November 2021 by Queen Size Magazine

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

FROM THE DESK OF Tawana Blassingame Founder & Editor in Chief

Welcome to the November 2021 issue of Queen Size Magazine. I have learned to never get stagnant or complacent. This applies to all areas in your life. Each day should bring some level of growth. When I began Queen Size Magazine ten years ago, I vowed that with each turn of the year I would bring something fresh to the magazine. And I stayed true to that. These changes are usually planned out at least two years in advance so we can properly prepare for them. Well as you all know, we celebrated ten years in publication back in June. It was a proud day for me because so many people told me that I would never survive in the magazine business. Whelp! QSM is still here and we are still going strong. So while this news is a bit bitter sweet, a change is needed. QSM will be getting a major facelift. We are going fully digital providing free content for our readers to have access to. YEP! That means no more print issues. Told you it was bittersweet. As they magazine world evolves, we must evolve as well, or risk being left behind. January 1st will be the big reveal of our new website. Stay tuned to our social media for all the great updates and the reveal of our new logo.

Photo by Philip Drew @pdrewphotography

A sincere thank you to all of you for continuing to support Queen Size Magazine. We would love to hear your feedback. Email us at queensizemagazine@gmail.com and let us know what you like, don’t like and/or want to see in future issues. We value your opinion. Be blessed and remember to be a blessing as well.

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MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

MASTHEAD TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief PHILIP DREW Executive Director & Director of Photography MEESHA ANN Executive Director SOCIAL DEPARTMENT SHEENA POSTELL Social Media Correspondant BEAUTY DEPARTMENT LAWANDA SANYANG Beauty Editor / Makeup NATHANIEL JAYE’ Beauty Editor / Hair CRYSTAL D. LEWIS Beauty Editor / Hair FASHION DEPARTMENT ASHLEY WALKER Fashion Editor LIFESTYLE DEPARTMENT Janelle Simmons Lifestyle Editor Nyemade Boiwu Lifestyle Editor

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Yolanda Michelle Jackson MUA | La’Toya Nicole @la_toyanicole205

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NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

FEATURED STORY

YOLANDA MICHELLE JACKSON This is her Story. By QSM

HEALTH AND FITNESS

RALLY THE CROWD WITH A MASTERFUL GAME DAY MENU By FAMILY FEATURES

5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE AND SUPPORT HONEY BEES By BRANDPOINT

BEAUTY&FASHION

THE BENEFITS OF TREATMENT FACIALS

IN THE MIND OF IRIS PEREZ AND HOW SHE COPES WITH MENTAL ILLNESS

By LAWANDA “LALA FACES” SANYANG

MODEL SPOTLIGHT

CONTENTS

By QSMG

WINTERIZE YOUR HAIR CARE ROUTINE

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | KJ PEEPLES

3 FUN, FASHIONABLE TRENDS FOR FALL

48 50

By CRYSTAL D. LEWIS

By QSM

By STATEPOINT

BUSINESS FALL IN LOVE WITH DATING AGAINE By NYEMADE BOIWU

BLACK VOICES, BLACK STORIES By FAMILY FEATURES

26 38

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

FAMILY FEATURES

coring big on game day requires champion shiplevel meals and snacks that keep the crowd full and ready for action. You can take your tailgate to the house with these baked dishes that help simplify homegating so you can focus on the big screen. From a salsabased dip and chicken wings to kick off the party to sweet brownies for celebrating victory, each of these recipes call for less than an hour in the kitchen. Clock management is key to tackling a tailgate spread, making these delicious dishes the perfect play calls on game day. To find more tailgate and homegate recipe inspiration, visit Culinary.net.

Just Wing It

FAMILY FEATURES

coring big on game day requires champion

meals and snacks that keep the Skip the silverware at your nextshiplevel homegate and full and ready dive right in with a fan favoritecrowd that requires just for action. You can take your tailgate to the house with these your hands and a heap ofbaked napkins: disheswings. that help simplify homegating so you Whether you pick through youronpieces clean can focus the bigorscreen. each wing to the bone, these Game Day Chicken From a salsabased dip and chicken wings to kickof offall thetypes. party toAsweet brownies for celebrating Wings are perfect for eaters simple each of these flour-based coating keepsvictory, the recipe easy to recipes make call for less than an hour in the kitchen. Clock management is key to and baking in the oven means you can skip the tackling a tailgate spread, making these delicious messy fryer or firing up the grill. dishes the perfect play calls on game day. Cook until crispy then corral your party’s To find more tailgate and homegate recipe inspiration, favorite dipping sauces from ranch visit and Culinary.net. blue cheese to barbecue and more. Once your spread is Cap Off Game Day with an served, it’s time to sit back andWing enjoy It the game. Just Visit Culinary.net All-Star Combo to find more touchdownSkip the silverware at your next homegate and worthy tailgate recipes. Pregame festivities salty that snacks andjust meaty dive right in with call a fanfor favorite requires your hands and a heap of napkins: wings. celebrations morsels, but halftime eating and postgame Whether picktreats. through your pieces or clean are perfect for you sweet Game Day Chicken Wings eachcan wing to the bone, thesetailgate Game Day Chicken You sweeten up your or homegate Wings are perfect for eaters of all types. A simple Total time: 50 minutes withflour-based a shareable option likethe Marbled Peanut Butter coating keeps recipe easy to make Servings: 4 Chocolate Brownies made withyou Domino Golden Sugar, and baking in the oven means can skip the 1/2 cup butter, cubed messy fryer from or firing up the grill. which is made pure cane sugar and dissolves and Cook until then like corralwhite your party’s 1/3 cup flour measures cup forcrispy cup just granulated sugar favorite dipping sauces from ranch and blue 2 teaspoons paprika without compromising performance or taste. Featuring cheese to barbecue and more. Once your spread is 1 teaspoon garlic powder an undefeated combination peanut and choc served, it’s time to sit backof and enjoy butter the game. 1 teaspoon saltolate, this Visitdessert Culinary.net to find touchdownis ideal for more baking a day ahead so 1 teaspoon black pepper tailgatethe recipes. you worthy can manage clock on game day. 10 chicken wingettes, thawed Find more tailgating sweets at dominosugar.com. dipping sauces (optional) Game Day Chicken Wings fresh parsley (optional) Total time: 50 minutes Marbled Peanut Butter Chocolate Servings: 4 Preheat oven to 425 F. 1/2 Arrange cup butter, cubed Line baking sheet Brownies with foil. butter 1/3 25 cup flour Prep time: minutes cubes on foil. 2 teaspoons paprika In medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic Cook time: 20 minutes 1 teaspoon garlic powder powder, salt and pepper. Yield: brownies 241 teaspoon salt Coat both sides of Chocolate Brownies: wings flour mixture then in1 teaspoon black pepper evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet. 10 chicken wingettes, thawed 1/2 cup (1/4 pound) butter dipping sauces (optional) Bake wings 30 minutes. 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped Turn wings over and 15 fresh parsley (optional) minutes, or until bake 1 cup Domino Golden Sugar Preheat oven to 425 F. crispy and fully cooked. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Line baking sheetwith with foil. Arrange butter Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle 2 eggs cubes on foil. fresh parsley, if desired. Incup all-purpose flour medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic 1/2 powder, salt and pepper. Coat both sides of wings in flour mixture then evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet. Bake wings 30 minutes. Turn wings over and bake 15 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked. Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired.

