International Diet Day, Malissa Jones, Loving Your Neighbor, and Eclairs

May 6 is International No Diet Day (INDD). It was started by Mary Evans Young in England in 1992. I know many people can't wait for this day. I appreciate it for the fact that it picks up both venom (maybe from those on a diet?) as well as supporters each year. I am thankful for a few things: (1) its creation, (2) longevity, and (3)the ability to shock those not 'in the know.'

In Mary's own words, she describes how she began INDD:

"I started INDD in the spring of '92 following two things. The first was seeing a television programme where women were having their stomachs stapled. One woman had split the staples and was in for her third op[eration]. And then a young girl of 15 committed suicide because 'she couldn't cope being fat.' She was size 14 (12 in US). I decided somebody had to stand up and try to stop this bloody madness and in the absence of anybody else, I decided it would be me. So I sent out a press release titled 'Fat Woman Bites Back'...and got some media attention. I was desperate to keep the anti-diet/size acceptance concept in the public eye. So, without really thinking about it, at the end of a live TV interview I said, 'Don't forget to celebrate No Diet Day.' ...Having declared it on prime time national TV I then set about organising a picnic in Hyde Park. Alas it rained, so we adjourned to my living room instead." ~Mary Evans Young


Goals of the INDDT:
-Celebrate the beauty and diversity of ALL our natural sizes & shapes
-Declare a personal one-day moratorium on diet/weight obsession
-Learn the facts about weight-loss dieting, health, and body size
-Recognize how dieting perpetuates violence against women
-Honor the victims of eating disorders and weight-loss surgery
-Help end weight discrimination, sizism and fatphobia

I think it is important to share these words from Mary Evans Young with you:

19th International No Diet Day
Greetings to all of you celebrating this auspicious day.
How far have we come since 1992? Well, in some respects a long, long way.
More health professionals support a 'health at every size' approach.
There are fat study groups in colleges as younger people are challenging the status quo. And people in the public eye are speaking out about their experiences.
Plus there are a few more clothes to choose from.

But, the pressure is still on us all to be other than we are...
Whether child or geriatric
There's far too many people ever ready with their knives.
And quacks peddling magic drugs and potions
Fat remains an easy and socially acceptable target and a useful vehicle for others to project their self hate.

It is not unusual for oppressed people to understand their oppressors more than they understand us.So, no surprise if people scratch their heads in puzzlement as we say, in our various ways, "get off our backs" -when 'they only have our best interests at heart'.But today is a day of pride and to use our precious creative and fighting energy to challenge institutional sizeism and the nasty trinity:
diet, media and fashion who exploit us all for their own ends.

As a British politician famously said, "Don't let the bastards get you down".
INDD is an opportunity to change the rules: encourage self acceptance and respect for all. And use your love and friendship to have a great day.... in the way it suits you. Go well.

In solidarity, Mary Evans Young
Oxfordshire, England

Sign up for and pledge a goal for International No Diet Day on Facebook!

There have been a number of good FAT things here in the NYC: A great article published in the Village Voice by Camille Dodero (@camilledodero) about FAs (Fat Admirers-- "boys who like fat chicks."

As well, my heart weeps for the recent article about Malissa Jones, once dubbed "fattest UK teenager" who, after having gastric bypass surgery is now suffering from anorexia. Find the article here: Malissa Jones

For me, INDD is about the good it does and provides, principle first, for all the good people of the earth, and for those who suffer--like Malissa Jones, and the #%^&*&@! doctors who forced(?) her to have that surgery. However, I will state as I have many times in the past, if you chose that for YOU-- I support you, because I feel you will need support. And because I personally feel-prolifically feel that EVERYONE'S JOURNEY MUST BE HONORED. If you "hate" Malissa Jones because she now suffers from anorexia, I only have 2 words for you. I whole-heartedly agree with Mary Evans Young--honor those "-Honor the victims of eating disorders and weight-loss surgery."

This is a processing point, a problem beyond skin, sometimes even beyond soul. If is for those who suffer. I love and care for you. I pray for you. I pray you gain peace--whatever form it comes in for YOU. Whatever is right for YOU. And as Ive said time and time again: as we lay our heads down tonight upon our pillows-- somewhere- some one's last words to themselves are " I ate the carrot," and for others it is "I did not eat the carrot." As long as you are nourished my sister, or my brother, may you sleep restfully. The constant physical, emotional, mental battle is--simply, feroious.

The roller coaster ride that exists, emotional and physical, exists for many. Please take a moment of silent reflection or thought for all who have tried and continue to so, some at great peril to themselves in one capacity or another--who have been victims or victimized doe to their size, weight, or some combination thereof. I always pause to think that there were a lot of women buried in muumuus, because there was nothing else. For thee, I pray.

My contribution to International No Diet Day:

If we are friends on facebook, or you can follow me on Twitter @FatGirlsFloat

I am taking a pic of everything I consume tomorrow.... a photo documentary, you might say and posting it on Twitter and Facebook.

