hanalei's blog

I've moved!

2009-06-20T12:21:00.000-07:00

visit me: hanaleihanalei.org

uh oh!

2009-06-16T10:02:00.001-07:00

me thinks i might convert this space to a tumblr soon.

we'll see.

so close, yet so far.

2009-06-16T09:33:00.001-07:00

so very soon, my love!

	Ugly Duckling - Rio de Janeiro

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

oh, fievel!

2009-06-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

<3 this takes me back to my childhood. (uhm. I used to cry to this song when I was a wee babychile.)

I took this online quiz....

2009-06-15T17:44:00.000-07:00

Your Result: New Soul

Fresh from the source, you are essentially pure, not given to corruption of self. Instead you feel the kindship of souls, no matter the age. You prefer to unify, to gather others around you to learn from them and to experience a life of joy with them. Beauty is a natural hue of all things, as seen through your eyes, and rarely do you pass severe judgement on others. You are very attuned to the physical, amazed by the power of sensuality and its effect on your senses. People can be confused when you move on to someone new, unaware you are simply free in spirit, not needing the anchors others do. You drink from the fountain of the Earth, enjoying the outdoors, the seasons, the abundance of life, and the passage of days into nights. Music vibrates your soul, and art is a kaleidoscope of visual sensation. Food delights you and friendship is more important than the clothes on your back. You sometimes feel people are cruel but want to forgive them, as you know something in them isn't right. You are often mistaken for an old soul, but you don't feel very old at all! New souls are gifts to the other souls, a reminder that goodness exists naturally and that we all can return to it, even after all the experiences that seem to trample it into dust. We are souls, on a very long journey of becoming.

Boy, the movie

2009-06-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

Please support this film! Boy, the movie was coproduced by my uncle. He and his crew have been working really hard the last couple of months to promote the film, and enter it into various festivals all over the world. I haven't seen it yet, but it addresses issues of LGBTQQI issues in the Filipino community, and to be frank, we need more dialogue around this in our community! Please check below for a screening near you! The official site: http://boythemovie.com/

Jamaica: YES, PLEASE!

2009-06-14T10:54:00.000-07:00

I was able to head to the gorgeous that is Montego Bay with bff since age 12, ms. femmedeluxe/Lisa, and I cannot wait to return! The Carribean is beautiful and sooooooooooo clean, a far cry from the scummy gray of the Hudson River. I didn't have a camera (I find it annoying to carry one around,) so as soon as she posts up photos. But I don't know what we'll have to share, other than our skin becoming progrssively darker as the days went by. I have a new found love for ATVing (we drove to the top of Mt. Zion and saw some of the community there) and we climbed Dunn's River Falls (while touristy, was really fun.) The rest of our days were spent lounging about by the beach, and taking photos of our knees against the shoreline.

I'm gonna rub aloe gel over my sunburns now.

pretty!

2009-06-08T01:50:00.000-07:00

Drifters of the deep from Eugenia Loli-Queru on Vimeo.

last night.

2009-06-05T05:50:00.000-07:00

it seems i have an overdue gratitude list to make....

Come through! :)

2009-06-04T14:12:00.001-07:00

Please forward far and wide!

The Sulu Series proudly presents:

The NYC APIA Spoken Word and Poetry Summit Benefit

Sunday, 6/21 at 8 pm // $8 General Admission, $5 for Students
@ Bowery Poetry Club ( http://www.myspace.com/suluseries)
308 Bowery (Between Houston & Bleecker St.)
F train to 2nd Ave, 6 to Bleecker

The APIA Spoken Word and Poetry Summit is a gathering of spoken word artists, poets, writers, musicians, thespians, activists, organizers, and artists throughout the world who convene based on the commonality of their Asian American, Asian, and/or Pacific Islander identity. Since 2001, the Summit has gathered every two years in different cities across the United States, and engages in workshops, performances, and discussions directed toward the upliftment of the APIA arts and activism community. The proceeds from the June SULU Series will benefit the 2009 APIA Spoken Word and Poetry Summit taking place in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please visit http://apiasummit.com/ for more information.

Featured artists include KOBA, Elijah Kuan Wong, Regie Cabico, Jenny Lares, Juan Kanagui, Justin Woo, Lolan Buhain Sevilla, Taiyo Na, YaliniDream, Marlon Unas Esguerra, Ed Menchavez, Kelly Tsai, and Magnetic North! Guest curated by Hanalei Ramos, and music by DJ BOO!

Binky's wedding

2009-05-29T17:17:00.000-07:00

Weddings make me feel things, cry about the pretty things in life, and talk about love in my "outside" voice.

Below, I've shared some of the photos which have emerged from the Facebook tags, and they're incredibly adorable. I am excited to be one of their official marriage witnesses (I signed a legal document and everything!) and their retired maid of honor. The wedding was really cute and easy going - polaroids taken, guitar picks handed out, open bar, and lisa making folks look GORGEOUS on the big day.

Binky and I have known each other since we were 15, and due to that history, I would safely say that she is the only person for whom I'd wear pink 12 hours straight. The wedding Binky and Anthony planned was gorgeous, and in an amazingly dramatic space - with the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges as backdrops - everything was beautiful!

JUST MARRIED by the pretty reflecting pool!

The Bride and her party (notice the pink, and my lack of a tan.)

Binx and Tony are such a laid back and playful couple,
CONGRATS you two!

(Now, back to watching Teen Witch! Richie has always looked weird as hell to me.)

this really appeals to me.

2009-05-28T01:34:00.001-07:00

"A Kiss From Tokyo" Theatrical trailer from Stephane coedel on Vimeo.

what a weekend!

2009-05-24T16:56:00.000-07:00

I gave my first Maid of Honor speech in the history of ever. (Uhm. It was a bit half assed, though; I had to compete with some fairly delicious dining fare while doing the damn thing.) I'll wait for photos to talk more about the wedding itself, but the venue was gorgeous and the ceremony was so relaxed and casual. Big ups to the loves of my life for the day: Gates and Darius for being such fantastic support staff at the Galapagos Arts Center! Hope to see your kind faces again, soon!

Otherwise, it was an incredible honor being a part of this wedding. To see those two get married, my god! I got the jealousies (not really, but kinda!) I got the ill case of the warmfuzzies seeing old and new friends. Over delicious, delicious steaks. The photos shall surface soon on the facebooks. Watch out, I am rocking pink. Anyway, here's the acoustic slow jam version of that sad ass song.

======

However, in celebrating love, my family and I are also mourning the loss of my Lolo Abe, who passed away during yesterday's wedding. It's been a tumultuous time for my heart, and I've cried some of it out. Lolo Abe, my grandmother's brother, lived in Jersey City, and we hardly saw him until he was diagnosed with cancer within the last six months. He was so vibrant when I saw him last October - unfortunately, for the funeral of his daughter - that compared to these final days, it was pretty apparent that the disease had worn away his spirit. To say I will miss him is an understatement, only to pale in comparison to the deep regret I feel for not having seen him more often.

I need to use the rest of the day to be amazingly still and silent.

if i haven't shared this already....

2009-05-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

this is a short i truly love.

In Bed with a Mosquito from Sarah Frank on Vimeo.

hi.

2009-05-22T23:04:00.000-07:00

having "expensive taste" doesn't mean that you can rock it.

i will leave it at that. <3

gorgeous out!

2009-05-20T15:42:00.001-07:00

The Filipino Film Fest!

2009-05-20T08:09:00.001-07:00

I'm really excited to come across these films. I might be attending a couple of them, I suggest you do, too!

==================================================

The IndioBravo Film Foundation is proud to present the first annual IndioBravo Filipino Film Festival on June 11-14, 2009 in New York City, showcasing the boldest and most internationally acclaimed works by Filipino filmmakers in recent years.

