PinkBlitz Magazine June 2014

10

SIGNS HE’S JUST NOT INTO YOU

COLOR BLOCKING

JUNE 2014

CONTROL YOUR CURLS

5

FASHION DON’TS!

Sitting Down With Megan Massacre!

Model: Olivia Oguariri Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Brooke Anderson Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Mario Gaudreau

Model: Monica Melanson Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Brooke Anderson Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Dustin Hurley

Model: Sarah Doiron Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Brooke Anderson Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Dustin Hurley

Letter from the

Editor

e fi l e #S Follow Us!

Each time I sit to write this, I’m amazed at how much better each issue becomes. This issue, you’ll notice a familiar face on the cover. That face is celebrity tattoo artist Megan Massacre! You would have seen her on TLC’s NY Ink and America’s Worst Tattoos.

Meeting Megan was amazing. She was the nicest, and most down to earth person for being someone of her caliber. You’ll read all about what she has to say in her interview.

It seems a lot of famous people have been getting in touch, you’ll get a treat when you check out our July issue as well.

So, this issue we’re celebrating tattoos! One of the things I never understood was how people would have such a problem with tattoos. It’s a beautiful form of art, and yet, if you have any you will instantly be judged.

Modelling agencies won’t look at you twice, and the elderly think you’re a hooligan.

We, however, have chosen to celebrate them. We pride ourselves on being a group of youthful, openminded people, and therefore have no quams about putting these beautiful tattooed women in our pages.

As always, stay true to yourself and be all you can be!

Lilly Babineau 6

Be All You Can Be. And Be More.

EDITOR IN CHIEF / FOUNDER Lilly Babineau EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Talya Morgan GRAPHIC DESIGN Lilly Babineau PROJECT SUPERVISOR Sheri Collette PHOTOGRAPHERS THIS ISSUE Dustin Hurley / Mario Gaudreau Kim Therrien / Matt Brennan STYLIST Phoebe Hicks COSMETIC SUPERVISOR Kristina Mallet HAIRSTLYISTS Kandas Michaud MAKEUP ARTIST Talya Morgan / Brooke Anderson CONTRIBUTORS Scott McLean / Rachel Richard Phoebe Hicks / Jessy Horton Amy McArthur / Nathalie Testi-Flamin Kristina Mallet / Sheyanne Banana Danielle Hensley / Kevin Lemieux

Model: Christina Murray Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Talya Morgan Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Kimberly-Mai Therrien

PinkBlitz Must Do’s Summer is finally here! The warm weather is filling us with love and happiness, and the vitamin D sure feels good on the skin! But, you have to be sure you: 1. Keep your skin protected. Tanning is great, burns aren’t so great, and prolongued exposure to the sun leaves you open to damage and worse, Melanoma.

AKA Skin cancer.

2. Keep hydrated! In hot temperatures, dehydration can settle in really quickly. It’s recommended to always have water with you when out for long periods.

3. Dress appropriately. Just because the weather is hot, doesn’t give you the right to dress like a hooker.

Stay classy, ladies.

Upcoming Events June

This month, we’re declaring it Pay It Forward month! Do something nice for someone, just because! See if we can’t start something awesome, shall we?

June 28

Come celebrate Summer with the PinkBlitz crew as we throw a Hawaiian Luau! At the Red Leaf Grill from 10pm to 2am! Awesome drinks and fun! Come get Lei’d ;) 8

Model: Monica Melanson Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Brooke Anderson Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Matthew Brrennan

JUNE 2014, ISSUE 14

Like what you see here?

We’re looking for people to join our team! Get in touch today for a great experience!

Photo Credit: Jazmin Monet Megan Massacre appears courtesy of Platform Media Group.

You can see her on TLC’s NY INK as well as America’s Worst Tattoos.

Ms. Massacre appeared at the Maritime Tattoo Convention in Halifax, NS.

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What’s Inside!

Ask the Stylist

Beyond the Rack stylist Scott McLean answers all your questions on the latest fashion trends!

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Megan Massacre

Sitting down with Megan Massacre, we get a look at how a high school “weirdo” became a huge success!

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Sweet, Simple Updo’s

With Summer here, it’s time to get your hair off your back. Here’s some super cute styles just for you!

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20 Things to Never Do...

We look at 20 things you should never do on a first date, and let’s face it.

We’re all guilty sometimes.

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Model: Sarah Doiron Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Brooke Anderson Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Mario Gaudreau

Model: Candace Bazowsky Photo by: Kim Therrien

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Model: Cortney Stewart & Becca McCabe Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Brooke Anderson & Talya Morgan Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Dustin Hurley

Fashion DIY:

making

your own

Skirts

By Danielle Hensley

it up? Yes, you can. The materials you will need are scissors, sewing machine and of course, a skirt. You start out by cutting a U shape out of the front of the skirt and in the end, sewing those hems together. Sounds simple enough, right?

For those of you with a more professional taste to their style, you can make a skirt for the work place. A pencil skirt can easily be made within 30 minutes and it can be whatever color you would like. Peach, Blue, Black, Pink, take your pick! For starters, you have to have a stretchy type of material. On top of that, you will need a sewing machine, scissors, measuring tape, fabric pen, iron, and pins.

The artsy girl may be more interested in creating a skirt that stands out. The kaleidoscope skirt is a perfect example.

You will need a plain white pencil skirt, fabric paint, brushes, scissors, permanent marker, clear plastic, cardboard, and masking tape. The last one is optional. We found this artistic tutorial at www.tashadelrae.com and she even admitted to having her 2 year old daughter help with this masterpiece.

Maybe you are stuck between hippie and country chic. We have found a denim skirt made out of pants (yes, pants!) that is perfect Whether you have an interest in for you gals. A maxi skirt made out of old creating stylish patterns or if you just jeans so basically, you just cut up the old jeans. want to spice up your own closet, this article will provide tips on how to do An alligator skirt is another one of our just that. We chose skirts for this section favorites. It is tight fitting, sexy and still because they are fun, flirty and girly. professional enough to go to work in.

A girly girl may choose a bright and You will need stretchy fabric, chalk, ruler, happy skirt while punk girl may choose sewing machine, and buttons. Some simple a skirt with some candy skull designs. materials for an outstanding and fun project.

Whatever your taste, we will cover it all.

There are plenty of other DIY tutorials out To begin with, what are one of your there. Play around and experiment with favorite patterns or designs? If you are the design options to see if you can come anything like us, we love polka dot. Is up with your own work of fashion art. your old polka dot skirt seeming a little dull? Could you do something to spice

Color Blocking

By Danielle Hensley

Color blocking is one of the latest trends in the fashion industry. It provides a unique touch to any plain outfit. Color blocking is pairing one color with another color that will complement each other well. This allows for a bold outfit that will have you standing out from the crowd and blinding (in a good way) those with your bright color concept.

There are three separate techniques to go for when attempting a color blocking outfit. While it is fun to mess around with different colors, you will want to determine what type of look you are going for. The choices you have are monochromatic, separates, and stand alone. Monochromatic is one color of different hues. For example, a dark red and a light red. Separates are contrasting colors put together. For example, navy blue, green, and gray. Stand-alone is one outfit with a set color block scheme. For example, a dress may be made with a color blocking design by the designer.

Once you have decided what look you want to portray, it is important to wear what looks good on you. Don’t wear an outfit that does not flatter you. People notice your outrageous outfit more than the person wearing it. Try out specific looks before settling on just one.