Peanut Butter Marble: 1/4 cup natural (no added sugar) peanut butter 4 tablespoons butter, softened 1/2 cup Domino Golden Sugar 1 egg 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon baking powder powdered sugar, for topping (optional) Heat oven to 350 F. To make chocolate brownies: In medium saucepot over low heat, melt butter and chocolate. Remove pot from heat; stir in sugar and vanilla until blended. In small mixing bowl, whisk eggs until frothy then stir into chocolate mixture. Sift flour into batter and stir just until smooth. Pour batter into prepared pan, smoothing to edges. To make peanut butter marble: In mixing bowl, cream peanut butter, butter and sugar. Add egg and vanilla; beat just until blended. In separate bowl, sift or whisk flour and baking powder then stir into batter just until combined. Carefully spread peanut butter marble over chocolate batter. Use knife to swirl batters together, first horizontally then diagonally. Bake 20 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out almost clean. Cool completely on wire rack before cutting. Top with powdered sugar, if desired, before serving.

zza Dip

sy of chef George Duran

ick cooking spray poon vegetable oil d ground beef ge taco seasoning mix s cream cheese, at m temperature our cream resh Cravings Chunky Salsa, plus tional for topping rated mozzarella lended Mexican cheese jalapeno (optional) black olives (optional) onions (optional) a chips o 350 F. 8-inch glass pan or large souffle dish cooking spray; set aside. te pan, heat oil over mediumhigh round beef, breaking up with flat a, until fully cooked. Sprinkle taco ughout beef and combine. beef mixture in large bowl and eese, sour cream, 1 cup salsa and Mix well until combined and pour into Top with blended cheese and sliced k olives and green onions, if desired. ully warmed and cheese is melted, . mall spoonfuls of salsa. Serve with

Cap Off Game Day with an All-Star Combo

Peanut Butter Marble: 1/4 cup natural (no added sugar) peanut butter 4 tablespoons butter, softened Pregame festivities call for salty snacks and meaty 1/2 cup Domino Golden Sugar morsels, but halftime eating and postgame celebrations 1 egg are perfect for sweet treats. 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract You can sweeten up your tailgate or homegate 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Peanut Butter Marble: Cap Off Game Day with an with a shareable option like Marbled Peanut Butter 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 cup natural (no added sugar) peanut butter All-Star Combo Chocolate Brownies made with Domino Golden Sugar, 4 tablespoons butter, softened festivities for salty and meaty and 1/2 cup Domino Golden Sugar which isPregame made from purecall cane sugarsnacks and dissolves powdered sugar, for topping (optional) morsels, butcup halftime and postgame celebrations 1 egg measures cup for just eating like white granulated sugar Heat oven to 350 F. perfect for sweet treats. teaspoon vanilla extract withoutare compromising performance or taste. Featuring 1/4 To cup all-purpose flour make chocolate brownies: In medium saucepot You can sweeten up your tailgate or homegate 1/4 an undefeated combination choc over with a shareable option of likepeanut Marbledbutter Peanutand Butter heat, melt butter and chocolate. Remove pot 1/4 low teaspoon baking powder olate, this dessertBrownies is ideal made for baking a dayGolden ahead Sugar, so Chocolate with Domino from heat; stir in sugar and vanilla until blended. is made sugar and dissolves and you canwhich manage the from clockpure on cane game day. powdered sugar, for topping (optional) In small mixing bowl, whisk eggs until frothy then cup for cup just like white granulated sugar Find measures more tailgating sweets at dominosugar.com. Heat 350 F. stiroven intotochocolate mixture. without compromising performance or taste. Featuring ToSift make chocolate brownies: medium saucepot flour into batter andInstir just until smooth. Pour an undefeated combination of peanut butter and choc over low into heat, prepared melt butterpan, and chocolate. Remove pot batter smoothing to edges. olate, this dessert is ideal for baking a day ahead so Marbled Peanut Butter Chocolate from heat; stir in sugar and vanilla until blended. To make peanut butter marble: In mixing you can manage the clock on game day. In small mixing bowl, whisk eggs until frothy then bowl, Brownies Find more tailgating sweets at dominosugar.com. cream peanut butter, stir into chocolate mixture.butter and sugar. Add egg and Prep time: 25 minutes Sift flourbeat into batter and stir just untilInsmooth. Pourbowl, sift vanilla; just until blended. separate Cook time: 20 minutes batter into prepared pan,baking smoothing to edges. or whisk flour and powder then stir into batter Marbled Peanut Butter Chocolate To make peanut butter marble: In mixing bowl, Yield: 24 brownies Brownies just until combined. cream peanut butter, butter and sugar. Add egg and Carefully peanutInbutter marble over Chocolate Brownies: Prep time: 25 minutes vanilla; beat justspread until blended. separate bowl, sift time: 20 minutes Usepowder knife to swirl batters 1/2 Cook cup (1/4 pound) butter orchocolate whisk flourbatter. and baking then stir into battertogether, 24 brownies first horizontally just until combined. then diagonally. 2 Yield: ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped Carefully spread peanutor butter over inserted in Bake 20 minutes, untilmarble toothpick 1 Chocolate Brownies: cup Domino Golden Sugar chocolate batter. Use to swirl batters together, 1/2 cup (1/4 pound) butter center comes outknife almost clean. Cool completely on 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract first horizontally then diagonally. ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped wire rack before cutting. Top with powdered sugar, if 2 eggs2 Bake 20 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in 1 cup Domino Golden Sugar desired, before serving. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour center comes out almost clean. Cool completely on 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mexican Pizza Dip Score Big with a Salsa-Based Dip Mexican Pizza Dip Score Big with a Salsa-Based Dip Recipe courtesyRecipe of chef George Duran Whether your game dayWhether celebrations call day for cele a brations courtesy of chef George Duran your game call for a WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE Servings: 68 Servings: 68 fullblown parking lot party or homegating with fullblown parking lot party or homegating with

Nonstick cooking spray closest friends, theyou nibbles and noshes Nonstick cooking spray you your closest friends, theyour nibbles and noshes 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil serve your set themenu stage. with Building your menu with serve set the stage. Building 1 pound ground beef crowdpleasing classics – including one triedand 1 pound ground beef crowdpleasing classics – including one triedand 1 package taco seasoning mix true favorite that offers a fresh, veggie-forward 1 package taco seasoning mix 8 ounces cream cheese, at true favorite that offers ataste: fresh, veggie-forward chilled salsa – makes your guests cheer for 8 ounces cream cheese, at

2 eggs 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

wire rack before cutting. Top with powdered sugar, if desired, before serving.