Opening night takes place Thursday, June 11, at the Museum of Modern Art (11 West 53rd Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues) with the North American premiere of Baler, a historical, romantic epic which swept awards at the 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival, and 100, winner of audience and best film awards at festivals in Pusan, Korea and Vesoul, France. (Click here for full schedule.)

The festival continues Friday to Sunday, June 12-14, at the Visual Arts Theater in Chelsea, 333 West 23rd Street between 8th and 9th Avenues in New York City.

CENTERPIECE FILM: Screening Friday, June 12 is the magnificent Foster Child by Brillante Mendoza, director of 2008's internationally acclaimed art-house hit Serbis.

SPECIAL SCREENING: Also screening Friday is Lav Diaz' bold, 8-hour drama Melancholia, winner of the Venice International Film Festival's 2008 Orrizonti (Horizons) Award for best feature. This special screening takes place at the Millennium Film Work Shop, 66 East 4th Street between Bowery and Second Avenues.

CLOSING NIGHT: On Sunday, June 14, Indio Bravo is proud to screen Jay, an uproarious satire of reality television and an official entry in the Venice International Film Festival of 2008. The festival concludes with an awards ceremony and reception at the Visual Arts Theater at 8 p.m.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS: Other notable titles include Donsol, an elegaic love story set in an idyllic resort town; Carnivore, about a harrowing fraternity initiation; the animated Dayo, about a young boy's journey to save his abducted grandparents; the romantic comedy and box office smash My Only U, and the genre-busting mockumentary Confessional. IBFF '09 also features Ishmael Bernal's 1983 masterpiece, Himala (Miracle), named in a 2008 CNN viewers' poll as the best Asian-Pacific film of all time.

TICKETS: On sale Friday, May 1. Tickets for all screenings (except opening night) are $12.50 until May 29, and $15 after May 29. Available for sale online at www.indiobravo.org.

OPENING NIGHT: Tickets for opening-night screenings on Thursday, June 11 (Baler and 100) are $20 each in advance, $25 at the door and include an after-party at plush lounge Nikki Beach, 151 East 50th Streets between Lexington and Third Avenues, featuring Mylene Dizon, star of 100, and other stars of this year's film lineup. Tickets available at www.indiobravo.org.

VIP RECEPTION: A private reception and screening for industry executives and members of the media will take place on Thursday, May 28 at the SoHo House, a members-only club in Manhattan's Meatpacking District. Contact Caroline Cruz, ccruz@indiobravo.org.

PRESS: General-market U.S. press—Angelo Ragaza, aragaza@indiobravo.org, 917-705-9572.

:*(

2009-05-19T17:00:00.001-07:00

see more Fail Blog

7 and 7. Pretty true!

2009-05-19T14:00:00.001-07:00

Hanalei Ramos this is what your birth date reveals about you!

12 + 2 + 1982 = 1996
1 + 9 + 9 + 6 = 25
2 + 5 = 7
Your Birth Number :7
7’s are the searchers. Always probing for hidden information, they find it difficult to accept things at face value. Emotions don’t sway their decisions. Questioning everything in life, they don’t like to be questioned themselves. They’re never off to a fast start, and their motto is slow and steady wins the race. They come across as philosophers and being very knowledgeable, and sometimes as loners. They are technically inclined and make great researchers uncovering information. They like secrets. They live in their own world and should learn what is acceptable and what not in the world at large.

we have bev.

2009-05-19T11:18:00.000-07:00

My granduncle's email:

2009-05-17T20:23:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone.

--- will be celebrating her 70th birthday on June XXth this year. To mark
this milestone in her life, I am creating a biographical photobook for her,
containing photos from way, way back. I have also invited selected friends,
classmates and relatives who have had a positive influence in her life to
contribute a personal message for her. I requested them to send in their
favourite photos that will be printed with the message.

If you would like to join the well-wishers, please send me your message and
photo within the next seven days. I am working on a tight deadline, as the
printers require at least ten days production time.

This is meant as a surprise for ---, so, if by any chance, you will
communicate with her before her birthday, please do not say a word about this.

Warmest regards to all.

--------.

HOW CUTE IS THAT?

I love the 80s!

2009-05-17T19:27:00.000-07:00

this is my adorable cousin!

2009-05-13T22:19:00.000-07:00

we were playing peekaboo with a napkin. a no fail hit for any child <2 years old.

i love the people in my life.

2009-05-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

i am grateful for this work issued laptop with a videocam.
knowing that the moral highground is always the answer
hugging val
talking about using the unknown practical uses of the confederate flag with stephen
loving jilla over something served with bagoong
cat and fam in jersey city
cat's niece being ridiculously cute
time with my own family this past weekend
people i love finding happiness in love right in time for spring
knowing that my sisters will be home soon
redbull fruit punch
seeing kimmie in her wifey/2nd home
writing letters
journaling again
cool, sunny days
knowing how to trace IPs
WP 08 sorta worked! (1 year later.)
i have a hard time saying it, but really loving and appreciating my mom

thank you to the spring so far for...

2009-05-06T21:35:00.000-07:00

being able to admit when i am wrong.
a window into the cracked heat of summer.
a return of old friends.
spinach and goat cheese.
making my way to Ohio.
things coming naturally to me.
my friends wanting to help.
becoming more comfortable with myself fin silence.
the return of newer loves.
reacquiring my right mind.
lulu's extended visit.
seeing my high school best friend grow slowly into her soon to be married life.
jamaica with lisa.
difficult conversations off the task list.
90s music mixes.
val's support through difficult conversations.
good hugs.
redefining excess so that it does not mean security.
being able to see people as perfect
crying with lulu at the end of NOTORIOUS. (yeah, i'll own that.)
cat growing into her new home.
having a carved out place in cat's couch.
irma the wedding crasher.
reinvigorating myself in all the work i need to do.
the excitement found in the potential of new goals.
breaking in the cold sheets of a hotel bed.
realizing i love hotel rooms.

this is so adorable!

2009-05-03T15:14:00.001-07:00

I love crushes! <3
With the complications of love as an adult, it's the only subject where I wish I could return to that simpler time when things were sweet, exciting, and accidental.

Heeeee heee! He wants to ask her to a "romantic dinner." SO CUTE!

What we should continue to fight for....

2009-04-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

Texts to take out of context

2009-04-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

"Just kidding! There are two beds, rights?"

"I just found my new Michael Cera."

"I really wanted him to pay for my meal. I'm a ho."

"We can't meet up and be terminal buddies."

"Sorry for the last 4 messages. There is a poltergeist. On my phone."

- stolen from Helene.

But I promise to have funnier ones in the next round.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Shout out to the summertime! (Rescinded)

2009-04-29T07:05:00.000-07:00

As surprising as the past three days of the summer were for the NYC area, the return to 65F weather on the east coast is a relief. I don't like summer (except for the vacation part); I don't like to sweat.

Before I forget, a quick thank you to all the organizers of the AAA on Oberlin College's campus! Juli, Truc, Eric, Mariko, Tuyet, Chloe, Tim, Daniel, the Saras, and their program coordinator, Domenico, really did a great job of hosting me! I'm so glad that we were able to write an impromptu piece together on a Monday night, and I hope you all have me back soon. (Please send photos!). Thanks for also teaching me all sorts of things about The 'Sco.

Also, there were posters of me and Joseph Legaspi peppered around Oberlin's campus; I plan to send an extra copy, autographed, to my biffle, Helene, because she'll find it funny.

Though I've never stopped and stayed in Ohio, I came across people who reminded me that the world is very small - folks linked somehow to my group of friends back homej every metropolis becomes the great unifier.

Flying over Newark International Airport from Cleveland yesterday only reinforced the tether binding me to my beloved New Jersey: I rep hard. Now, I've never lived outside the bustle of a city, and never appreciated the seductive space of the alternative whenever I was a guest. I am attracted to filth, noise, and small spaces. The grime, sirens, and comfort of anything like a cubicle meant to serve as living quarters. I am comforted knowing that outside, there is a fresh produce stand (operated by the same Korean family since I was a kid,) a train to NY, pizza slices, and people wandering around at all hours of night and day. Some people call this "living in the ghetto." I call it "liking home."