To help with the idea of an overbearing color combination, you can color block with just accessories as well. You do not need to pair crazy

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colors together in order to color block. Even if you have a plain outfit on, add some color block heels or a color block purse to accessorize and provide some flare to a normally average outfit. You can even have color block nails or makeup. Whatever you feel comfortable doing. This is a good idea for those who are not sure of what color blocking techniques would look good on them. Refer to a color wheel for some help.

If you do opt for a color blocked outfit then it is key to keep your accessories neutral. In some cases, you can have a neutral outfit and color block accessories. If you have a colorful outfit then the accessories must be toned down. Otherwise, it may be a little too loud, or potentially disastrous, of a fashion ensemble. Trust us, you don’t want to look to a clown for any fashion inspiration.

Color blocking has been around for some time, mainly popular in the 80s. Remember those crazy bomber jackets? The ones with the bright colors and weird zig zag designs. Though the trend has come back, we haven’t returned to the dark side yet. In the modern world, color blocking has taken a turn for the better. There are still some bad apples out there but for the most part, the color blocking trend has resulted in some great color combinations. It is a time to get to know your inner fashionista. Explore your closet and discover your personal style with the artistic fad of color blocking.

Amy McArthur’s

Style for YOU

The summer season is right around the corner and what better way to say hello to summer than to have your date night attire ready for those warm summer nights. With these 5 fabulous summer date night attire must-haves you will be more than ready to party the night away with your closest girlfriends or even on those awkward first dates.

Striped Maxi Skirt A striped maxi skirt is a great essential for a girl’s night out or even going out on a first date.

You can pair it with a crop top, or a long sleeve jersey shirt. It makes you look elegant and fresh, and keeps you warm when the evening turns chilly. Add a statement necklace, and some bold bracelets to your look for a more refined styling outfit.

Casual tank paired with an a-line high waist skirt Going out for some drinks on a patio with your girls is one of the most fun things to do in the summer. It’s casual, yet you would want to be a little dressed up just in case you head out after happy hour. Wearing one of your favorite casual tanks, and pairing it with a classic high waist a-line skirt will have you at the center of attention. This outfit is one of the top 10 outfits for this summer 2014.

2020

Maxi Dress A maxi dress is a simple way to look stunning on a night out with your girls or even out with your new favorite man. You can dress it up with adding a statement necklace and a pair of gladiator sandals. If you want a more casual look try adding a denim vest, or a denim jacket and pairing it with toms or tribal sandals. A maxi dress is one of the best statement outfits for this spring/summer 2014.

Bustier Are you going out for a night on the town; or dinner with a good friend? If so wearing a bustier top is great for showing off your assets but in a good way. You can pair it with high waist shorts, high waist denim jeans, or even a high waist skirt. The bustier is becoming more and more of a fashion trend and styling it that shows off its best features is the best way to wear this top.

Boyfriend Jeans Boyfriend Jeans are back in style. They are absolutely comfortable, and look adorable when wearing them. They are great to wear out to a lunch or brunch date with your favorite girlfriends. You can pair the boyfriend jean with a cropped top, or a casual stripped shirt. Adding your favorite accessories to this look will add style to the outfit.

What’s In, What’s Out

BY SCOTT MCLEAN

One aspect of an outfit that I feel gets overlooked is the shoe. One of my pet peeves is when someone is looking fabulouse but when you look at their feet they are sporting an ugly clunker of a shoe. There is no excuse for only looking fabulouse head-to-ankle. There are so many affordable fast fashion stores on-line and off-line that can be exactly what you need to properly finish off your look. This is why I am going to tell you in my opinion What’s “In” and What’s “Out”.

In Flat Stiletto: This is a stiletto that will keep you sky-high but has zero platform. This is an ultra chic look that can be worn with a structured pant, jumpsuit, or dress. A closed toe option with a pointed toe can be a good choice for those colder nights. For a sexy summer option go for a sandal style stiletto with straps. Gold hardwear is always a good choice when picking out a stiletto that will have you looking camera ready and impeccable from head-to-toe.

out Platform Pumps: I’m sure I will be getting some hate mail after writing this but that’s okay, I can handle it.

Now don’t get me wrong platform pumps are still midly acceptable but I am just preparing you all for what is to come.

Think of this as a fashion warning. In my opinion platforms are getting a bit tired and juvanile looking.

Ankle Straps: Nothing is chicer than a heel with an ankle strap. When going in the ankle strap direction width is your best friend. A wide ankle There are so many more detailed and fun styles of strap on a shoe in black, white, or neutral is a great shoes that don’t make you look like your 16 and look that can be perfect for a night on the town or about to use your fake ID for the first time. even a chic lunch date.

Mocassin Style Flats: These had a time but that Smoking Slipper: This is a classy and stylish time is now up. I was all for a camel colored suede accent to any casual look. A suede, leather, or mocassin flat but it is now time to upgrade your even velvet flat that resembles a smoking slipper flat situation. is a comfortable way to stay on trend. No slipper inspired flat would be complete without a tassel There are so many classier and slightly dressier or crest to add that uber chic touch. This can be flat options that can upgrade your casual look but worn with a simple jean that will bring you from still allow you to be comfortable while running plane jane to “It” girl style in no time. around town.

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Ask the Stylist: Scott McLean Is there a style that looks good on everyone? If so, what is it?

I’m not going to sugarcoat this answer for you.

The brutal truth to this answer is no. There is not one magical style that can flatter every shape and size out there. Many women and (some) men have a daily dilema of not knowing how to dress their body.

Although there is no simple answer to this widespread issue there is still no excuse to letting yourself look like a ragedy Anne, or Andy.

I am a firm believer in doing the best with what you have been given so I will offer a few tips for different body shapes and sizes and how to dress them.

Flat as a board - Some women have zero curves a flattering way. and although this can be a desirable look for designer haute-couture, for those of us who are Curvy - Some women are blessed with beautiful not Kate Moss this can lead to difficulties when curves but seem to try and hide them. In my dressing day-to-day. opinion curves should be something you embrace and show off. When you try to hide your curves My suggestion would be to look for volume (no matter how big or small they are) it makes in your clothing. When picking out a top try to your body look like one shapeless boring canvas. incorporate a ruffle which can give the illusion of a larger bust.

Voluptuouse women should stay away from oversized and shapeless tops. Go for a top that Another option would be to loosely tuck in a flowy sinches at the waist or better yet belt a top around blouse to create more of a waist. A cute and trendy your waist to give yourself a sexy hourglass way to add curves around your hips would be to shilouette. go for a pleated skirt that can add some volume in 22

Many plus size women tend to stay away from skinny jeans but I feel they can be your best friend.

Find a skinny jean that is the right size and fit for you and this can add to your hourglass shape by showing off the curves from your hips that many women envy.

There are many different shapes and sizes that create issues when it comes to dressing. The best piece of advice I can give would be to accentuate what you are proud of and this will often distract what you want to hide. Instead of being frustrated with your body work with what you have and you’ll have heads turning for all the right reasons.

What styles do you foresee making a comeback?

One of the great things about fashion is that it is cyclic.

Designers get inspiration from a variety of things each season but there is almost always a comeback style taken from a decade in the past. When I first realized this at a young age I started treating my closet as more of a time capsule.

