(shout out to MoneyRuss for that)
. . . . . . . . . All at the same time!

I'm just that GIFTED. . . . Call me "The GIFTED One"