There isn't much to reconcile.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

does it take html?

2009-04-28T17:47:00.001-07:00

doo doo dooooobie dooo!
huge fonts!
colors.

email blogging! to be more connected to you!

gratitude list

2009-04-13T00:37:00.000-07:00

for being able to be honest with myself (even if it is coming up gradually.)

for irma's cable.

seeing old school KAWS written up in jersey city.

for accepting that i am a creative person.

for krystle and prince

particularly, "Pop Life"

sara's genuine hugs.

an email from joseph.

clementines

sharing ice cream with my kasamas.

hanging out with therese.

faces that remind me of old flames.

not lying.

turns out, i like the number 12.

hanging out in front of my house in a parked car for another 40 minutes with a friend who needed an ear.

the hasty opportunities where life reminds me that i am myself.

the opportunity to karaoke.

being sad and being real about it.

people who think my name is pretty, and will tell me so right at introduction.

randomly calling people we miss, because we miss them.

galoshes.

the cold putting me in my place.

knowing that this place is what i love

always repping hard.

this was meaningful.

2009-04-10T00:34:00.000-07:00

I forget things easily. This is one thing I remember about myself. (picture forgotten and replaced.)

gratitude list

2009-04-06T23:05:00.000-07:00

seeing my sister, kylene, in LA

seeing the amazing growth in people during such a teeny amount of time

mint.com

reconciling with two cities that broke my heart

"a muffin is not a fruit"

being good at being a good

running into vicki by accident (again! and again!)

being able to be vulnerable in front of my friends, peers, strangers

checking my own subjectivities; not being judgmental of people i care about

the generosity of people like apollo, jesse, bev t., cisco, bev b., gary, gayle, edward, and jeannie. (who have all looked out for me, hosted me, or fed me.)

having an entire week with my kasamas - new and old

the opportunity to miss people

irma finding a job she really likes!

people who think i'm funny. (that is good. many people make a life out of trying to get a laugh.)

real exchanges with people, even on blackberry messenger

the beautiful, new AAI space

being affirmed as a writer

settling things with my webpage host

selling chapbooks

being able to return to Philly, and perform excerpts from my life there

seeing a babyful belly on someone i know

a gorgeous and raw loft studio space

applause

a good time to laugh with kelly and vicki

bekhyon liking my work (which means a lot, since i really admire his brand of ridiculous.)

the summit fundraiser en route to being real!

seeing my hood ass boys in LA, and recreating a dynamic that reminds us where we are from.

binky's wedding approaching!

seeing old friends

wedding shopping: OVER!

miniature golf with sham and h

"butterfingers!"

giving up the right things

being able to have friends in many places

having the ability to go to these places

people choosing to have me as a friend in their lives

i feel pretty full of good, good things.

Back from L.A.

2009-03-31T12:03:00.000-07:00

Photo by Lyle P.

I love everyone in this photo!

gratitude 03

2009-03-24T02:28:00.000-07:00

open arms and open homes everytime i stop to take a break
having good people process with me
sleeping late
safely making it to Los Angeles
reunions with people i love dearly
my mom being supportive of my crazy.
really loving my mom, and knowing i do not show it very often
fully refundable domains
how there is always good food in my life
uncle carlos being infinitely generous and kind to me
having a large family
enjoying my work, no matter how many times you've already heard it
how i appreciate strategy
reflection always welcomed
being a "good" kind of smart

right before i ate the best chicken in the world:

2009-03-24T02:24:00.001-07:00

always have wonderful food experiences with lainey! this is a photo she took of me while i was tweeting. i am impressed with the crazy blur of my thumbs!

in los angeles with fantastic company; i actually like it this time!

list 02

2009-03-10T12:42:00.000-07:00

i am grateful that the kabalikat women
that this movement is growing int he hearts of people.
for my friend, stephen, who has continued to choose me in his life.
i am grateful for sandy and waterfalls.
for being trusted
for people who believe in my work.
for irma's birthday
for the internet and catherine being a good house guest
for wide, flat surfaces used for crafting
for the friendships we pass onto other people
for the push to get it together
for being excited
for getting gigs.

what i did today....

2009-03-08T22:38:00.000-07:00

happy international women's day! :)

jonathan morales!

2009-03-03T23:46:00.000-08:00

what happened to you? i was just about to reply to your note, then you went missing!

do keep in touch: girl@hanaleihanalei.com

gratitude list one:

2009-03-01T17:30:00.001-08:00

1) the means to enjoy my life, and reward myself for hard work
2) that my girl irma will now share LA with us; possibly mel, too
3) a really kind note from marcusbarkus
4) a gorgeous rendition of the vagina monologues by people i love and admire
5) accepting opportunities to engage people in art making; making art again for myself and the movement i love
6) the kindness of kasamas; picking me up from the airport, and allowing me to stay in their homes
7) knowing that on an upcoming wednesday night, i will be dancing to dancehall with yanyan
8) the kindness of people like lori, who want to do as much as she can for FiRE. similarly, people who travel through 4 states just to let us know that the work we are doing is important
9) jesse's return from the Philippines, and it ending with lunch and his stories of his first time home
10) singapore noodles and bacon avocado sandwiches
11) ria mae's parents wanting to meet me
12) not freaking out over lost cars, or using it as an opportunity to be mean to people
13) ate virginia asking to take a photo with me
14) seeing PF clean and gorgeous
15) jill's schedule and my schedule finally colliding
16) tearing up with val and irma when the striker all stars were booted off ABDC during the recap marathon.
17) celebrating kourtney on her belated bday
18) my friends forgiving me for being away, and reminding me that they value the time they do have with me
19) the potential of skype!
20) my high school network proving to be very valuable in my adult life
21) lunch with cling and yancy, and driving back to NJ with matthew and jonna, too!
22) binky's invites ALMOST DONE!
23) AB taking the time to support us, and provide us with volunteers
24) feeling good because people think I do good work
25) IT IS MARCH!
26) being able to sing with anthony for sarah's book launch, and see old faces there
27) hearing joseph talk about sarah so sweetly!
28) the surprise i feel when people who i thought disliked me, really liked me

wish you were there!

2009-02-28T21:44:00.001-08:00

it was amazing.

No Reservations PHILIPPINES!

2009-02-23T17:01:00.001-08:00

S05E07 Augusto from Long Island

That history of the Philippines in a nutshell is surprisingly accurate for a mainstream cable show! Really want a version of a ingredients market locally! That would be stellar. But that food tour guide is a bit on the people pleasing side...

I still cannot eat goat. Or lamb. Or any of those animals til this day. It just seems awful, and then Bourdain just picks at it like that. WOW.

I looooooove outdoor kitchens! But I hate knowing that Tita got dressed up hard for the taping.

Bourdain is not so much a jerk as originally thought!

BUT "Uncle Tony?" And monkey-wrench! Augusto isn't 20 or something?

yes.

2009-02-21T09:23:00.001-08:00

All truth is one.
In this light, may science and religion endeavor together for the steady evolution of Mankind:
From darkness to light,
From narrowness to broadmindedness,
From prejudice to tolerance,
It is the voice of life that calls us
To come and learn.

happy valentine's day!

2009-02-14T10:26:00.000-08:00

away and missing you.

2009-02-10T07:32:00.000-08:00

I got my lambi on.

other things on my eating list:
~~bandera dominicana~~
sancocho
~~lambi~~
~~mofongo~~...mofongo mix!
~~asopao~~
~~mangu~~
chivo asado (but i don't really like goat/lamb any of the animals that look like that.)

it looks like the baby jesus is in my mouth...