It’s rare I throw clothing away (no I am not a hoarder, but my clothing “collection” does require a large closet) because you never know when your technicolored shirt or maybe even those old bootcut jeans will come back in style.

Side Note: Please don’t get any mixed messages here, bootcut jeans are far from being acceptable anytime soon.

One style that I have realized is making a quick comeback is the collar-less shirt. This is a trend that both men and women can wear.

I remember when I was very young and saw my father wear this in the early 90’s. Now its back with a fresh summer ready look. A collar-less linen shirt is a casual chic look for men and woman this summer.

www.polyvore.com

TOP

5

FASHION DON’TS!

By Danielle Hensley

Socks with Sandals Seriously? This was never fashionable. It has never looked good. In fact, it has always been a fashion DON’T. Hence the reason why it is at the top of our list today. If you are going to wear sandals, why do you even need socks? Sandals are meant for your bare feet. Socks should be reserved for tennis shoes or just to lounge around the house.

You don’t need to wear them with your flip flops unless you want to look slightly ridiculous.

pants unless you want people to see. Sometimes it is an honest mistake but the person behind you in the grocery line does not want to know what color underwear you are wearing. White is just not a good color unless you have a thong, preferably a nude one that isn’t noticeable. Hey, anything is better than those neon pink panties though.

Animal print overload.

We get it. You love cheetahs, zebras, whatever, but too much is too much. WHY! Why do you need to Tights as Pants have so much cheetah print on in one outfit? You If you ever watch television or read fashion look like one except deformed. Heck, who are we magazines then you have heard of this fashion kidding? The animals have better fashion sense don’t before. We are not necessarily talking about then you. Do not overdose on the animal print fad. leggings. Leggings do have a downside to them One, maybe two items in an outfit to add a cute but at least they act as a cover. We are mainly accessory is fine but all over? NO. That is all we talking about tights. Yes, those tights. Sheer and can say. NO. black, specifically. They look sexy underneath a little black dress. However, if you are wearing Trucker hats. tights with a shirt that doesn’t cover your bottom When were these ever cute? Sorry, country girls, half very well then you are scarring the world. We but trucker hats are not on our fashion do list. have no desire to see that much of your personals. Why? Because it should be reserved for beer Tights are not pants. They are meant to be paired drinking hillbillies. No matter how beautiful you underneath something for a sexy feel and added are or how cute your outfit is, a trucker hat will coverage. Please don’t make the mistake of pairing just ruin it. There are plenty of other hats out there a cute shirt with a pair of tights and hoping that it that don’t scream redneck. For example, a fedora works together because it won’t. is a nice hat or a cowgirl hat. Heck, even a simple beanie would look better than a trucker hat. If you Colored underwear with white pants. want country, girls, choose the cowgirl hat. It is The title says it all. Do not wear pink or any other cute and fashionable. brightly colored pair of underwear with white 24

Model: Christina Murray Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Talya Morgan Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Kimberly-Mai Therrien

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Sitting down with

Photo Crediit: Mario Gaudreau

Photo Credit: Steve Prue PB: I read online that you are from Douglassville, PA. What was it like growing up there?

MM: A very tiny little town that nobody knows about. I don’t remember, I was a little kid. It was just a tiny town, I knew everybody, I knew all my neighbours, I went to school with about 300 other kids, I knew every kid by name. It was quiet, cute, there wasn’t a lot going on ever, but I really felt at home there. I also felt restless there, it’s just like, there’s so much more to the world. I wanted to know what was happening out there, it wasn’t until I was 18 that I was able to leave and move to the city. I grew up with my grandparents. It was a very fulfilling childhood.

PB: What was your school life like, did you fall into any of these cliques?

MM: I was definitely a weirdo, like nobody thought I was cool, they all just thought I was really weird, but I think it’s because I did whatever I wanted to do. If I wanted to wear something, I didn’t care what anyone else said. But I had a lot of friends thought. I was a weirdo, but I had friends in every group. I was the weird art kid, kinda nerdy. I was in the color guard, it was like the marching band but we twirled batons and such. No one thought that was cool (laughs).

PB: So it obviously takes a creative person to be such a talented tattoo artist, what other mediums do you use to channel that?

MM: My grandparents were really creative, and they taught me what they knew. I’ve been painting since I was 2 because of them. I paint, marker, color pencil, stuff like that. I don’t really have time for as much as I used to. With the tv stuff and the modelling stuff. I like clothes a lot, so I was making clothes for a while. I do a lot of artwork on clothes for companies, so that’s kind of cool. But yea, that’s what I do. I work, I work all the time.

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Photo Credit: Steve Prue

PB: When did you decide you wanted to be a like a million dollars at that age. tattoo artist, and what was it that really appealed to you about it?

When I was 18, I had just graduated high school and was working at a [crappy] job selling MM: When I was 14, it’s when I first got the idea, furniture…the whole thing sucked. Around that and it’s because a kid I went to school with got time, a co-worker of mine wanted to get a job as a a tattoo. So I was like, that’s cool… it’s like an body piercer and asked me for a drive over to the art form in a way, and I could totally do that. I tattoo shop, and I did and while I was waiting for really wanted to learn how to do that, cuz at the her in the lobby, she told the guys I could draw time I went to high school and was really lucky pretty good. While she was doing her thing, they to have an awesome art teacher and she taught came out and said “she says you can draw really everything from photography to sculpture, and good, do you want to draw us a picture?” and I she would make all these special courses just for was like “sure!” I was drawing the whole time me. So I asked her what she thought about it, and she was doing stuff. And they asked me if I’d she was like “I don’t think so, but I dunno. You ever thought about doing a tattoo, and asked if I could probably make it work.” wanted to do one at the moment. So they set me up and made the apprentice get a tattoo by me. I I went to the local tattoo shop and was like, “I want just did a little tattoo, his name. to learn how to do this.” And they said I’d need an apprenticeship, so I’m like, “alright, sign me up!” I kept going, and they said it was really good and and they were like, “you’re 14… get out of here asked if I wanted to be a tattoo artist. I said yes, and come back when you’re 18 with $4000.” At and they said okay, come back tomorrow. I went that point, that was it. That much money sounds back every day.

Photo Credit: Jazmin Monet

PB: What do you think about the current tattoo culture and what it represents?

MM: It’s a very broad question, and it depends on what exactly you’re talking about. Like the whole mainstreaming of the tattoo culture? That’s like a big part of it, cuz like in the span of 10 years, it’s so different than when I started, and I think it’s pretty great, there’s a lot of people that do not agree with me, but some people that do. I have an interesting perspective on it, as someone who was part of it before. It opened up the door, like TV and stuff, it made tattooing so much more acceptable. So many people get tattoos, and it’s gotten so much bigger. I think that any industry, getting bigger and healthier is fantastic. And a lot of tattooers are saying “stay out! We want it to be grimey and scary, we want it to not be for everybody. The truth is, we’re all making more money, and that’s part of why we work. I mean, we do it because we love it, but it’s a job, ya know? It’s also opened up the avenue for tattooing in other ways. For instance, I work with a lot of clothing companies to design, and its not just me, it’s so many tattooers now being able to do this stuff. It’s only getting more and more popular. In a nutshell, I think it’s great.

PB: What is something you would never tattoo?

MM: Anything sad. I will never tattoo something that will leave the person with a bad memory.