RALLY THE

evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet. Bake wings 30 minutes. Turn wings over and bake 15 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked. Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle with CROWD.... | FAMILY FEATURES fresh parsley, if desired.

Cap Off Game Day wi All-Star Combo

Pregame festivities call for salt morsels, but halftime eating an are perfect for sweet treats. You can sweeten up your tai with a shareable option like Ma Chocolate Brownies made with which is made from pure cane measures cup for cup just like w without compromising perform an undefeated combination of p olate, this dessert is ideal for ba you can manage the clock on g Find more tailgating sweets a

Marbled Peanut Butter Brownies

Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Yield: 24 brownies Chocolate Brownies: 1/2 cup (1/4 pound) butte 2 ounces unsweetened c 1 cup Domino Golden S 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extra 2 eggs 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Score Big with a Salsa-Based Dip

Whether your game day celebrations call for a fullblown parking lot party or homegating with your closest friends, the nibbles and noshes you serve set the stage. Building your menu with crowdpleasing classics – including one triedand true favorite that offers a fresh, veggie-forward taste: chilled salsa – makes your guests cheer for more than just the home team. Healthy game day snacks are important to almost half (48%) of tailgaters and 18% said they’d consider leaving a party if salsa wasn’t served, according to the “Game Day Eats Report” survey from refrigerated salsa brand Fresh Cravings. With its low calorie count packed with high flavor, salsa supports healthconscious goals. Made with ingredients like fresh tomatoes, crisp vegetables, zesty peppers and more, the authentic taste of chilled salsa is a universal favorite among fans. With a belief that plantbased foods should contain wholesome ingredients and bold flavors worth celebrating, Fresh Cravings refrigerated salsas are available in the produce section, next to dressings and dips, in restaurantstyle or chunky mild, medium and hot varieties. Chilled salsa is an affordable and vibrant-tasting alternative to jarred salsa, making it a key ingredient in this Mexican Pizza Dip from celebrity chef George Duran. It’s a simple crowdpleaser you can make in less than an hour, leaving more time for pregame festivities. For more information and game day recipe ideas, visit freshcravings.com.

Mexican Pizza Dip

Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran Servings: 68 Nonstick cooking spray 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 pound ground beef 1 package taco seasoning mix 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 1/2 cup sour cream 1 cup Fresh Cravings Chunky Salsa, plus additional for topping 1 cup grated mozzarella 1/2 cup blended Mexican cheese sliced jalapeno (optional) sliced black olives (optional) green onions (optional) tortilla chips Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray 8-by-8-inch glass pan or large souffle dish with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. In large saute pan, heat oil over mediumhigh heat and add ground beef, breaking up with flat wooden spatula, until fully cooked. Sprinkle taco seasoning throughout beef and combine. Place warm beef mixture in large bowl and add cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup salsa and mozzarella. Mix well until combined and pour into prepared pan. Top with blended cheese and sliced jalapeno, black olives and green onions, if desired. Bake until fully warmed and cheese is melted, 3035 minutes. Top with small spoonfuls of salsa. Serve with tortilla chips.

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE AND SUPPORT HONEY BEES Did you know honey bees are responsible for over 35% of the foods you eat, as well as the honey you enjoy? Honey bees are vital to the health of the planet and to the food chain, as they are necessary for pollinating more than 90 food crops including fruits, vegetables and nuts - plus alfalfa, which is used as feed for the livestock that supply our meat and dairy. There are many ways you can enjoy the fruits of the honey bees’ labor, while also helping to support their habitats and ensuring they’ll be around for generations to come. The National Honey Board has partnered with registered dietitian Maggie Michalczyk, RDN, to bring you her favorite planet-friendly tips and ideas. “Honey is one of my go-to staples because of its pure qualities and positive impact on crucial pollinators,” said Michalczyk. “I like to recommend honey to my clients who want wholesome ingredients they can feel good about consuming, without having to compromise taste - as honey is a flavorful addition to a variety of foods and beverages.” Here are Michalczyk’s tips for enjoying and celebrating the hardworking pollinator. CELEBRATE POLLINATOR FOODS Honey bees pollinate plants and trees in all 50 U.S. states, and are needed to pollinate over 90 crops. So the next time you are enjoying apples, avocados, cherries, almonds or sunflower seeds, you can celebrate the fact that all of these foods are made possible by hardworking honey bees. SWEAT FOR BEES Movement is key to a balanced life. Skip

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the pesticides in your yard and pull weeds by hand instead. Then make sure to plant bee-friendly flowers and flowering herbs in your garden and yard. Get the whole family involved and let kids know which flowers are good for bees, so they’ll know to get excited when they see bees around in the future. EXPAND YOUR PRODUCE PALATE Pollinators, including honey bees, are responsible for 1 in every 3 bites of food that everyone eats, including many fruits and vegetables. Eating a wide variety of produce plays a role in enhancing the diversity of your gut microbiome, which has been reported to be good for your overall health. WORK IN DAILY NATURAL ENERGY BOOSTERS Consider a mid-afternoon break with a cup of tea sweetened with honey. Green and black tea both contain beneficial antioxidants, and honey is a 100% pure and natural energy booster. MAKE IT MEDITERRANEAN Take a page from the popular Mediterranean diet and fill your plate with whole grains, lean proteins like fish, unsaturated fats, fruits and veggies - and use honey whenever possible. Honey is traditionally part of the Mediterranean-Style Dietary Pattern, as recognized in the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Next, try Michalczyk’s tasty recipe, which features honey and other foods that have been produced by the work of honey bees:

5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE AND SUPPORT HONEY BEES | BRANDPOINT

HONEY APPLE FLATBREAD Ingredients 1 tablespoon honey 1/4 cup mascarpone or cream cheese, softened 1 whole-wheat flatbread, pre-cooked 1 Honeycrisp apple (or any other favorite apple variety), thinly sliced 1/4 cup pecan pieces 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds 2 teaspoons cinnamon Directions Mix honey together with mascarpone or cream cheese until combined. Spread a thin layer of the cheese-honey mixture on flatbread and top with apple

slices, pecan pieces, pumpkin seeds and cinnamon - plus an extra drizzle of honey, if desired. Makes 1 serving. To celebrate National Honey Month this September, the National Honey Board has launched “Honey Saves Hives,” partnering with several U.S. companies that will each make a donation to Project Apis m., the largest honey bee nonprofit in the country. By purchasing participating made with honey products from these brands during September, you can help save the honey bees: Companion Baking, Justin’s, Lost Cause Meadery, Melle Water and Purely Elizabeth. Visit HoneySavesHives.com for more information.

