The Iceman Speaks: Choices and Consequences

By Cheyenne Valentino Yakima

The Iceman Speaks: Choices and Consequences is an autobiography written to deter teenagers and young adults from a lifestyle of drugs, gangs, violence, and criminal activities. It focuses youth toward education, rewarding relationships with parents, making wise decisions, and the consequences of going down the wrong path.
It consists of valid information as to how youths can avoid the traps that lurk in the shadows of society. This book speaks boldly about the rights of victims and the fate of criminals, and the uncensored graphic descriptions of life behind bars is expressed in detail.
In todays society, far too many teenagers glorify themselves in violence and a renegade way of life, and far too many young people are filling up jails and prisons. This extraordinary book is designed to combat such negativity. It charts the life of a man, a man with excellent advice.
Straightforward, no nonsense, thought provoking.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jul 15, 2010
• ISBN: 9781453532652

Cheyenne Valentino Yakima

Dr. Cheyenne Valentino Yakima is a native of Detroit, Michigan. He grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, where he attended North Avenue Elementary and Howard High School. He received his doctoral degree from America College of Theology. He is a certified physical fitness and martial arts instructor and is currently working toward a Bachelor degree in social work. He has been published internationally as a poet and prose writer. His work has been featured in over thirty-five anthologies in this country and in Canada, England, Australia, and Jamaica. Articles about him have appeared in numerous newspapers and magazines and he has received Honorable Mentions and President’s Awards for Literary Excellence, as well as a plaque for Original Literary work at the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. Dr. Yakima has authored several books, including Poetic Expression, If I Could Paint Tomorrow, and Sense of Admiration.

Book preview

Choices and Consequences

Cheyenne Valentino Yakima, Ph.D.

Copyright © 2010 by Cheyenne Valentino Yakima, Ph.D.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise without permission in writing from the publisher, except by a reviewer, who may quote brief passages in a review. Any members of educational institutions wishing to photocopy part or all of the work for classroom use, or anyone wishing to obtain permission to include the work in an anthology should send their inquiries to the publisher.

This book is a work of nonfiction; the names, places, and identity of some persons involved, however, have been changed.

This book was printed in the United States of America.

To order additional copies of this book, contact:

Xlibris Corporation

1-888-795-4274

www.Xlibris.com

[e-mail]

83247

Contents

Special Acknowledgments

Introduction

Chapter i

MY PARENTS’ PHILOSOPHY

Chapter ii

AN ENCOUNTER WITH BIG JOHN

Chapter iii

CHAIN OF EVENTS

Chapter iv

SONNY, CHIEF, AND ME

Chapter v

KIDS AND ELDERLY PEOPLE

Chapter vi

THE DAY I ROBBED THE ELLENVILLE BANK

Chapter vii

FAREWELL TO BROTHER JACK

Chapter viii

SAM, AN OLD ACQUAINT

Chapter ix

MY FINAL BANK HEIST

Chapter x

EN ROUTE TO DETROIT, MICHIGAN

Chapter xi

REAPING WHAT YOU SOW

Chapter xii

RAT STEW AND COCKROACH BISCUITS

Chapter xiii

LIFE PLUS TWENTY

Chapter xiv

GEORGIA STATE PRISON

Chapter xv

REIDSVILLE’S WAR ZONE

Chapter xvi

LESSONS LEARNED THE HARD WAY

Chapter xvii

THE KEY TO A PROSPEROUS LIFE

Chapter xviii

MAKING WISE DECISIONS

Chapter xix

SOARING ABOVE OBSTACLES

Chapter xx

RIGHTS OF VICTIMS; FATE OF CRIMINALS

Chapter xxi

A NEW SET OF PRINCIPLES

Conclusion

About The Author

DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to the memory of my beloved parents, Reuben Riley, Jr. and Rosie Mae Riley, who tried to instill in their children a sense of pride, moral decency, and self-worth; to my grandparents, Reuben Sr. and Anna (Morning Star) Riley, Willie and Virlion Thornton; to the loving memory of my siblings, Carolyn Ann, Evelyn Sue, Brenda Elaine, Jackie, Reuben III, and Randolph; and to my nephews whom I never got to know, Elijah and Tremaine—gone but never forgotten.

