Queen Size Magazine March 2016 Issue

ANNIVERSARY ISSUE IFY UFELE

MARCH 2016 ISSUE

MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

50th ISSUE

CHILD ENTREPRENEUR CEO OF CHUBIILINE & BULLY SPRING INTO INC. HEALTHY CHASERS HABITS

NICOLE FRANTZ

SPRING INTO HEALTHY HABITS NICOLE FRANTZ

THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISING FOR MODELS TAWANA BLASSINGAME

HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVES

FEATUREDMODELS

DISCRIMINATION IN THE FULL FIGURED INDUSTRY

DEVORAH STORY ANNOULA DRITSAS JOANN WINTER MARLENA MURPHY CERINA E. JOHNSON

TAWANA BLASSINGAME

CARREICE JEFFERSON

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE MANAGEMENT TEAM? Queen Size Model Management is a company created to guide aspiring models along the path to becoming successful models. If you are looking for a management team that truly cares about your success, and is looking to dedicate their time and resources in you; then reach out to us and let’s talk about how we can help you.

Please email us two photos of yourself to queensizemodelmanagement@gmail. com Tell us why you want to model and we will contact you for an interview.

Remember, you have to take the first step. We are waiting.

ALEXANDRA CASTRO QUEEN SIZE MAGAZINE Photography by | Mondern Photographix

QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

Note from the Editor Allow me to introduce myself for our new readers here; hello my name is Tawana Blassingame and I would like to welcome you to the March 2016 issue of Queen Size Magazine. It is my hope that this magazine will prove you with entertaining and helpful articles. Thank you in advance for your support.

It is so hard to believe that I have just completed and released fifty issues. I get asked how I feel about it and my answer is accomplished. I feel like I have accomplished so much and proved so many people wrong. I remember when I made the decision to start up the magazine; I was told that the magazine would not last. I was told that there was no way that people would support my magazine because it could never stand up with other magazines out there. Fifty issues later‌‌.

ard, Jr

Photo by Paul J. Heyw

I am truly thankful for all the people that have helped me along the way, the people that guided me and offered me sound business advice. Thankful to all the talented writers that contributed the articles that helped so many. To all of the photographers, models makeup artists, hairstylists, and designers, I thank you for your collaborations that brought forth so many amazing images. My assistant and executive director (my left and right hand) you both are absolutely incredible human beings. There are so many people to thank but most importantly I have to thank all the readers that have supported the magazine and our followers that keep up with what we have going on. Please continue to support and we will continue to do our best in bringing you the topics and styles that you need to read and see.

TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief

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MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

MASTHEAD TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief PHILIP DREW Executive Director NATALIE DAWN Assistant Editor CRYSTAL CARMEN

50th ISSUE

Beauty Editor KAMILLE RIVERS Assistant Editor SHIRLEY BEALE Assistant Editor CARRIECE JEFFERSON Assistant Editor DUANE JONES Director of Photography for N. Carolina DOUG SWAIM Director of Photography for the DMV area KENDALL REED Photographer DAWN HALL Model Recruitment Manager DIONNE REEVES-GRUBBS Model Recruitment Manager

CREDITS - Cover, this image and all images on pages 22-31 Model: Ify Ufele Photographer: Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Make-up: Sade Perry

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CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

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IFY CHUBIILINE UFELE

HEALTH AND FITNESS

06 SPRING INTO HEALTHY HABITS

By NICOLE FRANTZ

10 TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTION

By SHIRLEY BEALE

BUSINESS

FEATUREDMODELS

MARCH2016 ISSUE

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VACATION ON A 14 QUICK SMALL BUDGET

By NATALIE DAWN

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ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT MEL’S BUTTER BLENDS

By QSM

IN THE FULL FIGURED 32 DISCRIMINATION INDUSTRY

By CARREICE JEFFERSON

36 HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVES

By TAWANA BLASSINGAME

BENEFITS OF EXERCISING FOR 38 THE MODELS

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By TAWANA BLASSINGAME

BEAUTY&FASHION

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6 DO IT YOURSELF BEAUTY RECIPES

By CRYSTAL CARMEN

TRACES OF MY PEN

44 INSPIRATION

By KAMILLE RIVERS

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

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SPRING INTO HEALTHY HABITS Nicole Frantz SPRING INTO HEALTHY HABITS. Winter, love it or hate it, baby it’s cold outside! During times when outdoor exercise isn’t always easy to endure, we must find other ways to do our warm-ups where it’s actually WARM!

NOT ALL WORKOUTS ARE CREATED EQUAL. In the age of access to anything at our fingertips, a 60 minute vhs tape times 7 days a week is ancient history. High intensity, targeted impact aerobics are available in an instant to accommodate your agenda at all times. It’s important to find what works for you based on your current fitness level and overall goals. If you are looking for a secret to speed up to success, all you really need to know is to get started and never quit!

21 DAYS TO SHAKE THE WINTER BLUES. Now let’s talk nutrition. Show of hands who eats a balanced diet 365 days each year? 65 days? 3 days? Don’t worry; no one can see if your hand is up, but if it is, I challenge you to consider reaching for replacement meal supplement. However, before you purchase a pile of products, do your homework. Your health care provider is a great place to start, and certified nutritionists certainly serve as an aid to finding what best fits your lifestyle.

Any successful exercise program should be partnered with an outline for cleaner eating and balanced nutrition, and the best news is it can still taste great, and you don’t have to starve.