Photo courtesy Maggie Michalczyk

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

The Benefits of Treatment Facials

By Lala Sanyang

Hello Queens, Do you have a skin care routine? Do you know your skin type? What is one thing you like to change about your skin? These are just few questions your favorite Esthetician might ask of you during a session. If you have never had or considered seeking a Licensed Esthetician for a Treatment Facial now is the time to understand benefits of Treatment facials. Did you know your skin is the largest organ on your body? There are four skin types normal, oily, combination and dry. An accurate skin analysis provide by an Esthetician is a crucial step in recommending the most effective treatment for your skin type. The second is starting a skin care routine and being consistent to have the desired results. You don’t have to wait until you start to have skin challenges to reap the benefits of facials. Facial treatment can address concerns such as acne, blood circulation, clear clogged pores, lymphatic drainage, remove dead skin cells through deep exfoliation, anti-aging properties and facial massage. Facials can also offer a holistic approach to wellness and relaxation for self-care. You have to wear your skin a lifetime so why not keep in shape? Queens love the skin you are in with a facial.

Photo by Angela Roma from Pexels

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www.lalafaces.com

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Silvana Denker @silvanadenker Model | Rebekka Nietzke-Pfenningsdorf @labekka006 Hair and Makeup Team Jasmin Fronholt @jasmin.macht.makeup Ilka Müller @ilkaem75

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

Photographer | Silvana Denker @silvanadenker Model | Dominique Joynes @_do_ey_ Hair and Makeup Team Jasmin Fronholt @jasmin.macht.makeup Ilka Müller @ilkaem75

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Photographer | Silvana Denker @silvanadenker Model | Joana Zodet @curvymodel_lillybutterfly Hair and Makeup Team Jasmin Fronholt @jasmin.macht.makeup Ilka Müller @ilkaem7 (top and bottom image)5 WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE SEE PAGE 26 FOR MORE INFO FOLLOW US

BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photorgrapher | Kristal Suarez-Perez Model | Iris Perez @ iamirisperez Bikini & Cover up| Fashion Nova @fashionnova

IN THE MIND OF IRIS PEREZ WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

IN THE MIND OF IRIS PEREZ| QSM QSM: Tell us a little about yourself and your background. Iris: Well, growing up as the oldest child, taking care of my five-year-old sister and newborn brother at the age of 10, while my mother had to work 80 hours a week, I didn’t have a choice but to be an “adult” and take care of the household. Sometimes we didn’t have food, so I would go to my friend’s house and her mom would feed me us. My father left when I was fiver; my mom changed. It was never easy for her being a single mother alone and having to go through her biggest heartbreak. Her first love, her first everything. Alone, no money and about to be homeless. My mother was fighting her own demons, I can’t blame her for not being there. She was struggling just to keep a roof over our heads. After a while, my mother had different men come and go. This is where things start getting dark, so I apologize in advance since it might trigger some emotions. His name was Wilbert. I’m not sure how long they’d been dating, but I do remember one night my mom started screaming at him. I woke up and realized he was laying in my bed while she had fallen asleep in her bedroom. My pants weren’t on, I only had my underwear and my nightgown on. I was scared because I thought I was in trouble. But I didn’t understand at the time why because this whole time I was sleeping. She asked me while she was still yelling if Wilbert had touched my privates. And to be honest, I was ten, just woke up and mind you I have always been a heavy sleeper. At least back then of course. I never saw him again after that night. Months after that passed and she started dating a new guy. I could never remember his name, but I always remembered his green eyes and his green braces with crooked teeth. My mom got sick one night and he came to take care of her. It was later in the night I sneaked in the living room to watch Ren and Stimpy while I thought everyone was asleep. I heard my mom’s bedroom door open slowly and it was him, so I wasn’t worried. I was relieved that I wasn’t in trouble. He quietly asks me to go to bed before my mom notices I’m up watching cartoons so late. I’m ten, what am I supposed to do but listen? So I turn off the tv, go to the kitchen to get some water

when all of a sudden I feel his arms wrapping around me from behind. I then ask him what he is doing because he’s never hugged me before. He told me that I was beautiful, and he just wanted a kiss. I tried to push him away but then he got rough and shoved me against the wall. He covered my mouth and grabs a knife, and he whispers in my ear “If you tell your mom I’m going to do the same to your sister.” He then starts to run his hands in my shorts and molest me. I was able to get away from him and ran to my room and locked the door behind me. He tried to open the door and when he couldn’t he stopped, but then I heard him say through the door “remember what I told you.” A week had passed, and he was coming over every day. My mom was happy, sitting on his lap and was so afraid I didn’t know what to do. As I was walking to get my Barbie doll to go outside and play, and he was staring at me the whole time. I was more scared for my sister than anything at that moment. I didn’t want her to feel what I felt. So I asked my mom if I can talk to her alone. I told her what happened, but she could not believe it. She calls him into the room and makes me repeat what I told her. He said I lied and that I was flirting with him the whole time. Mind you, I was ten. Back then kids were getting dirty outside. I just played Barbies and made Reese’s parties for them. She kicked him out but we never talked about it again. After that incident, I was molested by two other men and raped by the next after that. At age 14 I was pregnant and didn’t even know it until months down the road. It was my mother’s “friend” at the time. When she found out what had happened, she made me live with him. I continued to be raped in his mom’s house, and I wasn’t allowed to say anything because I was going to be the mother of his first and only child. He was 24 at the time. I tried my best to hide the marks on my thighs and neck sometimes. I felt alone. I couldn’t tell my own family because I was afraid that nobody would believe me. When I turned fifteen, I tried to leave. But because I was a minor and had no adult to support me. He ended up taking my baby away from me. Little by little I wasn’t allowed to see her. In the back of my mind I was always afraid that he would do the same to her. Till this day from what I know he never did. In her eyes he’s the best father in the world. And I was the one who “abandoned” her. WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

BEAUTY AND FASHION

Fast forward to when I turned 18 years old, I tried to get custody of her but when they asked who she wanted to be with despite me telling them what happened, he was given full custody. And I never saw her until she turned 14. When I was 19 years old, I got into a toxic relationship. His name is Jose. Before we met, I was going to college to be a teacher. He was sweet at first (we all know how that story goes). Just until he started to get jealous of everyone I was talking to. He beat me, almost killed me, my newborn baby we had, my 10-year-old brother at the time and my 3-year-old daughter. He tried to crash his car down a cliff. But thankfully a tree held the car and we were able to get out with a couple of scratches. I endured this for five years in and off. I thought I wasn’t enough. That I would never find someone that would love me. I thought my life was stuck with him. Because his mother always used to tell me he wasn’t a bad man. He was just misunderstood. This is just the short version of how my young

Photorgrapher | Kristal Suarez-Perez Model | Iris Perez @ iamirisperez Bikini & Cover up| Fashion Nova @fashionnova WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

life started as the nightmare I could not get up from. There’s more. But I think you can get an idea. QSM: When were you diagnosed with depression and what were the signs? Iris: I was diagnosed with PTSD, chronic depression, and anxiety at the age of 27. I used to have nightmares, I used to think Jose was hiding somewhere to kill me. Sometimes I had thought of just taking my own life just to get away from the fear. But just the thought of leaving my youngest two daughters behind kept me alive this whole time. QSM: Does mental illness run in your family? Iris: I’m sure my mother suffered from depression, but she never believed in doctors. And always said that’s just for crazy people. QSM: Have you ever contemplated or attempted suicide? Can you share?. Iris: I would be lying if I said I never had. In the past I had thoughts. At one point I was planning on driving against a truck and just ended it right there.