I want people to please understand that I am pretty regimented in my eating schedule/pattern; because if I am not, then I will not eat, forget to eat, and get too caught up in work to eat... .and lived off a "diet" of coffee[kawfee as we say here in the NYC] for years. I realized that that was definitely NOT HAES as well as not healthy!

I have been told a number of times: "Kira, why are you fat? You don't eat "like fat person"?!" What the hell does that mean?! Good friends Yossi Loloi and David Garrett have seen me at my best and my worst, but not scarfing down -I should say eating- a whole pizza.{Sometimes my old 80s high school self comes out!} And they kind of just don't see me, but for some reason do not necessarily expect me to "over eat"--just maybe are surprised I am 325 pounds. To quote a beloved pastor I heard speak, "It wasn't from eating tofu, ya'll." {Ahem, tofu, not Tofu.} And I will admit that I was not angelic about my eating habits. However, my biggest battle was going for very long periods without eating. Still is, sometimes. And I am not here to apologize.

Further, I recall going to the Philly Bash and rooming with dear friend Nancy Goddess. She and I have discussed this--privately and publicly. Nancy ate constantly throughout the weekend. I was failing asleep to crunch, crunch, crunch. it did not bother me, I found it amusing, and I don't know why-- as well as endearing. She was once 420 pounds, having had gastric bypass surgery in hopes to having an operation to fix her knee, and has lost a considerable amount of weight. Nancy joked all weekend, "Kira.. what the hell is wrong with you? How are you 300 pounds? You don't eat. You gotta find yourself a chef." That last thought led me to pen "I Wanna Marry a Chef" in Nancy's honor.

Now, please don't misunderstand me. Eat what you want. What I believe might be different from some: eat what you want until you are satisfied, be present, try not to eat 'on the go' (hence my disdain for those who eat in the subway--more because I don't like to witness the oddity and smell!), unless you HAVE to; and to try to plan to some degree. Why? It works for me. I like structure, and for the bulk of my professional career-- and waking hours-- I need both fuel, and convenience; so bringing my breakfast and lunch work for me. I eat what I choose to eat, what works for me, and for the physical ailments from which I have looooooong [since age 13!] suffered: PCOS, anemia, and a lack of enough B12. To be direct, I kinda live like it is LENT all year 'round. It might be structured eating, but it is not no diet.

I have a hard work schedule…... I am up at 5am! Leave for work at 6am-ish, and well...... do not live in a work area that you can buy lunch….. so I have to bring it. I know that by sharing it leaves me open to criticism, so I am actually interested in what people will have to say. Judgment is passed around like people giving out Halloween candy. Ba dump bump. Cast ye, your first stone. I do not wanna feel judged by what I do eat, or what I don't eat--or how much. By anyone. Oh, right.. and I, like everyone else, is entitled to my own damn opinion. I do not need to tote the party line; I am independent. Still convinced I am the Sarah Palin of Size Acceptance. I don't know, for some reason I just FEEL rogue.

And.... most funny (to me) was one year when Velvet was in town and we had dinner with Yossi, Substania Jones(?),and her friend Pony from college!--Pony's response was the very best I have ever heard, as he inquired about International No Diet Day, he said" What do you guys do? Sit around and eat eclairs?" Not a bad idea, Pony. Not a bad idea at all. Please, I hope someone eats a damn eclair! I don’t really like éclairs, but SOMEHOW I feel obliged to eat one every May 6th, just because Pony said that! So, I guess one goal tomorrow will be to eat an éclair.

With love and NO diet sense, just good eating-- whatever that means!

Love you all....

KIRA NERUSSKAYA
New York City….. and lives in walking distance to Veniero’s! See you there?!
Please hit me up @FatGirlsFloat on Twitter and #CheerTheEclair. If I get enough of a following/response I will send pics and/or video of "The Eclair Eating"

ps. it is currently 11:43 p.m. EST.. dude I had 4 hours of sleep last night.. I wanna GO to bed!

Fat Girl Flea Market 2011

It is that time again.... where all fat, plump, plus size, curvy, fluffy, and the extra va-va-voom join together for... cheap fashion!


is where you can find all the information you need... how to donate, and where exactly we will be on Saturday
April 30th, 2011 in New York City.

Join the Facebook page for up to the minute info! FatGirl Flea Market 2011 Facebook

I will see you there!

KIRA

A Film with a FAT HEROINE--Ten Stories Tall screens at NYWIFT, NYC

Hello ya'll

Hope you are enjoying Spring-like weather where-ever you are!

On Tuesday March 22, right here in the NYC, there will be a screening hosted by New York Women in Film and Television of Ten Stories Tall. One of the producers, Merle Augustin is a very nice lady!.. and thus-- a woman in film.


This original, independent screenplay is the debut feature from award winning film maker, size acceptance team member and supporter, and all around swell dude--David R. Garrett.

Below you can find links of your choice, a blog interview done by yours truly, and the info!

Hope you can join us........ this is a rare gem... a New York City tale that ultimately shows a lovely plus-sized woman in a positive way.


Hope to see you there!

