Oh Frankie, We love you!

Frank O'Hara: my favorite poet

Okay, so sometimes I'm not a fan of poetry, but Frank O'Hara caught my interest immediatly. It was actually for an English assignment, and once I bumped into his poetry, I was in love! I completely feel his poetry; even when I don't understand it. And the more I examined his poetry and read about hsi life...its like I felt a weird connection with him. I wish he were still alive, I would definetly want to speak with him oneday. I dont know about you guys, but his poetry changed my life- the way I look a poetry- its just amazing.

His Life, in a nutshell:
-He was born in 1926, and died in 1966
-He grew up in Masaachusetts, went to Harvard, moved to New York where he started to write in earnest
-He worked at the MOMA (museum of modern art)

Style + Influences:
-He had an interest in art (working at the MOMA), which is why so many of his poems relate poetry to painting

-He loved New York, and the rush of life there, how everything is going on at the same time, and the city is always busy and brimming with so many different people
-He was homosexual, and you'll notice that his poems have no gender (he doesnt say he loves a 'him' or 'her'), to make his poems more universal
-Honesty. Frankness. Being true to art. These were his fundamental characteristics. His poetry was so new and different at the time because he had no structure (no rhymes, weird punctuation, lots of exclamation marks), and he wrote on impulse. In act, he wrote some of the poetry on the day of his readings sometimes. He didn't like the cliche, and critized painters and poets who didn't have passionate subjects but instead just made calculated, "safe" work.
-His poems also include tons of names and references to friends and loved ones of Frank O'Hara, and this is a great qoute to sum it up:

"Reading a Frank O’Hara poem is like being thrown into the middle of a party with
some stranger’s intimate friends. One has to do one’s best to make sense of all
the inside references, names, places, and things that one would have no
reasonable reason to know” - Jonathen N. Barron

Here are some of his poems (my favs), and you can decide for yourself:

Why I Am Not a Painter

I am not a painter, I am a poet.
Why? I think I would rather be
a painter, but I am not. Well,

for instance, Mike Goldberg
is starting a painting. I drop in.
"Sit down and have a drink" he
says. I drink; we drink. I look
up. "You have SARDINES in it."
"Yes, it needed something there."
"Oh." I go and the days go by
and I drop in again. The painting
is going on, and I go, and the days
go by. I drop in. The painting is
finished. "Where's SARDINES?"
All that's left is just
letters, "It was too much," Mike says.

But me? One day I am thinking of
a color: orange. I write a line
about orange. Pretty soon it is a
whole page of words, not lines.
Then another page. There should be
so much more, not of orange, of
words, of how terrible orange is
and life. Days go by. It is even in
prose, I am a real poet. My poem
is finished and I haven't mentioned
orange yet. It's twelve poems, I call
it ORANGES. And one day in a gallery
I see Mike's painting, called SARDINES.

Analysis: Okay, so I'm not going to analyze the whole poem, but basically what he is saying is that there are some similarities between painting and poetry, as different as the art forms may seem. They both start off with one idea, and end up writing/painting about something else. They also take some things from eachother; the painting uses the title (words) "Sardines" to convey a feeling, while the poet uses the color (like a painting does) "orange" to convey another. He plays with the dea that the weakness of poetry is that you cannot use immediate visuals to show the audience what you want them to see (to get his idea out, he ends up using pages and pages)- however, painting has the weakness of only having a limited space to get your message to the audience: a square canvas. This poem is also nice because Mike Gldberg and Frank O'Hara were friends in real life, and the poem is about a real painting by Goldberg (the one below):
Having a Coke with you

is even more fun than going to San Sebastian, Irún, Hendaye, Biarritz, Bayonne
or being sick to my stomach on the Travesera de Gracia in Barcelona
partly because in your orange shirt you look like a better happier St. Sebastian
partly because of my love for you, partly because of your love for yoghurt
partly because of the fluoresent orange tulips around the birches
partly because of the secrecy our smiles take on before people and statuary
it is hard to believe when I'm with you that there can be anything as still
as solemn as unpleasantly definitive as statuary when right in front of it
in the warm New York 4 o'clock light we are drifting back and forth
between each other like a tree breathing through its spectacles

and the portrait show seems to have no faces in it at all, just paint
you suddenly wonder why in the world anyone ever did them
I look
at you and I would rather look at you than all the portraits in the world
except possibly for the Polish Rider occasionally and anyway it's in the Frick
which thank heavens you haven't gone to yet so we can go together the first time
and the fact that you move so beautifully more or less takes care of Futurism
just as at home I never think of the Nude Descending a Staircase or
at a rehearsal a single drawing of Leonardo or Michelangelo that used to wow me
and what good does all the research of the Impressionists do them
when they never got the right person to stand near the tree when the sun sank
or for that matter Marino Marini when he didn't pick the rider as carefully
as the horse

it seems they were all cheated of some marvellous experience
which is not going to go wasted on me which is why I am telling you about it