PB: You have such a unique style that has been described as “creepy, yet cute”.

MM: That was more my old style, written in my

bio. I don’t really feel I apply to that anymore. I think it’s impossible for an artist to tell you what their style is, because I just really do what I want to do. I used to be into Tim Burton a lot, I had black hair and was like, super Goth, this was just like my life for 5 or 6 years. And I just slowly started… not that I don’t like those things anymore… but I started changing my likes a bit. I think it’s from moving to New York, the tv shows, I’ve had a lot of big changes in my life, and it’s changed my work. It’s become more bright and colorful. I’d say some of it’s creepy, but not as creepy as it used to be, and its not that I’m any less creepy, because I absolutely am. And dark, I just don’t come off that way. I like doing really bold stuff, and stuff that’s really 3D, so that it looks real. Very detailed, I really care about every tiny detail.

PB: What can we expect from you in the next while?

MM: I’m going to be doing a lot of my own stuff.

I’ve been doing everyone else’s stuff for so long, worked in other people’s shops, been on other people’s tv shows, so I’ve decided that this year I’m going to be doing my own projects. Just a lot of my own [stuff].

Thank you so much for sitting down with us, Megan! We can’t wait to see what you do next!

Photo Credit: Tom Concordia, WireImage

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Swimsuits

By Phoebe Hicks

A lot of women find it difficult to find a nice swim suit that is flattering, comfortable and just something they like at the same time. There are secrets to what types of bathing suits you should be looking for that are suited for your body type.

For You!

with the higher back it does not cut off the top of your butt like many bikinis would. Wide hips, no problem!

Get a bottom with side ties, you can adjust with no squishing and simply wear a top with wide stripes Whether you are busty, boxy, wide hips, curvy, to draw attention away from the hips and balance flat as a board, or have a nice caboose there’s a out a fuller bottom. Not to forget busty girls, we way to help flatter and cover yourself in a fun know it includes so many women. Bandeau tops flirty way to hit the beach scene! support your full bust and are so cute, while being busty it’s best to add a graphic patterned bathing When it comes to being small chested , look for a suit for a very proportionate look. halter style top with a little extra padding to perk yourself up a little. Solid colours are suggested when trying to oomph up your front. When it comes to a flatter bum, it’s best to choose a bottom with a small pattern to add definition as well as getting a bottom with small gathering at the top of the back to pull up and again, give a perfect touch of perk and definition.

A boxy shape means carefully placed ruffles and peek-a boo openings, it’s important to draw those curves onto your body to give yourself more shape.

If you happen to be curvy in the tummy area, go with a one piece swim suit with lots of ruching and a low cut neckline- the neckline draws the eyes up and the ruching cinches the wastes and camouflages the curves.

Whereas being curvy all over, try a banded halter tankini, the band keeps you in place and the A-line slims your torso; most of these takinis are v-neck but they keep you covered while flashing a little cleavage. Have a round rump? Compliment your bottom, but keep it covered with a mat one piece suit, making your bum look cute and firm and 34

Model: Becca McCabe & Monica Melanson Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Brooke Anderson Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Mario Gaudreau

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Sweet, Simple Updo’s

By Melanie McLean

Summer is a time for being outside, going to the beach, having cocktails outside with your friends and enjoying effortless chic-ness that comes with throwing on a simple summer dress. So when does a girl have time to do her hair? Relax, here are a few foolproof sweet, simple, summer updo’s to get you through the summer months looking your best.

Using a scarf to hold us loose ends around your face and then incorporating it into a messy bun on top of your head is a good way to add bulk to an otherwise teeny bun and adds a great boho feel.

For another, easy to do, scarf look, follow these simple steps: With your hair down, put the scarf around your head on top of your hair (kind of like the scarf is a crown on your head)

Braids are still very hot right now and can be seen on all the celebs from Emma Stone and Selena Gomez to Jennifer Lopez and Kate Blanchet. A braid is great for summer weather because if you hair is frizzy from the heat, or salty from enjoying a day at the beach, this will only make your braid look better!

Roll all of your loose hair into the base of the scarf that’s on your head, making sure you tuck it in under the scarf as you go. Add a few bobby pins to stay secure and quick sprits of hairspray and Voila!

These summer updo’s are not only easy and breezy, but they look best when they are a little A romantic side swept braid can sometimes slip messy looking. So enjoy your time outside being out very easily especially if you have medium or footloose and fancy free instead of worrying about short hair so try to tart the braid at the nape of your locks this summer! your neck behind the opposite ear you want your braid ending on.

For instance if you want your braid to hang over your left shoulder, start if behind your left ear and make a small French braid across the nape of your neck going left, that way the hair is off your neck and you don’t have to use a hundred bobby pins to hold the hair from the right side of your head.

If you’re not great at French braids, just give it a try, it doesn’t have to be perfect, in fact the messier the better with this whimsical look.

Try using a light scarf in your updo’s. This tip is especially great if you have short hair or if you’re growing out your hair and you’re in that inbetween phase we all love [insert sarcasm here].

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www.polyvore.com

Model: Olivia Oguariri Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Brooke Anderson Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Dustin Hurley

Ladies! Summer is on the way, and you know what the means, the humidity too! Listed below are a few tips I have personally used over the years to control my curly hair and I hope that you can incorperate them into your personal beauty routine to have better contorl over your curls!

Curly girls! The first step is making sure you have the right cut for your hair. Seeking out a professional who is great with cutting curly hair can be key! I find that with curly hair, you have to have it shaped right, or else it may to heavy/ bulky, not the right shape for you face or your curls are weighed down!

Products, products, PRODUCTS! I can’t say it enough. They play such an important role in your beauty rountine. There are minimal hair styles that are “wash and go”, and even the shortest haircuts require some type of control. This part may be a bit of trial and error, but it is worth it once you find the right products that work for you.

I personally love the new Curvaeous line from Redken. Their shampoo and conditioner has no sulfate ( heavy product that weighs down the curls,) so it’s is work solely to cleanse the hair. The cream shampoo may be off putting at first, but once you’ve used it, you will LOVE it.

Use t-shirt or anything made of 100% cotton to towel blot your hair, but make sure to leave your hair somewhat wet. You really want that moisture to stay in the curl to have it more defined during the summer months.

Air drying its great or using a difusser dry just the roots it good too, but try to refrain from completely drying the hair with it.

Follow through with leave-in products that will reduce the frizz, but refrain from applying too much or applying too much at the roots either.

Lastly, and most important, moisture.

Curly hair lacks it, so finding a good shampoo/ conditioner/deep conditioner with added moisture will help to reduce the frizz and give your hair more bounce and fullness.

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Controlling Your Curls By: Kristina Mallet

www.polyvore.com

Model: Cortney Stewart Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Talya Morgan Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Dustin Hurley

Model: Natasha Dore Hair: Brittany Aucoin MUA: Bethany Rose Photographer: Natalia Marshall-Ryan

Model: Marie-Josee Paquet Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Talya Morgan Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Matthew Brennan

Model: Natasha Dore Hair: Brittany Aucoin MUA: Bethany Rose Photographer: Natalia Marshall-Ryan

Model: Jami Springer Photography: Kimberly-Mai Therrien

Models: Alex Roberts, Joanny St-Onge Andre Atrsenault-Thibodeau, Trinity Augustine Julie Michon, Nicholas Landry Caleb Flanagan, Katherine Legault, Doug Smith, Valerie Diotte Hair: Kandas Michaud Makeup: Melissa Gauthier Wardrobe: Nathalie Testi Photo By Mario Gaudreau

Model: Marie-Josee Paquet Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Talya Morgan Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Matthew Brennan

Creative Breakups

By Danielle Hensley

Breakups suck! But, in retrospect, the method was a bit comical....

