Aaron Braunstein & Olivia

Father of the actress Natasha Lyonne. She stared in such films as “A Man Called Surge”, or perhaps you remember “American Pie 1 and 2.” Aaron was a boxing promoter.

When I needed a break from my office on 38th in NYC, or a laugh, Aaron’s office down the block is where I’d head. It was nothing to hear phones ringing, while the stock exchange rolled across the computer screen. The office had many colorful bottoms. It was nothing to sit hours chatting, drinking fifty cent coffee from the corner vendor.

Aaron was always pushing me to be his agent. Aaron taught me how to keep gloves on in tight situations. Aaron is the host of Talkline Communications Network and can be heard over airways in many a cities, including NYC. Guest featured on Talkline range from president (Clinton) to prime ministers. Like it or not this “Jewish Shock Jock” always gives it to you straight up. In his own element, his home, his hard a** softens some when he slips out of his suit jacket. Olivia Alive™ and Arron chillin’ outside my office in NYC.

Damon Dash

Back in the 90’s when Damon was lookin’ to put his feet firmly on the ground, back when he needed friends to help him out, I met Damon. I asked him to listen to my first rap music. He said, “what the hell do you need me for? You’re almost there. You can do this yourself.” I never did figure out what the hell he meant. It was obvious that I was a learner and could use a little help.

On my way out of the office, I thought I’d mention the new designed Rockawear shirt, he was so proudly sportin’. Although I was somewhat green in hip-hop, I know a lot about intellectual property matters. So I offered him some good advice. His designed line was missing the most important part, the trademark. He said, “I’m ready to press thousands more. Gee, thanks for savin’ my a**. I’ll get right on that.”

Damon may or may not say hi when I see him at events. I’ve never gotten an invite to any of Damon’s events over the years. However, Jay Z’s camp has always been cordial to this old lady.

There’s something to be said about those who supported Damon to the top. office on 38th & 8th in NYC. A place where they were always welcome.

Years later when I was filming my production the workers never forgot this old lady in need. To my surprise a package arrived on the set filled with Rockawear. It was in honoring Jay that the workers sent the package. They knew Jay wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Beanie Sagel

I’ve met Beanie a time or two. He’s always surround by some sort of crew. Most of the time he’s offered me love with some sort of friendly gesture when I say hello. Once I went to speak to him when he was truckin’ wit Damon Dash. Damon indicated don’t bother. Beanie complied until Damon turned his head; then I got the Sagel grin. Beanie’s smart as hell, he knows Damon as well as everyone else.

Every time I’ve seen this young man he has move in and out the crowd as if it were a thoroughfare he had traveled on before. Philly is a tough city and in order to survive you must be fearless. It hasn’t change very much since I was a kid. However, I think it could use a good face lift.