Analysis: Well, this poem starts off in a humorous manner; he starts of by saying that having a coke with you is more fun than vomiting in the streets of Spain! Then he mentions all the little details about his lover; his or her love for yughurt, their orange shirt, the way they smile together, that makes frank love them. In this way, he stays away from the cliche- he doesn't say how he's SO in love forever and ever and ever and ever like other poets do, but instead, he stays realistic which is why he just says "i love you...you know, because i rather be here than sick to my stomach" and then later says "I would rather look at you than all the portraits in the world...except for that one portait I love, to be honest I rather look at that!" He stays away from being too mushy or a hallmark card- he just writes honestly. He ontinues this idea when he starts to critize painters that pay so much attention to calculated proportions and form that they forget to choose subjects that are truly passionate to them- because O'hara believes that painting should be about passion, not being perfect. And so he sees flaws in all the master's paintings, because "they never got the right person to stand near the tree when the sun sank"

Steps

How funny you are today New York
like Ginger Rogers in Swingtime
and St. Bridget’s steeple leaning a little to the left

here I have just jumped out of a bed full of V-days
(I got tired of D-days) and blue you there still
accepts me foolish and free
all I want is a room up there
and you in it
and even the traffic halt so thick is a way
for people to rub up against each other
and when their surgical appliances lock
they stay together
for the rest of the day (what a day)
I go by to check a slide and I say
that painting’s not so blue

where’s Lana Turner
she’s out eating
and Garbo’s backstage at the Met
everyone’s taking their coat off
so they can show a rib-cage to the rib-watchers
and the park’s full of dancers with their tights and shoes
in little bags
who are often mistaken for worker-outers at the West Side Y
why not
the Pittsburgh Pirates shout because they won
and in a sense we’re all winning
we’re alive

the apartment was vacated by a gay couple
who moved to the country for fun
they moved a day too soon
even the stabbings are helping the population explosion
though in the wrong country
and all those liars have left the UN
the Seagram Building’s no longer rivalled in interest
not that we need liquor (we just like it)

and the little box is out on the sidewalk
next to the delicatessen
so the old man can sit on it and drink beer
and get knocked off it by his wife later in the day
while the sun is still shining

oh god it’s wonderful
to get out of bed
and drink too much coffee
and smoke too many cigarettes
and love you so much

Analysis: This poem is so funny but serious at the same time! He talks cynically about the world "the stabbings" but then keeps it upbeat by saying "hey, at least it helped the population explosion!" Then in the first stanza he talks about sex, everyone wants it, and says plainly "i just want you upstairs, now". And he continues to pull in funny situations and names and flaws in a huge run-on sentence, which sounds like the person would be reading this poem out of breath. The last stanza then sounds like a sign of relief: "oh god it's wonderful....and love you so much". It almost the only part of the poem that's crystal clear in meaning. After all the crazy things going on in the rest of the poem, the last stanza says, in my interpretation, that it's so good to have someone to be in love with, so that with all the hectic this in the world we can just sit upstairs, be in love (and in the moment), and forget about the world around us. It also seems like an expression of what O'hara believes love to be; a connection between two imperfect people, and an escape from the bad things in the world.

Thanks for reading! (and hope everyone had a great thanksgiving + black friday!)

-NewYorkChique

Sexiness and the Human Body

Well, I havent blogged in a while. Hope everyone is getting by okay =]



For those who responded to the last post, I ended up getting the Firefighter costume. It actually looked really nice, I think. Since I'm not an amazon with a DD bra size, it looked pretty appropriate. Either way, I got grounded (long story), so I ended up not celebrating at all for yet another year. Some of you commented on the sexualization of costumes- and you're all right. If it's not a little kid costume, it's most likely a sexy costume. I think that if you look around for costumes wisely, and stay away from using garters and 4 inch stilletos, you can actually pull of a party-but-not-too-slutty look. But then again, there is a sort of freedom in being able to dress sexily every once in a while. Is being sexy liberating, or objectifying? Some women may say it makes them feel like they have more power, and feel more free. Some may say that doing that makes them feel like they're selling themselves. That's an arguement that really has no answer, since it can be argued either way. It's then up to the individual to decide how they feel about it.

It's messy, but read anyway:



ART
Also, in art- in ancient times as well as the renaisance, women's bodies were adored-scultpures, paintings, the works. But now, photography or paintings are put on the no-no list of the U.S. to show to kids. But why? I never understood what was wrong with the beauty of people's bodies. Why is the body something that society tries to make us ashamed of? It's a big debate when it comes to book-censoring, sex ed, etc. as well.

By the way, this is one of my favorite paintings (its quite famous)- it's called "Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bumblebee around a Pomegranate a Second Before Awakening", by Salvador Dali (1944).






1920s
Also, I'd like to point out that the teenagers and twentiers in the 1920's that took the stand to dress however they like, (which was considered slutty back then), by today's standards would be modest. But why did they do it? Well, they wanted to have fun. They took the "we may die tomorrow" look on life, so they danced (which was made easier by shorter dresses), put on makeup, and kissed boys (only kissed, not much else- but pecking a guy who you weren't engaged to was considered promiscuous back then). Well, we have to give thanks to them for giving women the power to go out and party, and socialize. Back then, being sexy to the newer generations was being powerful. To the older generations who dissaproved of the flappers and new clothing, it was objectifying.