Breakups are hard on all involved. Maybe you want to try a different way of breaking up with someone. It isn’t going to be fun or nice but it will leave a lasting memory. Breakups suck altogether but here are some ideas for creative ones. It might result in a happier ending but we doubt it. Nobody likes to be broken up with. But, that doesn’t mean that you won’t laugh about it down the road!

To begin with, one of the more amusing techniques for a breakup that you won’t forget is a choir. What better way to breakup with someone than have a choir serenade them with a gentle breakup tune? They may never like choirs again or anything to do with them but it’s creative.

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A fun way for the both of you would be a treasure hunt. That is until they realize the purpose of the treasure hunt. At the end of it all, you can leave a special note explaining your breakup

or by simply saying “it’s over.” for the suddenly single people Still fun though, right? out there. They may just end up thanking you for providing such How about the classic bait and a good time. switch? What is the bait and The best and favorite of our switch? The bait and switch creative breakup ideas has to method consists of finding be the Jesus freak. If you don’t someone that your significant want to necessarily say the other will be attracted to. Make words or break up with them plans to meet up with your traditionally…well, isn’t that significant other, introduce the what this whole article is about new person and breakup. Leave anyway? In a similar fashion it at that. They have a rebound of becoming this gross, jobless already, thanks to you. bum; become a religious freak.

Be the Jehovah’s Witness of your Better yet, to top the douche relationship. If you mention charts, you can have your mom Jesus and sinning enough, breakup with them for you. they are bound to leave. If they That is, if she will do it. Your wanted to date a preacher, they mom would be better with the would have, right? wording than you would and make it seem like a sweet tale of If you are getting tired of your love. Oh, woe is them. Thanks, significant other or maybe you mom! have just fallen out of love but want to give the best (or worst) To make the breakup a little goodbye that you can then these better, you can always hire a ideas should help you. Review stripper. It will sweeten the them and choose your favorites. deal. Who wouldn’t love a lap Let us know how they work. dance after getting your heart broken? A bachelorette party

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20 Things

to Never do on a first

Date

By: Danielle Hensley 54

Models: Timothy Rae & Emily Hope Photography: Trevor Lowe

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1) Don’t only talk about yourself

right time.

There are more important things in the world than you, no offense. Why not talk about the weather or movies? Better yet, get to know the other person. Talk to them and find similarities between you two. No one likes someone who is so into themselves that they don’t acknowledge the other person.

8) Dress properly

2) Don’t overdrink Drinking too much could lead to becoming obnoxious and possibly a little tipsy. While this may be fun and help you relax, there is a time and place for drinking too much. A glass of wine is fine but watch how much you drink.

3) No messy foods Messy foods could result in disaster. No matter how nice and pretty you try to make it, you may still end up getting some on your nice outfit.

4) Stay off the phone Do not put too much attention on your phone.

In fact, put it on silent until your date is over. It’s rude and this allows you to give the other person your undivided attention.

5) No sex talk Really? Come on, everyone should know this. It is inappropriate and will probably just have them thinking you have other intentions than getting to know their personality.

6) No smelly foods Just as with messy foods, avoid smelly foods as well. For example, garlic is a bad choice, especially if you are hoping for a kiss at the end of the night.

7) No interrupting Wait for your turn to talk. Do not talk over them or interrupt them. Listen and get to know them instead, throwing in your own opinion at the 56

No outfits that may be a little too revealing, no attire that makes you seem stuck in the past and nothing with holes or stains. Look your best with class.

9) Don’t talk about your ex Duh. Don’t do it. If you end up talking about him/her, you could seem like you are still interested in them. The point of a first date is to meet a new, better significant other.

10) No burping or anything else It’s gross. No one wants to hear the reactions of your body but definitely not on the first date. At least wait until you have been dating for a while before becoming quite that comfortable.

11) Don’t talk about the future It is too early to be talking about babies and marriage. Start off slow and remain in the moment.

12) Don’t talk about the past The past is in the past. Leave it there. They don’t need to know everything about you on the first date.

13) Mention your kids If you have children, it is important to let that other person know. They could become a part of your children’s lives.

14) Too loud Being too loud or obnoxious without drinking is a little annoying. It is important to keep your voice down and speak softly so as not to intimidate your date with your big personality.

15) Tardiness Don’t be late to your first date. It makes you look bad. It is better to be there early rather than late.

16) Be respectful If you are a guy, be a gentleman and chivalrous. Women love that. If you are a girl, treat him with respect and don’t judge.

Remember, he is a person and does get nervous.

17) Don’t cancel suddenly Canceling, in general, is not a good look but canceling at the last minute is worse. They have canceled their own plans to meet you. Be courteous and respectful of their time.

18) No promises It is the first date. Don’t start making promises that you know you can’t keep.

19) Keep it low profile By low profile, we mean do not delve too much into your life.

This is your first date. Don’t get too personal and potentially scare them away.

20) No money

complaining

about

It doesn’t matter who is paying or if you are splitting the bill, don’t complain about it. It can put you in a bad light to the other person. Prepare yourself by bringing enough money with you.

Models: Timothy Rae & Emily Hope Photography: Trevor Lowe

10 Signs

He’s Just Not Into You By: Danielle Hensley

Models: Timothy Rae & Emily Hope Photography: Trevor Lowe

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1) No commitment

he doesn’t know that well than Facebook friends because he is you? This could be mean he isn’t not that into you.

We are not talking about just that interested because if he was, relationship commitment. you would be his top priority.

8) Roaming eyes Maybe he forgets about important meetings or simple 5) No PDA Let’s say you are out on a date things like to take laundry and a woman who is dressed upstairs. If you make plans and PDA (Public Display of Affection) rather revealing, does he look at he doesn’t keep them; that is a is good in a relationship…to her? Or not? The answer should sign that he doesn’t even have an extent. We are not saying be no, he doesn’t acknowledge enough interest to remember a practically have sex wherever her booty shorts. If he pauses and date night. you go. No, but holding hands gets “momentarily distracted” or kissing is a sweet gesture that by them, he is a pig and has no 2) Doesn’t answer calls this is your mate. It shows the interest in you for a committed world that you genuinely care relationship. He just wants to We are not asking you to be for one another. If he does not play. available constantly and never hold your hand or show any get busy, guys. We just want affection at all then he probably 9) Talking about other women to be able to talk to you every wants to remain friends. now and then. It is a sign that It is not only bad to look at other we care and if you answer your 6) Meeting the parents women but it is also bad to talk phone (preferably almost every about them. He should only be time), it is a sign you care too.

This is a big step in a relationship. looking and talking about you.

If he doesn’t answer your calls, ladies, then stop answering his It means that he if acknowledging Is there a woman that he works that he really likes you and with he is always talking about? calls or texts. wants to be committed to you. Or maybe it is his best friend?

However, if you have been Either way, he is not into you 3) Keeps his phone from you together awhile and still haven’t but into her instead.

