Freedom Forth

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

2012-01-31T21:19:00.000-08:00

Approximately 1 in 3 adolescent girls is a victim of abuse from a dating partner. The seriousness of this issue prompted New Jersey lawmakers to pass recent legislation (P.L. 2011, Chapter 64) that requires dating violence education (grades 7-12) and a policy and guidelines for incidents involving dating violence.

Freedon Forth: December Newsletter

2011-12-07T07:31:00.000-08:00

thank-you

adjective

expressing one's gratitude or thanks:

Thank you for taking the time to open this newsletter and for your support the past two years as we have developed a tangible program to serve women of low income and domestic abuse in Morris County, New Jersey.

Thank you to our dedicated volunteers for sharing your heart, time and gifts to serve.

Thank you to the business leaders who are experts in their sphere of influence that have volunteered their time to come in on Sunday evenings to share skills with the women in our program from budgeting, resume writing, parenting skills, excel, nutrition, interview and computer training, etc.

Thank you to our 10 seasoned and devoted doctors for serving our participants with complimentary eye, dental and dermatology care.

Thank you to our partnerships that continue to sharpen us as an organization.

Thank you to our dedicated board of directors, advisory board and committee for your dedication and support over the past two years.

Thank you to Hillside Church for donating space for us to meet in week after week.

Thank you to generous local businesses for donating services to our program.

Thank you to many Hillside Church congregants for donating food, clothing and toy items to bless the women and children in our program.

Thank you to Hillside Preschool families for collecting Thanksgiving meals this November to bless each family with food on their table.

Thank you to those who have donated monetarily into this program.

Thank you for the opportunity to allow our team to share God's love, forgiveness, provision and grace with the women and children in our program.

Thank you, for making the difference in the life of a woman and child.

In closing the autumn season of our program, we have much to be thankful for. If you have a heart for this cause and would like to get involved in any way from sharing a skill, volunteering, donating, please contact: FreedomForth@gmail.com.

Your contribution to Freedom Forth creates the services and support needed to serve women of low income and domestic abuse through our program.

(Freedom Forth Ministries is a 501-(c)(3) nonprofit charity. All donations are 100% tax-deductible.)

Video Project {The Beauty of a Woman}

2011-11-09T13:20:00.001-08:00

By: Videographer David Listor

www.davidlistor.wordpress.com

(We are thankful to David for all of his heart, time and effort the past 6 months in serving us with his gift of videography. If you are in need of a humble and talented individual for a video project, please contact him for further inquiries.)

She Sees Hope

2011-11-09T13:15:00.000-08:00

We welcome B&B Eye Group, LLC and Dr. Robert G. Kirczow to our team of dedicated eye doctors.

Dr. Kirczow has been serving in our local community for over 30 years. He is well known in both Morris and Essex Counties. When hearing of our program, he quickly offered his services to serve women in need through our program. He specializes in Treatment and Management of eye disease. We are thankful for his services of complimentary eye exams to our participants.

We also thank, Karen Breda, whom is the office manager at B&B Eye Group. She has been working with Dr. Kirczow for seven years and is graciously donating eye accessories to our participants. She is very active in our community service and serves with the Interfaith organization at her local church to serve families in need.

B&B Eye Group, LLC

Route 10 Ledgewood Mall

Ledgewood, NJ

(973) 927-1242

Clothing + Donations

2011-11-09T13:13:00.000-08:00

We thank clothing children's clothing brand OshKosh B'gosh for their generous donations of thousands of dollars of children's clothing items to serve the children of our participants this autumn.

Life-Giving Music to the {Soul}

2011-11-09T13:06:00.000-08:00

Tenth Avenue North: "You Are More"

"You are more than the choices that you've made,

You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,

You are more than the problems you create,

You've been remade.

You've been remade.

You've been remade."

She Nourishes Her Temple With Faith {Pretty in Green}

2011-11-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

Below are some recommendations towards a more earth-friendly, natural and healthy existence and have found the beauty world a relatively easy (and fun) place to start.

Coola Face SPF 30 Matte Finish Cucumber Natural Mineral Sunblock

This sunscreen is really light and amazing. It goes on like a silky powder versus an oily cream, making it a perfect makeup primer (and a pleasure to put on each day!).

Soapwalla Kitchen Deodorant Cream

If there were one area where I never believed it would be possible to go natural, it'd be deodorant. That was until I found Soapwalla. The owner, Rachel Winard, makes all the products at home in her Brooklyn apartment. It keeps me dry and fresh on the hottest days or during the most intense workouts-even more so than the chemical-filled "clinical strength" formulas I used to buy at the drugstore, and they cost about the same.

Dr. Bronner's Peppermint Liquid Soap

Simply the best! We use it as both a body wash and a hand soap in my home, and the scent is an invigorating morning wake-up call. It's also very affordable and has a million uses (the company cops to 18 uses).

Looking for other product recommendations? I have found the blog

No More Dirty Looks and the online shopping beauty site

Spirit Beauty Lounge to be fantastic resources on this going-green journey.

She Nourishes Her Temple With Faith

2011-11-09T12:57:00.001-08:00

Why is stretching important?

Stretching is important to help lengthen and loosen your muscles. People used to think that stretching was the first thing you should do before exercising. Now we know that you should warm up for 5-10 minutes by doing some light exercises and then you should stretch. The reason for this is that stretching cold muscles can directly contribute to pulled and torn muscles.

{Life-Giving Music to the Soul}

2011-11-09T12:55:00.000-08:00

Tara-Leigh Cobble "Morning's War"

Musician, author & speaker, Tara-Leigh Cobble's seventh and latest album, Morning's War, is a broken and hopeful triumph, where stripped down acoustic songs alternate with soaring atmospheric melodies. TLC affectionately calls it "an experiment in time travel."

She Smiles With Joy

2011-08-28T20:11:00.001-07:00

We welcome dentist Ronald Jupiter from Succasunna, New Jersey to our team of devoted doctors!

Ronald Jupiter graduated from New York

University College of Dentistry and has had a successful practice in Succasunna, NJ for over 35 years.

In addition, Ronald serves as President of the

Roxbury Day Care center, a not for profit day care for pre-school and latch key. He oversees the preschool and before & after school program of 290 children, 55 employees and a $2 million budget. He has been the unpaid executive director of the 2 programs for the past 24 years.

Finally, he has served two terms on the Roxbury Board of Education, which has given him a wealth of information in regard to government, as well as educational field regulations.

Special Thanks.

2011-08-28T20:08:00.001-07:00

We thank Philip Pelusi and Jennifer Danilchick of Tela Beauty Organics for very generously donating their space for our 3rd annual fashion benefit. Without them this benefit would not be possible. Their kindness as well as humble hearts to serve women in need is truly an inspiration to us.

About Tela Design Studio/Philip Pelusi: Philip is an internationally recognized stylist, photographer and product artist who has grown from 1 salon to 13 salons and is synonymous with excellence in the industry Philip took main stage in the industry by unveiling Tela Design Studio by Philip Pelusi. Tela Design Studio offers clients a sophisticated palette of sensory experiences.

He created the Phillip Pelusi Design Center, a state of the art education facility in a converted orthodox church where in addition to providing skill certification for his 350+ designers, Philip holds events and seminars for salon professionals from all of North America.InStyle named Philip one of the top 10 Stylists in the country The Philip Pelusi^® line has been well received in such magazines as Launchpad, InStyle, WWD, O, Marie Claire, Cosmo. He is a returning guest on Martha Stewart's Living Today show on Sirius Radio, as well as a favorite go-to beauty expert on ABC Television Network. He is currently a featured contributor to Happi magazine.

To learn more about the venue, please visit: www.Telanyc.com

Book of The Month.

2011-08-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

"What Happens When Women Say Yes to God"

By: Lysa TerKeurst

Total obedience to Christ can transform an ordinary life into a remarkable journey. This is the hope found in the liberating message of

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God.

Lysa shares inspiring stories from her own life, along with compelling biblical insights, as she describes what it means to partner with God in all decisions and actions. This book reveals how honoring God produces a life of deep joy and great purpose. It is an invitation to seek God and boldly ask for and expect more from the Christian life.

She Nourishes Her Temple With Faith: Breathing

2011-08-28T14:54:00.000-07:00

"Stress can be managed and reduced with proper breathing. Shallow breathing is a typical stress response. Hyperventilation can prolong anxiety and stress. Abdominal breathing techniques soothe the nervous system and encourage health benefits, such as reduced blood pressure."

For more information: (Click here.)

{Life-Giving Music to the Soul}

2011-08-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

"Healer"- Kari Jobe

(Click on link above)

You hold my every moment

You calm my raging seas

You walk with me through fire

And heal all my disease

I trust in you

I believe

You're my healer

I believe

You are all i need

I believe

Donation.

2011-08-28T14:16:00.001-07:00

We are incredibly thankful to Frank Warner of frank anthony salon & spa in Chester, New Jersey for making a very generous donation to our organization. frank anthony is also going to serve our "Purpose Filled Steps" participants with hair and make-up.

(www.frankanthony.com)

Salon owners Frank and Joy Warner, along with Anthony Gentile, opened frank anothony salon in the fall of 1970. Over the last 41 years, they have worked hard to create a team of 50 beauty professionals. Several of their team have received awards for their cutting and styling abilities.

Frequent beauty trips to New York City and Toronto, Canada help keep them in the forefront of the beauty industry.

Frank Anthony salon has been recognized in W and Glamour Magazine as one of the top salons in the country.

The Warners have publishes a master manuel on the marketing and managements of a successful salon. Their techniques serve as a basis for the seminars they present on marketing concepts, employee management, incentive programs, business ethics and customer service to salons and beauty schools in the New York / New Jersey area.

The Warners achievements include membership to Intercoiffure America/Canada: a salon bearing the Intercoiffure emblem is without question a "top-of-the-line salon." They strive for excellence in artistic expression as well as customer satisfaction. Frank and Joy have been recently names Intercoiffure Educators of the Century. In 1999 they received the Intercoiffure Award for Professional Excellence. Later that same year they were selected as on of the top 200 Salons by Salon Today Magazine. Their marketing and management concepts have been features in Modern Salon, Salon Today, Matrix Insights and Studio Magazine.

Frank Anthony was the first salon in the area to offer employment to the handicapped. The Warners were presented with the NRC Award for their active involvement with the Special Needs Community.

New Website.

2011-08-28T14:13:00.000-07:00

We are incredibly thankful to web design company three-nine media

for designing our new website. (www.FreedomForth.org)

three-nine media was founded by the very talented Lani Habrock a graduate of The Kings College in New York City. To connect with this company check out their website at: www.threeninemedia.com

Program Updates.

2011-08-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

Her name is Teresa. And she has taught me far more then any textbook or college course ever did. When I met Teresa over a year ago, she was worn down from difficult circumstances in life and dealing with homelessness. We began serving her through our dental program and month by month as we walked through this program with her, God has used this beautiful woman to unfold His plan for this new season.

This September, we will be launching our "Purpose Filled Steps" program. A 6 month program where we will directly serve women of low income and domestic violence in Roxbury, New Jersey and surrounding communities. We will be serving our participants with medical care, career, interview and computer training, budgeting and finance skills, life-style and nutrition, professional fashion seminars as well as parenting skills. In addition, our program will develop community support systems with the intent to give our participants the tools to become self-sufficient, ultimately enabling them to return to the community and live independently.