2009-02-03T23:16:00.002-08:00

how i've kept myself busy

2009-02-03T22:58:00.001-08:00

In the last year and a half, I've taken a quick break from developing my own creative work to focus more energy in supporting the growth of the women's organization I co-founded. Above are just some of the ladies who have really challenged me to grow as a person. As someone who has had a history of unhealthy friendships with females, being a part of this collective has been a tremendously positive turning point. For that, I am grateful. To know what I am up to is to know my organization, so you should visit this site. Please support us and the NYC Filipina community!

Also, I turn 27 sometime next week, so please expect a whole verbose and vain entry about myself and change and revelation and blah blah blahhhh.

homecoming.

2009-02-01T08:30:00.000-08:00

i've returned to this space! it feels nice.

the following is true:

2009-01-16T09:10:00.000-08:00

“in this world, there are things you can only do alone, and things you can only do with somebody else. it’s important to combine the two in just the right amount.”

- haruki murakami, after dark

Blue Scholars - Coffee and Snow

2009-01-05T09:14:00.000-08:00

What a gorgeous video! I love that pregnant folding chair. Beautiful, mga kas!

Fiberoptic-like data on Immigration

2008-12-14T01:35:00.000-08:00

A pretty video showing immigration from different parts of the world to the U.S. !

Immigration to the US, 1820-2007 v2 from Ian S on Vimeo.

Love my friends....

2008-12-11T11:19:00.000-08:00

My good friend, S, is giving away some books. I got dibs on the below. While they're all old titles, I've just never gotten around to them. I'm pretty excited, and I love it whenever I can somehow take advantage of media mail rates!

Cha, Theresa Hak Kyung "Dictee"

Pound, Ezra "Selected Poems"

Wright, James "Above the River"

Alexie, Sherman "Reservation Blues"
Borges, Jorge Luis "The Book of Imaginary Beings"

Kingston, Maxine Hong "The Woman Warrior"

Kundera, Milan, "The Unbearable Lightness of Being"

Lahiri, Jhumpa "Interpreter of Maladies"

Here's a strange graphic I found (source)

this is my prom date's niece

2008-12-09T12:52:00.000-08:00

you should vote for her as the GAP kid. also, audrey's mom, jen, is a solid woman. oh, jersey city, how you bring me back!

daniel henney and i had a baby.

2008-12-04T17:42:00.000-08:00

dumb meme time!

2008-12-04T07:06:00.001-08:00

what better way than this to start updating this space regularly?

Things I've done so far in my life (in bold.)

1. Started your own blog (ha!)
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band (I was in choir?)
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis (Scary! It will ty to bite off my head after having sex with me)
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee Jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child (Most likely)
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train (UGH! my dream!)
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked (Scary!)
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. Built a snow fort (AND! my very own igloo back in 1994..)
25. Held a lamb (SALMONELLA!)
26. Gone skinny dipping (too large a window for hijinx!)
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse saw a partial eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language (Oh, Port. Love you.)
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied (I'm happy with no money. That counts.)
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo's David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant (I gave a stranger a dime once to make a purchase at the food trucks on campus?)
44. Visited Africa (That's a mighty big continent. I want to go to Ghana, South Africa, Madagascar, and Mauritius.)
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted (I had my caricature done at 6Flags?)
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater (I want to do this before they all go extinct!)
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China (this will be done.)
57. Started a business (Uhm. I've claimed sole proprietorship?)
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia (I just wanna go to Moscow; I don't really know what's further out in the eastern portion.)
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching (M told me that there are fantastic places in Cape Cod to do this.)
63. Got flowers for no reason (Oh, boyfriends! <3)
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving (I want to prioritize this over bungee jumping.)
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp (My mama told me that I will cry.)
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job (Sighhh...)
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone (Thankfully not)
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem (I'm a lil scared to due to political conditions.)
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible (I feel like I should understand it from a literary perspective.)
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had Chickenpox
89. Saved someone's life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person (I find San Antonio charming...)
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake (Ew. That's kinda gross to me.)
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day

Temp page!

2008-12-01T21:54:00.000-08:00

www.hanaleihanalei.com has been updated! It's clean and connected to everywhere else I frequent.
Not so sure how "temporary" this layout will be, but I like it for now while I get the rest of it together! :)

Been M.I.A. because life is fantastic. Hope you've been well in the along...

More "personal" updates to come! You know, about my life and all that. :)

love,
hanalei!

New Media Site!

2008-09-24T20:54:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all!

The work I did with Jiny Ung has a new home!

Project Rowhouses has moved its site for Round 27, and you can get a fun flash experience of the house she and I made over the course of a month. The theme was race and class, and our work tackled the politics of space and community.

Just click on Ung & Ramos on the bottom menu!

love,
hanalei!

ps: some small projects in the works, don't worrrrry, you'll be the first to know :)

FYI

2008-09-24T11:17:00.000-07:00

in case you've forgotten...it's lyingtobabies that i enjoy.

performance

2008-04-09T13:25:00.000-07:00

heya! i'll be performing here:

WeSpeak: Community Voices in Art and Activism

Featuring: Aja Monet
Hanalei Ramos
Jimmy Le
James Jacobsen (Dramatic)
A video by Kelly Tsai and Karen Lin
Capoeira Brasil
And performances by Urban Word NYC Youth!

Thurs., Apr. 10, 2008 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Location:
Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service,
New York University
the Rudin Family Forum for Civic Dialogue
The Puck Building, 2nd Fl.
295 Lafayette Street

Suggested donation: $5

All proceeds benefit Urban Word's youth art programs!

Hosted by the Asian Pacific American Student Alliance, Students of African Descent, Alliance of Latino and Latin American Students, and Student Network Exploring Arts and Culture

Please join us for an evening of spoken word and performance art from featured performers and youth, reflecting on themes of social justice, public service, and multiculturalism. Suggested donations will benefit a NYC community-based arts organization that works with underserved youth. Refreshments will be served.

Questions? Please contact Cynthia at cmb484@nyu.edu.

RSVP: http://wagner.nyu.edu/events/wespeak.php

Co-sponsored by: NYU Wagner School of Public Service Asian PacificAmerican Student Alliance, Students of African Descent Alliance, Alliance of Latino and Latin American Students, and Student Network Exploring Arts & Culture

PRH invite: (the offish version)

2007-10-09T13:27:00.000-07:00

Jiny Ung and Hanalei Ramos

"Intertwined"
As part of the Project Rowhouses 11th Annual Arts and Music Festival
OCTOBER 13-14, 2007(this weekend!)
12pm - 7 pm

FREE!
2521 Holman (between St. Charles and Live Oak Streets)
Houston, TX
Phone: 713.526.7662

(click for the TEXASsized version!)

This weekend, (Sat 10/13 and Sun 10/14) an installation I'm working on with Jiny Ung will open as part of the Project Rowhouse thang in Houston's Third Ward. Basically, we had a row house and about one month to create an installation around the theme "RACE and CLASS." Please come if you are in the area, I will hi5 you IMMEDIATELY.

Thank you very much, friends. You are kind.

lovelove,
hanalei

ps: it says i'm from DC, but i'm not.

What the show is all about...

2007-09-27T13:27:00.000-07:00

“Intertwined” asks if it is possible for individuals to survive in the same place, despite different histories. The installation specifically concentrates on migration and community building, creating a string of stories where matters of race and class become embedded within a larger nest. This project uses visual art and poetry to invite Third Ward to critically participate in the installation. As a result, this site-specific work documents the change within this space, and the unwritten stories of those who live here. This installation hopes that Third Ward will take ownership of this creative process, and redefine the role of the community and individuals have within efforts to initiate dialogue in areas affected by various forms of integration and cohabitation.

Hy Jiny Ung and Hanalei Ramos for Project Rowhouses

The Treehouse

2007-08-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

has been plagued by robot spammers! AND COSTING ME BANDWIDTH! :(

so, here's the password for YOU. because we are friends, and you are not a robot. (i hope)

http://hanaleihanalei.com/treehouse

user: nospam
pword: emotree

i miss you.