(That's Clara Bow, a New Yorker, and I love her)

I mean, standards are constantly changing. Could it be that the standards for sexual freedom are changing in some parts of the world, and the government is just trying to hold back that change for as long as they can? Who knows.

Okay, so it's a lot to go by, but I'm sure if someone tried argueing with me they could find plenty of points to argue against - I mean, I don't have ultra clear opinions, but it's more like food for thought. These are things I often think about, so any feedback/arguement is well appreciated.



Thanks for reading!
-New York Chique

Halloween

Okay, let me start off by saying that Halloween is (besides Christmas) my favorite holiday!

When I was little, it was a day where in school (if it landed on a school day) all we would do is color those silly pumpkin pictures or make a scarecrow out of paper and eat tons of cupcakes and candy.

Then, when I was in middle school, I still got candy (even though I stopped tricker treating towards the end of my middle school years), and it was a time to dress up and hang out with friends and watch scary movies.

Then I have to admit, for the past two years of highschool I took it easy on halloween, because costumes get to be a bit pricey, and I don't know, I just wasn't as interested in it- well honestly, my mom kind of banned me from going to the parties because of the alcohol (ugh.). So basically, for the last two years I've just been giving candy to the people who pass by. Bummer, right? But this year I picked it up again to go to the NYC Halloween parade thanks to one of my close friends. wooooh =D

I've been thinking of what costumes to get, and while I was online window shopping, these are the costumes I really liked and am considering. I concentrated on the three major costume shops in new york, Ricky's, Spirit, and Halloween Adventure.

The Dirty Cop:

This costs $54.99 at Halloween Adventure.
Details: Includes a bengaline snap front navy dress with attached vinyl boned waist corset and neck collar, hat, fazu razor blade necklace, removable name badge, belt, handcuffs and an evidence bag which contains a faux needle and mini plastic bag. Sunglasses not included.

Lil' Red Riding Hood:

This costs $69.99 at Ricky's.
Details: Includes Hooded Cape & Peasant Top Dress. Basket and petticoat not included.

Option #2

This costs $42.99 at Ricky's (much cheaper than the other one, and still looks good)

Foxy Firefighter:

This costs $44.99 at Halloween Adventure.
Details: Includes a black, zipper-front mini dress with yellow reflective tape trim, and an inflatable fire extinguisher. Plastic fire hat sold separately. Boots are not included.
-Oooh comes with an inflatable extinguisher. Haha I like that, it's cute. =]

Sassy Sailor:

Costs: $49.99 at Ricky's.
Details: Includes sailor hat with anchor patch and halter dress with double breasted buttons and rope bell with anchor charm.

Pretty Pirate:

Costs: $49.99 at Spirit.
Details: includes peasant top dress with jeweled broach. Does not come with pirate hat, stockings or boots.
(The hat can be bought at Spirit's for $29.99)

Option #2

The color isn't as cool in my opinion, but it does give off a darker, more bad-girl vibe than the first one.

The Classic French Maid:

I know, I know, kind of cliche', but hey, if its flattering, I'd go for it.
Costs: $49.99 at Spirit.
Details: includes puffed sleeves, dress with apron, feather duster. Does not have choker, stockings or shoes.

Peasant/Beer Girl:

Costs: $49.99 at Halloween Adventure.
Details: Includes dress, and thigh high stockings. Shoes not included.
The main reason I like these costumes is that they also sell a beer-shaped purse that you can use with it. =]

Queen of Hearts:

Costs: $59.99 at Ricky's.
Details: Includes dress and neck piece...there's no mention of the little hat on the girl's head, so I guess that doesn't come with it? I love the feel of this costume, but I wouldn't like wearing the neck piece or hat. And without those, the costume becomes blah.

Referee:

Costs: $33 at Halloween Adventure.
Details: Includes mini halter dress, whistle and socks. Does not come with heels.

Race Car Girl

Costs: $49.99 at Ricky's.
Details: Dress only. Shoes and helmet not included.

Option #2

Costs: $44.99 at Halloween Adventure.
Details: Dress only. Shoes and helmet not included.
I actually like this red on much better- even though the more modest might have to put lycra shorts underneath, judging by the slit on the side of the dress.

Just for Kicks! Miss Wasilla!

Costs: $23.99 (but must be pre ordered)
Details: Includes sash and glasses only.
Lame! You're basically paying for a piece of fabric that says 'miss alaska' and fake glasses. But hahahhaa I can't believe someone actually made Sarah Palin into a Halloween costume. =D



So yeah. Those are the halloween costumes that I thought would be nice to wear this year. =]
Oh, and for anyone else who is looking around for costumes (especially in ny)
Ricky's: www.rickyshalloween.com
Spirit: www.spirithalloween.com
Halloween Adventure: www.halloweenadventure.com

And for anyone who loves online shopping, this is a greatt greatt site! It really helps because 1) it has every costume imaginable, and 2) you can read the reviews/comments other people make about the costume.
www.buycostumes.com

And ahh for anyone that is planning on going to any of these stores in new york, I would recommend going to Halloween Adventure. Even though Ricky's has more of a reputation, Halloween Adventure is 10x bigger (and fun to go to!), with a lotttt more selection. Compared to Halloween Adventure, Ricky's looks really limited, and doesn't sell half as many costumes.