WHY I HAVE DECIDED TO DITCH THE DIETS. Dieting is a big business, and I am not here to discredit it. What I have found to work best for me is by continually keeping tabs on my health; I then yield a longer lasting, better quality to my overall health. With all things, researching what is available and getting a grasp of what goals you have will make all the difference in the end results, and that is what matters the most. Looking and feeling your best doesn’t have to be painstakingly problematic, and when you do find that perfect balance it will be all worthwhile.

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SPRING INTO HEALTHY HABITS| BY NICOLE FRANZ

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Devorah Story

Devorah was born on January 22, 1988 in Valley, Alabama. She was raised in Lagrange, Ga. She grew up singing in the church choir as her father was the pastor. At the age of 18, she graduated from Lagrange High School. She relocated to Atlanta, GA to continue her education at Georgia State University. Devorah continued to pursue her passion for music by entering local talent shows, performing at weddings, and various events. In 2006, she was the first to receive the title of Georgia State Idol. She also sang the National Anthem for the Georgia State Panthers. In 2007, she sang the Black American National anthem at the Georgia State Martin Luther King Annual Commemoration. After graduating with a Bachelor’s of Art in Psychology and a minor in speech, she would go on to work as a Behavioral Clinical Specialist to assist kids who have Autism and other developmental disorders. Although, she spent some time away from her music, it was clear that Devorah was meant to use her gifts to inspire, entertain and touch others. Little did she know, she’d enter the world of plus modeling. In 2014, Devorah met MsNickee, owner of Diva Day International Modeling Agency and began learning what would be her trade. She trained on runway techniques and made several appearances in local fashion shows around Atlanta. Now at the age of 28, Devorah continues to follow her dream as a plus model in hopes to push positive self image, self-confidence and women empowerment. Devorah was picked up by one of the most renowned modeling agencies in New York.

Devorah plans to utilize her platform as a means to share her many talents with the world. She plans to continue developing her skills as a plus model by learning from those who have gone before her. Devorah feels that ”doing your research” is essential in this field, as in most. ”There is much to be learned in this business. The journey will be hard and some days you’ll want to give up. Your passion has to be deeper than just modeling. It has to be bigger than you. The goal is to influence, change, and touch lives. Like anything else you pursue in life, it’s definitely a process so just be prepared to put in the work.”

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DEVORAH STORY | MODEL

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Photography | Rick Jones (rjonesphotography) Hair/stylist | Kayleigh Carter Makeup | Capriece White

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QUEEN SIZE MAGAZINE PRESENTS

“To Answer Your Question”

By SHIRLEY BEALE

SAVING MY GIRL Question: Hello Shirley. My friend is in a relationship with this “guy”. He has cheated on her so many times it makes my head spin. She cries, he lies, she takes him back saying it’s not what she thinks or that he won’t do it again. I hate seeing her go through this each time and she says she won’t do it again but she does. I don’t know what to do. She’s not dumb, only when it comes to this dude. Any suggestions?

SHIRLEY’S RESPONSE: It is commendable and understandable that you want to help your friend however she has to come to the realization that SHE is the only one that will be able to change her circumstances. If he is lying and cheating on her, he will continue because there are no consequences and he knows she will take him back. You didn’t give a lot of details so I will just give some scenarios on what could be possible motives for her to keep taking this bull crap from him.

If she is financially dependent on him, she may feel that she HAS to accept his bad behavior especially if she has children and she believes she has nowhere to go. Does she have low self esteem because of lack of education, her appearance and/or size or is the behavior of her guy something she grew up seeing in her childhood as a normal part of male/female relationship? Does she feel he is the BEST she can get, or does she love him that much that she is willing to accept whatever he dishes out? NONE OF THE ABOVE are reasons to stay. As a matter of fact, THERE IS NO REASON TO TAKE THIS MESS FROM HIM OR ANYONE, MALE OR FEMALE. This situation is one I am very familiar with and I can assure you there is NO ONE I would be willing to accept this behavior from. If someone isn’t treating you like you deserve to be treated, you must tell them, show them and if they are not willing to do so, remove yourself from the situation until you find someone or someone finds you that is willing and able to treat you like the Queen you are. There are situations that people have shared with me where they are out there doing the same thing as what they are receiving and that is why they stay; they are giving as good as they get. Now, I am assuming that your friend is deserving of this “Queen” treatment, meaning that she is not out there doing the same thing her guy is doing so I’ll continue on that path.

If your “Friend” really wants her guy to stop, she has the power to do so. She has to let him know that she WILL

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NOT ACCEPT this crazy, immature, selfish and dangerous behavior. If he really loves and values her, he will stop so he will not lose her. If he persists in this cheating behavior, she should leave him and this will force him to stop, force him to stop doing it to her anyway, and let someone else deal with his mess. There are so many scenarios that could be borne out of this situation of bad behavior but here are a few. One of the chicks he is messing with could be crazy, meaning she could want to hurt the cheating guy and your friend if she finds out. Someone or all of the people involved could contract STDs/AIDS, pregnancies, etc. If a child or children result from this mess, that’s a whole entire ballgame.

Imagine a child being the center of baby mama/daddy drama their entire life!!!! Child support, custody, orders of protection and in some cases, death. The possibilities are endless and not in a good way.

No one can do anything about the guy doing what he is doing. Hopefully he will grow up and learn that this is a very dangerous game that never has good results. Someone always get hurt emotionally or physically. However, I wouldn’t hold my breath on that one happening too soon.

This whole cheating game could be eliminated if there were no one to cheat with. There are TOO MANY PEOPLE (both Men and Women) that are comfortable with it for it to stop. I wish there was a city or exclusive community where all who want multiple partners could live and they could be secluded and leave the monogamous people to be with like-minded individuals.