During the program, each woman will receive:

A weekly support group to attend (Childcare will be provided.)

Dental care

Eye care and glasses / contact lenses

A computer

A professional outfit and pair of shoes

Hair cut and style

Make-over

At the end of the program we will be treating the women to a special evening out in New York City. For many of these women, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to enjoy an evening out to a dinner and Broadway Play. We are thankful to be working with Roxbury Social Services as we begin to serve women through this program.

If you would like to donate to really make a difference in an individuals life or volunteer your time or service to this program, please email: FreedomForth@gmail.com

Your contribution to Freedom Forth creates the programs, services and support needed to serve and empower women to fulfill their purpose.

Donations can be mailed to:

Freedom Forth Ministries

P.O. Box 830

New York, NY 10156-0830

We are thankful beyond words for all of your prayers and support and invite you to join us on this journey to celebrate freedom.

Best,

Kristina Lee Grandstaff

Founder & Executive Director, Freedom Forth

She Speaks Words of Wisdom: Book Suggestion

2011-03-09T18:57:00.000-08:00

Today's twisted pictures of gender roles create confusion over how a woman should define herself. Women and men are encouraged to move closer to center and away from the traits that distinguish male from female. How can women feel good about themselves when society is constantly dictating what they can and should be? In Fight Like A Girl, Lisa Bevere exhorts us to embrace the differences between sexes. Her goal is to encourage women to celebrate the unique aspects of femininity. Instead of trying to adopt ill-fitting character traits, women should see themselves as designed and valued by God and savor their femininity as their strength, not a flaw.

Lisa Bevere is the bestselling author of Kissed the Girls and Made Them Cry, Nurture, and Be Angry But Don't Blow It. Lisa, along with her husband, John, leads Messenger International, a multifaceted ministry including youth discipleship, prison and inner-city outreach, world evangelism, and The Foreign Book Outreach. Lisa and John live with their four sons in Palmer Lake, Colorado.

Upcoming Speaking Engagements:

2011-03-09T18:51:00.000-08:00

This month you can hear Kristina speak:

Saturday, March 5th: Tuscarora Inn & Conference Center, Women's Retreat

Monday, March 7th: "Sisterhood" Family Life Church Women's Group

Monday, March 14th: Connections For Women

Monday, March 28th: Love 146 Task Force Meeting, Mt. Bethel, PA

If you are interested in booking Kristina to speak at an event, please email: Speaking.FreedomForth@gmail.com

She Smiles With Joy: Dr. Jason Kim

2011-03-09T18:47:00.000-08:00

We are thankful to be partnering with Dr. Jason Kim to serve women of domestic violence and victims of sex trafficking through our "She Smiles With Joy" program.

She Nourishes Her Temple With Faith: A Heavenly Morning Routine

2011-03-09T18:43:00.000-08:00

"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body." -1 Corinthians 6:19-21

You know, I know, we've heard it many times before. Eat healthy, take your vitamins and drink 7-8 glasses of water. Say "no" to stress, exercise daily and get proper amounts of sleep. While these are extremely important tips as women to follow in our daily routines to help stay healthy, these are some edifying tips I have learned and wanted to also share.

For more information: (http://historystartsnow.org/she-nourishes-her-temple-faith)

She is Clothed in Strength: Trend Watch Spring 2011

2011-03-09T18:36:00.000-08:00

High Waist Flair Jeans

Say hello to your new day-to-night bestie: Spring's sleek '70s-inspired jeans look cool again after almost a decade of skinny-jean world domination. Wear them with wedge heels and a tucked-in top. A trendy yet modest way to embrace spring fashion.

Derek Lam, spring 2011

Life Giving Music to the (Soul)

2011-03-09T18:23:00.000-08:00

"Dancing in the Minefields- Andrew Peterson"

(Click on link above.)

Women's Conference.

2011-02-01T07:08:00.000-08:00

I am overjoyed to

prayerfully

begin planning HSN's first

Proverbs 31 Women's Conference

to be hosted in New York City within the next couple of years. This will be a day filled with God's word, fellowship, worship, a great speaker, testimonies, sponsors and much more.

-Kristina Lee

If you feel called to serve in this conference from prayer to testimonies to sponsorships I would absolutely love to connect with you. Please contact: HistoryStartsNowNYC@gmail.com

Book of the Month: "Passport Through Darkness"

2011-02-01T07:06:00.000-08:00

Each one of us longs to know we matter.We hunger to know that we have purpose, our life has meaning, and God dreams great dreams for us. In Passport Through Darkness: A True Story of Danger and Second Chances,Kimberly Smith invites us into her own struggles as an ordinary woman who feels those aches, asks those questions, and stumbles through a quest to find her place in a broken world.

Kimberly L Smith, co-founder and president, of Make Way Partners a non-profit mission agency that goes where women & children are at highest risk of human trafficking, forced prostitution and other forms of modern-day slavery and where little to no other help is available because it is considered either "too" dangerous, "too" expensive or "too" remote for most people to go.

Make History!

2011-02-01T07:03:00.000-08:00

Join us in serving and empowering women to fulfill their dreams. Come on board as a prayer partner, sponsor, doctor, press outlet, speaker, volunteer or media partner.

Contact: HistoryStartsNowNYC@gmail.com

Life-giving Music to the Soul

2011-02-01T07:01:00.001-08:00

"Glorious Day" -Casting Crowns

(Click on link above)

Jazz at the Plaza + Recap

2011-02-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, December 15th HSN partnered with The Michael Fredo Orchestra and Jazz musician Bria Sconberg for an evening of Live Jazz at The Rose Club in Central Parks prestigious Plaza Hotel. Guests enjoyed unforgettable live jazz music while being educated on the topic of domestic trafficking.

Many Thanks to Michael Fredo, Jay Levine and Bria Sconberg for making this evening possible.

"She Nourishes Her Temple With Faith"- Laptop Usage + Skin Damage

2011-02-01T06:58:00.000-08:00

Whether working on your lap-top, watching a movie, playing a game, online shopping, most of us at some point in our days are on our lap-tops. At the end of the day, many like to veg out with our lap-tops on our laps.

This summer, I was doing a lot of work from home with not commuting into New York as much, and my mother kept telling me, "You shouldn't have that lap-top on your lap!" Well, she was certainly right. I started to notice a little discoloration on my left leg and read more about it. I will be fine, and am sure now to either have a blanket or computer cover over my legs when using my computer, but am surely glad I noticed this early on. I thought this article would be interesting to most and something we should all be conscious of while nourishing our temples.

For more information: (Click here.)

Life-giving Music to the {Soul}

2011-01-11T13:09:00.000-08:00

"What Love Really Means" - JJ Heller

(Click on link above)

"She Nourishes Her Temple With Faith"

2011-01-11T13:07:00.000-08:00

Full Body Mole Check:

It's a new year, and I strongly encourage you to take an hour out of your busy winter schedule to make an appointment at your local dermatologist for a full body mole check. I know this may seem like a tedious chore and perhaps even a bit neurotic. Do we really need yet another annual doctor appointment? Do I have to wear that gown? (Yes.) But as women, we must guard and protect our bodies. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 3.5 million cases in two million people are diagnosed annually.

I have been going every year since I turned 18 and am able to have a peace in knowing that annually I am checked. My dermatologist looks at all of the sun spots and moles with a magnifying glass and also examines my hair to the backs of my ears. I tell you, the woman doesn't miss a thing! The doctor takes pictures of the moles and yearly checks the shape of them to keep an eye on any signs of early melanoma.

For more information, please visit: http://www.skincancer.org/Skin-Cancer-Facts

"Hey Story"- Courtney Hope Turner

2011-01-11T13:03:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful for the opportunity to be crowned Miss South Carolina USA this past November. It has been a long journey to get here but every step of the way has transformed me into the woman I am called to be. As a child, I grew up very shy. I was as timid as you could be and had a very poor self-esteem. I never felt like I could stand up in a crowd let alone stand up for myself, and the idea of me speaking in public was never an option! I suffered through relationships trying to find my identity and happiness by how well I'd perform as the cookie cutter girlfriend, but there was never peace or true love in that. I continued to find myself loathing who I was becoming and that there was no direction for my life. I felt lost and searching for something greater.

However, the Lord had different plans for me. I had a heart for girls because I knew what we dealt with emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. I've dealt with the pain of feeling accepted. I began competing in pageants and through time, (with the help of some wonderful mentors) I began to start liking who I was, Courtney Turner. Instead of looking at what all I was doing wrong, I began to see how I was influencing others positively through my testimony. I found my identity and confidence solely from the Lord.

I will never be perfect, but through Jesus, He works righteousness in my heart and my life. And He can for you too!

As women, I feel like we can get wrapped up in feeling that we are never 'good enough' to succeed and achieve our dreams, that there is always something we could improve on. Yes, we should always be striving to grow and develop ourselves, but the main thing that we need to always keep in mind is that no 'one' or any 'thing' can define who we are.

YOU are (your name) and when you are happy and love yourself, flaws and all, then that is where true beauty sparks from. We are the Michael Angelo's of our own life, don't blame others for your circumstances, but learn from them and move forward. Share your testimony with others and give them hope that they can overcome the situations they face. Be a woman warrior wherever you go!

God bless,

Courtney Turner

"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." -Ephesians 2:8

"She Sees Hope"

2011-01-11T12:55:00.000-08:00

"She See's Hope" is a program in which we are working with top eye doctors to serve women with an annual eye exam and accessories.

We are thankful to be partnering with Chelsea Eye to serve women through this program in 2011.

"We pride ourselves on providing the most advanced LASIK in New York City, with a patient centered approach to care.Dr. Coad, Director of Ophthalmic Services, customizes LASIK and other refractive procedures to suit the needs of each patient."

Book of the Month: January

2011-01-11T12:27:00.001-08:00

Have you ever felt God's leading? Do you ignore tugs at your heart because you doubt they are from God? This used to be Lysa TerKeurst's response ... until one powerful day when she followed that inner voice of God and gave a stranger her beloved, well-worn Bible. That act of obedience was the catalyst for unimaginable blessings as Lysa opened her heart to the active miracle of living in God's will. Experience the radical blessings God has planned for you. Discover what it truly means to partner with God in all decisions and actions. Lysa's stories of inspiration and testimony will ignite your passion for God and His desire to work in and through your life. Get radical! And get ready for a journey of unprecedented joy and purpose.

Year End Letter 2010

2010-12-26T14:49:00.000-08:00

"God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies those He calls."

-Lysa Terkherst

Well, if I am not a living testament to that, I surely do not know who is. As I sit here reminiscing on 2010, I sit here in awe of God's faithfulness. I am by no means qualified to run a non-profit organization, let alone a ministry. But you see, God chooses the most unlikely to fulfill His plans. And I believe when He called me, it was because He knew that I would say "yes." Walk with me in excitement as we discover all that God has in store as His mighty plan unfolds.

I am going to close this year out on the heart of a woman we have served. I met this middle aged woman a year ago. She was homeless and worn down by difficult circumstances in life. Yet, I saw a sparkle behind her lonely eyes. I started meeting with her every few months and could see whenever I spoke with her she held her hands over her mouth.

One of our new programs launched this autumn serves women of domestic violence with dental care. This program did not only provide her with new teeth, but helped her to find her smile again. I have been going with her and holding her hand through this process. And not only has she found her smile again, I have found mine and a dear friend.