And thats it for now.



P.S., I became a "follower" of everyone who was on my blogroll. I'd love it if everyone returned the favor! I'm actually really glad that blogger added this,it seems like it'll be a lot easier to comment on everyone's blogs now. =]

So remember:
1. Follow my blog if you like my posts
2. Tell me which costumes you like! Or tell me what you're being!

Good luck shopping for costumes
Love,
-New York Chique

Why Sarah Palin Scares Me

Despite the title of this post, I always try to keep an open mind. And Gov. Sarah Palin isn't running for president- she's running to be the VP, but I thought that since she's getting so much media attention (she's practically a celebrity!) and with the presidents...err..."delicate" state of age, she's worth looking at. I support Obama, but I want to try to show people Sarah Palin and her views.

In this post, I will discuss:

First: Palin's views

Second: My reaction to some of her views

Third: A note for the voters.

These are her views. I got them off the internet, I didn't write them. I just thought it was a nice summary of her views without having to go throw all the dibble dabble of her interviews.

SARAH PALIN OVERVIEW

Sarah Palin on Abortion:
-Rejected sympathy for Down's Syndrome son, as gift from God. (Aug 2008)
-Opposes embryonic stem cell research. (Aug 2008)
-Every baby is created with a future and potential. (Aug 2008)
-Safe Haven bill: allow surrendering newborns without penalty. (Feb 2008)
-Adoption is best plan for permanency for foster care kids. (Oct 2007)
-Pro-life. (Nov 2006)
-Choose life, even if her own daughter were raped. (Nov 2006)
-If Roe v. Wade got overturned, let people decide what's next. (Oct 2006)
-Opposes use of public funds for abortions. (Oct 2006)
-Pro-contraception, pro-woman, pro-life. (Aug 2006)
-Only exception for abortion is if mother's life would end. (Jul 2006)

Sarah Palin on Budget & Economy
-Control spending by request if possible; by veto if needed. (Sep 2008)
-$7 billion savings plan for education & transportation. (Dec 2007)
-Reduced general fund spending by $124 million. (Mar 2007)
-Aim to reduce general fund spending by $150 million. (Jan 2007)
-Firm believer in free market capitalism. (Nov 2006)
-Coordinate state tourism marketing but no additional funding. (Oct 2006)

Sarah Palin on Civil Rights
-Vetoed bill denying benefits to gays, as unconstitutional. (Aug 2008)
-ADA brings expanded freedom to Americans with disabilities. (Jul 2008)
-Recognize Juneteenth to celebrate the end of slavery. (Jun 2008)
-HIV/AIDS among Alaska Natives is public health crisis. (Mar 2008)
-Recognize Martin Luther King holiday. (Jan 2008)
-Comply with same-sex partner benefits despite disagreement. (Dec 2006)
-Marriage only be between and man and a woman. (Nov 2006)
-Value our cultural diversity. (Nov 2006)
-Prefers term "anti-rural" to "anti-Native". (Nov 2006)
-Special legislative session on same-sex health benefits. (Nov 2006)
-Ok to deny benefits to homosexual couples. (Aug 2006)
-No spousal benefits for same-sex couples. (Jul 2006)
-Top priorities include preserving definition of "marriage". (Jul 2006)

Sarah Palin on Corporations
-Governor must act as effective CEO on behalf of Alaskans. (Nov 2006)
-Encourage small business growth by reducing business taxes. (Nov 2006)

Sarah Palin on Crime
-Establish "FBI Day" to support fighting global crime. (Jun 2008)
-Register sex offenders; & investigate internet sex crimes. (Jun 2008)
-Victims' rights are critical to "justice for all". (Mar 2008)
-We are tough on crime and beefing up law enforcement. (Jan 2008)
-Collect DNA samples from felons. (Jun 2007)
-Gang members on probation must wear electronic monitors. (Jun 2007)
-Maximum sentence for first-degree murder by police. (Apr 2007)
-If legislature passed death penalty law, I would sign it. (Nov 2006)
-Strong public safety presence, via police, courts & prisons. (Nov 2006)
-Death penalty for adults who murder children. (Oct 2006)
-No special hate-crime laws; all heinous crime is hate-based. (Jul 2006)
-No expansion of gambling in Alaska. (Jul 2006)

Sarah Palin on Drugs
-Highway fatalities down because of strict drunk driving laws. (Aug 2008)
-Maintain alcohol sale database; bar giving alcohol to minors. (Jun 2007)
-Questions cruise ship gambling, under casino gambling ban. (Oct 2006)
-Opposes legalizing marijuana, but meth is greater threat. (Aug 2006)
-Smoked marijuana when it was legal under Alaska law. (Aug 2006)
-Top priorities include gangs & drugs; they harm family life. (Jul 2006)