Regarding your friend, continue to encourage her, talk to her about her self worth and how she deserves more than she is getting. If she has never seen a healthy loving relationship, maybe you can surround her with what “love” truly looks like. Neither you nor she can change her guy but she can change the way she is treated. People will treat you the way you allow them to treat you. Maya Angelou has a quote that says, “When people show you who they are, BELIEVE THEM”. I pray your friend will not stay in this relationship unless this guy learns the true value of love. Your friend is very blessed to have you by her side. What she lacks in a loving intimate relationship, she has in a friend like you. Lastly, does your friend have a crazy dad, brothers, uncles, cousins, etc.? Maybe they could have a talk with the little cheating fella; just a little conversation to see where his head is at, all at the same time, just a little talk.

You never know. The little fella may just need to talk to her family to see the light.

TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTION | BY SHIRLEY BEALE

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WORKING WRONG Question: My husband and I own a company and we have had a great working relationship. However, his assistant recently hired a woman in our company that I am not comfortable with. I think his assistant likes her. She dresses inappropriately and seems to be overly helpful to my husband. I am not insecure but I don’t see where she contributes to the company. She comes in with coffee for my husband and asks if there are any errands he need her to do. One day, she was in his office asking to show him how to do a dance and I walked in. I told her that was not appropriate, I asked her to leave and I wrote her up. My husband’s assistant wants us to do a double date and I am totally against it. My husband says it doesn’t matter to him. I want to fire her. Your thoughts?

SHIRLEY’S RESPONSE: Well, since it is you and your husband’s company, it is your choice to keep or fire whomever you wish. I’m surprised that your husband’s assistant hired her without checking with either of you. I totally agree with you how you handled the situation when she demonstrates inappropriate behavior. I would not double date or double anything under any circumstances with this woman and your husband’s assistant. Talk to her and tell her your husband is your responsibility and her duties are exclusive to the assistant, not your husband. Maybe you should have a meeting with your husband and his assistant about this woman.

Express your thoughts, set boundaries, get an understanding on how to rectify this situation and if you cannot find a happy medium, maybe it’s time for her to go. You haven’t mentioned your husband’s preference at all. If he has no preference, then maybe you should give this young lady a two week notice and after that, don’t allow the assistant to hire anyone. Hiring should be the sole responsibility of you and your husband. Hope this helps.

WHEN STUPIDITY ROLLS FROM YOUR MOUTH LIKE DIARRHEA Question: I have a friend that constantly lets her mouth get her into trouble. Not physical trouble but stupid stuff. She always says “I don’t hold my tongue” but a lot of stuff she says is downright rude.

For example, she is not a small woman but always says stuff like, “you’re bigger than me so she’s about your size” which is a lie.

Another time, she told a mutual acquaintance something personal I had told her and she replied that I didn’t say it was personal so she didn’t see a problem. How would you handle this?

SHIRLEY’S RESPONSE: First of all, there is no excuse for rudeness. That whole, “I don’t hold my tongue” statement that many people use is just a cover for their wanting to say whatever and expecting people to accept it by using that phrase. I would talk to your friend and tell her your thoughts and feelings.

Sometimes people may not be aware of the dumb stuff that can roll from their mouth so as a friend, I would tell her. If that doesn’t work, just distance yourself from her for a minute and see if she gets the hint. If all that fails buy some duct tape, a picture of a mouth, place a strip of duct tape over the mouth on the picture and give it to her, with a note at the bottom that says, “I love you but you gotta learn to keep quiet”.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE SEE PAGE 49 FOR MORE INFO FOLLOW US

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BEHIND THE GLAM

By CRYSTAL CARMEN

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Do It Yourself

Beauty Recipes Spring is on the way in and we are all looking forward to lighter clothing and fresh makeup colors. The thing is, Winter isn’t very kind to the skin, our feet nor our lips or nose.

QUICK CO-WASH

SUBTLE FRAGRANT BODY LOTION

Add 2 Tablespoons of Shampoo to your almost full conditioner bottle to create a co-wash that still cleans silicone based products

5-10 Drops of your perfume to a bottle of lotion for a soft version of your scent. Higher end perfumes works due to significantly lower alcohol content. This works great to sit in the sun with the bees trying to make you a pin cushion.

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6 DO IT YOURSELF BEAUTY RECIPES| BY CRYSTAL CARMEN

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EGG WHITE AND TISSUE FACIAL MASK This recipe calls for Egg and Tissue. It may sounds wacky but it works for most skin types and is fun to apply. Take an old makeup brush you won’t be using any more and a separated egg white. Whip the egg white until slightly frothy. Paint the egg white on to you face in sections. Apply thin sheets of tissue to the moistened egg on your face. Apply another coat of egg white and repeat at least twice. Wait 30-45 Minutes for the egg to dry. The mask will feel very tight. Gently peel away the tissue. This generally leaves you with soft skin and may remove black heads and reduce redness around pimples. *Be sure to use pasteurized eggs and do not apply raw egg to broken skin or open wounds

LEMON AND SUGAR SCRUB Mix 2 Tablespoons of Sugar, 1/4 cup of lemon juice and mix until it reaches a paste like consistency. You can double or triple this recipe for larger areas too. Scrub this onto your face using circular motions.

The sugar will exfoliate while the lemon juice helps lighten darker spots.

