Founder's Message

2000 - The Plus-Size Woman is BACK and standing as STRONG as ever!!

Well, this year started off with a BANG! The plus-size woman took New York by storm when Lane Bryant presented the first ever runway fashion show in February featuring lingerie for plus-size women. The effort received positive responses from many New Yorkers and included a special appearance by Kathy Najimy of "Sister Act" fame. However, we (size 20+) are waiting for a 5'6", size 22 everyday woman to strut her stuff on the runway. But have faith...it's on the way.

In this issue of the newsletter I have included a fabulous poem entitled "Inner Beauty of a Plus-Size Woman", which was written by Jimmie C. Donelson (JC), an articulate 14-year old teenager who resides in New York. JC has written this poem to express his admiration of plus-size women and the beauty that they possess- inside and outside. I was extremely excited to read this poem and felt that I had to share it
with the VWC newsletter subscribers.

As promised, I have included information on our upcoming empowerment weekend entitled "A Diamond in the Rough: Empowerment Weekend for Plus-Size Women". I chose this title after hearing a sermon in church based on a similar topic. Many times we are so consumed with our outward appearance (the rough) that we fail to unveil our "diamonds" to our family, friends and co-workers. The diamonds represent the numerous talents, professional achievements, intelligence, determination, and love that we all have. But "the world" has a way of determing what it feels is acceptable and right. However, we must all remember that "the world" is only temporary, and what will REALLY matter in the long run is if you are living your life according to God's plan for you.

The empowerment weekend will include various workshops on plus-size modeling, dressing for success, health/fitness, and careers in the plus-size industry. The luncheon will feature a "special guest" speaker who is a 15-year veteran of the plus-size industry. And we will present our 3rd Annual Networking Reception and Fashion Show that will feature designs by Lonnie Cisco and Davide Fur - New York. The empowerment weekend will be held at the brand new 4-Star Hilton Alexandria Old Town in Alexandria, Virginia which is 15 minutes outside of Washington, DC. The
hotel is convenient to National Airport, major highways, Union Station (Amtrak) and Metrorail.

VWC will be exhibiting at various events within in the next five months and is presenting a workshop at the African American Women On Tour in Atlanta, Georgia on August 27, 2000. We look forward to meeting and hearing your comments and suggestions at one of the events. And in our next newsletter we will include information on our Plus-Size Awareness Campaign, which we are launching in July.

We will continue to provide one the Twenty CANs of Success in 2000 in every newsletter. Many of our readers have found them insightful and uplifting.

"Why should I be weak when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God?" (Psalm 27:1; Dan 11:32)

Peace and Blessings,

Jennene Biggins-Grimsley
Founder and CEO

March 18, 200
Meet Star Jones at Saks Fifth Avenue in Dallas at the Saks Fifth Avenue Store in the Dallas Galleria, located at 13550 Dallas Parkway. For more information call (972) 458-7000

March 18, 2000
Join Parisian and MODE Magazine for a Spring Fashion Show at the Parisian Town Center in Atlanta at 1pm. There is no charge for the event but reservations are requested. For reservations and information call 1(800) 352-4049 ext. 2953

March 25, 2000
Join Lord and Taylor as they present an Elisabeth Fashion Seminar at the New York store, Eleventh Floor Theatre at 1pm. For reservations and information call (212) 391-3008

April 8, 2000
The Capital Chapter of NAAFA cordially invites you to a Spring Dance at the Sheraton College Park (formerly The Calverton Holiday Inn) from 9pm - 1am. For more information check out their website at http://members.xoom.com/CAPITALNAAFA or call 703-912-1646

April 29, 2000
Big Beautiful Dolls, Inc. present the Plus World Pageant. For more information send an email to: ABM30@aol.com or visit their website at http://www.bigbeautifuldolls.com. VWC will be exhibiting at the Pageant so stop by and meet the staff.