Best regards,

KIRA

NYWIFT screening series: Ten Stories Tall
Event: Tuesday Mar. 22, 2011

This screening series celebrates the work of NYWIFT members. Whenever possible, the filmmakers are present for discussion and socializing after their works are shown. Screenings take place at Anthology Film Archives, 32 2nd Avenue @ 2nd Street.

There will be a Q&A following the screening, and an after-party to follow, with Cash Bar and complimentary food @ Dempsey's Pub, 61 2nd Avenue, between 3rd and 4th Streets.

This month, the NYWIFT screening series is proud to present the moving family drama Ten Stories Tall.


When her best friend, Anna, dies, grief-stricken Grace, played by Tovah Feldshuh, confesses to their lifelong affair. Her revelation strikes at the core of the friendship between the relatives of the two women and provokes a confrontation with Anna's daughter, portrayed by Ally Sheedy. It also spurs unexpected journeys of self-discovery for every member of the family. The film also stars Josh Hamilton, Sherri Saum, Jim Gaffigan, Jennifer Regan, Emily Skinner, Jean Brassard and Simon Jutras.


Written and directed by David Garrett; produced by Merle Augustin and Kaer Vanice.

David Garrett, writer/director, made his first film, Your Children: The Testimony of Charles Manson, as an adaptation of his play of the same name. His next short, Clown Car, won several festival awards and was distributed by Warner Brothers. He’s been a semi-finalist in the Nicholl Fellowship competition and won the Ezra Litwak Award for Distinction in Screenwriting from Columbia University, where he earned an MFA in film. His short Warlord debuted at the Rotterdam Film Festival and won best short at the South by Southwest festival in 2008. Ten Stories Tall is his first feature.

Marle Augustin was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. She left Haiti to become a journalist for the Miami Herald, the Sun-Sentinel and the Associated Press, before moving on to filmmaking with the multi-media documentary Indivisible: Local Heroes Changing America and narrative filmmaking with an MFA in directing at Columbia University. Before Ten Stories Tall, her first feature, she produced several short films including Warlord in 2008, winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the SXSW Film Festival and 2007 official selection at the International Rotterdam Film Festival.

Kaer Vanice studied photography and fiction at University of Kansas and transitioned to narrative filmmaking with an MFA in producing at Columbia University. He has worked as a producer on both shorts and feature films. His credits include Warlord, winner of the 2008 Grand Jury Prize at the SXSW Film Festival and 2007 official selection at Rotterdam Film Festival, as well as Padre Nuestro, winner of the 2007 Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Sponsored by:
NYWIFT programs, screenings and events are supported, in part, by grants from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, the New York Council of the Arts and

Maura Kelly: Your Prejudice is MUCH BIGGER than My Body

A few words on Marie Claire/Maura Kelly-Gate:

In February 2010, I was invited by Joanna Coles and her team for a focus group, informal type of consulting regarding the plus-size world. As we went around the table introducing ourselves; I was the first person to say thank you for having a major publication embrace plus-size beauty at that level. I also made it clear that I did not like the title of Ashley Falcon’s column, “Big Girl in a Skinny World.” As true as it all might be; the mere title continues the divisive attitude in fashion, about beauty, and in the world. We are walking, ok-it seems shuffling at times—toward size neutrality and-as one would hope—inclusiveness. A title separating people, particularly women, and by size demands separation rather than unification. Where is the old attitude of ‘we are all in this together?”What would have been wrong with calling the column “Big Girl Style?” I continue not to understand why, if you take the chance, and gain another demographic—with a loyal following and money to burn….would you kick us in the teeth like this? Are you to tell me that an editor at Marie Claire read Maura’s post and said, “OK, publish it.” No one had a freaking brain in their body (not matter what its size!) to say “Gee, honey, you might wanna re-think this, or at least read it aloud.” Meanwhile, Joanna, you have disappointed me.

That meeting ended with ‘we should all eat the cupcakes everyone was staring at on the table. I thought to myself, “Are they buying off fatties with cupcakes?” But, cupcakes in New York City being what they are: popular and a staple treat among the popular. I did not find deeper political meaning behind it; I simply saw it as hospitality.

What –sort of—cracked me up about Marie Claire/Maura Kelly-Gate was how ill informed Maura’s post was. I was saying to myself… has this girl ever actually READ the internet? No worries, love, you did not set us back on our journey toward size equality. In fact, thanks for uniting New York, Philly, and San Francisco and the web with your words. See how powerful they were. They united rather than divided.

What FREAKING purpose did her post have? It seemed to be HER well-formed, well-prejudiced opinion about hating fat people: walking across a room, on the street, and on-gasp!-TV. She DID NOT See the show—so the post was not a critique of the show really. It was a critique that fat people should not, and should not be allowed to be affectionate on TV. Ok, so why not use your own blog to write those explosive comments? Why get paid for such garbage. If that was anti-Obama speech, racial epithets, and/or the like—we would be on CNN talking about this. O, but it is just fat people. They should get a room, right? Hate speech is hate speech, yo! Why was this allowed in a professional setting?