SHAVING CREAM FOR SUPER SILKY LEGS Your legs will likely be on display this spring and summer. Be prepared with the skin nourishing DIY trick. Mix 2 tablespoons of hair conditioner and 1 tablespoon of your body wash and 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil, coconut oil or grapeseed oil. This is neat way to grab a super slick shave with a residual softness and conditioned look.

SUPER SOFT LIPS Real honey is hard to find these days. You’ll need honey, ziploc bag and lip balm.

Warm a bit of honey; the easiest way is to run a metal spoon under very hot water and scoop some up. Next you apply the honey to your lips. Take care not to use Raw Honey as this could irritate your lips. Cut the Ziploc down the middle and cut a square piece off. Use the square of plastic bag to cover the honey on your lips. Lay back on a recliner or in bed so the honey stays in place. Leave on for 15 minutes while you scroll through Facebook or Instagram. Rinse and immediately seal with balm.

Stay tuned for my next feature on my Favorite Must Buy Beauty Items for Summer!

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BUSINESS

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QUICK VACATION ON A SMALL BUDGET

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by NATALIE DAWN

Need a short vacation?

Here’s how you can do it on a small budget. Save $25 per biweekly paycheck with a friend for 2 months, or the whole year for a big trip. This article will give you a budget of $100 per person or $650 per person if you save for the year.

We all get to a point where we feel like we need to “get away or need a vacation, “but money becomes a deciding factor on whether we make the decision to go. Every US state has its own perks and vacation spots where tourists visit often. Vacations do not always have to be spent on a resort or in a very expensive beach house. Let’s plan a trip on a $200 budget with a friend. ($100 per person) The more people that comes, the more everyone is able to do. If you have 4 people go on this trip you all have a $400 budget.

Find another City or state that you can visit within a 4hr drive.

You will need: Transportation, Food, Toll Money, Gas Money, and a Few dollars to do something Fun.

FOOD Bring your own snacks and food. Cook a few meals before leaving so that you can store in a small cooler. This will allow you to budget an amount for food during the trip. It will also save you time by limiting the amount of stops you take.

Food Budget for 2 (Weekend trip) $30

ROOM AND BOARD Only book your room for 1 night and ask for early check in and late check out. This will allow you a few more hours in your room. Stay a few miles outside of the city. Rooms are always less outside of the major city. Utilizing hotels.com you can see hotel rates, compare hotels and receive discounts. You may be able to get a room that serves breakfast. This too will help your food budget. Most weekend stays for a room outside the city go for $50-$150. If you are able to stay with a friend this also saves cost. $90

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QUICK VACATION ON A SMALL BUDGET | BY NATALIE DAWN

GAS/ TRANSPORTATION Drive your own car. If you choose a city within a 4hr range you will not use more than a tank coming and going if your car is 6 cylinder or less. $50

ENTERTAINMENT Before you go on your trip do some research and find something free to do. Most cities have a ton of free activities during the weekend. If you would like to drink during the weekend. Bring your own drinks. Some hotels outside major cities provide entertainment options as well as shuttle services to and from major areas. $20 for any parking fees or a cab/uber around the city After everything there’s $10 to utilize how needed.

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Annoula Dritsas

Exercising has helped me in my modeling career because it’s made me learn about my body in many ways. Sometimes when life gets crazy and want to unwind, I look for the gym as my go-to option. I feel better about myself after a great workout. Taking care of your body is one of the most important things you can do as a model. I keep pushing myself and when things get tough, that’s when I really push! Being healthy and eating right, has made me a better person. It makes me stronger and more flexible when I need to pose in photo shoots! I always tell aspiring models to stretch before a photo shoot or fashion show to get the circulation moving and you can last longer when you have stand at hours at a time. The more flexibility, the better the photo shoot. :) Drinking lots of water, well-balanced meals, and exercising 4-5 days will not only help you physically, but mentally and your overall health. We, as models, always want to be the best version of ourselves, but that also goes with the overall package. When you feel good and love yourself on in the inside, you look good & confident on the outside.

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ANNOULA DRISTAS | MODEL

Fitness wear credits Photography | Imagin’at Photography MUA | Mandisa Duperval

Headshot credits Photography | Lucas Jones MUA | Griselle Romero HAIR | Sabrina Dabby Designer | Qristyl Frazier

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Body shot credits Photography | Nikki Gomez MUA | Brittany Lugo

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ENTREPRENEURIAL SPOTLIGHT

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Hair has always been a major part of Mel’s life, mainly because she has tons of it! Mel grew up in a house with a cosmetologist mother, meaning some part of the house was always a make-shift hair salon. Mel spent a part of her childhood growing up in Montreal, Canada where she was usually one of few children of color in her class. The thick, dense hair that she had been born with was always a project to manage, and styling a child’s hair daily was not always a single, working mother’s top priority. Mel was often embarrassed by the old-fashioned hairstyles that she usually donned, so after begging her mother incessantly, Mel’s hair was relaxed at 6 years old. The relaxer made it easy for young Mel to style her own hair, but the hair was never as healthy as it was in its natural state, nor was it versatile. Wearing straight, flat was the general beauty standard for quite some time, until natural hair and the dangers of perming long-term became more of a conversation topic.

After learning more about the hazards of relaxers, Mel decided to go natural, receiving her last relaxer in the summer of the 2012. The transition process was difficult, as Mel opted to not undergo a “big chop” but instead grew out her hair through a series of protective styles. The growth process initiated the need for a new treatment routine, which began with the quest for the right products.