May 6, 2000
International No Diet Day Picnic sponsored by the Greater Baltimore Chapter of NAAFA at Downs Memorial Park. For more information visit their website at http://BaltimoreNAAFA.homepage.com or call 410-679-5258

**If you are not in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area, but want information on other NAAFA events in various cities, visit their website at http://www.naafa.org**

June 10, 2000
Full-Figured and Fabulous - The Millenium Woman; A Plus-Size Runway Model competition in New York. For more information call 917-356-5569 or send an email to applediva@aol.com. VWC will be exhibiting at the competition so stop by and meet the staff.

July 21-23, 2000
Philly Bash 2000 - http://phillybash.com. VWC will be exhibiting on Saturday, July 22, 2000, so stop by and meet the staff.

August 27, 2000
VWC will presenting a workshop at the African American Women on Tour Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. For more information on AAWOT, visit their website at http://www.aawot.com

October 20-22, 2000
A Diamond in the Rough: Empowerment Weekend for Plus-Size Women and the 3rd Annual Fashion Show/Networking Reception will be sponsored by the Voluptuous Woman Company.

November 2-4, 2000
Ms. Plus American All Star. Visit their website at
http://www.homestead.com/americanallstarpageants

Have you ever wanted to pamper yourself at a Day Spa but was afraid it was too expensive? Or were you afraid of going to a spa because you are full-figured?

Fear no more! If you are in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area you must visit the Fresh Start Day Spa. Fresh Start Day Spa is an intimate and comfortable spa that will not treat you like a number, but will make you feel like the goddess that you are. Because of its intimate location, you don't have to worry about being self conscious about your physical size nor the size of your wallet.

Fresh Start Day Spa provides body treatments that include body buffs, salt scrubs, body polishing, body wraps, etc. from $25.00-$70.00 and the service last from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the kind of service you request.

Facial Treatments include treatment, recovery, antioxident, or glycolic facials which start at $20.00 - $45.00 and the service is provided from 30 to 90 minutes.

Massage Treatments include reflexology foot massage, swedish body massage and deep tissue massage. The prices range from $20.00 - $60.00, and the service time ranges from 30 to 90 minutes.

In additon to the services mentioned above they also provide an array of manicures and pedicures.

I personally visited the Fresh Start Day Spa and had the "All in My Grill Corrective Treatment Facial", which started with a personal skin assessment to uncover my skin condition. Then a selection of treatment products were custom blended to cleanse, exfoliate, restore, and corrected any current skin problems. The experience was soothing and relaxing as I laid on a goose-down featherbed which enabled my size 22 figured to have adequate space. And I was completely at ease in the room with the light jazz music and candles illuminating.

So get the Spring and Summer off to a "Fresh Start" and call (202) 667-5141.

Just4meplus by JCPenny - Internet shopping site that enables you to shop using a virtual model who is based on YOUR measurements. Visit the website at http://www.just4meplus.com

Just My Size - Just My Size has an online catalog where you can see their casual and career spring fashions. Visit their website at http://www.justmysize.com

Cosmetic Connection - Opinions and advice on makeup and beauty. Visit Heather Kleinman's website at http://www.cosmeticconnection.com

ViVi Knits of Santa Fe - Customized knits for plus size women. Visit their website at http://www.viviknits.com

Better Half Fashions - Casual and careerwear for sizes 18-40. Visit their website at http://www.betterhalf.com

Rhode Island BBW/BHM/Admirers and Friends - Social organization that sponsors social events in the Rhode Island area. For more information visit their website at http://www.members.aol.com/bigshotzandco/index.html

Berkshire Hosiery - True Queen Size Hosiety in Day Sheer or Ultra Sheer. Visit their website at http://www.ebirkshire.com or call 800-556-2937

Dresscode.com - Careerwear for women sizes 14-26. Visit their website at http://www.mydresscode.com

Prizes will include $10,000 grant, publications in the Boston Book Review, publication on the Amazon.com Web site, special recognition on May 15, 2000 at the annual PEN Literary Awards Ceremony in New York and the most distinguised runners-up will also appear on the Anazon.com Web site.

Stories should be typed and double-spaced. Eash page of a submission should include all information for contacting the write, including name, address, contact telephon number and email address. Minimum submission length is 1,000 words with a 8,000 word maximum.