Special Dedication to Yolanda Lane Yakima, my beautiful, loving, and talented wife. And to my wonderful step-kids, Alijah and Alicia.

WHAT CRITICS ARE SAYING ABOUT

THE ICEMAN SPEAKS

Your graphic description of prison life adds to the dynamics of this book. The mere fact that you have undergone a self-motivated inner transformation is just one good reason why this book should be used in all the school systems around the country. As a mother of two teenage sons, I would personally like to thank you for taking the time to write such a moving book. I hope other mothers will have the opportunity to read The Iceman Speaks. I am certain that it shall make a difference in many teenagers’ lives.

Rev. Sandra L. Quinones, A.J.S.

I’ve read several of Dr. Yakima’s books. However, I thought The Iceman Speaks was very intriguing, eloquent, and persuasive in getting the message across. I’m a proud father of nine sons and I would love for them to read this book for the educational purpose. This book aroused my curiosity. Life is short. Don’t end up on the wrong side of the fence.

Franklin (Time) Carter

Former European Basketball Player

To get a true account of prison, you must turn to prison writers. Dr. Yakima’s book does just that.

Jeff Evens, Editor

I’d like you to know that your book has had a large impact on the way I think and teach about prisons. Your work ranks amongst great inmate writers like Eldridge Cleaver and Edward Bunker. It is important for writers like you to continue to publish.

Professor Rebecca Bardt

DePauw University

After reading Dr. Yakima’s masterpiece, I deemed it necessary to mention that such literary work is not that of a doctor, but a surgeon general on the subject of choices and consequences. Its sharp wisdom cuts wisely and discerns how best to overcome some of youth’s most difficult challenges. The words in The Iceman Speaks soothes the aches with an anesthetic of genuine love and concern. It offers a set of gentle stitches of compassion for wounds of improper thinking. The youth of America, as well as young people around the world, should find this remarkable work of art quite gratifying.

Larry Michael McPherson, Author of

A Journey Through the Wilderness

Congratulations on a well put together book. My entire family was thrilled to read such a powerful, moving biographical story, especially my sons Eric and Emanuel. It took courage to share so many graphic, honest, personal details of your life. We pray others will learn from your painful experience, most of all the young generation.

Leon Roberts

Single Parent and Businessman

My son read your book and is now doing much better in school and making wiser decisions about the friends he hangs out with. Thanks a lot.

Mary Elizabeth King, Insurance Agent

The Iceman Speaks isn’t just a wake-up call for young people; it’s a great introduction into the study of criminology, criminal justice, and a glimpse into America’s penal system.

Kelvin D. Mency, Law Library Clerk

Every parent and teen in America needs to read The Iceman Speaks.

Bishop Joe Jackson

Should the young generation heed the advice that has been set forth in this book, they will never commit a criminal act or see the inside of a jail cell. For the incarcerated, The Iceman Speaks could be access toward rehabilitation and breaking the cycle of recidivism.

Charles Sparks

Prison Inmate Service Network

Powerful, knowledgeable, and full of wisdom, coupled with a loving concern for our youth.

Freddie D. Eason, Jr.

Fine Art Artist

I’ve been reading prison narratives for the past twenty years. The Iceman Speaks is the most graphic of all the books I’ve ever read about prison life. It’ll keep your undivided attention.

Richard (Smoke House) Harper

Chef and Entrepreneur

At 67 years of age, I’ve read more books than I care to remember. The Iceman Speaks is not only an appealing, forthright book, the uncensored straightforwardness makes it that much more grasping. A must read for parents and children alike.