2007-08-15T13:07:00.000-07:00

this summer has been relentless, but productive. this isn't the sound of me complaining, just a little bit exhausted is all.

since april/may of this year, projects have lined up, and i have been lucky. either prepared for the opportunity, or willing to work my way to earning it. since returning to my hometown, i've been better able to gauge my personal growth. for this, i am grateful.

jiny ung and i have been named the round 27 fellows for Houston's Project Rowhouses. the interactive installation will open mid-October.

find us :)

i read an old diary of mine, and discovered that i still love the potential in people the same way did years ago. they are hand-selected. recently, i'm fighting inklings. when i begin to say "endearing" repeatedly, well, i believe you and i both know what that means. (as my facebook.com horoscope predictor is insanely accurate. which reminds me, i adopted a baby wallaby who i am training to be a champion racer. thanks, fbook!)

mmmmm! isn't public process tasty?!
i miss the people i love.
i will be reunited with them soon.
soon, i will be in the bay area for the first time in my adult life.
yes!

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAhhhhh!

2007-07-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

Life has been a whirlwind of activity! Some announcements soon! But until then, please please go to the SUMMIT! :)

apiasummit.com

Saturday, August 4
7pm: Community Showcase (open to the public)
@ Judson Memorial Church
http://www.judson.org/
Judson Memorial Church
55 Washington Square South
New York, NY 10012

i love my life. i mean that.

NAATF 2007

2007-06-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for attending my show! :) Guns snd Tampons couldn't have been waht it was without you. So, THANK YOU, friends. WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT! MY OWN SHOW!

I've been able to see some amazing shows as part of this festival:
Karimi and Castro!
Jude Narita
On the Island
Ill-Lit and Mush! (Mush is super sweet, y'all)
REgie and Aileen
Kristina WOng!
Big HEad! I wish I could find my copy of DEnise Uyehara' book, MAPS... :T
Pangea World Theater
And of course, Anida's SHOW!

I really urge you to take advantage of the remainder of the festival! This weeekend, I plan to see these shows:
Makoto and Roko
And
Edge of the World!
Refugee Nation (and i still have the tattoo on my hand!)
STrange Rain
I-Land

LIFE IS EXCITING! <3

I love technology. Always and forever.

2007-06-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

Tonight was exciting!

Los Angeles' Tuesday Night at the Cafe beamed us over, and we were live on a projection screen all the way from NYC duing their scheduled open mic! <3 Ryan and Traci found a reliable Starbucks connection and the laptop was handheld to show me and Regie kicking some pieces, plugging the APIA Summit, and the National Asian American Theater FEst! How awesome is that? The below pix are from Lainey, and show Traci, me, and Regie projected onto a screen 3,000 miles away at the Aratani Courtyard of the Union Center for the Arts! AND WE NEVER LEFT NYC! OGOMGOMG technologies! Pretty soon, all those rides at Epcot Center will be outdated, and in need of replacement.

It was a lot of fun. We couldn't stop playing with the new toy, and our 8 minute set became a 20 minute one!!! <3 So, I now leave you with this...

and so it begins!

2007-06-15T13:13:00.000-07:00

thank you to the lovely AEP (Alter-Ego Promotions) for shooting my Philly show! :)

Thanks, Gary! (and Gayle!)

By Monday, it'll all be over, and my life will again be completely different...

ps: i am losing my voice :)

Goodbye, 1315 Cherry St.

2007-06-11T13:14:00.000-07:00

There is something about the floors and the angles and the make up of walls that entangle you with familiarity and allow you to realize where you come from. Today marked what would probably be the last time I'd set foot in that space. I remember the first workshop I took at the AAI; the floors were still green, we pulled cushions from the couch, and sat in a circle. This was an introduction. Gary led the Something to Say workshop. I was 19.

After the Edge of the World show, I shared a balloon with John. We tied our wishes to the ends of the string, then let them fly out the window. I just thanked the space for the life it has allowed me to have. Not that the organization is dying. It is just moving. I reminded myself of this while I cried. Yes. The ugly cry. I remember Hazelnut, not that I ever took care of her, who is now in Chon's mother's care. I remember Lori's moving to California tag sale. I remember Lena's tshirts. I remember my newsletter shoutout. I remember how hilarious my collaborations with Behkyon were. I remember a corner desk. I remember 101project hugging after our first COMPLETE show. I remember green floors. greeeeen flooors. GREEEN FLOORS.

Tonight, Karimi djed via macbook and it was the first time I danced in that space. People drew on the walls and painted on the floors. I saw the distance in relationships with old friends, and the reassurance of friendship and faith in others. Kylene and I danced to some dancehall (because that is what girls from Jersey City do) and glistening with the sticky-sweat, we followed the ritual migration to a Chinatown dinner. From the ground floor, I saw the lights turned off. I imagined the beep of the security system. I turned around and knew that the burnt siennas and blues used to create the mural from the youth program were left untouched, waiting to crumble from the wrecking ball's kiss.

Together, we still have these places.

The Asian Arts Initiative is a large reason why I have all of this. It is how I met all of you. To show that I am grateful, I can only commit myself to the best of my ability to this community and to my artistic work.

A Quadrant of my own

2007-06-09T13:15:00.000-07:00

I was written up in the Philly Metro this weekend!

YES! I have amassed the support of the alt.weeklies!

show tonight!

life is great! <3

$64...

2007-06-02T13:15:00.000-07:00

is the amount I have so far spent on tampons for show props. I've been to wholesalers and retailers. The most inexpensive are the TARGET brand ones, at about $0.10 per piece.

This concludes my social investigation. Celebrate?

AND!
despite knowing my photogenic angles, i still manage to look like an asshole in this picture:

from the nytheatrecast.com site...

again, listen to the podcast here!

Bandwidth RULES my life

2007-06-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

UGH! Sorry this site's been down for two weeks. That's pretty annoying. But Glad we're back up and running! <3 Please check me out in Philly on June 9th and in NYC on June 16 and 17! again, this show is the biggest deal of my lllliiiife! (more info when you scroll down!)

June is a horrendous month schedule-wise, and I am frightened and excited all at the same time. Juggling is hard, but the lovely remaining women of FiRE have been keeping me sane! (I love Kimmie and Val! -- I even have a sticker that says this.) I am waking up looking forward to my checklist! I can't complain about life. Sorry for being significantly UNMISERABLE. :) Looking forward to USSF and the Summit!

Please listen to my interview at http://www.nyte.org/pcast/nythpod123.mp3 ---- I come in around 10 minutes into the interview.

LOVE YOU ALL,
hanalei!

UPCOMING! June 9th Philly
Guns and Tampons: A History of Violence Against Women I Know
Saturday, June 9, 7 p.m.

Asian Arts Initiative
1315 Cherry St. 2nd fl Philadelphia, PA
215-557-0455 for info or reservations
$10 admission, $25 weekend pass
20% discount for members

I am HONORED to be a part of the final showcase series at the AAI before it moves to its new location! Please check out these other great shows during NAATF Preview Weekend in Philly! Visit http://www.asianartsinitiative.org/ for more info!

EDGE OF THE WORLD
a work-in-progress performance experiment
Sunday, June 10, 6 p.m.

Featuring Regie Cabico, John Castro, Royd Hatta, Robert Karimi, Traci Kiriyama, Dan Kim, Michelle Myers, Gary San Angel, Anula Shetty, Ryan Suda, F. Omar Telan, Kristina Wong. Conceived and directed by F. Omar Telan. Co-produced by Gayle Isa.

Part cabaret, part object d'art, part truth or dare. In a night of all new 5-minute-or-shorter "speed plays" asking and addressing the question of what Asian America wants, a rotating cast from around the country throw their lives onto stage full tilt and take you on a roller coaster ride of comedy, drama, serious reflection, and pure theatrical entertainment.