This is a given. Trust and gotten to meet his parents then communication are essential to a he doesn’t see you in his future. 10) The three little words relationship. If he acts strangely about his phone then he is clearly hiding something. He doesn’t trust you with the information that is on it so therefore, he could be sexting other women and meeting up with him those times you try to call him. It all depends but it is a clear sign that he doesn’t plan on making this long term.

7) Still Facebook single

If you are constantly telling him Social networking has you love him and all he can become extremely popular for respond with is a smile and “I relationships with all the dating know” then he is not into you. sites that are out there now. Okay, we can’t say that. He is Facebook tops the charts though. either not into you or just doesn’t If you two are dating whether love you which is basically not you just began or have been for a into you because if he was, he while yet he still hasn’t changed would want to be with you his Facebook relationship status for a long time and love you then he doesn’t want anyone immensely. Otherwise, he will 4) No time for you to know. Requesting to be in just find love with another.

Does he have a tendency to put a relationship with you on everyone else before you? Does Facebook is the virtual way of he choose to hang out with his saying that you are his. If he buddies than be with you? Or is has yet to do that, he doesn’t he more insistent to help those want to show you off to even his 59

Is It REALLY Over?

By: Danielle Hensley

A relationship is a show of love between two individuals. You begin with excitement and happiness. There is nothing that could go wrong.

This is what is called the honeymoon stage. While some people do still have this years later, some don’t. If your relationship is lacking in some way, maybe feeling a little empty, then maybe it is time to move on. These are some signs to look out for to tell if it is really over, physically and emotionally.

Lack of affection is a key sign that one of you is growing distant. If he or she begin pulling away from one another, it shows in your PDA. You’re no longer cuddling and holding hands like you once were. It might even seem like you are not even a couple anymore but more like two random people. Try a hug or steal a kiss to feel that sensation again.

Maybe you guys don’t want to spend time together anymore. Is it better when he or she is not home?

Do you feel a sense of relief or peace? Does it not matter to you if they are with you or not? This could be a sign that you have no more interest in the relationship. Your significant other is someone who is meant to be by your side and support you through everything. If that is missing from your relationship then it is time to move on so you both can find the right one.

Are one of you moody? Moodiness happens sometimes. It is a normal, human emotion.

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However, if it is constant, especially around that specific person then you need to separate. If that person is causing you so much emotional stress to the point where you cannot even be happy around them. That is a definite sign that you need to end the relationship. Why make both of your lives miserable? Instead of extending the anger in the relationship, just end it. It makes it simpler with no more resentment because you may not know how to tell them how you feel or what you want.

Sex is not the most important part of a relationship but it does play a big role, nonetheless. Making love allows for an intimacy that only two lovers can have. Is your sex life dwindling? Do neither of you seem to have an interest in each other physically anymore? Sexual intimacy is something that allows for a healthy relationship.

Most importantly, think to the future. Can you imagine your future with this person? Can you imagine having a family and settling down with this person? It may seem like a big step but you want to be able to determine if you can spend a great deal of time with this person. If not, you are wasting your time and theirs. If you cannot put your all into the relationship, it might be a sign that this is not the right person for you.

Model: Natasha Dore Hair: Brittany Aucoin MUA: Bethany Rose Photographer: Natalia Marshall-Ryan

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Photo By Dee Sinner

Jessy’s Life in the City A COLUMN BY JESSY HORTON

To be honest I had a completely different article written for this months issue, but I had a very eyeopening conversation with a friend today. We were chatting about how rare it is to find good hearted people in this world. Now my friend and I werent being cynical by any means; we know there are good people out there, we just know those people are rare gems that should be cherished. This friend of mine is going through a very rough time in her life and she recently had a “friend” tell her he didnt care that a close relative is extremely sick. Thats not exactly how I or any

respectable person should act as a friend. There also is a definite difference between tough love and just being a bad friend. I personally, am the type of friend who knows when people I care about need a little kick in the rump from time to time and I will gladly be the one to give it if it is in my friends best interest. But putting someone down is not the way to go. Now you may be reading this thinking, “this is common sense why is Jessy even taking 3-500 words to discuss this?” Well, the fact of the matter is common sense in itself is rare nowadays!

If you are lucky enough

to have a best friend or even a small circle of loyal friends by your side (I have a few close-knit friends who make me feel like the luckiest woman alive) then do me a favour. Send them a short text message, email, facebook chat or carrier pigeon message (if you happen to see a pigeon close by) telling them how much you appreciate them. Im not trying to be cheesy here, but I did this the other day with my best friend and she replied with, “you have no idea how much I needed to hear that this week.” And we hadnt spoke for about two weeks. Sometimes a little love goes a long way.

Xo Xo Jessy

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Cooking With

Nathalie

Our Chef Nathalie Testi-Flamin shares great recipes straight from her own kitchen that are both tasty and healthy!

Photo by: Nathalie Testi-Flamin

Dijon Tomato Tart Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Fallot dijon mustard 2 sliced tomatoes 1 package puff pastry, thawed 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped 1/4 cup olive oil Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Slice the tomatoes in 1/4 inch slices and salt heavily.So that excess water comes out of the tomatoes, and keeps the tart from getting soggy. Leave the salted tomatoes aside for ten minutes. After ten minutes, use a paper towel to wipe off extra salt and moisture from the tomatoes. Arrange the puff pastry in a pie or regular baking dish. Make sure to add some parchemin paper to avoid sticking.

Spread the Dijon evenly over the pastry. Add 1 teaspoon of herbes de provence then arrange the tomatoes on top of the Dijon and herbes de provence again. If you like you can add some cheese on top like swiss, harvati, or even some parmesan .

Bake for 45 minutes or until the pastry is a deep 64

caramel color. You want to take it out just before the edges begin to char, and not sooner. Drizzle a robust and flavored olive oil on top, like chipotle.

Chick pea Salad Open a medium size cheek pea can, and rinse well the peas.

Cut in cubes half a cucumber, a small yellow pepper, a half of a red onion. Chop finely coriander and Italian parsley.

Add some goat cheese crumbs, Mix all together in a bowl, and drizzle generously Carantina liquid gold olive oil and Sicilian white balsamic salt, pepper.

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Model: Jami Springer Photography: Kimberly-Mai Therrien

COLOUR ME DISGUSTED By: TAMMY MALLEY

Community Health graduate, former food law consultant, gym addict and health nut. Can cook a carrot 101 ways while wondering the origin of growth of said carrot.

One thing that has always bothered me about Canadian food packaging labelling requirements is their very loose regulations on artificial food colours.

Since many foods come into Canada using (illegal!)

US labels, we’ve probably all seen a label like the one below

The only exemption to this rule is declaring “colour (with tartrazine)” if you’re using Yellow 5, as tartrazine is a component in that colour and can cause reactions in those who are sensitive to that substance.

If for some reason you think natural colours are better, think again. Cochineal, an insect, is often used as a natural colouring agent and produces a deep red colour. Other natural colours that are permitted include: charcoal, titanium dioxide, and carbon black, all of which can be used according to “good manufacturing practices” on most foods (translation = there’s no specified limit). Delicious!

Have any questions about the labels on the foods you buy?

Notice how they list specifically what colours are used; this is a US labelling requirement, and the numbers used coincide with the matching Food Drug & Cosmetic colour (which is why you sometimes see “FD&C Red 40”).