Sarah Palin on Education
-Teach creationism alongside evolution in schools. (Aug 2008)
-Supports teaching intelligent design in public schools. (Aug 2008)
-294 Alaska public schools progressed under NCLB. (Aug 2008)
-School debate should focus on accountability. (Jan 2008)
-Committed to providing strong education, including morals. (Jan 2008)
-Budget funds education, but will to work is also critical. (Jan 2008)
-Court ruling against NEA: state adequately funds education. (Jun 2007)
-Fully fund K-12 and support early funding of education. (Jan 2007)
-Supports $20 million needs-based aid for U. Alaska. (Nov 2006)
-Forward-fund K-12 schools to allow better planning. (Nov 2006)
-Supports charter schools, home schools, & other alternatives. (Nov 2006)
-Target early education programs to at-risk groups. (Nov 2006)
-Alignment between parents, teachers, schools, & business. (Nov 2006)
-Faith-based materials ok in homeschooling. (Nov 2006)
-ABC method: back to basics, plus patriotism & ethics. (Nov 2006)
-Supports parental choice for what is best for their children. (Nov 2006)
-Don't push school boards on creationism but allow discussion. (Oct 2006)
-I believe we have a creator; and many theories of evolution. (Oct 2006)
-Support charters & home schools; not private school vouchers. (Oct 2006)
-Let parents opt out of schoolbooks they find offensive. (Jul 2006)
-Parents know best, about school spending & school age. (Jul 2006)
-Pledge of Allegiance with 'Under God' is good enough. (Jul 2006)

Sarah Palin on Energy & Oil
-Produce more of our own oil & gas, for national security. (Sep 2008)
-Gas pipeline:history's largest private-sector infrastructure. (Sep 2008)
-More pipelines; more nukes; more coal; more alternatives. (Sep 2008)
-Claimed major triumph: $500 million subsidy for gas pipeline. (Aug 2008)
-Global warming affects Alaska, but is not man-made. (Aug 2008)
-Resource rebate: suspend AK 8-cent fuel tax for one year. (Aug 2008)
-Gasline Inducement Act: 1,715-mile natural gas pipeline. (Aug 2008)
-Commercialize Alaska's North Slope natural gas. (Aug 2008)
-Appointed an Alaska oil and gas commissioner. (Aug 2008)
-To win, GOP must push energy independence. (Aug 2008)
-Agrees with Obama on more Alaska oil & gas production. (Aug 2008)
-Windfall oil profits tax prevents investment. (Aug 2008)
-Lift moratorium on offshore drilling. (Jul 2008)
-Convinced McCain to drill offshore; not yet on drilling ANWR. (Jul 2008)
-Exxon-Mobil should pay $507 million for Exxon Valdez spill. (Jul 2008)
-Unlock ANWR; we're ready, willing and able to contribute. (Jun 2008)
-Energy relief plan: $100 per person monthly, for oil & gas. (May 2008)
-Bush is right: drill ANWR & develop our own supplies. (Apr 2008)
-Fully fund for the Petroleum Systems Integrity Office. (Feb 2008)
-$250M for proven alternative energy, including wind & hydro. (Jan 2008)
-Gas pipelines are approved if they meet Alaska's needs. (Jan 2008)
-National energy policy not an either/or proposition. (Nov 2007)
-Fund cellulosic biofuel research in Farm Bill. (Oct 2007)
-Submitted legislation to build natural AGIA gas pipeline. (Mar 2007)
-Stranded Gas Development Act no longer applies. (Nov 2006)
-Get ANWR open. (Nov 2006)
-Chaired the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. (Nov 2006)
-Pursue gasline plan that is best for ALL Alaskans. (Nov 2006)
-Met with producers and employee groups for pipeline deal. (Oct 2006)
-Firm start date as part of gasline incentive offer. (Oct 2006)
-Opposes natural gas reserves tax--it's not earned income yet. (Oct 2006)
-Analyze potential costs associated with climate change. (Oct 2006)

Sarah Palin on Environment
-Opposed protections for salmon from mining contamination. (Aug 2008)
-Sue US government to stop listing polar bear as endangered. (Aug 2008)
-We must encourage timber, mining, drilling, & fishing. (Jan 2008)
-Wolf predator control is important for subsistence hunters. (Sep 2007)
-Feds shouldn't list beluga whales as endangered. (Aug 2007)
-Provide stability in regulations for developers. (Jan 2007)
-Convince the rest of the nation to open ANWR. (Jan 2007)
-Fish platform: "Resource First" philosophy. (Nov 2006)
-Rail provides critical link for business development. (Nov 2006)
-Supports "Roads to Resources": subsidized access to mines. (Oct 2006)
-Don't duplicate effort in monitoring cruise ship emissions. (Oct 2006)
-Don't amend AK constitution for rural subsistence fishing. (Oct 2006)