Incidentally, this process began around the time that the company CurlBox was launched. Mel signed up, and tried a variety of “natural” products or rather “products for natural hair”. Some things worked short-term styling, but most products left her super coily type 4 textured hair under-nourished and lacking in moisture. The ingredients were not sufficient, and barely “natural”. So Mel began to experiment with ingredients.

After coming up with a butter recipe that delivered incredible results for moisture and growth, the product search ended. A few months later, Mel’s friends began to

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see the difference in her hair, and they wanted in on the secret. She would bring her butter with her when getting her hair twisted, and soon the hairstylists were calling her for jars! After making a few small batches for sale and seeing the demand, Mel decided to take “hair crack” to the next level and developed the product line, Mel’s Butter Blends. Mel’s Butter Blends has developed into a full line of natural products for hair and skin, including multiple butter blends, soaps, and exfoliants.

Personal note from Mel: Peace world! I just wanted to share a personal message with all of you. I DID NOT intend to start a business, and I do not believe in flooding an already saturated market with unnecessary products. This started with my own journey, and I began to share it with others. I had to get to know a part of me that I’d never taken the time to fully understand or appreciate. Once I did, it affected my general perspective about my whole body, its health, and the ways in which I nourish it. As my journey evolved, I was able to provide solutions to help other people care for themselves, which has become such a fulfilling gift in itself. I hear stories of from other naturalistas about their journeys and challenges. I’ve had people tell me that they had given up on their natural hair; they had given up on taking care of it or learning how to do so. The root of this problem is that there was not much emphasis on natural black hair until recently, so the conversation and resources were limited. Most resources and products that existed previously served to ALTER black hair to fit a different beauty standard. I am honored and delighted that I can contribute to someone getting to know and appreciate a part of themselves that has been ignored in the past.

I wish you all the best on your journeys to learning and loving all parts of yourselves. Blessings!

MEL’S BUTTER BLENDS| BY TAWANA BLASSINGAME

MEL’S BUTTER BLENDS PRODUCT REVIEW I received a sample of Mel’s Butter Blends all natural Ultra Light Blend for face, body & fine hair textures, and I agreed to do a product review on it. So here goes my review.

Mel’s Butter Blends is an all natural line of hair and body products. The one that I tried was the Ultra Light Blend. It is a product to be used on face, body & fine hair textures. I appreciate the use of natural products these days. It is nice to be able to read the label of a product and actually know what each of the ingredients is. Mel did a great job in achieving the natural product goal by creating this product with a mixture of oils that we all have actually heard of and can recognize. It is not a percentage of natural ingredients with “other” stuff; it is all natural products.

FACE I have tried it on my face and my recommendation is not to go crazy like you do with your regular lotions because this product is a bit oily. I used very little and it gets the job done.

I tried this on my lips without planning to. I was out and about one day and my lips were very dry. It was never a thought to use this product on my lips regularly so I never did. I searched my bag for something to use on my dry cracking lips and the only thing I had was the Ultra Light Blend. Without having a choice, I used it. It WORKED! It worked well as a lip gloss because it gave a nice little shine. I began using it over my matte lipsticks to give them more shine.

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BODY If you have really dry skin then this product works. I’ve used the produce for a total of three weeks. I don’t think the three weeks was really enough time to really show an overall improvement in my dry skin but it its job when I put it on. My only warning on this product is that it is very oily on the skin. I used it on all of my body with the exception of my hands. I do a lot of typing and the last thing I need is to have an oily keyboard. Using touch screen phones, of course you don’t want an oily screen either.

Again, on the rest of my body it works and feels really good. The fact that it is unscented as well is a plus because I use perfume and I hate to have my perfume compete with my lotions.

HAIR I particularly like it in my hair because I do have overly dry scalp.

I used it twice a week on my scalp and I really like how it did not cause my hair to be over oily and smell like I just stepped out of a salon. There is nothing worse than smelling like you stepped out of a salon and looking the complete opposite. It really makes my hair feel nice and healthy. And again since I have all natural hair, it only makes sense to use all natural products to maintain it.

OVERALL I would definitely use this product again and would highly recommend its use to others as well.

This product is sold in a 4 ounce and will cost you a mere $12.99.

Mel’s Butter Blends has a lot of amazing products on their site; check it out. www.melsbutterblends.com

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SuriGracielle

”Staying fit by means of exercising is a very important part of SuriGracielle’s life. She loves to work out by means of doing cardiovascular exercises, calisthenics, plyometrics and weight lifting in order to increase not only her strength, but also to give her a big boost of energy. Exercising helps SuriGracielle with her modeling career because it gives her the strength to do certain poses, her stamina to jump up and down the set for certain stances and it also increases her confidence.”

SuriGracielle is an aspiring Full Figured Model. Her first magazine feature was in Queen Size Magazine, which was published on June 1, 2015. She was born and raised in a South American country by the name of Suriname (formerly known as Dutch Guyana). Suriname is in the North East section of South America situated on the right of Guyana, on the left of French Guyana, and on top of Brazil.

She migrated to Brooklyn, New York at the age of 12. She was able to learn the English language rather quickly and graduated from her Intermediate School with Honors. Jo-Ann graduated from Murry Bergtraum High School with a Computer Science degree and a minor in Italian. SuriGracielle was the only student out of hundreds of classmates who was selected to become a part of the CUNY Honors College (now known as Macaulay Honors College) at Lehman College in 2005. At Lehman College, Jo-Ann earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and a minor in Spanish. She is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Accounting and Information Systems at Queens College. As a former track and field sprinter and thrower, she helped her team to win 3 CUNY Athletic Conference Championships, which brought out her competitive spirit.