The photo that was included of Mike and Molly did not show any fat rolls. Of course, despite being TV stars—they are ‘fat.’ So the costume powers that be will certainly cover them up at all costs. Do NOT expect to see any skin except from neck up, wrist down, or below ankle. I would not be surprised if the characters have on gloves, scarves, and socks at all times! But, dude, really? There were no fat rolls in that picture of the characters. Really, Maura, really? [Edit!-wait! I found a pic of Melissa McCarthy with forearms showing. A shirt to the elbow—how kind of you to let her show skin.]

The writing and the structure was, sorry to say, babyish. I am not a paid blogger, no one is putting money in my pocket….and I have put a nice chunk of cash into a project it is taking me longer than I had hoped to complete because I work a demanding job for a living. However, we are not drunks and heroine addicts. We are fat. And yes, Maura, to answer your question: I find you to be an insensitive jerk. But I am gonna love you anyway. And I am gonna forgive you anyway.

I am not asking to cut her any slack, but I am asking for us to be understanding. If, as reported, Maura Kelly is a recovering anorexic—despite her fat hatred—personal political— and professional—she comes across as a person who is still healing. And ‘still healing’ means ‘unhealed.’ I sincerely wish her well in her journey, a far different one from mine, from ours. But along your continued journey, Maura, I request you cease your hate speech, especially from the seat of a national publication site.

Even Natalie Zutter from Screen who felt that “Maura Kelly Has a Point” as a former (?) anorexic:

Kelly's mistake is in sounding too chipper and oblivious in parts: when defending her argument by saying that she has "plump" friends, and by offering
breezy weight-loss advice that seemed unaware that for obese people, losing weight is not as easy as a quick jog on the treadmill. But the fact that she was a self-confessed former anorexic was going to sabotage her position from the beginning, which is incredibly ironic--who better to understand body disorders than someone who has suffered?

I guess it is because of her suffering that one would think she would be a bit more open-minded, Natalie. I am sure Maura might have suffered ridicule due to her, what I assume might have been ‘extreme thinness’ at one time in her life. That is kind of why it is more puzzling to me.

Zutter feels there was a misunderstanding. Aww. She feels that the characters of Mike and Molly are not obese.

There's a misunderstanding here: while the characters of Mike and Molly are
overweight, they are not obese; so they weren't the appropriate subjects for an article about obesity.

Are you sure about that, Natalie? Um, did the character bios come with a BMI? If the actors are obese; it would be their doctors to make that call—and McCarthy and Gardell to reveal that information, should they so desire. And what if they are? Their size is not preventing them from doing their job. What bothers me most is the fact that why is it that fat love is usually depicted with a fat woman and a fat man. There are plenty of men who are not fat who love fat women, and vice versa. Onlythe latter has been over exposed and the former hardly ever touched. How about a fat woman character and her adoring, loving, thin husband? Were is that one, television land?


Zutter goes on to say that when Jezebel [a place for obesity glorification, according to Zutter] picked up the story, it seemed shocking that Kelly was called a bigot, in very simple terms; which, by her post, resembles a classic textbook, dictionary definition of the very word.

Zutter continues to state that a case cannot be solved on body type, even though she thinks the following:

...Then you find out that you can't solve a case based on body type. Kelly never suggested that you could. Kelly doesn't pretend to have any right to judge obese people's morals; she simply admits something that takes a lot of guts, that she doesn't jibe with the norm of blindly accepting a patently unhealthy lifestyle.

Natalie Zutter, dear, since when has fat been blindly accepted and by whom? Moreover, are all fat people unhealthy? Um, you and Maura should have a cup of tea and read the internet. We have answered that already.

Kelly’s post was not about obese people’s morals; it was about the size of our bodies and making the connection that because we are fat we are immoral.

Yet, Zutter seems to feel WE are the bullies, by protesting Kelly’s comments, we are defensively celebrating. Well, Ms. Zutter, you call it as how you see it; I call it a reaction to negative biased media. And the disgust and tiredness of having it hurled our way. We are calling you, and Ms. Kelly on HER words.

Yes, Kelly technically says that she would be "grossed out" by watching two
obese people kiss--but she doesn't linger on that statement the way that later
commenters have. It's a point of comparison to her real issue, a relevant one:
The disturbing examples of obesity in culture. Let me repeat that: I'm not
talking about overweight/fat people, I'm talking about those who are morbidly obese.

Regarding “disturbing examples of obesity in culture.” Right. Remind me where they are again? O, yes, fat people walking. Kissing. Living. Breathing air.

DOES ANY ONE ELSE SEE THE IRONY IN ALL OF THIS SOUNDING LIKE SCHOOL KIDS IN AT RECESS???

Here is what I have to say: I am disappointed in Marie Claire. Kelly’s post, and allowing it, shows the real and utter distaste of Kelly, but it also shows a real and uber distaste of fat people by Marie Claire by its editors and its authors—you allowed this to be published on your blog, which means you claim not only notification of its content, but therefore, agreement with it. At no time did you make a disclaimer.