IN THE MIND OF IRIS PEREZ| QSM

Photorgrapher | Kristal Suarez-Perez Model | Iris Perez @ iamirisperez Bikini & Cover up| Fashion Nova @fashionnova

managed to deal with it by meditation and prayer. QSM: Being a model and being on social media, how do you manage your emotions? Because I know social media can be a struggle sometimes. Iris: to be honest, after the life I’ve had I don’t get triggered by trolls on social media. Most of them are already unhappy with themselves, dealing with their own demons. I just laugh at the comments and keep moving.

QSM: Can you share one of your darkest moments in your life and how you were able to overcome it? Iris: Heartbreak can really take a toll on you in many ways. Not too long ago I thought I had finally found the one. And I didn’t realize there was red flags till the moment I was stranded in the hospital waiting for him to get me after an episode of low sodium combined with an anxiety attack. I got home at almost 4am to find that he took all his belongings, blocked me from social media and never heard from him again. I felt destroyed emotionally. All of the feelings from the past came rushing through, that feeling of being alone is REAL. That night I was going to end it all. I was going to throw myself headfirst from the second floor of my apartment. But then I thought of my 15-year-old daughter at home. I couldn’t do this to her. I fought with my demons that night. I called my sister. I didn’t tell her my plan, but I think she knew something was off because we talked for hours and she didn’t want to hang up. If it wasn’t for her. Idk what would of happened. QSM: Have you been able to recognize what your emotional triggers are? Iris: there’s certain songs, scents and even words that can trigger those feelings. But I’ve

QSM: Where do you find happiness on your dark days? Iris: My daughter Kristal has been the light of my life these days. Painting, family, close friends have been an outlet to get out of that darkness. QSM: Let’s talk about these bomb ass images and the inspiration behind it. Walk us through the story on why you did these particular images. Iris: You wouldn’t believe me if u told you this was taken two days after my attempt of committing suicide. It was a breakthrough. It tells a story of the beautiful woman, the body that everyone sees, but fails to notice the suffering in her mind and soul. QSM: What advice can you offer people suffering through mental illness? Iris: look for help. Talk to your close friends. Talk to that family member you trust. I promise you I know how you feel. But we are going to make it. Together! QSM: Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. Please tell people where they can follow and support you and your work. Iris: IG: @iamirisperez - I’ve also created my very first body positive coloring book with real people that you can also follow. You can find it on IamIrisPerez.com WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

BEAUTY AND FASHION

By Crystal D. Lewis 28 years as a Licensed Cosmetologist, Beauty Expert, Educator/Trainer, Philanthropist and Owner of I Say Yes Salon and Spa, LLC (Cinnaminson, NJ) Email: Isayyessalonspallc@gmail.com Website:Isayyessalonandspa.com Join the I Say Yes Community follow, like and share us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @isayyessalonspa

WINTERIZE YOUR HAIR CARE ROUTINE Photo by Miriam Alonso from Pexels

You “winterize” your wardrobe in the colder months, pulling out boots, sweaters, mittens and more. If you live in a really cold place, you may winterize your house and your vehicle, too — anything to make winter’s chill a little more bearable. You may find yourself reaching for rich hand creams and lip balms come winter, but did you know it’s also important to winterize your hair care routine?

Think about it. Winter means dryness; it’s dry outside and it’s dry inside. When the weather cools down, we turn on the heat and that causes even more moisture to evaporate! A lack of moisture means curls can deflate, skin and hair can feel drier than normal and do we even need to mention the static? Oh, the static. Sometimes our hair looks like we stuck our finger in a light socket.

When winter weather hits, a bad hair day can last an entire season. In fact, even if you live in a moderate climate, in my research, they say you’re still susceptible to hair-raising changes as the seasons pass.

The environment can have some of the most damaging effects on hair in both summer and winter, but in winter it’s often worse because people generally don’t take as many precautions to protect their hair.

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WINTERIZE YOUR HAIR CARE ROUTINE| CRYSTAL D. LEWIS

If your trusty summer/fall hair care isn’t working quite as well come winter, you can take both protective and replenishing steps. Moisture, Moisture, and more Moisture. We’re putting this right at the top because, adding moisture is the #1 rule for winterizing your hair. ● Cover It Up ● Ask For More Love In The Salon ● Stay Out Of Hot Water ● Use A Heat Styling Protectant ● Trim It Up It may be time to switch up your go-to shampoo and conditioner. If you’ve noticed dullness and dryness, opt for something with more moisture. You may find that lack of moisture is your primary concern in the winter. At the top of the list for most stylists: regular use of a thick, rich, moisturizing conditioner with a few key ingredients. For me, the product has to contain essential fatty acids and humectants not only because they are best at moisturizing hair, but because they help attract and hold moisture in the hair, which can be a real challenge in winter weather.

Photo by Liza Summer from Pexels

If you are blessed with thick or curly hair, or ultra-thick heavy hair, you need a thick, heavy conditioning hair pack -- a deep treatment you leave on for about a half-hour, once or twice a week if you are doing this at home or please go into your stylist of choice and ask for an aquatic mister, not a steamer which would take you to 8-10 minutes which the conditioning can be custom made just for you. I custom blend conditioners for each person in my salon. If your hair is very fine, thin, and flyaway, it’s best to use certain oils that have protein in them and to condition before you shampoo. Using the proper shampoo is just as important because you want to keep that scalp clean. So knowing that all my wonderful ladies and gents will be coming out of your summer protective styles, these littles suggestions should be able to get you started. Again, if you’re not sure before you start any process, please consult a licensed professional cosmetologist, or reach out to me. Happy Winterizing your beautiful Hair! WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

BEAUTY AND FASHION

To Wear or Not to Wear White? So who and what is responsible for the whole “no white after Labor Day” dispute? Labor Day typically represents the end of summer, and the welcoming of fall and much cooler weather. Back in the day, ’rule’ was established that “you shouldn’t wear white after Labor Day if you didn’t have the money to take fall and winter vacations”. This so called rule was also used as a way to identify those who needed to work and those who didn’t. The “you can’t wear white after Labor Day,” rule was created to separate the old money elitists from the new money group. For those who had money and could leave the city during warmer months, white was actually considered vacation attire. No one is completely sure exactly when or why this fashion rule came into effect, but we can surely guess that it had much to do with snobbery in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The wives of the super-rich elitists, ruled high society after the Civil War, and what they said went, when it came to fashion and what was acceptable socially. Believe it or not, the question still remains all these years later, do we wear white after Labor Day and during the fall and winter months???? Of course we can wear the white, and it makes perfect sense to do so in climates where September and October temperatures are hardly fall-like. It really comes down to more about the fabric choice today than color. We can go all in and wear all white, or play around with layering or pairing pieces if the need to compliment the white with other color arises. I say, “Just put on the white!!!!!”