Cooking Con Karimi (Con Castro)
A live cooking show for your heart, mind, stomach & funny bone
Mero Cocinero Karimi and Comrade Cocinero Castro
Friday, June 8, 7 p.m.
Dinner / Reception Immediately Following

UPCOMING! June 16 - 17 NYC

the national asian american theater festival presents
GUNS AND TAMPONS: A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN I KNOW

SAT June 16th @ pm
SUN June 17th @ 3pm
SUN June 17th @ 8pm

@ the Abingdon Theater
312 W. 36th Street
NEW YORK CITY

Written and performed by Hanalei Ramos
Directed by Gary San Angel
Dramaturgy by Gayle Isa

3 shows only!!!! June 16 and 17 (Saturday-Sunday) @ 8 pm and special matinee !

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!! at https://www.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/5993 or to contact a sales representative, call 212.352.0255 or 866-811-4111
Tickets only $20/discounts for groups!!

This is what life's felt like:

2007-05-18T13:16:00.000-07:00

Challenging! But exciting!

Greetings, friends! There's about one month left to my show! Jesus. Life seems to have become a series of countdowns! BUt I really enjoy the urgency and the idea of creating things out of nothing. It's either the artist or carpenter in me...I'm not sure. However, some folks and I will be planning the 2007 APIA Spoken Word and Poetry Summit! This is an unofficial announcement and all, but yes! So happy to have such wonderfully talented and able friends! They make my day <3

AND! I was asked to join Mango Tribe! How exciting is that?! I get the chance to join some really amazing women on stage AND behind the scenes! I get the ask in a couple of days, so send me some good vibes! :)

A PERFECT SEGUE INTO: tix to my show, which i share with a co-founder of mango tribe (anida youe ali), are now available for three different show times!
https://www.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/5993

Now, onto important things, I am totally already missing my girl, Sandy, who will be moving to London to go to a really fancy school and join the upper eschelon of academia. She has been a monumental figure in the development of FiRE, and it is devastating to see her go! Because that is our girl, forreal forreal. I'll miss you Sunnnnnndeeeee! <3<3<3 But I am grateful for this time!

Here is a picture from the Stop the Killings benefit with Val and Sandy. And yes, I am holding a beer in that picture. Why? Because I'm a grown-ass woman who isn't ashamed of the part of me that likes teh chug. CHEERS2U! OMOGMGOMGOGM <3<3<3

Rounding it out...

2007-05-08T13:17:00.000-07:00

Some really tragic things have happened since our last exchange. With that, I've had to take a week off the show in order to regroup, and focus energies elsewhere. Fortunately, this has resulted in pouring a lot of myself into things and stuffs that have required my attention, but have been put off for reasons XYZ. (projects include a new "work" section!) So, now...onto some pictures of how the season rounded itself out for me:

Haverford
Thanks to Deepa for the pizza and having our checks ready on delivery. That makes me feel good and not poor <3

This is Sham-E-Ali under the gorgeous and strange Haverford dorm basement. Did/do you have this at your college?

The great student body of the Haverford which hosted us and bought our merch! (They are dressed up because there was a killer dance at the cafeteria later that night.)

We had the wrong time for our departing regional rail train back to Center City, so Alison and Taiyo whipped out his guitar, and we did the hippie thing and played some Cranberries acoustic jawns. See here:

Arkipelago!
The basement space of Lolita Bar was packed! I had a great time with my friends, and thank you very much for coming out and watching me read. It was a great time, with great homemade lumpia. <3 I'm still missing this pretty funny picture of me and Anthem, but that will be sent eventually. Thank you so much to Emmy for having me! She did a great job organizing this event, and we even found that we have the same growth spurt condition on the same knee! We are Osgood-Schlatters Sisters <3

Randomly (or maybe not so randomly) hosted by my cousin Steph. My god. I run into her at the funniest times. Also, my teeth are currency in this pic. Do not play.

My BFF since age 15, binkybianca! 2007 and still cute.

Circle of friends circa 2003. Omar is one of my faves.

My fellow FiRE founding member, Kimmiecakes! Getting her ASian blush on. I know I also have a picture of Sandy here somewhere... I loves me my FiRE folks.

And also, why does NO ONE EVER TELL ME THAT MY HAIR IS MESSY AS HELL at these events? I am mad at all of y'all.

I return bearing gifts!

2007-05-01T13:18:00.001-07:00

And hello! The site was down for a little bit, since I exceeded my bandwidth limit! It was surprising, the sudden jump in visitors I received in the last month! But I am not complaining. While the site was down for the last week, I negotiated and doubled my hosting package, and here I am. TA-DAA!

Taken the exact same night the below video was taken!

So, from the comfort of my cousin, Lori's (pictured above with me in 2005!) home, I am blogging on her lovely Mac. I still owe you some pix from the Lolita and Haverford gigs, but that won't be til next week! I'll tell you this much, though...I had a great time (as usual.) In lieu of pictures from my end I will leave you with the link to Arkipelago's maarte.org where you can flip to the page where I am rocking some cute bone-white flats. (You actually FLIP through the album. It's super cute!) AND! Some recently uploaded video of a very rare collaboration that's only been performed once! It's Stephen and me from ECAASU 2004! Keep checking back for more videos in the coming weeks. Trust me. You want to see these videos.

and here's the link: http://one.revver.com/watch/253332

p-p-p-p-POISON!

2007-05-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

Happy May Day, y'all! Blogging from a rehearsal break, but I am with you in spirit at the march! I miss you FiRE folks! <3 May Day and the Dirty Dancing 20th Anniversary on the the same day: coincidence? I think not. Before I head back to the rest of my afternoon: here's some footage of me, Bev, and Cisco on my birthday!

oh, great times <3

ALSO! you can go ahaead and purchase tickets for Guns and Tampons in June!
https://www.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/5993

My Time in Philly <3

2007-04-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

This building will be demolished sometime in the next couple of months. A lot of really great things have come out of the Asian Arts Initiative. Its support has been THE element propelling my artistic career, and for that, I am extremely grateful! Thank you so much to Gayle and Gary for all their work and committment to Guns and Tampons. THere really would be no show without either of them.

Because I was in Philadelphia, I HAD TO get the BEST falafels EVER. I mean EVER! On the corner of 16th and JFK, on any given weekday from 11 am to about 330 pm, you should go to the KIng of Falafel cart! I still haven't met another falafel capable of matching this one! I went twice this past week. For $3.75 you can get a baby-sized falafel with tabouleh! Ps: do not sleep on the lentil soup!

And this was the wonderful rehearsal space lent by Highwire Gallery! Thank you! Just being in this amazing loft space was a treat!

And the fruit of a week's worth of labor: my final show order. WOW. IT's just embarrrrrasssingly amazing to know that I have the backing of so many folks who genuinely believe in my work---the constant affirmation that I don't suck as a writer. To have started at 18 with a poem about my broken heart, and now...all this success? I am blessed. As I told Rohan on the drive over to Auburn, who would've thought that I'd be doing a one woman show?

I am a lucky gal.

This weekend in CRAZY:

2007-04-15T13:19:00.000-07:00

Filipinas for Rights and Empowerment just had their founding retreat, and BOY OH BOY, we got a lot done. Check us out on myspace and blogspot, please! KTHNXBYE!

other than that, facebook photos of the wonderful gig at SUNY: Albany via KPL have surfaced! Please find me on facebook and myspace and all that. <3 BUT! thanks again to the wonderful women of KPL and Spread the Word! I had a great time listening to your work, and couldn't have asked for better fajitas <3 Special thanks to Mieko for really working with me to get this show to Albany! And of course! To Jessie who did my Little Brown Fucking Machines/Pussy piece all those years ago! who read her work and referrrrrred me to her KPL SUNY ALbany sisters. Yay!