As U.S. citizens we are allowed life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And tha includes fat people being happy, and loving each other, themselves, family and friends. That includes showing affection. And occaionally with tongue. Behind closed doors. Outside. On the street. In movie theatres. In cars. Wherever.

I think Maura Kelly will have more healing to do. I am empathetic to her journey, and wish her love and light. Frankly, I think she needs it. I always come to the same place whether it is a drive-by comment on the street, a blatent remark on the subway, or the like: I end up feeling pity for that person, sympathy, sadness.

I truly feel that by negative name-calling and blogging with negative words toward the author makes us no different than a bully in a school yard. We are better than that. We have lived our lives being better than that. And we should continue to do so.

What Kelly needs is forgiveness. Through forgiveness we can keep moving forward. I didn’t say we shouldn’t call her out for her bigoted comments; I just feel we should forgive her for it. With such an action we can rise above the hate. After all, FAT GIRLS FLOAT.

Let’s look at them from a positive note. Her words brought us together as a community once again. And we got something positive out of it: kissing and affection, unity, press, an opportunity to reach out to the public and “fatty on the street,” and a reminder that we are strongest when we work together.

Yes, I believe in loving your neighbor. And I believe that your enemy is also your neighbor.

Maura Kelly, your prejudice is much bigger than my body. But I am using my big-assed body to forgive you. Know why? It contains my big-ass heart.
I see this as simple as Hate vs. Love. I choose LOVE.


KIRA NERUSSKAYA
New York City Big Fat Kiss-In participant, mouthing off from her kisser!

Girthful Girl’s Rachel Kempster, Yuliya Rachel from IGIGI.com and Gaelle Prudencio from France

Kira Nerusskaya @ Full Figured Fashion Week from Paul Rosovsky on Vimeo.

Girthful Girl’s Rachel Kempster, Yuliya Rachel from IGIGI.com and Gaelle Prudencio from France

And in that order!

I was waiting for something, but could wait no more. That being the case, please enjoy this 17 minute mash-up of beauty of these 3 amazing women at Full Figured Fashion Week, making their mark on the global plus-size world.

Alright I will admit I probably went a bit over the top on my comments about UK fashion designer Julien MacDonald, who called plus-size models a “joke.” But, it was fresh in my mind at the time. [] Sir, the “joke” is on you. Why do I find it ironic that his name is MacDonald! Of all things! Dude, have you ever feasted your eyes on Sage Salzer for example? For the record, (and not that it matters!), but I am certainly straight; however, I think she is “dreamy,’ because having met her once--the beauty oozes out from the inside of her kind heart. And there are countless others from the iconic Velvet to Fluvia Lacerda, the Brazilian Bombshell.

If I was super-mean or violent, he would be visiting a dentist! Knowing my contrite self, I would probably ask my Uncle to give him a discount on new teeth.
I always have that inner-nice gene working overtime. I really wish I could bitch-slap it into submission and be a little more—a lot more?—coarse—in letting out both my true New Yorker side, and the Sicilian. (Have to be careful with that one, WE did invent the Mafia.)

Someone who has no problem showing her sunshiney self is Rachel Kempster.


Girthful Girl’s Rachel Kempster

To me, Rachel is not only a PR magishionista, an author, a blogger, and bubbly person; BUT I like and appreciate her honesty in her journey—as well as her courage to make the journey. I like that she chose, quite simply, to get involved and make a positive contribution! She plunged into the blogger world motivated to DO something, something especially positive. I also love that she used her wonderful PR skills to aid Gwen Devoe and elevate Full Figured Fashion Week to another level. Even though she would like to hug a fat girls she meets on the street along her daily journey—and take them all to Re/Dress—and I advocate for all fat girls to please hug Rachel, nicely!—make sure you also thank her for doing such a great job to help—you.

No matter how tired you are, take a moment to “Become Your Dream” (DeLaVega)

I have been pretty quiet, over-working myself and probably over-thinking too much. But what you may or may not know is that to complete a project such as this, with only occasional help (and that means someone else holding the camera and doing sound because I refuse to use a tripod and then interview if I need to be in the shot.) I have struggled (physically, metaphysically, and financially) quite a lot along this road beginning in 2006, and have done so silently. Partly because that is how I am made, partly because I have a 13 hour a day job, and partly because I am very private when it comes to certain struggles. Most struggles. Almost all struggles? However, never once, when it was past mid-night and I was crawling into bed, ankles swollen from sitting in the more or less same position, right side of my neck partially if not practically completely numb for holding it on a tilt—did I ever think that this was not all worth it. And at 5am, my alarm clock squeals the weather from 106.7 Lite FM. (yes, I know, the horror that I am THIS old/young and listening to…... that…...)

And so I shall continue. Not having enough time to read blogs like I should, not having time to update my darn FaceBook, nor enough time to do what I hate most—complain.

But I do have a brief moment between trying to loosen the tense muscles, wondering if I am causing myself permanent nerve damage in my neck, and putting in my retainer to breathe, to sigh, to dream, to envision I see myself walking the damn red carpet [and who I am with always changes!] answering Joan Rivers, “Who I am wearing? Why, Yuliya Rachel of Igigi, of course.”