This is one US labelling requirement that I wish we in Canada had; currently, in Canada, artificial colours do not need to be declared individually.

Artificial colours (as well as natural colours) can be used under the class name “colour”, grouping all the colours together and not indicating which colours are being used.

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Let me know: canadiancritic86@gmail.com

Model: Olivia Oguariri Hair: Kandas Michaud MUA: Brooke Anderson Wardrobe: Vixens Boutique Stylist: Phoebe Hicks Photographer: Matthew Brennan

10 Reasons You DON’T

By: Rachel Richard

Like millions of Canadians, if you have ever had the misfortune of spending time in a hospital emergency room, you have seen our bloated bureaucracy at work. It’s easy to blame long waiting time in hospitals and less-than-stellar responses from our ambulance services on medical officials, but our own abuse of the medical system serves a role in its corruption.

We are lucky in Atlantic Canada to be able to partake, for the most part, in ambulance services free of charge. The ambulance fees have been waived for those who lack ambulance coverage in their health care plans in New Brunswick as of April 1, 2014. Similarly in PEI, ambulance services are subsidized by the provincial government.

Nova Scotia residents are less fortunate in this regard because at the exception of health care coverage or qualification for the ambulance Fee Assistance program which caters to low-income Nova Scotians, they are charged a fee of up to $142.30.

Regardless of the fee, ambulance services are at our disposal to us all if they are required. Much like all public services, this privilege is prone to abuse. This abuse can even be measured as follows: If you are quickly discharged upon arrival, and worse, stop for coffee on your way home, you did not need an ambulance in the first place.

Just like you mother cautioned you when you were old enough to operate the telephone, do not contact emergency services—the police, fire department or ambulances—unless it is an emergency. It not only a waste or their time, energy and resources, but it stretches their already bloated budget to oblivion. As you may have already noticed, our emergency room are already crowded as it is with ear aches to life threatening illnesses.

When you arrive by ambulance, you take precedence over the people that already fill the emergency room. You may be glad to skip over the flu-stricken patients, but not those who require immediate attention. The system is organized by a gradation of urgency, so when you arrive by ambulance with a broken finger, you cause a chasm through a carefully coordinated pyramid of sickness. Do not abuse the system because when you really need it to work one day, it might not be there for you.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. My point is not to discourage you from calling 911, but before calling, ask yourself if it’s absolutely necessary.

The following are examples of instances where ambulance services are not required.

1. Period pains: Girls, I feel your pain.

Literally. This type of pain is best described as my Ambulances are not glorified medical taxis. If you uterus’ monthly attempt at a daring escape from can be driven by a friend of a family member to the my body. However, if this pain is debilitating emergency room, you do not need an ambulance. and persists longer than necessary, consult your If you do no require immediate medical attention, family physician to schedule appropriate tests. you don’t need an ambulance. If your life is not at risk, you do not need an ambulance. If you can 2.

Flu: If you happens to be a Canadian, as am obtain the same services at your local medical I, you are surely familiar with this yearly scurge. I clinic, you do not need an ambulance. It is know the flu can be a painful virus, especially if it important to differentiate between wanting and is accompanied by the forceful expulsion of your needing ambulance services. stomach contents. There is nothing an emergency 70

Need An Ambulance doctor can do that your local clinic cannot: provide stronger antibiotics. In the meantime, drink some 8.

Prescription refill: Paramedics are not tea a hunker down in your bed until it passes. your personal medical taxi. If you did not pick up your prescription, that is your problem and not 3.

Cuts: This one requires some precision. anyone else’s. It is not an emergency of ambulance If you have managed to perforate an artery and proportions. blood is gushing out like a fire hydrant, by all means call for an ambulance. If you manage to 9.

Food poisoning: In most cases of food keep the blood flow under control, make your poisoning, the only device you will require is way to an emergency room if you believe you a toilet, which there is none in an ambulance might need stitches. Remember: There is nothing anyway. You might require medical attention if an ambulance can do in your living room. you cannot stand without assistance or are unable to keep any liquids down. In that case, try to find 4.

Headache, earache…. aches in general: a friend of a family member to take you to the Unless the pain is blinding to the point of emergency room. If all else fails, stay away from unconsciousness, you do not require the services expired dairy products from now on. of an ambulance. In most cases, general pain or aches can be treated with over-the-counter 10.

Broken fingernail: Self explanatory. painkillers.

Seriously. I don’t care if the entire nail falls off.

5.

Other service providers: If the pain in question requires the services of an optometrist or a dentist… seek that appropriate service.

Ambulances are small vehicles as it is, they do not contain the necessary optometry equipment or dental instruments. This is merely an exercise in wasting time

Health care may be a right in this country, but paramedical privileges are a privilege. Don’t abuse them, because when a time comes when you really need them, they might no longer be there. Since we are blessed with low costs in Atlantic Canada for such services, perhaps a solution to these abuses might be to charge patients for wasting paramedic’s precious time instead of raising the 6.

Sunburn: If you request an ambulance cost for everyone. service for a sunburn, your tan lines will not be the only unsightly thing in the room. Unless you Unless you are actively being mauled by a bear have a serious burn, which a local clinic can easily or have contracted the ebola virus, your pain is treat, you do not require medical services. probably not as serious as you believe it to be. If you are able to calmly and rationally register your 7.

Sprain: Unless there is a bone sticking out pain as a ’10’ on the pain scale, you are probably of your limb, do not call for an ambulance, for they just suffering from pink eye. If a bandaid can may be inclined to break your limb in question alleviate your pain, you do not need an ambulance. and hit you over the head with it. That would not be fun for either party involved. (Note: If you can move it, it ain’t broke!)

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“slut shaming”, women hating The Double Standard of Female Sexuality By: Rachel Richard Whore, slut, skank, tramp, bimbo, bitch….

If you’ve ever called a women—to her face or behind her back—one of these sexist slurs, ask yourself: Do you call men the same thing? If you do not, why? Especially if you are a woman, why do you participate in the denigrating of your gender? Is it because of jealousy? Anger?

Self-loathing?

These gendered insults are deemed sexist because they endeavour to attack women on the basis of their sexuality. This exercise in misogyny seeks to condemn women for expressing « [their] sexuality in a way that does not conform with patriarchal expectations for women » (Kat, Slut-Shaming vs. Rape Jokes). Feminists groups have coined the term « slut-shaming » as a means of identifying 72

this judgment that women face for expressing their sexuality on their own terms. The sexist connotation of the word « slut » is found in its intent when used in a sexual context: men are studs, women are promiscuous. Tell me, how many women would a man have to sleep with to be considered promiscuous? Whatever the number, I assure you it would be much higher than for a woman.

The Paradox of Female Sexuality As women, we are cursed by this double standard, and therein lies a woman’s sexuality.

On the one hand, if a woman chooses not to engage in sexual behaviour, she is prude; a virgin whose virginity must be protected at all costs. On the other, if she expresses her sexuality through her actions or her clothing choices, she is a slut; a whore whose body can be exploited at will. In short, we are damned if we do, and damned if we don’t. The basis of this dichotomy is the very concept of virginity, which is often measured by the state of our hymen. Let me preclude my interpretation of a woman’s sexual identity by defining this simple truth: the concept of virginity is a social construct. Virginity does not exist and nothing will be taken from you if you engage in sexual activity. Consenting to sex will not fundamentally change or damage you, nor will abstaining from it.