Send manuscripts to:

The PEN/Amazon.com Short Story Award
P.O.Box 80727
Seattle, WA 98108

or you can submit your story electronically, e-mail an attachment to shortstory@amazon.com. Stories must be received on or before March 24, 2000.

INCOME TAX WEBSITES:

http://www.irs.ustreas.gov
http://www.1040.com
http://www.govWorks.com
http://www.EL.com
http://www.handrblock.com/tax

CLASSIFIED RATES FOR WEBSITE*:

$$$$ If you would like to advertise your event or company in the next issue
of our newsletter or on our website the rates are as follows: (includes a link to your website or email address)

Two Months $60.00
Three Months $80.00
Six Months $120.00

NEWSLETTER CLASSIFIED RATES: $10.00 for 2 issues.

The closing date for newsletter advertisement rates is the 21st of the month
prior to the publication month.

Hilton Alexandria Old Town Hotel
1767 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone 703-837-0440/ Fax 703-837-0454

The hotel is located 15 minutes outside of Washington, DC and is convenient to National Airport, major highways, Union Station (Amtrak) and within walking distance of the Metrorail (Washington, DC's mass transit system).

The weekend will include:
*Welcome Packets with "goodies"
*Continental Breakfast
*Workshops
*Luncheon
*Networking Reception and Fashion Show
*Sunday Brunch

Featured Speakers*:
Chyna McGarity Arnold - Professional Plus-Size Model
Venise Berry - Author, All of Me: A Voluptuous Tale Dor-Ne Corset Shoppe
Barbara Harris - Creating the Fabulous You:Mind Body, & Soul
DeLores Pressley - Ms. Plus USA Pageant
Nancy Imelda Schafer - PhenomenalWomen.com
Dina Tate - Sisters 4 Sisters.com
Pam Young - Models Plus International
Cynthia Johnson and Marie Gant, HIPPS Fashion Galleria
*subject to change

TOTAL EVENT PRICE - $139.00 (does not include hotel)

The early registration conference rate is $139.00 (non-members) and $97.00 (members). After September 22, 2000 the conference rate is $169.00 (non-members) and $118.00 (members) and will be based on availability. The conference space is limited, so be sure to register early. Full conference packages including room and conference rates are available.

ONE NIGHT CONFERENCE PACKAGE*
*Single occupancy - $298.00
*Double occupancy - $219.00
*Triple occupancy - $192.00
*Quad occupancy - $179.00

TWO NIGHT CONFERENCE PACKAGE*
*Single occupancy - $457.00
*Double occupancy - $298.00
*Triple occupancy - $245.00
*Quad occupancy - $219.00
*excludes taxes

Full conference packages receive a copy of our Full-Figured Woman's Resource Guide.

VWC
Attn: Diamond
P.O. Box 1172
Burtonsville, MD 20866-7172

INDIVIDUAL EVENT PRICES

*Conference Only (no hotel accommodations) $139.00 (savings $31.00)
*Workshops Only (no luncheon, brunch or Fashion Show/Reception $85.00
*Saturday Luncheon $30.00
*Fashion Show and Networking Reception $30.00 Adv ($35 at door)
*Sunday Brunch $25.00

If you would like an order form, please send an email to conf2000@volupwoman.com and a form will be emailed to you automatically. Or you can call 301-890-8301 ext. 2

AIRLINE DISCOUNTS

United Airlines and US Airways have been designated as the official carriers for the attendees of "A Diamond in the Rough:Empowerment Weekend for Plus-Size Women". Service is available into Reagan Washington National (DCA), Washington Dulles (IAD and Baltimore-Washington (BWI) Airports. However, Reagan National Airport is located 15 minutes from the hotel. Discounts of 5% to 10% off the lowest applicable fare are valid for travel between October 18-25, 2000.

US Airways - Call US Airways Group and Meeting Reservations Office toll-free at (877) 874-7687 8:00am-9:30pm (EST) Refer to Gold File
No. 62661613 (Empowerment Weekend for Plus-Size Women)

United Airlines - Call United's Specialized Meeting Reservations Center at 1-800-521-4041 to obtain the best fares and schedule information. Make sure you refer to Meeting ID Number 527ZO

GROUP DISCOUNTS

Do you have 10 or more friends who may want to come to the Empowerment Weekend for Plus-Size Women? Why not receive 15% off of the registration fee* just for getting a group of 10 or more together for a "weekend getaway"
(*not applicable to VWC members).