Sarah Palin on Families & Children
-Special-needs children will have her as a friend & advocate. (Sep 2008)
-17-year-old unmarried daughter is 5 months pregnant. (Sep 2008)
-Praised by pro-life groups for keeping Down syndrome baby. (Aug 2008)
-Recognize the vital role of family child care homes. (Mar 2008)
-Opposes explicit sex-education programs. (Jul 2006)

Sarah Palin on Foreign Policy
-Visiting injured soldiers in Germany was trip of a lifetime. (Sep 2008)
-Get Ukraine into NATO, and maybe Georgia. (Sep 2008)
-Peace Corps strengthens US ties abroad & enriches US at home. (Jan 2007)

Sarah Palin on Free Trade
-Trade important to Alaska, but keep Alaska residents first. (Sep 2008)
-Allow wineries to ship by mail within state. (Jun 2008)
-International markets and companies trust Alaska. (Apr 2008)
-Exempt Alaskan cruise ships from customs rule changes. (Dec 2007)
-Record-high exports; growth of 12.6% since last year. (Feb 2007)

Sarah Palin on Government Reform
-Shook up the good-ol' boys network with major ethics reform. (Sep 2008)
-Vetoed nearly half a billion dollars in wasteful spending. (Sep 2008)
-McCain: She's a soul-mate who implemented ethics reform. (Aug 2008)
-Killed "bridge to nowhere" project as unneeded. (Aug 2008)
-Supported infamous "Bridge to Nowhere"; now criticizes it. (Aug 2008)
-Individuals make better decisions than government. (Aug 2008)
-Fight "bridge to nowhere" and all earmarks. (Jul 2008)
-VECO scandal & Stevens indictment shows need for GOP cleanup. (Jul 2008)
-Comprehensive ethics reform: change politics as usual. (Jul 2007)
-Presented comprehensive ethics bill in early 2007. (Mar 2007)
-Sell previous governor's jet on eBay--it's impractical. (Dec 2006)
-Attended numerous debates & did not avoid any unnecessarily. (Oct 2006)
-Supports state funding for Gravina Island bridge. (Oct 2006)

Sarah Palin on Gun Control
-Hunts and fishes, as did her father. (Aug 2008)
-Hunts as much as she can; freezer-full of wild game. (Aug 2008)
-Supports ending D.C.'s 32-year-old ban on handguns. (Jun 2008)
-Lifelong NRA member & champion of right to bear arms. (Feb 2008)
-Supports Constitutional right to bear arms. (Nov 2006)

Sarah Palin on Health Care
-Signed up as organ donor; Alaska leads the states. (Apr 2008)
-Health care must be market-and business-driven. (Jan 2008)
-Take personal responsibility for personal health & all areas. (Jan 2008)
-Doctors should manage health care, not bureaucracies. (Jan 2008)
-Personal responsibility & choices key to good health. (Jan 2008)
-Flexibility in government regulations to allow competition. (Nov 2006)
-More affordable health care via competition. (Nov 2006)

Sarah Palin on Homeland Security
-Energy is a foundation of national security. (Sep 2008)
-Only a very small percent of Islamic believers are extreme. (Sep 2008)
-Agrees with Bush Doctrine, if enough legitimate intel. (Sep 2008)
-Focus on fighting Al-Qaeda terrorists, not on reading rights. (Sep 2008)
-Strong military and sound energy. (Aug 2008)
-Armed forces, including my son, give us security and freedom. (Jan 2008)
-Ask all candidates "Are you doing all you can for security?". (Oct 2007)
-Visits Kuwait; encourages Alaska big game hunting to troops. (Sep 2007)
-Obligation to support our troops, even if criticizing war. (Jun 2007)
-Proclaim "Loyalty Day" to reaffirm loyalty to America. (Apr 2007)
-Promote from within, in Alaska's National Guard. (Nov 2006)
-Let military personnel know how much we support them. (Nov 2006)

Sarah Palin on Immigration
-Has not often expressed views on illegal immigration. (Aug 2008)
-OpEd: Palin is sick to death of this immigration nonsense. (Mar 2008)
-Address jointly with Canada the border security challenges. (Jan 2007)
-Immigrants want more vocational training & senior assistance. (Oct 2006)
-Took no action on Alaska's "sanctuary cities". (Sep 2006)
-Tightened restrictions on illegal alien's drivers licenses. (Sep 2006)

Sarah Palin on Jobs
-Alaska Construction Academy: 2,520 students learn skills. (Aug 2008)
-Leverage job-training dollars thru voc-tech curriculum. (Nov 2006)
-Focus Workforce Investment Board on vocational careers. (Nov 2006)
-Praised the Red Dog zinc mine for bringing rural jobs. (Oct 2006)
-Department of Fish and Game is under-funded. (Oct 2006)
-Unions should get member permission for political donations. (Jul 2006)