Photographer | Alfred Beverly @charissolutionsphotography Model | Ashley Walker @msbeyoudoyou Designer | @kenyamollie @sylviamollie

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by Ashley Walker

TO WEAR OR NOT TO WEAR WHITE| ASHLEY WALKER

Photographer | Alfred Beverly @charissolutionsphotography Model | Ashley Walker @msbeyoudoyou Wearing | Curverra @curverra

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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TO WEAR OR NOT TO WEAR WHITE| ASHLEY WALKER

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Queen Size Magazine is an award-winning print and digital publication Founded in 2011, we are(QSM) a magazine dedicated to monthly Queen Size women. Queen Size is notdedicated only about to servicing the full-figured industry. We are a voice for today’s women and men; simply sending the the physical size, but also the mental. We are dedicated to highlighting women of all walks life. Ifon message that we exist, and we will be heard. Queen Size Magazine publishes articles thatof focus you are a fashion, woman and making Queen Size Our moves, then thisatis QSM, whereis you belong. We do not ourselves lifestyle, beauty topics. focus here to bring our readers thelimit latest news toand just women; this was the basis of why we created the magazine. We are to highlight and trends surrounding the fashion industry. From eye-catching images tolooking controversial articles; we capture all every month without missing aboth beat.men Additionally, we pride ourselves on providing promote smallitbusinesses owners/entrepreneurs, and women. Queen Size Magazine puts a platform for every both established up &articles coming professionals in our industry. At Queen Size we out a new issue month withand realistic written by real life people. We have writers that believe and promote that women and men of all shape, size, height, and color are equal. cover health and fitness, true life situations and experiences, fashion, recipes and more.

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Yolanda Michelle Jackson

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Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Yolanda Michelle Jackson MUA | La’Toya Nicole @la_toyanicole205

YOLANDA MICHELLE JACKSON| QSM

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Yolanda Michelle Jackson MUA | La’Toya Nicole @la_toyanicole205

My name is Yolanda Michelle Jackson. I am 48 years old and I am a business owner in the downtown historic district of Bessemer, Alabama. I attended James A. Davis Middle School and Jess Lanier High School. I also enrolled in culinary school. I have always had a desire for cooking in addition to my desire for modeling and acting. I started in 1980 as a beauty pageant participant and by doing runway modeling inside of shopping malls. In July 2018, I suffered a devastating stroke that left me paralyzed on the right side of my body. I begam to fade, but I continued to pray and have faither that I would overcome this physical challenge. Through my faith in God, family, and friends; I developed the strength needed to overcome the paralysis that I had come to know. Physical therapy was extremely challenging for me, but I knew that I would be able to walk down that modeling runway once again. I was able to achieve one of my dreams in February 2019 when I became a small microenterprise business owner: Me Me’s Coffee and Deli. Me Me’s is the first African

American female-owned Coffee and Deli to open in the city of Bessemer, Alabama (“The Marcel City”) during Black History Month. Then the COVID-19 pandemic came in March 2020. Many restaurants closed due to the restrictions that were punt into place. Many small businesses lost revenue due the closures; however, Me Me’s remained opened partially. The closures of the schools impacted the children who depended on the meals the school provided. I am not only a business owner in the city of Bessemer – Bessemer is my home. Me Me’s Coffee and Deli was able to provide breakfast and lunch to over 600 children and the elderly during the COVID-19. I received the LOCAL HERO OF ALABAMA Award, which is another recognition presented by local news anchor. Fred Davenport, with Channel 13. Throughout my life, I have always had the passion to be a model, actor, and restaurant owner. Today, I am a mother of three sons who have accomplished just what I set out to do. WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

FEATURED STORY

QSM: Tell me about life growing up for you. Yolanda: Life was ok growing up. Living in a small community call Sunset Homes which was housing projects. We call them Government Mansions. I was the oldest of four children. My mother Fayenell Jackson was very young mother when she gave birth to me. So, my grandmother who is now deceased help her take care of me. I attended Abrams Elementary School until I graduated to James A Davis Middle School. I had a strong passion for acting so I participated in School plays. In addition, there was another passion such as cooking and sports. I competed in Track and Field meets. I was selected to be a member of the Marvel City Striders Track Team. I have always been energetic, and always applying myself in a positive manner. QSM: When I say Queen, what does that mean to you? Yolanda: When you say Queen to me it means a female ruler, ok it can be defined as beauty, beautiful to notch under her king. I am a beautiful Queen inside and out. QSM: YES Queen! Tell me something about you that would surprise people to know. Yolanda: Something that would surprise them, is that I gave up on a passion that I have always wanted to do or be. That alone would surprise them if I did, because I have never been known to give up on anything. I pray and push and press my way through. QSM: Let’s talk about your love for fashion; when did that start? Yolanda: My Love for fashions started when I was at the age of 8. I stayed in front of the Television watching models and commercials and wishing it was me. I would go into my grandmother’s jewelry box, an find the prettiest pieces pearls and clip earnings, then grab her heels and one of her purses and strut down the long hallway. Get to middle of hall I would spend around and pose. I said and when I grow then that what I want to do. I always watched All My Children star Erica Cane and her pretty clothes, Elizabeth Taylor also with those skinny diamond earring rings. I wear them today because they give any attire you may have on that extra eloquent. Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Yolanda Michelle Jackson MUA | La’Toya Nicole @la_toyanicole205 WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

YOLANDA MICHELLE JACKSON| QSM

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Yolanda Michelle Jackson MUA | La’Toya Nicole @la_toyanicole205