Ozzie Sutton

Entrepreneur and Banquet Coordinator

In society where youth crime and gang violence is forever on the rise, this incredible book could be a valuable tool.

Horace Hickey, Bank Teller

Personally, I believe The Iceman Speaks would be quite beneficial in the combat against drugs, gangs, and crime among our youth if the vast majority could read this book.

Millicent Pierce

Founder of Count the Cost

"This book is a must read for all people in general. Dr. Yakima has lived a rather interesting life. His early years read like a gangster novel. His transformation from one side of the legal system to the other is commendable. The Iceman Speaks speaks loudly to youths. At a time of improper behavior amongst some of our youth, this book speaks to the heart of the problem. It breaks down stereotypes and puts the problem into perspectives that are common to all.

The Iceman Speaks is an excellent rendition of change. The reader will feel a profound sense of enlightenment after reading it.

Leon Richardson

Quality Business Manager

WHAT YOUTHS ARE SAYING ABOUT

THE ICEMAN SPEAKS

Excerpts from Book Reports:

The author’s goal is to reach out to young people and let them know not to go down the wrong path. In my opinion this has to be one of the best books I’ve read because I could feel what Dr. Yakima was saying. It was very brave of him to write this book and know that it would touch people in so many ways.

Candanisha B.

I thought The Iceman Speaks was a great book. It encourages people to lead a good life. Stay in school because prison isn’t the way to go.

Calvin F.

From reading this book I learned that drugs are bad and stay out of gangs because they will get you in trouble with the po po (police). If you don’t you will go to prison.

Beth M.

I liked this book because it really keep you going and helps make the right decisions. I really felt that The Iceman Speaks should be in every school library. Cheyenne is trying to make a difference in young people’s lives.

Jamie W.

By reading The Iceman Speaks I make sure I am hanging with the right crowd and never follow Cheyenne’s foot steps, because prison is the last place I want to be.

Shirley B.

I like this book a lot. If you focus you can really change your life around and see why stealing, drugs and gangs aren’t important.

Diana T.

When I read The Iceman Speaks I was into it because it’s an interesting story that all teenagers like myself can learn from.

Solimar L.

This is a good book. It really has you thinking about all the wrong things you have done. I know how he feels. I know what to do now. And I would like to read The Iceman Speaks again.

Shalanda E.

I think The Iceman Speaks was a good thought out story; a story that you should learn from.

Gary J.

He robbed a lot of banks and did a lot of bad things when he was little. Yet, he doesn’t want young people to follow in his foot steps. That is why he is sharing his story.

Sara E.

The most important thing about this book is the whole story. Cheyenne is a prisoner giving all teens a message and that message is not to do what he has done. He gives teens advice of a lifetime. When I read this book I learned to stay in school, follow my dreams and don’t get in trouble with the law.

Reggie B.

Cheyenne’s story made me cry because I was so sad for him. He lost all his family and nobody visited him. This story made me realize how important my family is. Prison is not for me.

Mary Ann P.

I think The Iceman Speaks is a great book. It made me think about what happened to Cheyenne. I don’t think I will make those mistakes he made. It is good that he is trying to teach us how to stay out of trouble and do the right thing.

Robert F.

I thought this book was terrific. It taught me what happens when you end up in jail. It also taught me to stay on the right track so I won’t end up in prison.

Jason J.

The Iceman Speaks is a good reality check for young people like myself, who have thought about dropping out of school. Cheyenne makes a lot of important points.

Danetta P.

The author encourages us not to follow in his path.

Yang V.

Dr. Yakima regrets what he did when he was young and wishes he could change the time, but he can’t. He makes you realize what will happen if you do what he did.

Elijah D.

The Iceman Speaks made me think about my own life and the things that are important.

Anthony J.

Teenagers aren’t the only ones that can benefit from Mr. Yakima’s book. Adults need to read it, too.

Keith G.