IGIGI’s Yulia Rachel

It is all about energy, and good energy produces good things. That is what I got from my fashion guru, Yulia Rachel of Igigi.com. I recalled reading about my friend Corinna Makris of This Lush Life and A Celebration of Curves venturing out to Igigi in San Francisco for a tour and blog post.

I have an, albeit small, section of my teeny tiny closet (you call that a closet?!) dedicated to Igigi wear. In fact, introduced my aunt to Igigi, and she bought her wedding dress from Yuliya this past April. You go, Mrs. Banwell!

So it was nice to meet the lady behind the label, and even get the chance to laugh in Russian. I loved interviewing Yuliya not only because of her good vibes and personal dedication to full-figured/plus-sized fashion; but she wants you to love you, because you are just fine the way you are. To quote her, “There is nothing wrong with you.” I feel that you may or may not change your body, but you can always change your mind.

Good Divas have Good Taste

And I would like to shout out to FatBitch Erica Watson who *almost* wore her tangerine version of the same Igigi dress to that FFFW panel. She promised that one day we will wear our Igigi dresses somewhere. And we should have a camera following us, girl. It would be hilarious! O, the poor New Yorkers who would suffer our wrath! I laugh because this summer I have been personally verbally accosted on 2 different occasions when women (1 young and ‘skinny’ and 1 old and overweight) yelled “Precious! Precious!” to me. Now, if they did that when Erica was with me, I would like to say—you have that partly correct BEE-YOTCHES---SHE IS IN THE MOVIE!

But, precious, in the true meaning (including Precious) we are: courageous, strong, and moving forward. And doing it with style. And Igigi.

And if you have not voted for Erica Watson at the Brooklyn Museum, shame on you! Go DO IT!

You can also WATCH Erica Watson on “Sex on TV” which airs Sunday, August 15th at 8pm EST on The TV Guide Network. You can also see Erica’s blog at HuffingtonPost.com

Gaelle Prundencio

Viva jolie French blogger! You just want to hug her, she is so darn cute. And you have to love the pictures of her on her blog; it looks like Velvet could make a cameo appearance around any corner of Paris.

What drew me to Gaelle was her honesty and candidness on how just eating a sandwich at a café in shorts and a short sleeve shirt is considered “unacceptable” for plus-size people in France. O, Kim Brittingham—how about that for showing beyond the elbow? Get the latest on reading about her hips, Read My Hips at www.kimwrites.com.


Since filming there in Paris in 2007, I was not surprised; but always saddened by this, and it makes me want to spit for lack of a better catch phrase. THIS—in a land revered for its sauces, yet doesn’t think fat people worthy of vegetables. Yes, yes, yes. I got it on tape!

Despite our fat rampage, the war on the obese, the hot and cold reception from the media on people of size plus, and them getting it wrong most of the time, as well as the discomfort (of watching others deflect their garbage on to an innocent fat by-stander—which just might be YOU, by the way) remember that the grass is only greener over the septic tank. In case you want to go outside and wear your tank top and eat your sandwich, there is one of your fat sisters in some town or village in France sweating inside, probably in long sleeves, dreaming for a freedom of body size in a land where its very own motto of Liberté, égalité, fraternité doesn’t hold up.

Life. Got it.

Liberty. It could use some work, frankly.

Pursuit of happiness. That is up to you, baby.

And if you haven’t learned anything from Gwen Devoe—learn this: If you don’t have it, create it!


I humbly remain yours,

Fashionably rockin’ my certain summer uniform—an Old Navy tank and denim skirt complete with FitFlops. No worries, as I work in front of the computer. No one sees me except my tea cup (as in Earl Grey, not canine, my Dell laptop, and some dude from Seattle.

Rockin’ it in the air-conditioned East Village with her cash-flo going to ConEdison,
KIRA NERUSSKAYA
NEW YORK CITY

FOR WOMEN WHO ARE FAT, WE SALUTE YOU! Well, ROCK AND ROLL DOES!

Fat Girls Rock. We the fat: the many, the proud have known this from the dawn of time. We put the roll in the rock, and I am sure with a back stage all-access pass or 2, can and have, put the rock in the roll, looked under the rock, had the rock look under us, or better yet—had the rock play with our rolls. Nonetheless, fat girls and rock and roll go to together like bacon and eggs. Mmmmm… bacon. Wait, I digress. PS. Bacon day is Sept. 4th, 2010.

But, someone else thought that fat chicks were worthy of a musical tribute. Executive producer A.J. Confessore, a lifelong lover of large ladies (and he has done the old daytime TV spots to prove it!), put the roll in his rock to show us some love. He felt that it was “High time someone mounted a musical salute, because these women deserve it!” Um, yes we do. Maybe he just has thought that more rock and roll men should mount us?! I’d agree, Mr. Bon Jovi. [If only he were single!]