Functions and fundraisers are wonderful and necessary to continue our battle against human trafficking and victims of domestic violence, but it is the day to day quiet serving that is truly my heart. We entered 2010 with "For the Love of the Children" a benefit at Flanders Valley in my home town. Over 150 individuals attended and a large number of businesses generously donated to make this event possible. From there we hosted "Fashion For Freedom", "Fashion For Reform" and our second annual "Fashion Gives Back" at Stone Rose Lounge in Columbus Circle. Combining fashion with our mission aligns with our "She is Clothed in Strength" program. I had the privilege to speak at the Public Health Association of New York, St. Francis College, to Rotary International, a Women's Retreat at Tuscarora Inn & Conference Center, Connections For Women, at the NAHN Conference and on KTU 103.5 fm.

This summer, I spent almost all of it's entirety alone with God praying and seeking His will for this organization. With much prayer and council, I founded History Starts Now as a non-profit ministry to serve and empower women to fulfill their dreams. Just three weeks after submitting our legal paperwork to the IRS we received official documentation as a 501-(c) (3) organization. Dwayne Bassett graciously served in desiging a new website which was launched making it easier for individuals to navigate through and artist Lacee Swan designed our new logo which displays a butterfly representing freedom and healing.

Rather than the previous team structure, I built a committee of leaders, an official Board of Directors, Advisory Board and partners. These are selfless individuals that have donated their time to pour wisdom and heart into this cause.

I launched 5 programs that are all based around the example of a Proverbs 31 Woman.

What is a Proverbs 31 Woman? Often times, she is stereotyped as a woman with dirty dishes and laundry. I hope to inspire women through these few verses that in my opinion are the blueprint for how God intends for us to live our lives.

She is a strong, caring, multitalented woman.She is an individual.She has money to invest, she is her husband's partner and is trusted with responsibilities for their home. She has business skills and compassion to others. She tackles the challenges that may come her way. She fulfills the needs of the less fortunate. Her husband and children love and respect her. She is a remarkable woman that recoginizes that regardless of her natural talents or acquired skills, or all her accomplishments, her strength comes from God and God alone.

"She is Clothed in Strength" is a program in which we are partnering with top fashion designers to serve women with edifying beauty tips and fashion trends through modest styles, which enhance the inner beauty of a woman's heart.

She Smiles With Joy" is a program in which we are working with top dentists to serve women of domestic violence with cosmetic dentistry annually.

"She Nourishes Her Temple With Faith" is a program inspiring women with healthy lifestyle and eating tips.

"She Speaks Words of Wisdom" is a program encouraging women with edifying, life-giving perspectives on everyday topics.

"She Sees Hope" is a program in which we are working with top eye doctors to serve women of domestic violence with an annual eye exam and accessories.

This fall I had the honor of meeting with Emily Pataki whom serves as Criminal Justice Coordinator with Mayor Bloomberg's office. HSN is privileged to work with the New York Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force. HSN hosted "Be The Change" paired with New York's Freedom Week. I also had the honor of meeting abolitionists Justin Dillon, Director of Call + Response and Faith Huckel of Restore.

Lastly, HSN began serving women through our eye and dental programs. It has been a beautiful process to first hand see lives changed through these programs serving women with eye care and a new smile. We are thankful for the four doctors that have graciously stepped on board this autumn.

Moving forward, we will work to build our five programs in serving women as well begin to prepare for our first Proverbs 31 Woman's Conference to be held in New York City within the next 5 years. The hope of this conference is to focus on an annual topic, incorporate testimonies, the arts and the message of freedom in submission to the Lord. What better city to host it in but of course, the little island of Manhattan.

Thank you for supporting us, thank you for allowing us the privilege to serve God's most vulnerable. As I see all of these programs grow, I know it is because of individuals like you. HSN is offering hope to many women, so this letter starts and ends from the heart.

Currently HSN is an unfunded organization and one of our main goals for 2011 is to receive funding. I humbly ask that you consider donating to our organization.

I wish each of you God's peace and joy and may 2011 bring you many blessings.

Book Suggestion

2010-12-26T14:45:00.000-08:00

In this inspiring look at the lives of women in the Bible, bestselling author Elizabeth George reveals refreshing models of faith for today. Stories about Eve, Deborah, Sarah, Ruth, Mary, and other women from Scripture offer testimonies of changed lives and reflections on the remarkable strengths God cultivates in women who love Him. Conveying the assurance of God's love, The Remarkable Women of the Bible provides nourishment from a woman's point of view and connects today's woman with the source of fulfillment that sustained her sisters in Bible times---a relationship with God. Adapted from Women Who Loved God.

Call + Response

2010-12-26T14:43:00.000-08:00

I've admired Justin Dillon (Director of Call + Response) for years and had the honor of sitting down for coffee with him earlier this month at the trendy Ace Hotel. I am in absolute awe of his drive for social change against the injustice of sex trafficking as well as his humble heart. He has truly been a voice of wisdom in my life throughout the past two years while serving in HSN. Please check out, Call + Response.

"CALL+RESPONSE is a first of its kind feature documentary film that reveals the world's 27 million dirtiest secrets: there are more slaves today than ever before in human history. CALL+RESPONSE goes deep undercover where slavery is thriving from the child brothels of Cambodia to the slave brick kilns of rural India to reveal that in 2009, Slave Traders made more money than Google, Nike and Starbucks combined."

Her Story + {Healing.Praises.Peace.Trials.Joy.}

2010-12-26T14:41:00.000-08:00

"Her Story" is a portion of our monthly newsletter featuring true stories from women of how God has worked specifically in their lives-- healing, trials, joy, heartbreaks, praises. If you would like to share a part of your testimony to empower other women please message us.

I would just like to start out by saying that for the past few weeks I have been humbled by an overwhelming awareness of the number of true girlfriends I have been blessed with, and such a sense of being wholly and truly loved by each one of you for simply being me.

So let’s get to the heart of the matter, shall we? I want to talk men, naturally. I have been doing a lot of introspection over the past few months; contemplating how the heartbreaks of my past have shaped the woman I am today. What I have discovered has not been very pretty. Unwittingly, through the rejections of my past, and the things men have said or not said, done or not done, I have taken on an identity that is not my own. Unfortunately, I think this is a pitfall we all fall into as women. Though we might outwardly come into agreement with others that we are beautiful, talented, intelligent ladies that are an ultimate catch, inwardly as a result of old hurts we feel less than worthy having been not quite ‘enough’ in the past. This, consequently, shapes our future because we fall into a habit of compromising when we should stand strong. But then, how can we stand strong and expect nothing less than what we deserve from a man if we do not even understand our own worth?

Last week a card came in the mail and all it had written on it was:

“She is worth far more than rubies.” Proverbs 31:10

My point is this, let’s learn our worth my loves. I think it is something that we can all work on. Let’s practice seeing ourselves through each other’s eyes, because I know that if I treasured myself the way you all cherish me, then I would never compromise again. Let’s say no more to the games that the common guy would put us through and only allow relationships into our lives that lift our spirits and bring light into our hearts. Let’s let the standards we hold for each other apply to ourselves. Let’s give ourselves the freedom and grace to become the strong, confident, world changing women that we all desire to be (and will be!) Simply put, let’s practice loving and cherishing ourselves.

Women's Retreat + Recap

2010-12-26T14:39:00.000-08:00

Earlier this month I had the opportunity to attend an annual women's retreat with the Lutheran Brethren Women's Ministry, my home church denomination.

We spent the weekend studying Jeremiah;

"But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD,
whose confidence is in him.
They will be like a tree planted by the water
that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes;
its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought
and never fails to bear fruit."
-Jeremiah 17:7-8

From the life-giving fellowship, gifted speaker and opera performer Melody Rossi, the beauty of Tuscorara Inn & Conference Center, and lastly the beautiful, Godly women that I feel most privelaged to be sharpened by, this weekend was surely a gift.

I am prayerful and excited about the ways that the History Starts Now Ministry can serve with the Lutheran Brethren Women's Ministries.

Freedom Week + Recap

2010-12-26T14:36:00.001-08:00

On Thursday, September 30th, History Starts Now hosted "Be the Change" partnered with New York's second annual Freedom Week. The event took place at Tela Design Studio, in New York's trendy meat packing district and featured an assortment of art pieces which were later auctioned off to benefit HSN's "She Hungers Peace" program.

The event was emceed by the wonderful Leo Alexander, HSN Founder, Kristina spoke on the vision of HSN as well as future goals, Ann Lien, Founder of Freedom Week shared the vision of this new movement in New York City, Christina Poopatana begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting (HSN Board Member) spoke on public health and education as she serves as co-chair with the Public Health Association of New York and lastly, Sandra McBeth (HSN Board Member) a seasoned social worker of over 18 years, spoke on the brief testimony of her mentor whom was trafficked in the 1940's. She closed in sharing the realities of domestic trafficking and just how long this injustice has been taking place.

Guests enjoyed wine sponsored by the incredibly generous Zonin Prosecco and cheese and fruit catered by Cheeseblock.

Many thanks to all who made it out to this benefit as well as Philip Pelusi, Jennifer Danilchick, Photographer Sean Scanlin, Jeff Cappon, and lastly Guy + Lecia Grandstaff for all of their support in making this event a true success.

Women's Conference + Recap

2010-12-26T14:33:00.000-08:00

Earlier this autumn, Kristina Lee Grandstaff spoke at the second annual conference of NAHN, the New York Chapter, "Women The Marginalized Species: Physical, Sociocultural, Psychological and Economic Challenges" at Beth Israel Medical Center in Union Square.

Her presentation touched on HSN's 5 new programs, domestic trafficking of minors and her future Women's Conference in autumn of 2012. Kristina is most thankful to NAHN President Dan Suarez for all of his continued help and support.

Book Suggestion: "Your Scars Are Beautiful To God"

2010-12-26T14:29:00.000-08:00

Physical scars represent a story, a moment in one's life, and they show others that there is a history of healing. Noted author Sharon Jaynes shares with women how their internal scars-marks from past hurts and mistakes-also represent a story of restoration. With empathy, personal insight, and a best friend's gentle spirit, Sharon helps readers:

recognize Jesus through their scars
receive grace and forgiveness
remove the mask and be real
restore the broken heart
release the power of healed wounds

Encouraging chapters, inspirational stories, godly wisdom, and a Bible study guide lead readers to give their wounds to the One who sees their beauty and who turns hurts into hope.

"She Smiles with Joy"

2010-12-26T14:23:00.001-08:00

"She Smiles with Joy" is a program where we are working with top dentists to serve women of domestic violence with cosmetic dentistry annually.

"But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope." - Galations 5:5

We are excited and thankful to be partnering with Frederick Stange DDS & Associates.

The Bloomberg Administration

2010-12-26T14:22:00.000-08:00

Earlier this autumn, Kristina Lee Grandstaff had the honor of meeting with Emily Pataki, daughter of former New York City Governor George Pataki. The Bloomberg administration hired Emily for the position of Criminal Justice Coordinator in John Feinblatt's office. Her focus is on human trafficking.

Kristina is honored to be working with New York City Task Force Against Trafficking. (Many thanks to Emily Pataki, Patrick Bryant and Megan Hafner.)