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FEATURED STORY

QSM: What got you into modeling and how long have you been in the game? Yolanda: What got me into modeling was my grandmother and mom was in the mall one day and big sign was in the in middle of the store stating looking for models to model off clothes. They signed me up and I went to two day of practices walking poise and nailed it. I will choose. I met Nita Funderburg a pageant director who gave me an entry form to her pageant after she so my performance on stage. I was that only woman of color that participant. My first ever beauty pageants. I was so excited. Mrs. Flossy, who is the mother of the State Representative Louise Alexander made my dress. It was a beautiful pink fitted dress with sequence and pearls, puff sleeves and mermaid tail with a short train. I walked that stage in that beautiful dress and yes, I won the Beauty Queen pageant. From then on up until now I am still entering her pageants. November 14, 2021, I will be entering the Miss Bessemer Queen Merry Christmas pageant this will be the 75th event. I am very excited and ready, I am still praying and wishing to become and model and actress. QSM: Was it about cooking that piqued your interest so young? Talk to us about that. Yolanda: My Interest in cooking came about by watching my grandmother, mom, and aunts cook for family gathering and holidays. They made it look like fun and had so much laughter doing it. So, I always watch them. Then I know that you must eat to live not live to eat. Every person has an expiration date and my grandmother always had me and my young aunt which is her baby girl Carrie Hunter (we call her Ms. Kitty). She was the bake, and I was the cook. Grandmother taught us to cook because she said that she was not going to be here all the time so take notes on cooking steps. I did and was good at it. I can cook and now I have my own restaurant. QSM: Tell me about Me Me’s Coffee and Deli. Yolanda: Me ME’s Coffee and Deli is in the heart of Marvel City of Bessemer Alabama. I serve hot breakfast and lunch. My menu is omelets, shrimp and grits, fish and grits, pancakes, pecan waffles and more. The WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

best fresh hot coffee the in town. The lunch menu is wings, fish, wraps, club sandwiches, chicken and more. QSM: It’s great to hear that your business was able to sustain through the pandemic. How were you able to do it? Yolanda: How my business tends to keep going through the pandemic was through Faith. I held on to it, I never gave up God didn’t allow me to be opening my doors to my restaurant to close them. It was a struggle and I prayed and pressed on even though Business was slow, but I got something, then the Pandemic Mandated was implemented. QSM: Congrats on your award. Very well deserved. You talked about being able to feed children and elderly. That must have felt good as a business owner and just as a person. Can you talk a little about the how and why? Yolanda: The schools began to close everything was shutting down the kids was depending upon school breakfast and lunches that had been taking away from them. I prayed and asked God to show me what to do to benefit myself and those kids. An idea came up to feed them at no cost. I was able to feed over 600 kids, elderly breakfast, and lunch no matter who they were and where they came from. I know how it feels to be hungry. Out of the kindness of my heart I was able to feed them. After I close my restaurants, I was able to pass out toiletries, water, Lysol, and bread to the Elderly. It was my honor to be able to respond in a positive way doing the COVID 19 Pandemic and I respond to the needs of the people. It brought tears to my eye when I receive recognition from Congresswoman Terri Sewell. QSM: Please tell us where people can support and follow you. Yolanda: I can be followed on social media under Michelle Jackson, and under Me Me’s Coffee and Deli located at 415 19th Street North Bessemer, Al 35020. If you are in the area, drop in, it would be a pleasure of meeting all of you and thanks for choosing me and God Bless you all.

YOLANDA MICHELLE JACKSON| QSM

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Yolanda Michelle Jackson MUA | La’Toya Nicole @la_toyanicole205 WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

FEATURED STORY

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Yolanda Michelle Jackson MUA | La’Toya Nicole @la_toyanicole205

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

KJ PEEPLES

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotgraphy Model | KJ Peeples @ kjpeeplesplusmodel Assistant Stylist @pinkthronestyle

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | KJ PEEPLES

KJ Peeples was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama aka “The Magic City.” She is mom to five children, grandmother to four and married eleven years to her high school sweetheart turned husband, Roy A, Peeples Jr. As a teenager, she dreamed of becoming a model but that was put on hold because she became a teenage mom. After eventually getting married, raising children and emptying the nest, she was blessed to start her modeling journey at forty-two years old. She is grateful for the acceptance of working mature models given that over forty models were less likely to be seen like we are now. Modeling opened the door for her to compete in her first pageant as Mrs. Jefferson County Plus America 2015, which she won, and became Mrs. Alabama Plus America 2015. Winning a state title allowed her to go to the national Miss Plus America Pageant where she secured her spot in the “Top 15” earning her 4th runner up in the MRS division out of over sixty other married women across the nation. Under her most recent title, she has served as Miss Alabama Plus America Ambassador 2018. Winning this title has allowed her to effectively marry modeling

with pageantry to help others tap into their confidence and continue to show that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Since then, KJ has used her platform and experiences to empower and inspire as many people as she can. She also co-wrote a book entitled “Crown of Thorns: Diary of a Beauty Queen” and also became a small business owner. My Plus Is Changing Lives LLC is her online and in person health and wellness store built with the mission of displaying body positivity, bold confidence and overall healthy lifestyle changes. She promotes her business by consistently exercising, consuming her products and loosing 45 pounds to date! By God’s Grace, she does all this and maintains a twenty+ year career driving an eighteen-wheeler. It’s been really interesting and challenging for her to be a truck driver who models and is a pageant queen but she wouldn’t trade it. How’s that for empowerment?! Her favorite quote is “One spark of confidence can ignite a firestorm of fierce!” How’s that for empowerment and motivation!

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotgraphy Model | KJ Peeples @ kjpeeplesplusmodel Assistant Stylist @pinkthronestyle WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | KJ PEEPLES

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotgraphy Model | KJ Peeples @ kjpeeplesplusmodel Assistant Stylist @pinkthronestyle WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotgraphy Model | KJ Peeples @ kjpeeplesplusmodel Assistant Stylist @pinkthronestyle WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | KJ PEEPLES

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotgraphy Model | KJ Peeples @ kjpeeplesplusmodel Assistant Stylist @pinkthronestyle WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

BEAUTY AND FASHION

3 Fun, Fashionable Trends for Fall While comfort reigns supreme in fashion and accessories, the transition to the cooler months offers opportunities for fun, statement-making outfits for the new season. The good news is that there’s no need to overhaul an entire closet. Instead, there are plenty of on-trend colors, styles and patterns that can be incorporated into an existing wardrobe for a comfortable and casual look. Simple clothing choices paired with the latest footwear make getting dressed easy and fun. Whether walking around the neighborhood, enjoying the outdoors or cheering for a favorite football team, here are some tips on how to stay comfy and on-trend this season. • Animal Prints: In the past, mixing patterns was taboo, but according to Alyson Stanley, buyer for national retailer Rack Room Shoes, it’s now encouraged. From high-top sneakers to booties, casual footwear with animal prints serve as a neutral accessory that can be mixed and paired with any item in the closet. For example, the Sperry Syren Gulf Duck Boot puts a fun twist on cheetah print accents, while the Nike Court Vision sneaker features a stylish low-profile silhouette with a leopard print pattern on its signature swoosh. • Athletic Styles: Forgoing the traditional

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or “core” running shoe, brands such as Adidas, Converse, Nike and Vans have introduced updates to their classic offerings. While still inspired by an athletic lifestyle, variations in color, height, patterns and textures accommodate the growing trend for casual wear, especially during the cooler months. • Boots: Boots, such as chunky Chelsea boots, Dr. Martens combat boots and ankle booties with block heels, are front-andcenter as the most versatile pieces for fall. While brown or black boots are wardrobe staples, this season offers new options in updated colors, including navy, burgundy and leopard. “The best thing is that there aren’t any rules when it comes to wearing boots. It’s all about mixing it up,” says Stanley. “They can be paired with skinny pants and a clever color-blocking sweater or a plaid buttondown with wide-leg jeans. There are limitless options that allow an individual’s unique style to shine through.” For one-stop-shopping during any season, visit Rack Room Shoes in stores or online at rackroomshoes.com. With a few simple wardrobe tweaks and updates, embracing fall fashion trends can be simple, easy and fun.