Groups of 10 or more receive a reserved table at the Luncheon and Brunch, as well as, special seating at the Fashion Show and Networking Reception. In addition, groups will receive a special welcome announcement in the Souvenir Program.

Group Requirements:
1. All individual registration forms must be received with Group Name on it and member list attached.
2. Individuals already registered cannot be added to a group.
3. Minimum group size of 10 must be met.
4. All refund/transfer policies and deadlines apply.
5. To qualify for a reserved table, group must be fully registered and paid by September 22, 2000.
6. Entire group MUST register at one time. Payments can be made individualy or in a lump sum.

For more information regarding groups, please send an email to rpowell@volupwoman.com or call 301-890-8301 ext. 4

ROOMMATE INFORMATION

We have received some inquiries regarding roommate matching for women who want to come to the Empowerment Weekend but don't want a single room.

If you are in need of a roommate, please send your name and phone number to register@volupwoman.com or call 301-890-8301 ext. 2. VWC will forward your name/email to potential roommates and the arrangements MUST be made at
the discretion of the individuals. VWC does not take responsibility for any indiscretions concerning arrangements between you and your roommate.

ALTERNATE HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS

VWC has a limited amount of rooms designated at the Hilton Alexandria Old Town Hotel. And due to the responses from potential Empowerment Weekend attendees we will sell out our room block. However, we still have rooms available at this time.
Nonetheless, we have included a list of additional hotels in the Old Town Alexandria Virginia area for your convenience.

Embassy Suites Alexandria Old Town - 703-684-5900
Alexandria Suites Hotel - 703-370-1000
Best Western Old Colony Inn - 703-739-2222
Comfort Inn Alexandria - 703-922-9200
Comfort Inn Landmark - 703-642-3422
Courtyard by Marriott Alexandria - 703-329-2323
Holiday Inn Alexandria - Telegraph Rd - 703-960-3400
Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites - 703-548-6300
Holiday Inn Select Old Town - 703-549-6080
Radisson National Airport (N Fairfax St) 703-683-6000

If you want to stay at the host hotel (the Hilton Alexandria Old Town) you need to get your registrations in as soon as possible.

ADVERTISING RATES

Want to reach hundreds of women at our event? Want to get additional customers for your products, services or social functions?

Well, don't miss an opportunity to advertise in our souvenir program that will be distributed to all Empowerment Weekend attendees and guests of our 3rd Annual Networking Reception and Fashion Show. Not only will you reach the attendees at the event, but women are known for passing along information to their friends or family
which will extend your advertising dollars beyond the attendees of the Empowerment Weekend.

SECURE YOUR SPACE NOW!!

*****RATES*****
The souvenir journal size is 8'x11"

All display advertisements must be camera ready (Black and White).

DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISEMENTS IS SEPTEMBER 22, 2000.
Space is limited so place your reservations early.

Send an email to advertising@volupwoman.com for an advertising order form or call 301-890-8301 ext. 4 Listed below is a copy of our advertising rates:

*Full Page (inside cover) $200.00 (incl. website listing until 12/1/00 on the VWC website)
*Full Page (display ad) $120.00 (incl.website listing until 12/1/00 on the VWC website)
*Half Page (display ad) $75.00
*Quarter Page (display ad) $50.00
*Basic Listing (business card) $35.00
*Website listing (includes company name,website/email and 15 word description) $25.00

***VWC reserves the right to refuse any advertisement that we feel is not suitable for our patrons. No diet or weight loss advertisements will be accepted.***

Our mailing address is:
VWC
PO Box 1172
Burtonsville, MD 20866-7172
Phone: 301-890-8301
Fax: 240-465-0529
Website: http://www.volupwoman.com

A PLUS SIZE WOMAN IS BEAUTIFUL TO ME, THEY
EVEN LOOK BETTER THAN THE QUEEN BEE.