Her Story: "God is Good"

2010-12-26T14:16:00.000-08:00

There are times in our life that we truly feel the arms of God wrapped around us. The world could be moving all around us and it's as though time simply stands still between you and God. You no longer hear the noise of the world but the beauty of His voice. God orchestrates these divine moments as a gift to us.

Last summer while on vacation we got news that our precious dog "Toby" had passed away. We walked along the beautiful beach with heavy hearts. The warm tears gently tumbled down our cheeks as the cool air danced across the sea. In such a beautiful place, yet it's beauty some how looked different to us, it felt and looked sad to us. We still knew "God is good." My husband and I embraced our children and we prayed to Jesus for comfort for our family. My husband drew a heart in the sand and wrote "Faithful Toby", it's amazing how God created these precious creatures to be so faithful! Toby was so faithful and loyal to our family.

As we started to walk away a gentle wave came upon the heart and we knew God would help us to heal. Only He could wash away pain and bring comfort to our hearts. He was not only our maker but He was Toby's maker and we trusted Toby was in His care. Toby means "God is good"---that's why we chose his name because "God is good."

This year we headed out to the same beautiful beach leaving our two other puppies in good hands. We confess it was hard leaving them remembering the summer before. But God is bigger than our fears and we put our trust in him. This was a special trip to the seashore for my husband and I because we were renewing our wedding vows. We were blessed early on in our marriage to ask Jesus into our hearts and to ask for forgiveness of our sins. Here we were with our two beautiful children on the same beach exactly one year later. God as the head of our marriage, God as the head of our family and God as our strength. Our children read verses that were very special to us. We exchanged our love to each other and gave all glory and praise to God. We thanked him for His love for us, we thanked Him for blessing our 25 years of marriage and we thanked Him for two beautiful children and yes we thanked Him for puppies!

The tears of love and joy gently rolled down our cheeks. It was such an amazing moment and yes, "God is good." My daughter drew a heart in the sand as my son stood by her side holding the book of God's Word. This was the same spot we drew a heart one year before. As my husband and I were breathing in this beautiful sight all of a sudden a puppy comes running through the heart! What a sweet moment for dog lovers but then we heard his owner yell -----Toby! Toby! We all looked at each other knowing God just gave us a gift---"God is good." He restored what was taken away and showed us His love and grace!

Toby is in heaven running around but even more important than that, is how personal God is to each of us. How He knows our hearts and how to comfort us. My friends although this story, is our story of how "God is good", we invite you to praise God for what He is doing in your life. And if you don't have a personal relationship with Christ we invite you to read:

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."-John 3:16
God loves you so much that He sent His to the cross to die for your sins so you can have eternal life with Him! God is so so Good!

Book Suggestion: "Wild At Heart"

2010-12-26T14:11:00.000-08:00

(I recommend "Wild at Heart" because as a woman, it has taught me so much about the heart and soul of a man and all God designed him to be. This book has helped me to better understand my father, brother and future husband.)
Every man was once a boy. And every little boy has dreams, big dreams: dreams of being the hero, of beating the bad guys, of doing daring feats and rescuing the damsel in distress. Every little girl has dreams, too: of being rescued by her prince and swept up into a great adventure, knowing that she is the beauty.
But what happens to those dreams when we grow up? Walk into most churches, have a look around, and ask yourself: What is a Christian man? Without listening to what is said, look at what you find there. Most Christian men are...bored.

In Wild At Heart John Eldredge invites men to recover their masculine heart, defined in the image of a passionate God. And he invites women to discover the secret of a man's soul and to delight in the strength and wildness men were created to offer.

"She Smiles With Joy" + Serving Women

2010-12-26T14:06:00.001-08:00

We are excited to be partnering with Dr. Paul Banks on our new Empowering Women's initiative to serve women of domestic violence annually with cosmetic dentistry through our "She Smiles with Joy" initiative.
"We have been so grateful to have the opportunity, through our profession as dentists, to change the lives of many people. Also, we are very fortunate to have the ability to do this and strongly believe that we can create new found confidence and self-esteem in a person that is lacking in these qualities. To be able to help women that have been mistreated, disrespected and abandoned would give us so much fulfillment. We have a gift that we can give these unfortunate souls to help turn their lives around so they can go on living their lives the way we all are supposed to, with total happiness and satisfaction.

Dr. Howard and I have been owners/partners of our dental practice since 1995 and serve Morristown and the surrounding areas. Our goal is to provide quality dentistry to people that need it and we also provide many elective procedures. Our goal is to produce quality, not quantity. There are dental clinics for that. We are a full service dental office that expects a total commitment from us, our staff, and our patients and are very proud of excellent service we provide."

-Dr. Paul Banks, www.bankshoward.com

News: NY state fair vendor is accused of human trafficking for underpaying migrants

2010-11-18T21:15:00.000-08:00

Published: Thursday, November 18, 2010, 7:00 AM
LINK TO STORY: syracuse.com

Syracuse, NY -- A restaurant vendor at the state fair has been accused of human trafficking for underpaying and threatening migrant workers and subjecting them to poor living conditions.

Four Mexican workers filed a class-action lawsuit last month in federal court in New York City against the vendor from Queens, Pantelis Karageorgis, and his company, Peter’s Fine Greek Food. Lawyers for the workers have not yet calculated the amount they’re owed.

Karageorgis was charged in September with felonies of using false promises to recruit workers from Mexico to work at the fair and other venues across the state this summer, and of threatening them with deportation if they complained, according to a criminal complaint filed in federal court in New York City.

The charges were dismissed last week at the request of a federal prosecutor. A lawyer for the workers, Nathaniel Charny, said he understood that was done after Karageorgis agreed to repay some of the wages.

Neither Karageorgis nor his lawyer could be reached for comment. The federal prosecutor, Pamela Ki Mai Chen, did not return a phone message seeking comment.

The workers signed contracts with Karageorgis guaranteeing wages of $10 to $12 an hour, but he paid them between $1 and $4 an hour, according to the lawsuit. The workers were in the United States on work visas sponsored by Karageorgis’ company.

Charny said he expects more migrant workers to join the lawsuit.

Karageorgis leased space at the fair for a Greek restaurant. The Mexican workers put in up to 16 hours a day for two weeks straight without being paid overtime, according to a criminal complaint filed by Thomas Kirwin, a special agent with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. On the last day of the fair, they worked 24 hours without getting overtime pay, Kirwin wrote.

Karageorgis’ workers worked at a fair in Buffalo and lived in New York City for a layover before their trip home. Their working conditions were discovered while they were in Syracuse for the fair, Bhatt said. Some of the workers went to a health clinic where staff members saw evidence that they’d been bitten by bed bugs, suffered from dehydration and were sleep-deprived, Bhatt said.

Be the Change!

2010-09-26T20:01:00.000-07:00

"Be the Change"

On Thursday, September 30th, at 7 pm join History Starts Now as we partner with New York's second annual "Freedom Week" in hosting "Be the Change", an Art Gala and silent auction at Tele Design Studio (31 Little West 12th Street) in New York's trendy meat packing district.

Freedom Week is a coalition of abolitionists working to raise awareness about the 27 million people currently enslaved and or trafficked here in the U.S. and abroad. Thei goal is to fight modern-day slavery by inspiring action and providing opportunities for advocacy. "Contemporary slavery can be abolished. It begins with one person investing in freedom."

Enjoy a night of art, fellowship, wine and cheese while your money is going directly into History Starts Now's education initiative.

(Tickets will be $15.00 and can be purchased at the door.)

“Please Talk Paper.”

2010-08-31T19:04:00.000-07:00

7thspace.com today reported that the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida announced that three defendants pled guilty on August 23, 2010 to conspiring to sex traffic minors and sex trafficking by force, threats of force, and coercion. One of the defendants also pled guilty to a substantive count of sex trafficking of a minor.

According to the article, the defendants were members of an organization that called itself “Please Talk Paper.” From September 2009 through March 16, 2010, "the organization was used to prostitute adult and minor females out of national and international hotel chains in Broward County. The organization would advertise its prostitution services on the Internet. The defendants used the organization to do Internet advertising, facilitate transportation, and avoid law enforcement detection. In this way, the defendants shared resources, including hotel rooms, computers, condoms, and the prostitutes working for the organization."

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice.

Please read the entire article here

"Her Story"

2010-08-31T18:54:00.000-07:00

"Her Story" is a portion of HSN's monthly newsletter and website through our "She Speaks Words of Wisdom" program featuring true stories from women as to how God has worked specifically in their lives-- healing, trials, joy, heartbreaks, praises. If you would like to share a part of your testimony to empower + uplift other women please email HistoryStartsNowNYC@gmail.com

(Note: All names will remain anonymous unless you specify otherwise.)

Rating and Policing the supply chain for consumers

2010-08-15T19:43:00.000-07:00

A bill introduced by Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) would require all California companies, retailers and manufacturers with a minimum annual revenue of $100 million to post on the Internet what they are doing and not doing to ensure that their activities and resources are not violating human rights.

The main focus of the bill is to provide socially conscious investors and consumers a way to support businesses that take anti-slavery precautions or labor rights violation prevention. The idea is that companies with higher ratings for policing the supply chain of their products will get better publicity than companies that have low ratings for lack of participation.

The Bill, SB 657, is set for it’s final vote this month in the California senate.

Read on and share your opinion: do you think the bill is a good idea in preventing human trafficking?

ARTICLE: LA TIMES – Firms oppose California bill to disclose policing of labor practices

The Body Shop - Sign the Petition

2010-08-02T22:01:00.000-07:00

The Body Shop has joined the fight against sex trafficking of children!!

They have formed a petition that will advocate for "safe harbor" laws to be active in every state in the USA. The Body Shop is working with ECPAT USA and the Somaly Mam Foundation in the fight to put an end to this horrendous crime!

A “safe harbor” law would:
-Protect and prevent any person under the age of 18 from being charged, prosecuted or incarcerated for prostitution.
-Refer exploited children to special services and shelters that will support their recovery.
-Require the training of law enforcement, judges and first responders

SIGN THE PETITION

Book of the Month: August

2010-08-01T12:15:00.000-07:00

Captivating
By: John + Stasi Eldredge

"Every woman was once a little girl. And every little girl holds in her heart her most precious dreams. She longs to be swept up into a romance, to plan an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, to be the Beauty of the story. Those dreams are far more then child's play. They are the secret of the feminine heart.

Any yet-- how many women do you know who ever find that life? As the years passe by, the heart of a woman gets pushed aside, wounded, buried. She finds no romance except in novels, no adventure except on television, and she doubts very much that she will ever be the beauty in any tale.

But her heart is still the same. Sometimes when she watched a movie, sometimes in the wee hours of the night, her heart begins to speak again. A thirst rises within her to find the life she was meant to live-- the life she dreamed of as a little girl.

The message of Captivating is this: Your heart matters more than anything else in all creation. The desires you had as a little girl and the longings you still feel as a woman-- they are telling you of the life God created you to live. He offers to come now as the Hero of your story, to rescue your heart and release you to live as a fully alive and feminine woman. A woman who is truly captivating.

"What Wild at Heart did for men, Captivating can do for women. "

Empowering Women, Fulfilling Dreams

2010-07-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

I don't know where you sit as you are reading this, I don't know the circumstances of your life or the dream that has been given you. What I do know, is that God will use any woman who surrenders her inadequacies and circumstances to Him. I have seen Him do this in my own life. Perspective is the key. Some of us may be in a season filled with harvest others may be searching for joy in the desert. Though most of us can not just leave our circumstances, we do have the power to change our perspective. Let's encourage one another to find joy and blessings in the little things in life, the sunshine, laughter, children. Remember, by trusting God in the little things, He entrusts us with greater responsibilities as well as the desires of our hearts.