Sarah Palin on Principles & Values
-There is a plan for this world and that plan is for good. (Sep 2008)
-Small towns produced Harry Truman as V.P.; and produced me. (Sep 2008)
-Signed up for PTA; then ran for City Council; then Mayor. (Sep 2008)
-OpEd: shores up McCain as a conservative AND as a maverick. (Sep 2008)
-Before selection, questioned role of vice president. (Sep 2008)
-Miss Congeniality in statewide beauty pageant in 1984. (Aug 2008)
-Star high school athlete in Fellowship of Christian Athletes. (Aug 2008)
-Gained political prominence as a whistleblower. (Aug 2008)
-Shatter that glass ceiling once and for all. (Aug 2008)
-Trounced incumbent governor in 2006 on platform of reform. (Aug 2008)
-Fired controversial state trooper for threatening family. (Aug 2008)
-Voted "Miss Wasilla" in local beauty contest; eloped at 24. (Aug 2008)
-Husband left oil job to avoid conflict; now works for BP. (Aug 2008)
-Husband is part Eskimo; won Iron Dog snowmobile races. (Aug 2008)
-Investigated for firing ex-brother-in-law in custody battle. (Aug 2008)
-Raises kids with network of relatives, plus Todd as Mr. Mom. (Aug 2008)
-Had 6 months to adapt & prepare for Down syndrome baby. (Aug 2008)
-Studied journalism; ran for office to make a difference. (Aug 2008)
-Religion: non-denominational Bible-believing Christian. (Aug 2008)
-Independent prosecutor probing Cabinet firing. (Jul 2008)
-Replaced Public Safety commissioner based on lack of results. (Jul 2008)
-Denies all allegations in Department of Public Safety affair. (Jul 2008)
-Declare a National Day of Prayer in Alaska. (Apr 2008)
-Leadership is a responsibility to prepare for tomorrow. (Jan 2008)
-The Bible has profoundly influenced America. (Oct 2007)
-Recognize America's historic and founding Christian heritage. (Sep 2007)
-Top priorities for AK include ethics & balanced budget. (Mar 2007)
-Decries "politics as usual" of attacking opponents. (Nov 2006)
-Endorsed by Sen. Ted Stevens. (Oct 2006)
-Endorsed by United Fishermen of Alaska (commercial group). (Oct 2006)
-Fight for freedom of religion and freedom of expression. (Oct 2006)

Sarah Palin on Social Security
-Fund the Seniors Longevity Bonus Program. (Nov 2006)
-Home-based assistance more cost-effective than institutions. (Nov 2006)

Sarah Palin on Tax Reform
-Raising taxes hurts small business and hurts jobs. (Sep 2008)
-Elected mayor based on tax cut promise. (Aug 2008)
-As mayor, cut property taxes & increased sales tax. (Aug 2008)
-$60M annually for municipal revenue sharing. (Mar 2008)
-Eliminate taxes that inhibit business. (Jan 2008)
-Repeal "nuisance taxes" including the tire tax. (Jan 2007)
-Mitigate impact of new $50M annual cruise ship tourism tax. (Oct 2006)
-No income tax; no taking the people's dividends. (Oct 2006)
-Would support a seasonal sales tax, but no income tax. (Oct 2006)

Sarah Palin on Technology
-Supports $130M in research investment in U. Alaska. (Nov 2006)
-Efficient transportation system is vital to our economy. (Nov 2006)
-Alaska needs a state funded highway program. (Nov 2006)

Sarah Palin on War & Peace
-Nuclear Iran is dangerous to whole world. (Sep 2008)
-Russia's invading Georgia, unprovoked, is unacceptable. (Sep 2008)
-No new Cold War with Russia. (Sep 2008)
-Don't go to war over Georgia, but pressure Russia. (Sep 2008)
-Don't second-guess Israel if they act against nukes in Iran. (Sep 2008)
-Keep option to go into Pakistan to go after terrorists. (Sep 2008)
-McCain: She has right judgment on Iran and the surge. (Aug 2008)
-Visited Alaska National Guard troops in Kuwait. (Aug 2008)
-We don't know what the plan is to ever end the war. (Aug 2008)
-Wants exit plan; also assurances to keep our troops safe. (Mar 2007)
-We have not been attacked since 2001; so support our troops. (Oct 2006)
-I support the mission of our troops in Iraq. (Oct 2006)
-Our troops in Iraq keep us safe at home. (Oct 2006)
-I support President Bush's efforts to stop terrorism. (Oct 2006)

Sarah Palin on Welfare & Poverty
-EITC moves thousands of welfare recipients into workforce. (Jan 2008)
-Recognize Salvation Army and encourage charity to them. (Nov 2007)

-Funding for faith-based initiatives is adequate today. (Oct 2006)

Its a lot to read, but it's good to know what side she's on for every issue.

The reasons I'm against her (even thoough I'm too young to vote) is the following:

1. She's very pro-life, even if the baby is unhealthy/'defective' or in the case of rape. I'm completely pro-choice.

2. She wants to teach intelligent design in public schools. I am against this because I think that although the majority of Americans are Christians, we do not have a national religion. As a girl who's into science, I think that the best thing to do is to teach Evolution in science class, as well make a 'world religions' a part of social studies class.