OH HEY LOOKIT! it's like i'm PART of the sorority!

they even got me flowers! isn't that sweet?

come back soon to some major updates all up in here! <3

Gig RoundUps!

2007-04-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

(UPDATED!)

Fellow performers, if the Asian Student Association of Auburn University hollers at you, take the gig! They know how to treat a lady <3 One of the nices bunch of folks in the history of ever, and they are all on facebook to KIT post-gig. Surrriously, all these ppl at the table are BFFsfoLYFE! Thank yous to Gayatri, Suresh, Rohan, and Erin Kelly! Really appreciate the hospitality and warmth; makes me all in luuurve with the Souf.

Here's another photo courtesy of Sri Devi! Again! Thank you! I had a wonderful time with you all,and it was great to hang out with Stephen and Ill-Lit. If you have any pix you'd like to submit, please do! I am thisclose to adding a portion of my site called "audience participation" where all of OUR pix will be posted! <3

I'm just an idea machine over here. SO, send those pix (or their uploaded links) to me at girl@hanaleihanalei.com !

The South and Petitions

2007-04-10T12:56:00.000-07:00

Please show your support for two very important causes. While I've listed the state/city where these mobilizations are based, giving our support to these women on a inter/national level is one of the most important things we can do as a collective.

MN: University Village Rape
"Three University of Minnesota football players have been arrested for raping an 18-year old girl at University Village, which is campus housing. Various members of the Athletics Department, including the football coach and a number of players, told the media that they support the men accused of rape. The victim-survivor has not yet received public support.

This is a petition that is being forwarded about the incident. The people who wrote the petition are seeking signatures and support nationwide so that this situation doesn't turn into one where the victim-survivor is shamed into silence."
www.petitiononline.com/2endrape/petition.html

NYC: Fely Garcia Campaign
The mysterious death of Felisa "Fely" Garcia, 58, a Filipina domestic caregiver found dead by an alleged suicide in her bedroom last March 14 in the Bronx, NY has prompted the Filipina domestic workers support network known as KABALIKAT, an organizing project of the Philippine Forum, to aggressively seek justice for Fely Garcia.

We mourn the tragic death of Fely Garcia. However, we aim to fight for her life. We will not dwell on the lack of her presence next to us today. Rather, we will fight for the justice that she did not see in her lifetime. We must collect our voices and let our demands for justice be heard!

Sign on the the Justice For Fely Garcia! Campaign! Join the many Filipino community members, here in New York and globally, in our campaign for a fallen sister!
www.petitiononline.com/J4FG2007/petition.html

PS: I am looking for fried green tomatoes in Alabama! HAAAAAY NOW! Hanging out in Atlanta was really gorgeous yesterday. More on that later...

The Rain Made it Emo.

2007-04-06T12:57:00.000-07:00

the most questionable recipe in the history of ever. SPAM SWISS PIE. Nummy NummmmmmZ!

AND FORWARD! a photo by DJ Boo:

Thank you to all who trekked it through the rain and made it out to the Bowery Poetry Club. It was an honor for me to share the stage with such an amazing line-up: the Kundiman folks, Tak, Jason Joseph (who I guilted into giving me a free cd.) A great night with amazing energy, and as every SULU Series ends, Regie dancing, a final tableux with his ass up in the air.

I am really looking forward to perfoming for the students at (4/10) Auburn University's Poetry Jam (I'M GOING TO ALABAMA! i am pretty excited) Also featuring will be iLL-Literacy and a friend I am blessed to have, Stephen Bor. WHOSE BIRTHDAY IS COMING UP! <3

Also! I will have another feature later that week in upstate New York-- (4/12) SUNY: Albany's Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority Charity Benefit . Please come support! These women have been working hard and have been GREAT to me! All proceeds will go toward a couple of really great activism and arts causes in the New York City area.

My next NYC gig upon my return is this via Arkipelago!
Fri, April 27th // 730p
@ LOLITA BAR!

Lolita is located at 266 Broome Street, New York, NY 10002, between Allen and Orchard Street.

Phone: (212) 966-7223.

The F/J/M/Z at Delancey and Essex is the closest subway stop, but several other stops are accessible, such as the F/V at Second Avenue (Allen and Houston) and the B/D at Grand and Chrystie.

then on 4/28 I'll be back in Pennsylvania doing a show for Haverford College! TBA on the details.

in other news, let's all wish the lovely <3 rOBIn! <3 a speedy recovery! <3<3<3 FIRE misses you, lady!

(wtf! my hands are HUGE! ugh. embaaaarrrrraaaassssssing!)

Speaking of FiRE campaigns, please sign the following petition:
http://www.petitiononline.com/J4FG2007/petition.html

A domestic worker named Felisa "Fely" Garcia, 58, was found dead in her closet by her landlord last March 14, 2007 in the Bronx, New York. Garcia had left four suicide letters in an envelope in the kitchen for her landlord to find. In one of the letters, Garcia describes she faced "abuse and harassment" from her employer, who remains unnamed. The petitions demands the Philippine Consulate to do the following:

Acting on behalf of the Garcia family in the Philippines, we, domestic workers, Filipino community members, community organizations, women’s advocates, and allies demand a:

1. full and unbiased investigation from the New York Police Department of all parties involved in Fely Garcia’s death ;

2. complete disclosure of details of the case, investigation and autopsy from the New York Police Department and the Philippine Consulate to Garcia’s legal advisor, Attorney Arnedo Valera, and the Garcia family;

3. total financial support of necessary expenses for Garcia's medical procedures, transportation costs back to the Philippines shouldered by the Philippine Consulate;

4. concerted initiative from the Philippine Consulate to assist the Justice For Fely! Campaign in pursuing a second investigation for the death of Felisa Garcia; and

5. an allocation of resources from the Philippine Consulate to collaborate with local community-based and grassroots organizations to create a long-term task force to research, understand, analyze and support Filipino domestic worker issues.

PLEASE SIGN!
http://www.petitiononline.com/J4FG2007/petition.html

Hi.

2007-04-03T12:55:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow night, i'll be here:

SULU SERIES @ The Bowery Poetry Club

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 2007 / 7-9:30 PM / $6 for AAAS
Conference Participants / $8 for General Public
featuring...
Regie Cabico, Kelly Tsai, Saraubh Tak, Lisa Ascalon, Vinh Hua, Marlon Unas Esguerra, Hanalei Ramos, R.A.Villanueva, Jason Joseph, Koba, and more!

308 Bowery, New York, NY 10012
212.614.0505
(foot of First Street, between Houston & Bleecker
F train to Second Ave, or 6 train to Bleecker)
http://www.bowerypoetry.com/

Hosted by Regie Cabico, curated by Artistic Director Taiyo Na, with music by resident crowd mover DJ Boo, and brought to you by the Sulu Artist Network, the
Sulu Series is a monthly showcase featuring established and emerging Asian American artists in music, spoken word, video and multidisciplinary performance from the local and national scenes. http://www.myspace.com/suluseries

AAAS Conference @ Columbia University -
http://www.aaastudies.org/

Please come. <3 And now, I leave you with this:
Otters holding hands

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Chicago People! It's Sexual Assault Awareness Month!

2007-03-29T12:54:00.000-07:00

What a great event! I really wish I was in Chicago to attend and get my nerdy on and take notes. If you are in the Chicago area, please attend and raise awareness around sexual assualt. You may not know it, but it's still quite challenging to be a woman in these times (sorry for restatingthe obvious.) Fore more info: click here!

She Speaks Volumes Poetry Poetry Slam & Panel Discussion
Presented in collaboration with Institute for the Study of Women and Gender in the Arts and Media, Columbia College, Chicago

The She Speaks Volumes poetry slam and panel discussion fuse art and activism to impact social change. In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the event gives voice to the silence surrounding this issue. The event uses music and the arts to encourage young people to speak out against sexual violence and become activists for change in their local communities.