By: Kristina Lee Grandstaff

"Fashion Gives Back 2010" {Recap}

2010-07-07T18:14:00.000-07:00

On Monday, June 14th, History Starts Now hosted our second annual "Fashion Gives Back" at Stone Rose Lounge in Columbus Circle. Over 200 guests crowded the venue enjoying fellowship and a fashion show presentation.

Leo Alexander emceed the event, guest speaker, Kat Rohrer, Producer of Fatal Promises showed a clip from her documentary and HSN Founder, Kristina Lee Grandstaff spoke about sex trafficking domestically as well as the vision of HSN moving forward.

The fashion show itself was based on the theme "Just Beneath the Surface" which depicted how easily New Yorkers overlook sexual slavery. Models were positioned on the runway in bondage as strong, chic models walked past them; just as many fashionable women walk the streets of Manhattan where such an injustice takes place.

Many Thanks to all of the wonderful guests that attended, Stone Rose for providing this amazing venue the second year in a row, Tommy Hilfiger, Bumble + Bumble, Bloomingdales, pop chips, Cheeseblock, The Body Shop and all of the other support that went into this event.

As a celebration for Internet Week, HSN hosted a Livestream channel (http://www.livestream.com/historystartsnow) for all those who could not make the event. Viewers were able to watch the event broadcastes live.

"Landmark Sex-Trafficking Bill Pending in Albany"

2010-07-05T22:47:00.000-07:00

June 29, 2010

New York State lawmakers are currently locked in a $130 billion state budget battle in Albany. Governor David A. Paterson along with leaders in the Senate and Assembly are battling over the appropriate legislation that covers issues from public universities to tax relief for homeowners. However, in the middle of this fight stands a bill that would protect victims of sex trafficking here in New York.

The sex-trafficking bill is a measure passed by lawmakers, which is still awaiting Governor Patterson’s signature of approval.

The Bill would allow those that were forced in the commercial sex industry to have convictions of prostitution removed from their records. This step would allow those have escaped the sex industry to find jobs without their prior convictions used against them.

This landmark legislation would be the first of its kind in the country, allowing survivors who were once trafficked into the sex industry, to start over with their lives. Many times, those who are convicted are girls who are trafficked and forced to work against their will. Many victims involved in the sex industry who do struggle to get out, often find it difficult to find jobs or obtain legal residency due to their police record. With the inability to find proper social and economic support, these girls often go back into the control of their traffickers.

Assemblyman Richard Gottfried of Manhattan is the author of this bill and states, "Even after [the victims] escape from trafficking, that criminal record blocks them from decent jobs and a chance to rebuild their lives. This bill will give them a desperately needed second chance they deserve.”

The governor’s office says that Paterson will review the bill once it is delivered to him by the legislature.

By: Ivy Shen

HSN's 2nd Annual Fashion Gives Back

2010-05-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

Hey there New York! We know this is the event you have been waiting all year for. Our 2nd Annual Fashion Gives Back event is just one month away!

Check out the trailer: http://www.vimeo.com/11693829
RSVP at http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=123489100994986&ref=ts
Buy your ticket on www.historystartsnow.org or at the door!

Here are all the details. We would love to see you all there!

2^nd Annual Fashion Gives Back
A Fashion Benefit Show Presented by Hist ory Starts Now

NEW YORK – May 11, 201– Fashion Gives Back, hosted by History Starts Now, is an annual Fashion Show Benefit on Monday, June 14, 2010. The event will take place at the timeless Stone Rose Lounge, in the upscale Time Warner Center Building at 7pm.

Fashion Gives Back is sponsored by Elie Tahari, Bumble and Bumble, popchips and Bloomindales. Guest speaker for the evening will be Kat Roehrer, director and producer of the Fatal Promises documentary. The event will raise consciousness and funds to help fight the sex trafficking of minors in the United States.

The fashion show will include pieces from several top designers such as Irina Shabayeva, winner of Bravo’s hit series Project Runway, Tommy Hilfiger and Siki IM, the Ecco Domani menswear winner. The runway will depict how easily New Yorkers overlook sexual slavery. Male models will be positioned throughout the runway in bondage as strong, chic models walk past them; just as many fashionable women walk the streets of Manhattan where such an injustice takes place.

“Fashion Gives Back is our annual fashion show where those who share a love for fashion and New York can come together for a cause that is so close to home,” said Founder of History Starts Now, Kristina Lee Grandstaff. “New York may be a social playground to many of us, but sex trafficking does happen in our own backyard.”

Tickets for Fashion Gives back are $25 for students and $35 for adults. They may be purchased online at historystartsnow.org or at the door during the night of the show. The first 150 guests will also receive a complimentary gift bag.

About History Starts Now

History Starts Now uses multimedia approaches such as music, film, and art to inform people of the dangers of child trafficking in America. History Starts Now works to raise consciousness for a cause that is so real and close to home. With 300,000 children being trafficked in the United States, and 10,000 children trafficked in New York City alone, History Starts Now has made it their mission to be a voice for the vulnerable.

History Starts Now’s famous motto reads, “History Starts Now, with you and me.” A cause dedicated to fighting domestic sexual slavery of minors in the Unites States. For more information regarding History Starts Now, please visit www.historystartsnow.org.

-###-

For press please contact Jaclyn Ferrara at press@historystartsnow.info

NFL Hall-of-Famer Lawrence Taylor: A Sex Trafficking Case

2010-05-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

(via Getty Images)

By HSN Team Member: Jaclyn Ferrara

Lawrence Taylor, former linebacker for the NY Giants and former star on the hit television show Dancing with the Stars was arrested on May 6^th and charged with 3^rd degree rape of a minor and patronizing prostitution.

The NY Times stated that a man, most likely her pimp, brought the young 16 year-old girl to Taylor’s hotel room at the Holiday Inn. Taylor reportedly paid $300 for her services, although his lawyer claims the NFL linebacker never had sex with the young girl.

The NY Times reported, “Taylor faces a maximum of one year in prison on the solicitation charge, a misdemeanor. The maximum sentence for third-degree rape, a felony, is four years.”

According to Ramapo police, the victim also had injuries to her face when she came to Taylor’s hotel room, but the injuries most likely occurred before her encounter with Taylor.

The 16 year-old involved in the case had been reported missing back in March by her uncle and was living with a 36 year-old parolee she had met at a Bronx bus stop, according to ESPN.com.

A Reuters survey done in 2008 (done with a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice) showed that as many as 2.8 million children live on the streets, a third of whom are lured into prostitution within 48 hours of leaving home.

This was most likely the case for the young Bronx girl. It appears that the parolee who brought her to Taylor’s hotel room that night had previously beat her (she had a black eye when she arrived) and forced her into prostitution. Pimps use anything to scare and coerce young girls and boys into prostitution, such as threatening their families.

President and CEO of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Erie Allen, stated at the Congressional Human Trafficking Caucus, “These kids are victims. This is 21st Century slavery. They lack the ability to walk away. The pimps who use and discard them are the criminals, as are those who patronize them. These children need to be rescued, not arrested.”

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) estimates that at least 100,000 children each year are caught up in the insidious world of child prostitution: 55% of street girls engage in prostitution; 75% work for a pimp; the entry age for girls is 12 – 14; and for boys, 11 – 13.

"Fashion For Freedom", Minneapolis

2010-04-30T07:09:00.000-07:00

On Friday, May 9th, History Starts Now’s Communications Director, Faith Bowen and Founder, Kristina Lee Grandstaff made their way out to for “Fashion For Freedom” at Envy Night Club in Downtown Minneapolis. Over 200 guests crowded the venue to view a fashion show by Cliché’ and presentation by History Starts Now on the realities of sex trafficking in the U.S. It is our sincere hope that aside from the trendy fashion show scene, the guests and hosts also walked away with a greater awareness as to the slavery of children in America as well as the heart of HSN’s ministry.

Many thanks to Ambassadors Dahlia Brue and Aadam Peters as well as Media Partners Nick and Matt Brue.

(Sponsors: Lettuce Cater with the flower centerpieces.)

2010 Promo Video + Photo Shoot

2010-04-30T06:47:00.000-07:00

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success."
-Henry Ford

On Sunday, April 25th the HSN team partnered with videographer Matt Brue and photographers Arthur Eisenberg and Andrew Buehler to film their official Promo Video to be launched in September 2010. This video included the entire HSN team reading their story on where they began, all they have accomplished in under a year and the vision and initiatives that they are moving forward with. Their hope is that this video clip will gain media attention in their own backyard, New York City, as well as on a national level so that awareness of this injustice may reach every U.S. household. The team feels we need to come together and make safety for our children a number one priority. Many thanks to the individuals that made this video possible.

Public Health Association of New York

2010-04-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, April 6th, HSN Founder, Kristina Lee Grandstaff had the honor of speaking at the Public Health Association of New York on the mission of HSN along with the correlation between sex trafficking and public health. “Children are being trafficked for labor, sexual exploitation, begging and adoption. Girls under 18 make up one-third of those who have been forced to be prostitutes in a number of countries. These children are frequently subjected to physical and sexual violence and psychological trauma, and are highly vulnerable to HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases." Kristina was humbled to speak on a panel with three seasoned leaders including Ph.D Gretchen Van Wye, Ph.D Karen Denard Goldman and Marianna Olszewski, New York Times bestselling author of “Live It, Love It, Earn It”: A Woman’s Guide to Financial Freedom. Kristina was overwhelmed by the many individuals from the evening that have joined as HSN Ambassadors and is excited to continue working with the Public Health Association of New York. Many thanks to Christina Poopatana for the opportunity to take part in this evening.

KTU (103.5) Cares Radio Segment

2010-04-22T18:26:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, April 1st, HSN Events and Communications Director, Giselle Mateo along with Founder, Kristina Lee Grandstaff had the opportunity to be featured on KTU (103.5) Radio for their segment of “KTU Cares.” The ladies had the excitement of viewing the studio which shares their space with stations z100 and 105.1. Cindy Vero lead the interview, she is the host of KTU Morning Show, WALK 97.5, afternoons on 104.3 and Alicia Cruz on Z100 in the PM. The ladies were blessed by her incredibly kind heart and enthusiasm. Many thanks for the opportunity to raise awareness on the mission of HSN to such a large new network.

Saks Fifth Avenue Presents "Spring Into Style"

2010-04-21T17:16:00.001-07:00

On Thursday, March 25th HSN Fashion Relations Director, Jonathan Cody, Advisory Board Member, Christina Poopatayna and Founder, Kristina Lee Grandstaff enjoyed "Spring Into Style" at Saks Fifth Avenue. The team was able to view this upcoming spring styles while discussing plans for their annual "Fashion Gives Back."

Elie Tahari + 85 Broads

2010-04-21T17:09:00.000-07:00

On Monday, March 15th, HSN Social Media Director Christine Tsang and Founder, Kristina Lee celebrated a spring kickoff party with 85 Broads Young Professionals at the Elie Tahari Showroom downtown. The ladies listened to the testimony of this famous designer and had the honor of speaking with him after his presentation. Elie Tahari will be graciously serving as a sponsor for History Starts Now's second annual "Fashion Gives Back" thus June.