She is fluent in English, Dutch, Dutch Creole (Aukaans, SrananTongo) and Spanish. She aspires to continue learning languages such as French and Portuguese.

She loves meeting people from various ethnic backgrounds, traveling the world, eating different flavorful food, exercising, dancing and loves watching sports (Tennis, Basketball, Football, and Soccer).

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SURIGRACIELLE| MODEL

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Photography by Marc Malachi Richards

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BUSINESS

Ify Ufele is.......

The Chubii Line

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THE CHUBII LINE | BY TAWANA BLASSINGAME

Child entrepreneur Ms. Ify Ufele made her debut in the spotlight when she appeared in the Daily News at the age of one. I guess one could say that she was born to be a star. Ify is a Nigerian princess to Emeka Ufele and Dr. Reba Perry-Ufele. Ify learned at a very young age to sew by watching and helping her grandmother Mrs. Nellie Rembert. At the tender age of eight years old, she began designing and sewing African print doll clothing. I am sure she had the best dressed dolls in town.

Outside of home Ify was battling other demons; the demons of childhood bullying. Ify has always been what I like to call real size; this brought on many jokes and bullying from kids in her school.

Poor Ify suffered; it literally made her sick. She missed a total of 42 days of school because of stomach aches, vomiting and severe headaches. She suffered from depression and became very withdrawn from her family and friends. This was all causing her grades to drop and Ify began putting on weight. This all didn’t go unnoticed by her mom. Her mom never let it go because she knew her daughter. Finally after asking on multiple occasions, Ify finally revealed to her mother that she was being bullied in school. And just as many caring mothers, Dr. Reba Perry-Ufele visited the school; not to take action against the students bullying her child, but to meet with the school officials to set up an anti-bullying program. This began the formation of Bully Chasers Inc. After meeting with school officials Dr. Perry-Ufele taught her daughter how to stand up against bullies.

Ify is now the CEO of Bully Chasers Inc. It is a company that was formed to educate everyone on the importance of understanding how bullying effects people’s lives. Not just the one being bullied, but friends and loved ones as well. Ify travels to schools and events to teach parents the warning signs for bullying.

With the help of mother, Ify took all of that negative issue and began to empower other kids with her fashion designs called ChubiiLine. Ify designs and sews her own clothing. Her passion is to introduce American kids to African Print with an Urban Twist. Each of her designs comes with doll with matching outfit; how cool is that! Ify has been blessed to grace many runways in America and has been featured in several magazines, received citations from many government officials in Pennsylvania, Boston & NY and have been on several talk shows & commercials. I am proud to say that the ChubiiLine also graced the runway of Queen Size Magazine’s Pink Carpet Fashion Show in November 2015. Ify is inspired by her older sister, Sade Perry, who also has a fashion line.

In August 2016, Ify Ufele will be in Lagos, Nigeria gracing the Run Way with her African Print designs.

For bookings please contact Publicist-Yvonne Forbes at Labelledivaprsm@gmail.com or Manager- Dr. Reba Renee Perry at Chubiiline@gmail.com

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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THE CHUBII LINE

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BUSINESS

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IN THE FULL FIGURED COMMUNITY

by Carriece Jefferson

Segregation?

Are you kidding?

Those are probably two of the many questions you’re asking yourself after reading the title. When we hear the word discrimination, it typically applies to race, religion, creed, sexual orientation, age, and gender. You’re sadly mistaken if you think that discrimination is just limited to those attributes and affiliations. The only reason why discrimination against weight isn’t a big deal to most is because many have the belief that weight can be controlled or helped unlike the other premises for discrimination.

Even though there’s a significant amount of biasness against full figured individuals when it comes down to fashion, romantic relationship preferences, the aviation industry, pseudo friendships, families (depending on its values and beliefs) and amusement park ride accommodations but what about the less obvious forms of such prejudice? How about variance in treatment that occurs in the workplace, place of worship, gender and let’s not forget the albino elephant – when a full figured person discriminates against a person of proximity. That’s right. Classicism within the full figured community has been in existence for a long time. Many would assume that full figured people would be the last to express animosity against others the same as them when the full figured community is constantly under society’s microscope resulting in harsh judgment.

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DISCRIMINATION IN THE FULL FIGURED COMMUNITY | BY CARRIECE JEFFERSON

NOT ALL FULL FIGURED PEOPLE ARE CREATED EQUAL! There’s a phrase, “I might not be the fastest runner but there’s someone who’s slower than me.” How does it apply to the subject matter? For starters not all full figured individuals have truly embraced themselves so therefore they are unhappy and unwilling to change their current emotional well-being. In order for them to feel superior, they deliberately compete against others while exploiting weaknesses at the same time. Such insecurity action can result from jealousy, or the need to belong in social circles.

Curvy vs Non Curvy A full figured woman having a successful modeling career was unheard of years ago. Thanks to retail stores for plus size women, the market for fuller women has become increasingly available to women. In addition to that, our male counterparts are openly stating their preference for “big women”, “a thick chick”, “a woman with some meat on her bones” or simply “a curvaceous lady”. Since fuller women with curves are favorable within the full figured community, an invisible line has been drawn. Does it mean that women who don’t have a small waist, a pear shape or an apple shape are less worthy? No of course not. But because partiality isn’t shown towards non curvy women they feel left out.

Male vs Female Gender inequality isn’t only applied to workplace earnings and wages. Personally I’ve been in settings where a larger female endured bullying but nothing was done to the male who happened to be in the same category. Sometimes full figured women are viewed as lazy, unfashionable, or lack self control. On the other hand a larger male is viewed as strong, tough, a ladies man and sometimes viewed as sexy.