The female identity cannot be so easily sorted into two different camps, good versus bad. Our entire self worth as individuals is not tied to our sexuality and the means through which we decide to express it. Because no matter what choices we make, engaging or refraining from sexual activity, neither is good or bad because ‘slut’ is not an identity. We’re women whether or not we have sex, or are visually appealing to men.

The Slut-Shaming Formula The act of shaming a woman for being a ‘slut’ generally consists of two different categories.

The first condemns women for the frequency, informality and diversity of their sexual activities. Despite the fact that women engage in casual sex as much as men do, they are « viewed as more promiscuous, less intelligent, less mentally healthy, less competent, and more risky than men who accepted the same offer » (Conley, 2013), In short, women should not derive pleasure from sex, but rather experience it within the confines of marriage for reproductive purposes. Quick reminder that we are still indeed in the twenty-first century.

The second assumes that revealing clothes is an indication of sexual activity. Women who wear short skirts or a push-up bra are accused of seeking attention and of being promiscuous, even though the very nature of provocation means that the exposition of collarbones probably provoked the same reaction in the 19th century. Regardless of the temporal context in which we find ourselves, the blame for other’s words and actions concerning our bodies is our own.

Real Life Consequences ‘Slut’ is not only a epithet that shames women, but one that causes psychological and physical pain. How many times has the phrase « she was asking for it » has ever been uttered, in both private and public settings? Can our sexual past brought up in cases of workplace harassment?

How often are women sexually harassed for the clothes they wear? The free expression of our sexuality should not be an invitation for oppression.

A recent study titled “Normalizing Sexual Violence,” ascertains that young women believe that sexual harassment and violence is an inconvenience to be expected rather

than a crime to be reported. So daunting is the possibility of being labeled a ‘slut’ for being on a receiving end of sexual harassment or violence that girls are not seeking the help they need and the justice their deserve. Our society’s legacy of victim blaming is so entrenched in our moral collective, that we are letting these crimes go unpunished; the cycle of slut-shaming is selfperpetuating.

In a more recent case, a 17-year-old high school senior was kicked out of her prom last month because her dress—even though it adhered to the school’s dress code—provoked the adult men in attendance to ogle her. The logical approach to this situation would have been to chastise the men for not controlling their actions rather than punish the young girl for not restraining her modesty. In this case as it is in most instances, the blame was placed on the young girl and she was punished for someone else’s crime. By cultivating this culture of victim-blaming, we are ensuring that a new generation of young women will keep on assimilating their own exploitation instead of benefiting from the liberation of female sexuality.

Summer is at our doorstep, which means hemlines will be shortened, shoulders will be bared and body-shaming will surely worsen.

By participating in this exercise in exploiting women’s insecurities by shaming their appearance or their actions, women are only bringing themselves down in the process. Do not mock a woman for wearing a skirt. Even if it is not hot outside, it remains her choice. We need to stop shaming women for their bodies are start shaming those who wish to exploit them. Women are not sexual object, women are not sluts. Women are human beings and we deserve your respect.

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Reasons You Need

Sleep

BY RACHEL RICHARD

No one hates sleep. No one.

If someone does not enjoy sleeping, they would have to be seriously unwell. There is no greater satisfaction after a long and busy day than to plop between cool, crisp sheets and lay your head down on a soft pillow (only second to scraping off makeup and removing a bra, amiright, ladies?).

Despite the enjoyment of this passive pleasure, sleep is often assigned very little priority. A good night’s sleep needs to stop being a luxury and become a necessity.

It is hard enough to find enough hours in a day to accomplish all of our tasks at hand. If you’re a mother, a working professional or a student, multiply that by 10.

Since sleeping is something that is necessary to our survival, it is often taken for granted. Far too often, people adjust their sleep to their day instead of adjusting the day to their sleep schedule.

Devoting eight hours each night to sleep is hard when you have to do an all-nighter to complete a project or a presentation. However, that’s more of an issue of procrastination than sleep. Being the biggest procrastinator on the planet (I have proof!), I won’t jump into a lecture on the merits of planning and working early, but it can improve your sleep diet dramatically.

Let’s leave that idea to fester for a while.

In order to get healthy, mind, body and spirit, you have to include sleep. It is just as important as diet and exercise. Since it’s something you already do everyday, it’s easy to change. You will be able to make lasting changes in your sleep pattern by making it part of your routine. I don’t recommend using the snooze-button method.

Benefits of Sleep The benefits of sleep are many. Like a first-class antidote, it alleviates many ills we often take for granted. A good night’s sleep can improve your memory and your concentration, which is why it is not recommended to pull off an all-nighter the day before an exam.

A sufficient amount of sleep can help consolidate information recently acquired. As well as your memory, sleep can also stimulate your creativity and help you exercise better judgement, thus improving your grades in the long term.

Sleep is also beneficial to your health. It curbs inflammation, which is directly linked to heart disease, stoke, diabetes and arthritis, lowers stress and lengthens your lifespan by boosting your immune system.

By regulating the levels on gherkin in your body, a hormone linked to hunger, sleep can speed up your metabolism and help you lose weight. As an added bonus, a healthy sleep schedule can improve your performance in sports and in bed.

If all of these benefits could be bottled up in a single pill, every one of us would have a whole jar on our nightstand.

How much sleep do you really need?

The amount of sleep your body requires is not an amount set in stone. A healthy amount of sleep varies in accordance with an individual’s age, lifestyle and lifestyle. An 8-hour sleep schedule is usually considered to be the ideal amount of sleep, but it is important to note that too much or too little sleep can have a detrimental effect on our health.

In fact, Daniel Kripke, professor emeritus of psychiatry at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, has calculated that the ideal amount of sleep is between 6.5 and 7.5 hours (TIME, 2008). According to his research, people who stick to this diet generally « live the longest, are happier and most productive ».

To reach an optimal amount of sleep on a daily basis, try to establish a consistent sleep schedule. This does not mean you cannot go out on Friday nights or pull off an occasional late-nighter. However, on average, try to go to bed at a set time each night and wake up at the same time each morning. To induce this routine, try sticking to a relaxing bedtime routine, such a listening to soothing music or reading a book in bed. These indicators will alert your body that you are ready to sleep.

It is possible to survive—even thrive—on little to no sleep every night. However, if this lack of sleep becomes routine, the time lost to consciousness will accumulate and have a long-term impact on your health. If sleep is necessary and generally pleasant, why not make the best of it?

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Too often, young ladies are bullied, abused and face traumatic events at the hands of their peers. This new program brought to you by the PinkBlitz team is aimed at young ladies aged 12 – 17 who have troubled histories of bullying, abuse, neglect, etc. who need a boost of confidence and self-esteem.

Every month we’ll be asking for nominations to pick a girl in need, by either a parent/guardian or another trusted adult. We will then invite the chosen girl to our upcoming photoshoot and provide her with some great confidence building surprises! if you would like to nominate a girl in need, please email: info@pinkblitz.com (must be nominated by a parent/guardian or trusted adult) To sponsor this program or if you want to help in some way, please contact us!

Model:Annica Landry Hair: Mary Lawton Makeup: Debby Clements Photo by: Mary Lawton

Health First Challenge Sponsored By;

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Before & After

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