Fatal Promises at St. Francis College

2010-04-21T17:03:00.000-07:00

On Monday, March 29th, History Starts Now partnered with the documentary, Fatal Promises, at St. Francis College for a screening of the documentary. Students gathered in the theatre on campus to learn more about the realities of sex trafficking. Producer, Kat Rohrer, selected powerful clips from the documentary while answering many questions from students. HSN Founder, Kristina Lee Grandstaff spoke on the mission of HSN and how students could get involved through their two programs. HSN Research Director, Deirdre Turner, a student at SFC whom is currently studying for her Masters Degree in Accounting and a Double Minor in Business and Women’s Studies, shared how this mission tied into her class. Dr. Michele Hirsch and Sister Colleen Colbert were in attendance. To conclude the screening, Sister Colleen spoke to the audience on her personal experience in ministering to women that have been trafficked in New York City. A reception was held after with lunch where many students asked questions about how they could get involved. Later that day, HSN received many emails with new individuals wanting to join this mission.

HSN looks forward to partnering with St. Francis College and Fatal Promises in the near future.

Rotary International

2010-04-21T16:52:00.001-07:00

On Thursday, March 25th, Founder, Kristina had the true honor of speaking to Roxbury Rotary at La Strada. She answered many questions to the members on the mission of HSN as well as gave a call to action. Many thanks to Gary Ribe, Judith Frank, Steve Alford, and Martin Schmidt. Rotary invited Kristina to come back every year to provide updates on the progress of HSN. She gladly accepted this invitation and is so thankful for all of the support she has received from her home town.

Chicago "Fashion for Reform"

2010-04-21T16:50:00.001-07:00

On Friday, March 19th History Starts Now partnered with Ambassador Marissa Barkey, North Park University, and Fashion Designer Sararose as they presented “Fashion For Reform” in Chicago. Students crowded the historic Hamming Hall for a fashion benefit that also raised awareness about the realities of sex trafficking in the U.S. Professor Margaret Haefner was in attendance as she teaches Global Feminism at North Park University. This event also surrounded Women’s History Month. HSN is excited to be working with their Chicago network for a future event.

Women's Mafia "A Day at the Spa"

2010-04-21T16:47:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, March 14th, History Starts Now partnered with Women’s Mafia for “A Perfect Day at the Spa” at the luxurious Downtime Massage & Skincare Spa in Hells Kitchen.
The event included relaxation and mingling with like-minded New Yorkers, shipping with Women’s Mafia endorsed designers (Ardistia & Shauntele - as seen in Women’s Mafia Fashion Week shows!) A portion of the evening’s proceeds were donated to History Starts Now.

Special thanks to Media Partner Marcy Clark for her continued heart and dedication to this cause.

Tuscorara Women's Retreat

2010-04-21T16:45:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, February 27th, Founder, Kristina Lee Grandstaff had the honor of speaking on a bit of her personal testimony and the mission of History Starts Now at the Women's Retreat at Tuscarora Inn & Conference Center. This was a special speaking engagement for Kristina because she has attended this retreat center all of her life. The room was filled with individuals who were interested in joining this army and serving as a voice for the most vulnerable. She ended her speech by touching on wholeness in women and how that initiative ties in with HSN.

Miss Teen United States, Courtney Hope Turner + Fashion Show Benefit

2010-04-21T16:41:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, February 21, History Starts Now partnered with Courtney Turner, Miss Teen United States, and the Bridal Fashion EXPO to help promote awareness and sponsorship in Augusta, GA. Students and families were eagerly interested in learning more on how to get involved in the fight against sex trafficking by being a sponsor. The benefit helped raise awareness and funds for the cause.

I'm so happy to be involved with HSN. The Bridal Fashion EXPO in Augusta, GA was a great step for me to begin raising awareness and helping others get involved as well. People were very interested in learning how to help, so I was able to hand out fliers of information to many of the those who attended. I was also glad to have started promoting HSN in GA and SC, where I am hoping to get the schools involved to help raise funds for this cause.

"For the Love of the Children"

2010-04-21T16:38:00.000-07:00

"Children are the world's most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.”

On Sunday, February 21st, over 150 people came out to support History Starts Now as they presented “For The Love Of The Children” an event that filled Flanders Valley Banquet Hall. Individuals of all ages enjoyed a family fun evening and supported
this great cause through donations and prayer.

The evening featured a delicious dessert tasting, from local sponsors including Sally Lunns, Kakes by Kellie, Mara’s Café, Viking Bakery, the Melting Pot Whippany as well as Dunkin Donuts with treats for everyone to try. “For The Love Of The Children”
featured musical performances from the students of Redeemer Nursery School and Kevin Grandstaff, an interactive puppet show performance from Pastor Pete and Susan Amerman, as well as entertainment from MerriLoons the Clown.

The luxury raffle had gifts donated by the National Basketball Association, Lotus Spa, Frank Anthony’s, Mary Kay Inc. and Starbucks. There was also a limo ride for two into New York City and a Madison Avenue diamond necklace to name a few a couple.

History Starts Now also gave a brief presentation about the sexual trafficking of minors in the Unites States.

Photograph: Jillian Spencer, JillianSpencerPhotography.com

"The Well" Speaking Engagement

2010-04-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

On Sunday February 14^th, Founder Kristina Lee Grandstaff had the honor or speaking at the church “The Well” in Morristown, New Jersey. Senior Pastor, Peter Amerman preached on David and Goliath and Kristina was asked to speak on “Facing Your Giants”. She spoke on her personal testimony and how leaving her high fashion job on Fifth Avenue to walk with the Lord on the non-profit endeavor has been one of the most difficult yet joyful decisions of her life. The sermon closed with Amazing Grace and questions followed after as to how individuals could get involved in History Starts Now.

HSN Presents A Gifted Performer

2010-02-12T21:31:00.000-08:00

Nathan Morris, History Starts Now's hauntingly handsome media partner and avid supporter is performing this Thursday, February 18th, at Arlene's Grocery. Having had the pleasure of experiencing Nathan live, I can attest to his talent. In fact, I implore you, out of goodwill, to wander over towards his Youtube channel before solidifying weekend plans. (It is always through these simple actions that we avoid the heartache of lost opportunities)

There, you'll discover what entranced fans across the globe: a smooth, clear voice over pristine production, gently wandering through relatable personal points of pleasure, confusion, and despair. If all else fails, come to chill with cool people, such as myself, in an intimate lower east side venue with cheap drinks.

Here's the details:

Nathan Morris @ Arlene's Grocery
Thursday, February 18nth 2010; 8pm
Cover Charge: $8
95 Stanton Street (btw Orchard and Ludlow)
NYC, NY 10012
(212) 358-1633

The Party Culture

2010-02-12T19:49:00.000-08:00

On a PBS special, the rapper Nelly defended one of the most prolific sights in hip hop videos; tons of scantily-clad, sexually submissive but vapid women surrounding one or a few men flashing the money to pay for their company. "We portrayed what some would consider a bachelor party. Everybody's been to 'em. Every guy's been to 'em. Every guy wants to go to 'em. I didn't see it as degrading." And why would he? He explained further that his party sequences portray adult women, potentially students, paying their way through college. Let's look at the facts: Most prostitutes start their careers at the adult age of 14. Most were runaways eager to escape an abusive home, but within days, landed in the arms of a pimp. Most will contract venereal diseases and bear internal scars of this psychologically traumatic career.

The glamorous lies of the media met with reality last weekend in Miami. Thanks largely to tips from hospitality workers trained to spot sex trafficking, 84 men were arrested for pimping children and young women. Organizations in the Miami area, including Kristi's House, came out in full force, deftly offering assistance to teen girls while avoiding their pimp's furtive gaze.

The Super Bowl is one of many events that spells easy money to sex traffickers. The Olympics and Carnival are others. These events offer us, as concerned citizens, an opportunity to assist in educating those who could unknowingly be facilitators, like hotel workers. By educating ourselves, we could be eyes/ears for the police. The problem does not end on the following Monday; these same girls will be working another street, but in a more clandestine location, harder to save. Instead of focusing simply on the good times, we could keep a watchful gaze over the casualties of the party culture. These are the American children.

Digging Deeper into the Customers of Prostitutes

2010-02-12T17:46:00.000-08:00

The British Medical Journal released a study in 2005, trying to determine why men pay for prostitutes, how often, and what makes these men different from their peers. What they discovered would shock the average woman. We expect to find desperately lost souls who don't know up from down, and lack the guile to connect with the opposite sex. Perhaps they are sexual deviants harboring secret fetishes.... people on the outskirts of society. The truth is infinitely more uncomfortable. Many men who seek prostitutes are men who are tired of luring women to bed; they want it easy and are tired of the implicit emotional attachment of physical intimacy.

Sociologists and psychologists agree this is a off shoot of the porn culture. Supposedly, 70 percent of all American men watch porn monthly or more frequently. Another study found that virtually every man in their 20s had viewed porn atleast once, with 90 percent of all viewed being from an Internet source.

Studies have proven that pornography can dramatically affect one's perspective on physical intimacy, giving credence to biblical references to purity of mind as well as the body. Perhaps by viewing women who are easily aroused, emotionally withdrawn, and quickly satisfied, men crave this "convenience" in real life. Perhaps, the false truth presented in pornography, soothes squalls of the conscience, screaming that this is a person you are purchasing, not an image, object, or machine.

The British Medical Journal discovered that the percentage of men visiting prostitutes has doubled since the 1990s. It also noted that men in their 20s and 30s make up the bulk of this growth. They are the first generation fully acclimated to the world wide web, and with it, internet porn.

All too often, I fear our society passively supports the effects of mainstream porn and the commodification of sex in our culture. We can see it in tv show titles like "Pimp My Ride", and blogs like Belle du Jour spawning bestselling books. As women, we feel too comfortable reading articles about his or our special spots, emphasizing the physical pleasure of sex versus the emotional intimacy. We turn a blind eye to our mates' pornography consumption; even worse, we might join in.

If every man who enjoyed the services of prostitutes wanted "clean, healthy sex", meaning nothing out of the ordinary, he would still evoke irreparable harm on his "provider". What woman would choose this as a life? Many don't, and the biggest reason why women are forced to prostitute is because our brothers, fathers, and sons are eager clients.

15 Haitian Children Are Missing From Their Hospital Beds

2010-01-28T20:29:00.001-08:00

By Kristin Huggins

Unicef officials are deeply concerned over 15 Haitian children, who were taken while at a medical facility. Agency workers are scrambling to fend off sexual predators, who see this natural disaster as an opportunity to prey upon the exposed young children. Jean-Luc Legrand, of Unicef, voiced his worst fears in Geneva; circuit lines are already established in the Dominican Republic, as traffickers and pedophiles are shuttling children across borders, with little concern for their caring families. Legrand noted that, “We know the existence of the trade of children in Haiti from beforehand, ” and furthermore, “…many of these trade networks have links with the international adoption market.”

Reminiscent of the tsunami aftermath, where children in countries ranging from Thailand to Sri Lanka fell prey to sexual predators in refugee camps, many fear even worse trafficking facts to arise out of the Haiti earthquake. Save the Children reported children being attacked by drunken men, and others being auctioned off to wealthy, Western pedophiles, or being sold to pimps and traffickers in brothels nearby.