3. She opposes 'explicit sex education'. This is a sticky issue, but from what I know, school sex education isn't usually 'explicit'...I mean, its not like they show us a porn video and call that a class. It's usually more scientific and just explains how the parts work, the different hormones, the menstrual cycle, blah blah blah, as well as teach about STD's, pregnancy, and contraceptives. I think sex education is okay in school, not in kindergarten, but certainly in late middle school. I don't think it's going to promote sex to kids, I think that it teaches kids to be smart about sex and allows them to be well informed.

4. She's a lifelong member of the NRA, believes in the right to bear arms. I'm very agianst guns, and think our society would be much better without them.

5. She's not for universal health care like Obama is. Canada and parts of Europe have it, I think the US would benifit from universal health care.

6. Palin/McCain are very eager to fight terrorists, and seems ready to resort to war to resolve conflicts. Sounds like another Bush. Anyway, as a pacifist, I don't really like this.

7. She also brings religion into her politics a bit- which isn't terrible, but it annoys me a bit. I don't really want a super-religious politician, I justwant someone with morals and who's most loyal to do what's good for the American people, not what the Bible or any other text says we should do.

8. This has nothing to do with her views, but she is not an eloquent speaker- she actually sounds unsure or like she doesnt understand what she's being asked sometimes. Not really someone who I want to entrust the vice-presidency to. =/

Sarah palin trying out a gun with the Lieutenant Col David Cogdell.

Sarah Palin at the Republican Convention.

This is a photoshopped picture that has been circulating the web. I think its pretty funny, considering it does encompass her views of the NRA, haha =]

Sarah Palin was also Miss Wasilla. Many people think she's a "MILF" (look it up on urban dictionary if you don't know what it stands for) and I have to admit, she is pretty. But I also think that just because of her pretty face, her gender, and I'M A HOCKEY MOM! personality, people forget to look at what she actually stands for.

So, this is a message to the people who vote in any election: always, always look at what the bottom-line is. Look through the propoganda and race/gender. Look up what each candidate believes in, and see if they share your views. Basically, just make a wise vote. Don't let all the media on this beauty queen from Alaska distract you from her actual views.

I'm for Obama (whoo!), but hopefully I was not terribly biased in this post.

Thanks for reading!

-New York Chique

My Very Own Twilight Casting (Part I)

Hey sorry everyone! I spent some time in the hamptons with a friend, and I didnt have time to post. I've actually been working on this post for a bit, so I hope you guys like it.

Anyway, I know there was a lot of different ideas about the twilight casting. I'm only concentrating on the part of Edward Cullen. Here are pictures of Robert Pattinson, the actor chosen to play him.

Robert Pattinson:

Okay, okay. I have to admit that he is kinda cute. But I read Twilight before the movie trailers started to come out, and my Edward Cullen looked nothing like this guy! I know there are some hard-core Robert Pattinson fans out there that are going to hunt me down for saying this, but...he really isn't that amazing looking. I mean, he's cute- but I would say a long shot from being as good looking as some of the guys that I posted here. The only scene where he would look "hot" is the scene where he saves Bella from the van (I also have a problem with that casting because of her upturned nose and dull voice, but thats for another time). He also looks "hot" when he's super photoshopped, you know, the ones where his eyes are made a different color and his skin is made super pale. But thats it. Usually his hair looks ridiculous, and his face just has...weird proportions. Which makes him a unique actor, but NOT for a role where the character is supposed to look like perfection in human form. And its not like he's a super experienced actor, unless you think that his role as Cedric in Harry Potter deserves an Oscar. Haha. So I was out to look for an actor that looked like this:

So here are the nominees!

Tom Sturredge: Cuuuuuute. Very cute. And sexy. With those gorgeous eyes and dark hair, I think he would make a wonderful Edward Cullen.

Henry Cavill: A lot of people thought he would make a good Edward Cullen, and I agree.

Hayden Christensen: Nice body, nice face, enough said.

Kevin Flamme: (French model) Very cute- but a face I would easily forget. He also looks a little childish compared to the other nominees. Nontheless, very handsome.

Gaspard Ulliel: (cute, but personally I wouldnt like him as Edward Cullen. Here he is anyway because he is definetly nice eye candy.) However, as you can see in the last picture of him, he is an amazing actor and easily transformable into different characters. Doesnt he look like he could be James?

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Okay so you've seen all these beautiful men. Tom Welling, however, is my personal Edward Cullen; meaning, while I was reading these Twilight books, I thought of Tom Welling. You might recognize him from Smallville (superman in younger/teenage form). I mean, I know he's a little older than the other nominees, but he still looks smashingly young! And those eyes are intense, perfect for a vampire. And his body is ah-maz-ing. I can find nothing wrong with this guy; therefore, he is my Edward Cullen. =]

Tom Welling:

So, I know there are plenty of Twilight fans out there. Tell me your opinion! I'm really curious to see what people think of the Twilight casting of Edward Cullen. Again, soryr that I took so long to post this!

Much Love,
-New York Chique