It's time to announce my official platform issues as Ms. New York US 2008!  But...I'd like to preface my announcement by saying that it was a very difficult decision to make, especially because I've volunteered for so many worthy causes since the age of 11, and many of them are close to my heart.  However, I had to choose the ones that are most close to my heart at this point in my life.

I am very much inspired and compelled to lead a healthy lifestyle, and love to share that knowledge with others, especially children.  I am a Certified Personal Trainer through AFPA and hold a BA in Dance from Marymount Manhattan College, which has afforded me extensive knowledge on the human body and how it works, especially through my professional experience as a dancer and teacher over the past 8 years.  I have supplemented my official training with a great deal of reading on health topics, particularly on natural alternatives.  Through my passion for fitness and nutrition, I will promote Healthy Habits For Life, which will focus on teaching children about healthy food, exercise and habit choices to make that will last them a lifetime.  Topics will include fun and healthy snack foods for kids, food groups, fun and innovative exercise choices, abstaining from alcohol and drug abuse, the role of positive thinking, and more.  I will promote this issue by speaking to young audiences in New York and abroad about the importance of developing these healthy lifestyle habits and how to do it- from their point of view. 

In addition to Healthy Habits For Life, there is another issue that is quite dear to my heart--> the empowerment of women.  There is a special place in my heart for this issue, first and foremost because I am a woman!  I love sharing my stories of triumph in the face of obstacles, and hope to inspire other women to achieve their goals as well.  I'm a "glass half full"- kinda girl, and it's quite a pleasure for me to share that sunny side of me with others!   I aM for Women: Inspiration and Motivation for Women, will focus on the empowerment of women by inspiring them to take affirmative action in their own lives for positive change.  I will illustrate examples in my own life, provide a suggested reading list and exercises on positive self- affirmations.

With both of my platforms, I will communicate my messages through various presentation methods including blogging and podcasting right here.  I'm SUPER excited to share all my thoughts with you, so check back next week for updates on all that I'm doing, and SEND ME YOUR THOUGHTS!  Friend me up on Twitter GraziellaB onTwitter

Love,
Graziella Baratta
Ms. New York US 2008