To combat these problems, Unicef established 20 reception centers for unaccompanied minors. They are hoping to double these centers’ daily capacity to 4,000 children rescued. Legrand also stressed that while the children reported as missing were not orphans, those that are orphans almost assuredly have relatives eager to take them in. This could be made possible, if only they were reconnected to their living kin.

Haitian women are also at risk. The United Nations Population Fund (UNPFA) fears of rising rates of sexual violence against women. They estimate that 63,000 will be delivering in the next week, with roughly a tenth having medical complications to contend. All of these women are potentially mothers, and may need assistance protecting their families in this state. Currently unemployed domestic workers are also easy prey.

One technique to fighting sex trafficking is preventing potential victims, ranging from children and incapacitated women to currently unemployed domestic workers, include serving 1.4 million food rations and delivering water to the needy. The more basic necessities of life reach women and children, the less likely they are to fall into the hands of the psuedo-charitable with evil intentions.

A Closer Look into the Mindset of A "John"

2010-01-28T20:25:00.000-08:00

So who are the men that pay for sex? The Guardian, a British publication begins to create a startling profile after one of its writers talks with twelve men of a 700 person study that surveyed and interviewed men that seek the services of prostitutes. The men he discovered weren't single and lonely; they were married and lonely, falling into the arms of a paid professional to get a different sort of intimacy than their girlfriend or wife could offer. Curiously, many enjoyed taking out their companions for sale. A casual date or evening with their "girl" followed by a happy ending was the ideal; it was thrilling to seen about the town having a great time with an attractive woman.

One subject, Alex, "admitted sex with prostitutes made him feel empty", but like his comrades, he was a mass of contradictions. He felt ill-equipped to seek out a connection through socially acceptable routes, and left each interaction feeling ashamed, even guilty. Alex points to a troubling trend; 29% of men in this study lost their virginity to a prostitute. Almost half said their first experience with a sex worker was before their twenty-first birthday. Sadly, one gent's father took him and his brother to Amsterdam to "make sure they weren't gay."

Compassion comes quickly with the Alexs, but it is harder to emotionally identify with the Darrens. Darren was "young, good-looking, and bright." When he was asked if he thought prostitutes enjoyed having sex with him, he replied, "I don't want them to get any pleasure. I am paying for it...if she enjoys it, I would feel cheated.." Experts have cited troubling links between between those that seek out prostitutes and rapists. Like Darren, many men go to brothels to find someone who will sexually fulfill them in a way that a consensual interaction could never offer. A considerable slice of the participants thought prostitutes could not be raped, specifically using the word "ridiculous" to articulate the absurdity of the proposed statement.

They felt that by handing over the agreed upon amount, they effectively owned than woman or child; any desire of theirs must be fulfilled. They would demand it. More than one waxed on about prostitutes beign different from other women. They were hyper sexual yet emotionally hardened. They were capable of "dirty things" other women could never stomach.

A new law on Britain's books makes men culpable for paying for the services of a trafficked or pimped woman, regardless of their knowledge of the situation. This is fitting considering that most of the men in this 700 person survey admitted they assumed most prostitutes were coerced, tricked into, or forced to sell themselves. Many also assumed they started as children,and were victims of sexual abuse, beatings, and rape. The interviewees mentioned pleas from sex workers for help, bruises on their bodies, the obvious control wielded over them by pimps, apparent youth, and vulnerability.

This law will one be one step in the right direction, but here in the US, more needs to be done. Nordic countries have taken the lead by devising laws which put the pressure on the clients versus suppliers. In this study only 6% were ever arrested In US, the situation is just as dire. This study proved, like others before it, that most potential buyers would stop if if they thought they might get arrested. Over 70% would refrain after serving community service. Removing the possibility of legal ramifications for their actions only exacerbates the problem.

More on the subject will follow. Please stay tuned.

By Kristin H. "Sex Trafficking of American Children have been Recorded for Decades"

2010-01-19T22:39:00.001-08:00

With death toll estimates hitting 200,000 and soul-gripping stills of starving children and the injured and immobilized dying in the streets of Port-au-Prince due to a dearth in basic health care, food, and water, it is easy to assume the greatest evils and threats to man exist in the world outside our country's borders. This simply isn't so. The sex trafficking of American children have been recorded for decades; experts and officials have recognized long ago the connection between runaways and child prostitution. International Relief Organizations conservatively estimate that there are 300,000 kids sexually exploited in America right now.

Just as the problems facing Haiti are complex or simple, depending on how one approaches the issue, so is putting an end to sex trafficking. Food, water, and medical care are not reaching Haitians due to a lack of supportive infrastructure to disperse it, a weak governmental presence to enforce its lawful consumption versus thievery and corruption, and foreign organizations lacking the authority and manpower take over these tasks. Sex trafficking in America could be solved if the customers were prosecuted more heavily. This would mean more government funding going to fight this tremendous evil, municipal police forces being trained and armed to fight this crime, and, through awareness campaigns, jump start the community to aid in this fight by protecting their children.

Unfortunately, there are no iconic photographs in the dailies showing a twelve year old girl being sold, but a quick Google search will show this world exists, but in your hometown. There are complications involved in both of these scenarios, but they can be tackled. Solutions are out there, waiting to be found.

One big step in the right direction is awareness. President Barack Obama christened January the National Sex Trafficking Awareness Month, with January 11nth being devoted even further to building awareness. Mayor Bloomberg dedicated February to raising the awareness of sex trafficking, and many groups across the city, including History Starts Now, are using events, speaking engagements, etc., to show fellow Americans how important it is to fight this crime, and that we can. Absolutely.

City Lights Gala, 12.06.09

2010-01-05T20:39:00.001-08:00

History Starts Now Holds 1st Annual City Lights Gala
An Evening To Aiding In The Fight Against The Sexual Trafficking Of Minors

NEW YORK - December 7th, 2009 –New York City’s most giving individuals attended the charity History Starts Now’s first annual City Lights Gala on December 6th at the trendy Aspen Social Club in Times Square.

Celebrity host James O’Connor was in attendance as guests arrived in ball gowns and designer suits for the intimate event to learn more about sex trafficking of minors in America. Hors d’oeuvres and champagne was served as guests mingled and enjoyed the music of DJ Seanie Will. Tawny Treats offered guests delectable mini cupcakes inspired by New York City’s famous neighborhoods, such as the Meatpacking District.

The most inspiring part of the evening was the audio testimony of Kimberly; a woman was trafficked in Queens, New York when she was 13 years old. She spoke about her scars not only emotionally and mentally, but of the cigarette burns that are still singed on her body; a daily reminder of her 5 months as a victim of sex trafficking. Kimberly’s sister Desiree was in attendance and spoke briefly about how her sister’s abduction affects her still today. It was a moving testimony from both sisters that left the audience with a very real sense that trafficking is happening in New York City.

“We were honored to debut the testimonies of Kimberly and Desiree. They have been so brave in trusting us with Kimberly’s story,” said Founder, Kristina Lee Granstaff. “We only hope that our guests were touched by the video and were moved to take action as well as continue to spread awareness of such an injustice.”

Link to video that was played at the City Lights Gala:
www.HistoryStartsNow.info

About History Starts Now

History Starts Now uses multimedia approaches such as music, film, and art to inform people of the dangers of child trafficking in America. History Starts Now works to raise consciousness for a cause that is so real and close to home. With 300,000 children being trafficked in the United States, and 10,000 children trafficked in New York City alone, History Starts Now has made it their mission to be a voice for the vulnerable.

History Starts Now’s famous motto reads, “History Starts Now, with you and me.” A cause dedicated to fighting domestic sexual slavery of minors with our generation. For more information regarding History Starts Now please visit www.historystartsnow.info.
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2009-11-17T19:52:00.001-08:00

Thank you to all who attended our “Salt and Light Art Gala” in Philadelphia on Saturday, November 14th. Guests mingled and enjoyed modern art pieces by SALT Gallery owner Michael A. Veneziale as well as listened to live music by Kevin Grandstaff

Complimentary desserts by official sponsors by Tawny Ong of Tawny Ong Desserts based in New York City and Casa Vinicola Zonin Wines were served throughout the evening.

The gala raised consciousness and funds to help aid in the fight against sex trafficking of minors in the United States. Emcee Leo Moscaltelli along with Founder Kristina shared the alarming statistics of domestic trafficking along with inviting the audience to get involved.

Philadelphia’s most giving individuals came out, those who want to make history by ending trafficking with our generation.

“You are salt and light of the earth.”- Matthew 5:13

“History Starts Now, with you, and me.”

The Journey Exhibit--- is in NYC

2009-11-10T21:10:00.000-08:00

Greetings Everyone,

History Starts Now wants to invite you to visit The Journey Exhibit on Washington Place outside of Washington Square Park in NYC. This is NOT TO BE MISSED. If you want to understand the the vulnerable life of a suppressed victim of prostitution, then The Journey Exhibit will not only do that, but it will move your heart to want to aid in the fight against sex trafficking of minors more than ever!

Big name supporter of this cause is Emma Thompson and the Helen Bamber Foundation bring you The Journey. History Starts Now was first introduced to this exhibition through the Fatal Promises Documentary Directed by Kat Rohrer, and Tom Greenman.

Other Amazing News for History Starts Now's Awareness Campaign
Freelance Author, Marsha G. Yerman, is spreading the word about the dangers of sex trafficking, Emma Thompson's involvement to stop this crime, and is also including History Starts Now into her articles. Check out the information here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/marcia-g-yerman/emma-thompson-featured-in_b_290429.html

11.01.09 - ING Marathon Support

2009-11-04T20:32:00.001-08:00

The History Starts Now Team participated in the ING NYC Marathon this year on Sunday, November 1st by cheering on the runners. We wore our History Starts Now shirts to raise awareness for the mission. We met at 65th and 1st Avenue right after the 16th and 17th mile mark. It was an emotional experience as the runners were doing their best to keep going.

Congratulations to all the marathon runners, but also Tony and Diana Bellini, History Starts Now supporters who participated in the race.

November 1, 2009 - ING Marathon Race in NYC

2009-10-11T18:17:00.001-07:00

The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."

The History Starts Now Team is participating in the ING NYC Marathon this year on Sunday, November 1st. We will be wearing History Starts Now shirts as well as handing out information cards. We will be meeting at 65th and 1st Avenue / Time: 11:00 AM

The runners will be running off of the bridge and will need extra support at this part of the race. It is between their 16th & 17th mile.

Please email Kristina if you are interested in supporting atKristina@HistoryStartsNow.info.

Be sure to bring a snack & bottle of water for the day.

Please buy your shirts online, & you will be given them at the race. We recommend wearing a warm shirt underneath. Shirts are $15 and go to support the History Starts Now Awareness Campaign. If your item is sold out, contact Kristina@historystarstnow.info

November 14, 2009 - Philadelphia Art Gala

2009-10-11T14:12:00.000-07:00

"You are the salt of the earth."- Matthew 5:13

On November 14th, join History Starts Now as we bring flavor to Philadelphia while raising awareness in the fight against sex trafficking of minors in the United States.

Take one eveningto treat yourself to an Art Gala Benefit at Salt Gallery while your money is donated to a special cause.

Enjoy Complimentary champagne 7 - 8 PM & complimentary cupcakes 8 - 9 PM by official sponsor Desserts by Tawny Ong

Music by: Kevin Grandstaff Art by: Michael A. Veneziale Attire: Trendsetters

"Life isn't about milestones, but about moments, and the moment is now. History Starts Now, with you and me."