Now, I know you, like me have—at least once—either done karaoke (drunk or otherwise), sang in the shower (I don’t if the neighbors are home!), or danced around your room or in front of your bathroom mirror—with the hairbrush, or with the ‘invisible’ microphone singing out to something that made you get your groove rockin’. Now, don’t make me quote Joan Cusack from Working Girl when she said,”Sometimes I sing and dance around in my living room in my underwear doesn’t make me Madonna. Never will.” Ah yeah, but it is fun and certainly makes your inner rock star come out for a mere moment. The lights, the head-bangin’ hair, the fireworks, the high heels, the roar of the crowd, the illegal downloads, the……the music.

On this 13 track disc, with cover art from artist Les Toil, you will find all your fat rockin’ faves, as well as an introduction of the lovely plus-figured Celissa Stratton belting out Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love” as seen by the so-inspired cover art. "Since this is a salute to fat chicks, my intention was to make the song sound FAT," says vocalist Celisa Stratton. "So I changed the key and utilized my full vocal range to create a whole new version of the song. Hopefully in listening to this track, people will see the point of view of a proud fat woman who has a whole lotta love to give." Come to think of it, I do remember watching Robert Plant on Jay Leno eons ago, and him mentioning liking fuller filgured gals. oops, nope, that was Robert Palmer, RIP.

This ALL-Star Tribute to FAT CHICKS features qualified members of the likes of Quiet Riot, Twisted Sister, Cinderella, LA Guns, and my personal favorite, comedian Don “Don’t hold the Whisky” Jameson, who rocked “I like Big Butts” [Don, have you seen mine?!]—and more! Let’s not forget the contribution of Danger Danger’s lovely long locked Ted “Unholy” Poley—AND Bret Michael’s band plays on!

Now, folks, let's not forget that all these tribute songs are new recordings of old favorites, like, when you really had even bigger hair than you do now--like, you rememba the 80s, righhhhht? Featured songs include bee-bopping Unkinny Bop originally recorded by Poison, Split by Kiss....get out your make-up and rock. Who was your fave KISS character? Always liked Peter Chris as the CAT, and have personally met the Alien, Ace Frehley--who was a kick-in-the pants-pisser of a funny nice guy. And another featured tune is BIG BOTTOM originally featured in This is Spinal Tap! You so gotta love Michael McKeon in that while shiney lame fabric. Yes, more cushion for the pushin'. And I do recall Confessore saying that they recorded it in Dolby, and yes, the Marshall amps did go up to 11!

The project has gotten coverage from ivillage.com and jezebel.com, with specific music coverage from the likes of Blabbermouth, and, of course, Metal Sludge—for those sure-fire, all-out rockers.

So, fire up your old myspace and give it a listen.

You can purchase the album, concert tees, and plus-size t-shirts featuring the bad ass Leppelin-inspired cover art. and even a print of the cover art!

So, consider buying a disc, or getting a download, turning it up to 11, and rocking out! You can get all your info here at SplitScreen Entertainment.

Dude... I thought I heard the producer say he got some guff for calling it a salute to "fat chicks." If you read and love Lara Frater like I read and love Lara Frater, then what gives, yo? She is my very favorite--and best illustration of--a self-described 'fat chick'. Rock and roll is good enough for her, and hells bells she is certainly good enough for rock and roll, so how about showing some love back to someone who is putting time and effort to honor full figured women in music? Certainly that is worth some saluting, yea?

Well, you know the rest… we DO make the ROCKin’ world go ‘ROUND’, don’t we? You bet your lighter (or a visual image of a lighter on your iphone) we do!

Rock Out! and Rock On!

KIRA NERUSSKAYA, lover both the rock and the roll!
NEW YORK CITY

Fat Heroine Siezes the screen in Ten Stories Tall by David Garrett

Ten Stories of Questions with Writer/Director David Garrett of
TEN STORIES TALL

When I met David Garrett (My favorite Dave of all the Dave's I know) at the 2006 NAAFA Convention and he said he lived int he city--uptown, though. And he "was into film." I thought we would be friends. That, and he had long hair, and I kinda got this thing for long hair......... and we never went out for a beer or much else made contact.

It was not until New Years in Massachusetts(again?!)2006-2007 when we finally got to talking. With some serious ass bad jokes(mostly mine--I say mostly!) and a ride back to Manhattan with some very serious cool tunes(David has amazing ecletic taste in music!)a friendship was forming.

It was not until we had a pretty amazing conversation and connection, where I revealed my thoughts that "all movies are about love," and after seeing a few homework exercises he did for Columbia Film School, and his film shorts where I straightened up, gasped, and said: "You're brilliant." With a shy grin, and some homemade American chooped suey from Chicago, we listened to each other and heard and understood the pssion for sharing our perspectives with the world--perspectives that seem to bridgethe gap between old-fashioned and modern and are firmly rooted in goodness and kindness, minutiae and miracles.

TEN STORIES TALL starring Ally Sheedy (yes, THAT Ally Sheedy), I am proud to announce is showcasing at the Brooklyn INternational Film Festival on June 6th and June 13th in Brooklyn.

I thought I would ask my good friend and filmmaker to share a few words about his current project and the light he most eloquently has shown on having a fat heroine character played by Emily Skinner. She does a fantastic job, as does the entire cast. Not a dull moment or performance!