Dr. Yakima’s book has a lot of good information for young people everywhere. The things I learned from the story, is to listen to my mom and dad, stay in school and not hang out with bad crowds.

Catherine B.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

A child’s life is like a piece of paper

on which every passerby leaves a mark.

Chinese Proverb

During the course of my incarceration, I’ve seen thousands of youths go down the same destructive path that I once followed and end up behind those steel bars that held me captive for over two decades.

Over the years I’ve had the pleasure of sharing my experiences with hundreds of young people in the hope of deterring them from delinquency. Youths who violate the law have no idea of the horror, heartaches, and pain that lie ahead.

After conversing with so many parents, teenagers, and young adults, I was inspired to write The Iceman Speaks in the hope that the message within these pages will help youths realize that they represent the future of America; that they can reach their dreams and goals and be as unique as they want to be—without drugs, gang affiliation, violence, and crime.

Within the heart of every youngster, regardless of race, creed, or cultural background, lies a jewel—a diamond in the rough—waiting to sparkle.

Living a gangster, criminal, and thuggish lifestyle may seem daring and adventurous, but once the cops slap on the handcuffs and you are on your way to jail, it becomes a whole new ball game. The prison officials will make all your decisions for you, right down to the color of undergarment you’ll wear.

The Iceman

IT’S ALL UP TO YOU

It is you who must decide

whether you’ll do it or toss it aside.

It is you who must make up your mind

whether you’ll lead or linger behind.

Whether you’ll reach for the goal that’s afar

or just be content to stay where you are.

Take it or leave it, here’s something to do—

just think it over, it’s all up to you.

Nobody here will compel you to rise;

nobody will force you to open your eyes.

Nobody will answer for you, yes or no,

whether to stay, or whether to go.

Life is a gamble, but it’s you who must say

whether a cheat or sportsman you’ll play.

Fate may betray you, but you’ll settle first

whether to live your best or your worst.

You were born equipped to win this race,

you are the handicap which you must face.

Look back through history at the wise and the great,

their food was consumed from a common plate.

You, too, can triumph if you’ll be so bold,

we were all created from the same mold.

Whatever in life you desire to be,

fashion the choice—you were born free.

Kindly or selfish, gentle or strong,

keeping the right way or taking the wrong.

Careless of honor or guarding your pride,

these are questions which you must decide.

It’s your selection whichever you do.

Success or failure, It’s All Up To You!

Be careful of your thoughts, they become your words;

Be careful of your words, they become your actions;

Be careful of your actions, they become your character;

Be careful of your character, it determines your destiny.

Anonymous

Teach your child what you have learned

as though today was your last day on earth.

Cheyenne Valentino Yakima

Special Acknowledgments

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the wonderful people whose paths I was fortunate enough to cross during my long and often difficult journey.

To my kind and generous editor, Ms. Betty Richards of Words & Numbers in Maryland Heights, Missouri: It is with sincerity that I thank you for doing such an exceptional job on my manuscripts over the years. Your suggestions and your advice have been most beneficial. And for that I am truly grateful.

To my brother, Ricky Riley: Glancing back through the years, I had no idea that we would be the last remaining siblings. It is said that life and death are in the power of the tongue. I say, Life and death are in the hands of the Most High. I am proud of the fact that God is the controlling factor in our daily lives. As youths we may have strayed from the straight and narrow, but as mature adults, our paths are clear. When all is said and done, our parents raised their daughters to be women and their sons to be men. In that, they did not fail. May Yehoshua bless you, my brother, forever and a day.

To my cousin Eddie D. Riley, who exemplifies the true meaning of brotherhood: Should I live a thousand years, I will never forget the kindness you have shown me. My father used to say, Men who can’t keep their word don’t belong on this earth because we all depend on each other. Your honorable ways and down-to-earth character should be an example to all mankind.

To Leon Roberts, my loyal and faithful comrade: It is with great pride and honor