3 FUN, FASHIONABLE TRENDS FOR FALL | STATEPOINT

PHOTO SOURCE: Courtesy of Rack Room Shoes PHOTO CAPTION: Animal prints, athletic styles and boots are comfy, casual and on-trend for fall.

bottom 3 photoms | photo by pexels-jennifer-enujiugha

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Photo by Musa Ortaç from Pexels

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Photo by Eric W. from Pexels

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BUSINESS

FALL IN LOVE WITH DATING AGAIN Written by Nyemade Boiwu (African Butterfly)

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FALL IN LOVE WITH DATING AGAIN | NYEMADE BOIWU

As the world opens back up again and things return to normal that includes dating for many of us. But do we really want it to go back the way it was? I don’t know about you but dating is not my idea of a good time. In fact, I find it quite torturous. But, the thing is, it doesn’t have to be. We are entirely in control of our dating experience. Craft yours into something more enjoyable by following the tips below. POST THAT FULL BODY PIC SIS! Online dating comes with its own unique set of stresses. One of which is the concern that the person you’re speaking with online isn’t the same as who they appear to be. On our end we stress that the person falling for us is falling for an illusion and not the person we really are. One way to help elevate that fear is to make sure that the person you’re presenting in your photos is as close to a real representation of you as possible. People often want to put their “best foot forward” but if that’s not the foot you have forward most often why lead with it this time? Eliminate the nerves that come with wondering if he’ll like all of you by posting several full body pictures. Wouldn’t you rather know he’s messaging you because he finds you attractive than knowing he likes your cute face but constantly worrying he won’t be into your body? I hope you’re working on a path of self-love and self-acceptance. However, even if you’re not there yet still post that full body picture. Save yourself time and stress. SKIP THE “GET TO KNOW YOU QUESTIONS” AND GET TO THE GOOD STUFF! By “good stuff” I mean the interesting questions. You have plenty of time to find out what he does for fun or his favorite TV shows. Let’s be honest, do you really care about those things enough to want to know about them from each guy you talk to? Probably not. So why not start with interesting questions that help you see his perspective on things. Questions that let you know how he sees the world and also

how his mind works. If you have trouble coming up with questions there are plenty of those get to know you question games out there now. Buy a deck and go through them. I bet you’ll dread opening your inbox a lot less if you know interesting topic of conversations are waiting for you. TRUST YOUR INTUITION! No matter how good the conversation is sometimes you just feel like something is off. Or, perhaps you just don’t feel a spark. That’s okay. Politely cut your losses and move on. There’s no need to stick around longer hoping a spark builds. While, it’s good to give people a chance, if you’ve had significant amount of conversation and you’re just not feeling it, save both of you some time by walking away. REMEMBER REJECTION IS NOT A REFLECTION OF YOUR VALUE! Rejection stings. No doubt about. Even if you weren’t even deeply emotionally invested it still hurts a little when someone doesn’t show interest. As much as it stinks don’t take it too personally. Everything isn’t for everyone and that includes people. Rather than thinking that there’s something wrong with you just understand that your puzzle pieces don’t belong together. The other person letting you know that as soon as possible saves you time and protentional heartbreak down the line. The more time you spend chasing things that aren’t for you the more you lose spending time with the things and people who are. Cuffing season is almost upon us so if there were ever a time to get back to the dating scene now is the time. Best of luck and find joy in the journey!

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

BLACK VOICES, BLACK STORIES 3 literary treasures for summer by Family Features

As discussions surrounding race continue to evolve across the nation, Black voices and stories can provide new perspectives for readers. Whether it’s an engaging fictional tale or a historical novel recounting a moment of American heroism, these books offer captivating insight and inspiration to readers of all backgrounds. Black authors play an important role in literature by offering unique points of view. In some cases, their writings illuminate cultural experiences with an authentic, unfiltered viewpoint. Other works celebrate the accomplishments of Black heroes whose stories may otherwise go untold. These selections, written by Black authors to elevate Black voices, are top picks for summer reading. Find more literature that illuminates Black voices in America at Facebook.com/WilliamMorrowBooks. A SUMMER THAT BLENDS PAST AND PRESENT Emmy Award winner, renowned lawyer and journalist, “The View” cohost and “New York Times” bestselling author Sunny Hostin’s debut novel, “Summer on the Bluffs,” chronicles a life-changing summer on the exclusive beaches of Oak Bluffs, a Black community in Martha’s Vineyard. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, three found sisters uncover secrets in this picturesque town that is a mecca for Black society, all while protecting their own truths. Reunited for one last golden summer together, the three vie to be the chosen heir of their godmother’s beach house. WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

SISTERS UNITED IN WARTIME SERVICE Kaia Alderson’s novel, “Sisters in Arms,” reveals the untold, true story of the Six Triple Eight, the all-Black Postal Battalion of the Women’s Army Corps, which made a dangerous voyage to Europe to ensure American servicemen received word from their loved ones. The novel explores the what life was like for the first all-Black women’s unit permitted to deploy overseas during World War II. It’s a heartfelt look at a mission many were determined to see fail, but also a powerful message of courage, friendships, romances, failed promises of desegregation (despite Mary McCleod Bethune’s efforts to prevent it) and, ultimately, triumph. FROM SLAVERY TO WEALTH AND POWER “Island Queen” is a sweeping historical novel based on the true-life story of Dorothy “Doll” Kirwan Thomas, a determined Black woman who rose from slavery to become one of the wealthiest and most powerful landowners in the colonial West Indies. After buying her freedom and securing the same for her sister and mother, Thomas’s ambition drove her from the bustling port cities of the West Indies to the forbidden drawing rooms of London’s elite. With each page, author Vanessa Riley paints a portrait of a larger-than-life woman who left her mark on history.

BLACK VOICES, BLACK STORIES....| FAMILY FEATURES

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WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Yolanda Michelle Jackson MUA | La’Toya Nicole @la_toyanicole205

November 2021

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