The Workplace You met all the qualifications. You nailed the interview(s). But because you didn’t “look the culture”, you didn’t get the job offer. Even though no one in human resources would dare tell you, weight does play a part in decision making, depending on the organization’s culture. Stereotypes of laziness, excessive call-offs and increasing healthcare costs are made against overweight people.

Place of Worship Depending on your religious belief, this may or might not apply. As a Christian, I was rooted in church and raised on biblical principles. Within the African American church, there’s social politics. Meaning that members of the congregation with prestigious affiliations (preacher’s kid, married to such-and-such person, established family, etc.) are given a “free pass” verses a less popular member is frowned upon. How about when a larger member arrives to church late and the usher escorts them to a pew with one slot open? Instead of the other members scooting down they remain stationary, causing the person to squeeze and climb over others while over apologetically uttering, “excuse me” to keep from offending anyone?

As you can see weight intolerance happens in many ways that people don’t realize. People will always have opinions as long as the world is in existence. How you respond to their viewpoints depends on your confidence and self esteem. How you feel about yourself (thoughts) will manifest in the fruits in which you produce (actions).

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Marlena Murphy Fitness Instructor

Marlena Murphy a native of Fayetteville, N.C., earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Campbell University in 2008; and is currently earning her Master’s in Psychology from Walden University. She has experience in the fitness industry through her personal experience as an elite athlete, including earning a four-year scholarship from her alma mater, Campbell University. She was named to the All-Atlantic Sun First Team and twice named to the all-state team for North Carolina. Marlena was also ranked and recognized nationally for rebounding at 19th. Upon graduating, Marlena began her career as a Women’s Basketball Coach for Davidson College, and would later return and coach at her alma mater; Campbell University. Marlena became a certified personal trainer at Gold’s gym, where she was later promoted to Fitness director for the facility. She became a personal trainer and earned her certification from NASM and IFA, and is working on her ACE certification as a Health Coach. She believes in the necessity of advocating the importance of a healthy lifestyle that encompasses all areas of life, from physical, mental, and emotional; this creates the balance of life. Marlena believes in not only helping our clients achieve their goals, but also teaching and showing clients how to maintain their goals realistically and suitable to their lifestyle. Fitness and Health is a life-long journey and not meant to be temporary. Marlena is also a mother to her daughter, Leila. She further strives to be an example for her on the importance of health and fitness, and leading a healthy lifestyle.

Duane Jones Photography WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MARCH 2016 ISSUE

MARLENA MURPHY | MODEL

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

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HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVES We all know that drinking soda is not healthy for us; you don’t need me to tell you that. I know it feels so good going down; that nice cold liquid coating your insides. I know I used to divulge on it myself; I had to have it at least twice a day. (Yes we are still talking about soda).

Now here is the kicker; all things in moderation right? Think about the amount of sugar we take in on a daily basis. It’s not just the soda that we need to worry about, it’s all things combined, but almost everything that you take into your body has sugar in it. So why not try to cut back on some it; unless of course you have no fear of diabetes at all. Unless you are ok with all of that sugar turning into fat in your body. Well, I have had my share so I am not going to do any lecturing or judging here. I am only going to offer some healthier alternatives without you feeling like you are missing out on the soda.

I never liked seltzer water; I thought it was just horrible. And plain water was just as bad to me. But I had to learn to like it if I was going to try to live a healthier lifestyle. What I discovered was that I can still enjoy soda without actually having soda.

We already know about the adding lemon to water for flavor trick.

If you like sprite then get you some seltzer water and add lemon and lime to it; you have your sprite without the sugar.

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HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVES| BY TAWANA BLASSINGAME

You can also take seltzer water and add your favorite fruits to it. You now have yourself a soda with natural sugars. Much healthier right?

For a more refreshing flavor, try adding some mint to it.

I hope this brief article has inspired you to find healthier alternatives to soda without feeling like you are missing out. Convenience is not always the best way to go.

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BUSINESS

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The benefits of exercising for models

EXERCISE

Y

ikes, let’s talk about the dreaded word EXERCISE. That first sentence is probably where I lost some people, but for those of you that are still with me let’s get down to business.

I do not like to exercise; I repeat, I DO NOT LIKE TO EXERCISE. However, when you are in a certain line of business you have to do what is needed in order to get that job done effectively. Models, in the fashion industry should understand that exercising is not just to maintain a healthy lifestyle; it can also help you when it is time to do those photo shoots and runway walks. For those of you that have not stepped on a runway or who have not done a photo shoot that required you do to more than just put your hands on your hips and move side to side, then you wouldn’t understand.

When you hear someone say the word exercise, many of us get on the defense and think that it is a suggestion to lose weight; or that it is an implication that you are unhealthy. I recall watching a very popular runway show (I won’t mention the name of it people it is really irrelevant) and they were interviewing some of the models. Most of these models held prestigious careers in addition to being models and almost all of them admitted to dedicating at least three days to exercising. They went on to tell how important it was to their modeling careers. Some models walk up and down stairs to get on and off the runway. Some models are on their feet running around for hours before the show even starts. Walking a runway period can be tiring because if you are a true model and have a true model walk then you understand that it is more than just walking down the block; you are using way more muscles and still need to look beautiful. And then there are the poses; I have been on the set of photo shoots and had to turn my head upside down trying to figure out how a model got into a certain pose. In modeling you will use some muscles that you never knew were there. It’s like that say “you never know how much you use your pinky until it hurts”.