I brought my boss to the June 6th screening and she said " It was amazing how delicately David wove everything together. He hit on everything that we see and deal with in life." She was crying; I was glad. And most of all, very proud.

Finally, I kept telling him how I wanted the recipe below, as we spent one afternoon hanging out with the Burns' who give great face in the film! might I add. I told my Aunt Meemie about it, and she thought it sounded awesome. I verify it tasted awesome, so please enjoy a few fun questions with filmmaker David Garrett and his great recipe for yummy Baked Apples With Barley-Chorizo Pilaf Time-- when you sit with friends and chat, or enjoy a great film.

Floor 1: The Basics!

1. What inspired you to write this film?

DG: New York is my hometown, and I wanted to write about it. Something like Thornton Wilder’s Our Town – a simple and poetic look at the way we live and die. I began sketching out characters and their stories in 2003, and for two years played around with it all, not really sure I was getting anywhere. Then in 2005 I lost my brother to alcohol, and for the next two years my family suffered loss after loss: my uncle and godfather, my aunt, two family friends, and finally my father in 2007. Such relentless tragedy saps our strength, and though it can inspire empathy, clarity, and an urge to give comfort, it can also inspire anger, bitterness, and even faithlessness. These losses filled my life with raw emotion, and I used the still-developing Ten Stories Tall as a vessel into which I could channel it all.

Floor 2: Keeping It Real!

2. Are any of the scenes autobiographical?

DG: No; not in the strictest sense. About 90% of it is pulled from incidents in my life, but all of it is fictionalized.

Floor 3: Decisions, decisions!

3. Which character do you feel you like the most, or feel the closest to and why? Or which one do you feel you like the least and why?

DG: Why would you ask me to choose among my children?

Floor 4: Getting it done!

4. What did you like most and least about production?

DG: I love everything about production, except delays. There’s a lot of waiting around on a film set while other departments finish their work, and that’s to be expected. However, unexpected delays, whether from negligence, stupidity, accident, or Act of God – doesn’t matter – is going to piss me off. They’re also par for the course, though, so I’m never pissed for very long. Guess I just love it all.

Floor 5: Made in New York: from the Eastside, to the Westsiiiiiiiide!

5. For those on the East Side--Do you feel that New York City acts as an additional background character in the film?

DG: It’s been said about Our Town that it details the minutiae of daily life against the backdrop of the eternal. For Ten Stories Tall, New York is that backdrop.

For those on the West Side--What were the biggest challenges of filming in the city?

DG: Traffic.

Floor 6: Going up!

6. Why did you choose to include a plus-sized heroine?

DG: This story is about familial relationships under terrible strain, and there’s not much that can put a strain on a relationship quicker than fat. I grew up (and am still) fat, and know very well how powerful fat can be, and the kind of hatred it can inspire in others. So it’s a personal choice, as well as an excellent device for dramatic conflict. Also, fat women are kinda hot.

Floor 7: A positive plus!

7. What do you hope plus-size women take away from your film?

DG: Besides just loving the movie, I hope that they can feel like a little bit of equilibrium has been restored to their daily lives, which can so often be filled with attacks on their self-esteem. I hope that they can see that the beautiful, intelligent, compassionate, and damn sexy girl that they are doesn’t have to go on a diet.

Floor 8: Would you like that gift wrapped?

8. What would you like your audience to leave the theatre with or thinking about? If you could wave a magic wand and force your audience to do one thing when they leave the theatre, what would that be?

DG: I would force the audience to return with five of their friends.

Floor 9: Reaching the Top!

9. Have you ever experienced a moment when you felt ten stories tall? If not, what do you think would make you feel that way?

DG: Oh yes. I think we’ve all had moments like that. What’s important is that we learn how to savor those moments, long after they’re gone, and how to draw upon them for strength in those times when we feel like we’re in the basement.

Floor 10: What’s next for you?

10. What is next for you?

DG: A horror film called Holy Oak. It’s set on a Georgia plantation at the end of the Civil War, and is about a Confederate matriarch haunted by her dead sons’ ghosts as she waits for her husband to return from war. The Shining meets Gone With the Wind.


...and a recipe:


Baked Apples With Barley-Chorizo Pilaf Time: About 1 1/2 hours
1 tablespoon olive oil
3/4 pound chorizo, diced
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
3/4 cup barley
1 2/3 cups chicken broth, more as needed
Pinch kosher salt
3/4 cup shelled, chopped and toasted hazelnuts
4 tart, crisp apples, like Granny Smiths.
1. In a medium pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add chorizo and onion and cook, stirring, until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add barley and stir to coat with oil. Cook, stirring, until barley smells nutty, about 2 minutes. Stir in broth and salt. Bring to a boil; reduce to a simmer and cook until barley is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, 40 to 50 minutes. Stir in hazelnuts.

And remember, "all movies are about love." And so is life, my friends, so is life.

With love,

KIRA NERUSSKAYA
from the 4th floor
NEW YORK CITY