Purchase tickets: http://philadelphiaartgala.eventbrite.com/
Tickets for this event are $15 ($20 at the door).

Celebrating with a Great Team!

2009-09-24T08:31:00.001-07:00

A Jazzy Thank You!

2009-09-23T20:54:00.001-07:00

Thank you to everyone who attended our Live Jazz event at Pranna this past Monday. Our event could not have been the same without our amazing gift bag and luxury raffle contributors. Special thanks to our official sponsor popchips www.popchips.com as well as Lacee Swan www.laceeswan.com, Calico Home www.calicocorners.com, Hailey's Dragonfly Garden of Botanicals www.haileysdragonflygarden.com, Adam Poltrack Personal Training, Ozone Socks www.ozonesocks.com, Benefontis www.benefontis.com, My Coach Inc., Rachel Park Designs www.rachelpark.com, Sergio Davila www.sergiodavila.com, and Aysha Saeed www.ayshasaeed.com.

Please check out Our Photobucket Page for Live Jazz event pictures!

Fatal Promises Showing on September 23 @ 7 PM

2009-09-08T18:39:00.001-07:00

History Starts Now will be hosting a film called "Fatal Promises" on Wednesday, September 23 at 7 PM @ Cinema Village, NYC. Any guests who attend the September 21 Live Jazz Event will receive discounted tickets to this showing.

Fatal: adj- Causing ruin or destruction; disastrous

Promise: noun-something that has the effect of an

express assurance; indication of what may be expected

Human Trafficking is defined as the recruitment, transportation and harboring of persons, by means of threat of violence, use of force, coercion, abduction, fraud, or the abuse of power for the purpose of sexual exploitation or labor servitude.

Every year, an estimated 800,000 human beings are trafficked across international borders from countries of origin to countries of destination. It is a multibillion-dollar global criminal enterprise, third in size after drugs and arms smuggling.

Through personal stories by victims of trafficking, and interviews with politicians, Non Governmental Organizations (NGO’s) representatives and activists, Fatal Promises provides an in depth look at the realities of human trafficking suffered by victims and struggled against by NGO’s and activists versus the rhetoric of politicians and pundits who claim to be making significant strides into combating this horrific crime against humanity.

How can modern society and developed countries like the USA or those in Western Europe tolerate such a horrendous crime - 200 years after the abolition of slavery?

WWW.FATALPROMISES.COM

Fact Sheet on History Starts Now and the Sex Trafficking Industry

2009-09-04T06:53:00.000-07:00

L.I.V.E. J.A.Z.Z.

2009-08-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

"Jazz is rhythm and meaning" -Henri Matisse.

On September 21st, Jazz serves a true meaning. Join us for an evening of live jazz, fun, and the fight against sex trafficking of minors in the United States. Take one evening to treat yourself to a Live Jazz Event while your money is donated to a special cause.

We will be featuring some very talented jazz artists like the Elisabeth and Nicole Barranca Sisters, and more!

FREE SIGNATURE COCKTAIL from 7 - 8 PM
COMPLIMENTARY H'ORDERVES from 8 - 9 PM
LUXURY RAFFLES
GIFT BAGS to the first 100 guests!

The event is limited to 150 guests.
Purchase your tickets > HISTORY STARTS NOW LIVE JAZZ

With your attention, your support, and your voice, you are joining a movement to make history by preventing new incidents from happening and decreasing the demand for this kind of criminal activity.

Featured on AskMelissa.com

2009-07-02T20:33:00.000-07:00

Check out the newest press on the
Fashion Gives Back event on AskMelissa.com
“We are the world. We are the children,” could be the theme song for the charity History Starts Now, founded by Kristina Lee Grandstaff. This past week, they hosted Fashion Gives Back, a fashion-show benefit to raise money and awareness about the sale of children as sex slaves.

Holly is a film about a girl trapped by fate.

2009-07-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

This film was shot on location in Cambodia with many scenes in actual brothels in the notorious red light district of Phnom Penh, "Holly" is a captivating, touching, and emotional drama. Starring Ron Livingston, Virginie Ledoyan, Udo Kier, the late Chris Penn and introducing 14 year-old Thuy Nguyen.

Over 60,000 child prostitutes in Cambodia.
"You only get one life, so you've got to try to make the most of it."

This DVD can be purchased on www.priorityfilms.com

Fashion Gives Back - A Word from the Co-Founders

2009-06-23T12:10:00.001-07:00

"Fashion Gives Back" hosted by History Starts Now was a success. We had over 200 people show up for the event including press. Suzanne Rae, our featured designer, stunned the crowd with her gorgeous dresses. She will be presenting at Fashion Week 2009. The evening began with our guests enjoying Stone Rose's special cocktails while engaged in conversation. During the presentation we showed a promo video featuring Nashville's, up-and-coming singer, Nathan Morris who gave a call to action to get people to join the fight. Throughout the evening, Founder,Kristina Lee held interviews to raise multi-media awareness for the cause. At the end of the night, guests shared their positive feedback with lots of congratulations. While the cause is always front and center, our shared goal for this event was that people would go home with a strong understanding of what History Starts Now is trying to accomplish--"Ending sex trafficking with our generation."

Founder's Interview at Fashion Gives Back

Fashion Gives Back & Central Park Views!

2009-06-17T19:10:00.000-07:00

Fashion Gives Back: A Benefit Fashion Show
Presented by History Starts Now

NEW YORK - June, 2009 – FASHION GIVES BACK, hosted by History Starts Now, is a one-night Fashion Show Benefit this Monday, June 22, 2009. The event will take place at the classically timeless, Stone Rose Lounge in the upscale Time Warner Center Building at 7pm.

FASHION GIVES BACK is sponsored by Sheckys, Clear Magazine, and Sarah Appleby—Editorial Make-up Artist. The event will raise consciousness and funds to help fight child trafficking. Founder, Kristina Lee Grandstaff says, “This event will bring in New York City's best of the best people. We hope individuals will walk away from this event wanting to take action and make history by ending child trafficking with our generation.”

The featured designer is up-and-coming and being kept a surprise. The designer’s creations are retailed at one-thousand dollars a piece, and are inspired by and made for the progressive and sophisticated modern woman. Both feminist and feminine, the line explores the multiple juxtapositions of a woman’s being and interprets these abstract ideas into tangible garments.

Every guest attending the event will be treated as a VIP and because the event is so intimate, each guest will receive a front row seat to the show. The backdrop for the benefit includes breathtaking views of Central Park, one of the perks of the venue Stone Rose Lounge.

Tickets for FASHION GIVES BACK may be purchased online at historystartsnow.info or at the door during the night of the show.

About History Starts Now

FASHION GIVES BACK highlights one of the multi-media approaches History Starts Now uses to inform people of the dangers of child trafficking in America. History Starts Now uses music, film, art, social networking, and more to raise consciousness for a cause that is so real and close to home. With 300,000 children being trafficked in the United States, and 10,000 children trafficked in New York City alone, History Starts Now has made it their mission to be a voice for the vulnerable.

History Starts Now’s famous motto reads, “History Starts Now, with you and me.” A cause dedicated to ending domestic child trafficking with our generation. For more information regarding History Starts Now please visit HistoryStartsNow.info.

Buy tickets here > http://historystartsnowfashion.eventbrite.com/ or at the door.

6.11.09 New York Young Republican Club, Inc. Speaking Engagement

2009-06-12T10:21:00.001-07:00

As you know, History Starts Now is focusing on getting the message out to everyone, and on Thursday, June 11, Kristina Lee Grandstaff had the opportunity to speak to the New York Young Republican Club. She touched on the alarming statistics surrounding child trafficking in America, giving them the big picture. She also shared Debbie's story, a 15-year old victim who was kidnapped from her driveway and forced into the seamy world of sex trafficking for over 40 days until being rescued. She also explained how parents are reacting to child trafficking. The event was a great success with tons of questions from the audience. She was astonished by the number of questions that came are way, but she also felt huge amounts of support from those who shared how concerned they were asking for details, and even suggesting ways we can further our mission. For some, it was an eye-opener, while others really understood the dangers and offered to help.
Special thanks to Daniel Peterson, President of the NYYRC, Inc.

The History Starts Now Diary of Kristina.

Redeemer Christian School Event - Talking to Parents...

2009-06-10T07:56:00.000-07:00

The History Starts Now team partnered with Redeemer Christian Nursery School on Monday, June 8th holding a carnival to end out the school year with an important mission. A normally empty gymnasium was filled with hundreds of children and parents to share a fun filled day with carnival games, cotton candy, popcorn, and learning about the dangers of child trafficking. Oh did I mention, there was a clown?

Founder, Kristina spoke to parents one-on-one about the dangers of child trafficking in America. The responses were astonishing. Some parents were not aware child trafficking existed in America, let alone even in the suburbs of New Jersey. Some parents were informed of this crime through documentaries on prime time television, and some parents were afraid to talk about the issue. Helping parents to be aware of this crime, which happens in our own backyards, is crucial to the History Starts Now mission.

Telling parents about the realities of child trafficking is helping to put an end to the injustice of child trafficking, one parent at-a-time. Please be sure to visit the facebook fanpage to view pics of this event > History Starts Now

Special thanks go to Redeemer Nursery School Directors, Lecia and Jan, and to Jillian Spencer Photography.
Photography Credit: http://jillianspencerphotography.com/

6.02.09 Paradox Speaking Engagement

2009-06-03T06:50:00.000-07:00

The History Starts Now Team spoke at Paradox (Models for Christ) Fashion Dinner on June 2, 2009. Founder, Kristina Lee Grandstaff shared the mission of History Starts Now & invited the attendees to their upcoming
Fashion Benefit on June 22nd.

Special guest speaker of the evening was Brant Cryder. Brant Cryder is the Vice President of Miu Miu and he has worked for the the PRADA Group for a total of 11 years. He gave his personal testimony about how he got started in the fashion industry. He revealed through his testimony that practicing being in the presence of God and being aligned with Him, God will be able to use you in ways one could never imagine. He also said that we need to be climbers and not campers when it comes to our faith. He ended the night by praying over the group.

2009-05-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

History Starts Now presents Fashion Gives Back, a one-night Fashion Show Benefit to raise consciousness and funds to help fight child trafficking with our generation.

While the fashion designer is a surprise, the cause to fight child sexual slavery is front and center. History Starts Now is trying to reach a generation by telling their story in a multi-media fashion --- art, music, fashion, writing, events, and more. This evening's event is geared towards bringing in New York City's best of the best people who care about ending child trafficking, and who want to help make history.

Be part of this amazing night full of fashion, fun, and the fight against child sexual slavery. Treat yourself to a fashion show benefit while your money is donated to a special cause.

History Starts Now is raising consciousness and funds to put an end to the injustice of child trafficking with our generation. This organization is committed to providing the literature, the connections, and the platform to create an awareness movement about the realities of this crime. For more information on History Starts Now go to: HistoryStartsNow.info
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

June 22 Fashion Event Trailer

2009-05-22T07:12:00.000-07:00

Click on image to check it out.

History Starts Now Article!

2009-05-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

History Starts Now on CharityHappenings.org

History Starts Now is grateful for the opportunity to share the stage with many great charities on CharityHappenings.org, the official master calendar for Non-profit events, Galas, and Benefits.