I can actually speak from personal experience because I direct many photo shoots, pose many models and on top of that I have done photo shoots myself. So believe me when I tell you, I understand. I have had to get into the poses where in my mind I am praying for that photographer to snap that photo before I break a bone, or pull a muscle.

I spoke to a couple of young ladies that can relate. Check out their photos and see what they had to say.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MARCH 2016 ISSUE

THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISING FOR MODELS | BY TAWANA BLASSINGAME

I prefer yoga stretching ”because it strengthens all

muscle groups, and gives you agility and energy.

”

This pose was done at the suggestion of the photographer; Carl Tuitt. This was a difficult pose; I had to balance myself on a small fire hydrant that comes out the wall.

This pose required me to sit up and hold my back straight, while using my stomach, thighs and calf muscles. Exercising is extremely important as a model. Cardio and stretching should be done on a regular basis. I prefer yoga stretching because it strengthens all muscle groups, and gives you agility and energy. A model is required to move very quickly between garment or designer changes. The last thing you need is to do is seem out of breath or overwhelmed on the runway. Breathing exercises are helpful too, you have to keep that model look #Face at all times, never let the audience see you ”sweat”.

Photo Credits Model | Techla Nesbitt Photographer | Carl Tuitt Hair and Makeup | by model

”

If I were not active at all I do not feel as though I would have been able to complete the shoot with this being one of the final shots.

”

This pose was one of the poses I decided on after making the hard climb on top of the train. I wanted to represent that plus women do have flexibility. I did several poses that day, but I felt this was one of the most difficult. I did hold the pose for several minutes. With the summer heat and heat radiating from the train tracks those minutes seemed like forever. I think that this pose was felt most in my thighs. Yes, exercising and stretching would make the pose easier. I do exercise some and I do feel that made the pose possible. If I were not active at all I do not feel as though I would have been able to complete the shoot with this being one of the final shots.

Photo Credits: Model | Curvaceous Diva Ms.E Photographer | Scott Hart, Memory Lane Photography Styling, T-Shirt Design and Makeup | by model

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BUSINESS

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�

Exercising helps as a model by working those muscles so that poses like this are easier to achieve without pain.

�

This particular pose used various muscles. I did not realize how hard it was going to be until I was actually in position. I felt the muscles in my calves, hips and arms. The longer the pose was held the more I felt. Exercising helps as a model by working those muscles so that poses like this are easier to achieve without pain. It also allows your muscles to develop so your able to do more difficult poses and hold poses longer. As a runway model working out your mid section is important as well. It will provide you with better balance.

Model | Natalie Dawn Photography | Rudy of Cotton Gems Designer | Cotton Gems Streetwear Apparel Makeup & Hair | Model

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THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISING FOR MODELS | BY TAWANA BLASSINGAME

”

A model who is not constantly working out will find themselves feeling sore after a gig.

”

I used mainly upper body muscle to hold this pose. My back muscles were used to support my frame, while my shoulder muscles were used to hold my hand in that position. To get that prefect picture, you may have to hold that awkward pose for a couple of minutes without being winded or sweating profusely. Constantly exercising and/or stretching eliminates that problem. A modeling job is very high intense and involves a lot of hectic movement. Whether it’s walking down the runway in five inches of heels or moving through poses on a set of a photo shoot, all of these activities require strength and flexibility. A model who is not constantly working out will find themselves feeling sore after a gig.

Model | Meesha-Ann Makeup & Hair | Model Photography | PDrew Photography, Philip Drew

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Cerina E. Johnson Zumba Instructor/ Actress/ Model

Cerina E. Johnson is a Leasing Professional, Zumba Instructor and Actress. She attributes her ability to handle the work load to her fitness regimen. ”I can see the difference in my energy level ever since I began incorporating Zumba regularly. I’m more toned now than I’ve ever been before. It’s not about being ”skinny”, it’s truly about consistency and overall health. It really is a lifestyle!” She began to beef up her classes by adding HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) into her routines. ”Every move can be modified...you may not get it on the first try, but I promise you will by the second attempt. You have to start somewhere and once you do, it’s only up from there!”

Duane Jones Photography WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MARCH 2016 ISSUE

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Traces Of My Pen By: Kamille Rivers

Inspiration The women that have inspired me are none other Than Ms. Maya Angelou and Ms. Nikki Giovanni I found solace as a young girl in this cold unfair world just by hearing their poetry from someone’s lips or reading their word Those words skipping off the page and into my creative mind I wanted to jump into their poetry and go back into that specific time!

Maya Angelou’s Phenomenal Woman , Still I rise!

After reading them made me smile from ear to ear.

I realized as a colored girl that I could explore the world as well as be proud of my natural curls.

Or I could sing the blues and wear a tool belt, put my feet in any man shoes.

I knew why the caged sang it’s beautiful song.

Even though I knew that it was all wrong.

Maya Angelou made it sound right and I knew I would be okay to fight the good fight.

I wanted to one day be able to say “I met this is phenomenal woman” Ms.Nikki Giovanni’s poetry had me dancing to the rhythm of her words Like a Queen should do.

I also knew that it was fine to wear silk fine threads and listen to music, nod my confused but weary head.

She told the entire world that it is good to say a kind word. to spread love to our fellow man or any human being.

Ms. Maya Angelou and Ms. Nikki Giovanni’s poetry are forever timeless you see. they make you feel like you are a part of their extended branched out family tree.

I salute and thank you both for writing your poetry and trying to mend the world’s broken heart.

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