THEY MAY NOT BE SKINNY AS CINDY CRAWFORD
BUT THEY HAVE SO MUCH TO OFFER.

SOME PLUS SIZE WOMEN ARE SHY THE GREAT MEN
OFTEN WONDER WHY.

IT'S NOT ALL ABOUT HOW MANY PICTURES THEY ARE TAKEN
IT'S ALL BASED ON THE MONEY THEIR MAKING.

IF SOMEONE SAYS YOU CAN'T TAKE THE STAND,
GOD WILL ALWAYS BE HOLDING YOUR HAND.

A PLUS SIZE WOMAN MAY WEAR THE GEAR, THIS POEM
IS SOMETHING YOU WOMEN SHOULD HEAR.

DON'T THINK YOU'RE TOO BIG TO BE A MODEL,
YOUR BIG BREAK MAY BE TOMORROW.

IT'S NOT GOOD TO BE A MYSTERY
HEY- YOU MAY GO DOWN IN HISTORY.

VWC is also offering a distributor program for people who are interested in selling the Guide to earn extra money. The retail price for the book is $18.95 and we will pay you a $5.00 commission for each book that you sell. VWC will handle all of the billing
and shipping and send you a commission check monthly.

If you are interested in becoming a distributor please send an email to distributor@volupwoman.com

Yes, I would like to order ____ copies of the Full Figured Woman's Resource
Guide at the introductory rate of $18.95 plus $3.00 S/H each.

Enclosed is a check/money order for $______________ OR
Please charge $______________ to my Visa/Mastercard (circle one)
Credit Card Number__________________________________________
Exp. Date:___________
Authorized Signature:_________________________________________

Name:________________________________________________
Address_______________________________________________
City, State, ZIP_________________________________________
Phone:_________________________________
Fax ___________________________________
Email__________________________________

**Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery**

Send order form to:

Voluptuous Woman Company
Attn: FFWRG
P.O. Box 1172
Burtonsville, MD 20866-7172
or fax credit card orders to:
240-465-0529

A PLUS SIZE WOMAN IS BEAUTIFUL TO ME, THEY
EVEN LOOK BETTER THAN THE QUEEN BEE.

THEY MAY NOT BE SKINNY AS CINDY CRAWFORD
BUT THEY HAVE SO MUCH TO OFFER.

SOME PLUS SIZE WOMEN ARE SHY THE GREAT MEN
OFTEN WONDER WHY.

IT'S NOT ALL ABOUT HOW MANY PICTURES THEY ARE TAKEN
IT'S ALL BASED ON THE MONEY THEIR MAKING.

IF SOMEONE SAYS YOU CAN'T TAKE THE STAND,
GOD WILL ALWAYS BE HOLDING YOUR HAND.

A PLUS SIZE WOMAN MAY WEAR THE GEAR, THIS POEM
IS SOMETHING YOU WOMEN SHOULD HEAR.

DON'T THINK YOU'RE TOO BIG TO BE A MODEL,
YOUR BIG BREAK MAY BE TOMORROW.

IT'S NOT GOOD TO BE A MYSTERY
HEY- YOU MAY GO DOWN IN HISTORY.

An official VWC T-shirt
A copy of the Full Figured Woman's Resource Guide
VIP Seating at VWC Events
30% off Conference Registration (Fall 2000)
30% off Advertising rates for brochures and event programs
50% off VWC Sponsored Events

Send $45.00 for a Two-Year membership via check or money order to:
VWC
P.O. Box 1172,
Burtonsville, MD 20866-7172
or to pay by Visa/MasterCard by calling 301-890-8301 ext. 4 or visit our website at http://www.volupwoman.com/club.html. VWC wants to hear your comments and suggestions. Please feel free to contact us at:

Voluptuous Woman Company
P.O. 1172
Burtonsville, MD 20866-7172
Phone - 301-890-8301
Fax - 240-465-0529
Toll-Free - 888-558-7845
Email: jbiggins@volupwoman.com
Visit our website at: http://www.volupwoman.com