Featured artists, Diva Diction, are three of the most powerful female poets both on page and on stage. Bassey descends from Nigeria, Amalia Ortiz from Mexico and Ishle Park from Korea. Their unique native roots may have originated from different countries but their cultured personalities blend powerfully together. All three women have competed in the National Poetry Slam and have been featured on Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry on HBO.

POETRY SLAM

When: April 26, 2007

Where: HotHouse
31 E. Balbo
Chicago, IL 60605
Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Volunteer: For volunteer opportunities, contact us at events@ywcachicago.org

Tickets: Tickets for the event are $15. Click here to purchase tickets online. For VIP pricing, contact Tanisha Pleasant at 312.762.2743.

Contact: Tanisha Pleasant at 312.762.2743 or events@ywcachicago.org.

PANEL DISCUSSION

Join the artists for an afternoon discussion, "Where do we draw the line? Creative Expression vs. the Perpetuation of a Rape Culture."

April 26, 2007
Columbia College
Conaway Center
1104 S. Wabash, 1st Floor
Chicago, IL 60605
12 p.m.
Free admission
Register here

I'm Offish!

2007-03-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

click the logo to check out mah grilllllz <3 (c/o TEAM AGUADO!)

I'm working with my dramaturg and director today for the National Asian American Theater FEstival version of Guns and TAmpons! (Calm yawself. That is really my necklace.) PS: I need a tan badly. :*(

Other than that, here is my official blurb:

Guns and Tampons: A History of Violence Against Women I Know is the new work written and performed by Hanalei Ramos. In her first multi-media solo show, Hanalei has staged a series of performance pieces based on the experiences of several women who consider themselves victims and survivors of abusive relationships with family, lovers, and friends. By staging portraits of some of the most intimate moments of any woman's life, Guns and Tampons challenges our assigned definitions of womanhood and violence and how it is warped by cultural expectations, societal conditioning, and the more subtle forms of violation experienced by women.

The work features a myriad of characters assembled across generations and circumstance. Guns and Tampons touches on the found stories of a high school senior's found diary entries, the lost interviews of an undocumented college student, a couple caught in the cyclical dance of violence, the language of assault, and the many people who are yearning to understand how they function while maneuvering through love. Guns and Tampons questions what it means to be a survivor and victim of violence, and exposes their muddled boundaries. However, the work serves as a hopeful narrative threaded by themes of shared isolation, patterns of love, and the chances we take toward the secret hope of self-understanding. Ultimately, the patchwork testimony of several individuals transforms itself as the story of all women, and becomes a compelling glimpse into a world of survival and strength.

Guns and Tampons: A History of Violence Against Women I Know was produced by Gayle Isa and directed by Gary San Angel. The show was created through the generous support of the Asian Arts Initiative.

LONGEST WEEK OF MY LIFE!

2007-03-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

What a great time to be reminded of how wonderful my friends are. Pix to follow (as I am not as proficient with Mac-usage as I would like to be.)

Thank you to
- all the folks who made it through the slush and sleet to attend the STK fundraiser for the People's Tribunal! GMA WAS FOUND GUILTY! THank you to Geologic for spearheading this campaign, SAndy for all the work she put in, and BAYAN USA for letting me be a part of this event!

- all the folks who attended the combined AnakBayan / Bayan / FiRE workshop on feudalism. Seems like a great time was had by all as WE. BUILT. SPARTA! and Casper-tonia. (hello! d5! you are still my faves!)

- Matt Pana and JOhn Violago for helping me out during my set. You guys were great!

- all of Kylene's friends who recognized me and buying Robin's siopao dolls! (Mine, sadly, did NOT sell.)

- Steve and Cling for hosting the fine folks of FiRE (Filipinas for Rights and Empowerment.) We had a great time!

- and of course, the lovely ladies of FiRE. It was amazing to spend this time with y'all, and I am looking forward to more funtimes as we build this community.

UNRELATED: So. I really dislike when artist blogs are not friendly and kinda focus on HOW DEEPER THAN THOU they are. It makes me uncomfie. As someone who has learned to manage INTERNET FAME (ha!) I like keeping it real by not faking it. (Redundant.) I would love to keep this blog just very light and invite y'alls to converse with me a little.

ALSO! MORE GIGS TO BE POSTED! Those flyers are coming in...and it's April, y'alls! GIG SEASON is upon us.

Brand new heavies.

2007-03-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

COME OUT TO FIND AND THE Stop the Killings SHOW! I am really excited to share the stage with some dope folks.

NYC // March 17 fri - STOP THE KILLINGS: NYC EDITION @ M1-5 Bar
NJ // March 18 sat - FIND @ Ramapo College

Might be a good starting point for those of you who work with younger Asian-Am youth who are interested in learning what to unlearn.

Check it out, let me know.

Streamlining!~

2007-03-08T12:49:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my upcoming gigs:

NYC // March 17 fri - STOP THE KILLINGS: NYC EDITION @ M1-5 Bar
NJ // March 18 sat - FIND @ Ramapo College
NYC // April 4 wed - Sulu Series @ the Bowery Poetry Club
NY // April 5 Thu - SUNY: Albany
AL // April 10 Tue - Featuring with Stephen Bor and iLL-Literacy @ Auburn University
NYC // April 27 fri - 2nd Avenue Poetry reading series --- @ Lolita

and a new piece i wrote and performed at the KABALIKAT workshop at Philippine Forum:

Miles Away
By Hanalei Ramos

On the days her body knows
She is now used to snow
And accustomed to a wind chill factor
She envisions the warmth
Of her mother's smile
Whose second death anniversary she
Will commemorate with a novena.

She leaves gray thumbprints
with haloes of steamed sweat
on the glistening black of lacquered wood
beside the miniature cluster of clouded fingerprints
belonging to children who are not her own
but is paid to mother
in the absence of absence of absence.
In the last fifteen years,
It has become a pastime to
search through the desert mirages
that move like the waved surface of heat
through the high-end end concrete of the Upper West Side

The pearl that hangs off a fingernail
Digs into the seedy pulp of a tomato
Her hands see rows
Of just the bellies of fish
The smell of stewed coconut milk
Popping out between a table's
urgent panoply of reds and oranges.
She hears the neighbor's children fight over the lechon tail
her mouth waters for tamarind
and the contrast of green mango and shrimp paste

On the freshly cleared breakfast table,
Across from her, she sees the familiar face of her son,
still 8 years old after all this time
asking permission to play basketball
fully knowing he is not allowed to do so in his tsinelas,
fully knowing that he is the spitting image of his father
fully knowing that she will say yes as long as he helps clear the table.
She cannot even imagine what his life must be:
Him in a white smock maneuvering through
physical therapy school,
engaged to a classmate from Davao
whom she has never met.
He doesn't know it yet,
but she has already bought the wedding rings on her son's behalf.

she tries to imagine her daughter at the upcoming wedding.
But she can't picture a face
Outside of the still profile
in a tattered photograph
her daughter who she left an infant of 8 months after her husband died
her daughter who has learned to recognize a mechanical dilution
of a voice thousands of miles away
her daughter, who finds the only imprint of her mother in a queue
at the Western Union
in the center of Paranaque.

In trying to avert her memory
She wonders why
everyday here begins like this:
The battle between expectation and prayer
The hopes of her family
Living in her hands
To the point where
She looks into a mirror
And no longer sees her reflection
Instead, it is replaced by the amalgam image
of the family she has left behind for fifteen years:
the bellies of fish, her son in his smock,
and the daughter she has nurtured and advised in her imagination only
who will be here in about five years.

2006 Recap!

2007-01-16T12:47:00.000-08:00

So.

Allow me to begin this update with the usual apology. I'm sorry, but the last couple of months have been a whirlwind (I think I've overused that term in these updates...) Overall, 2006 has been my most productive year artistically! I have been blessed to have been surrounded by such amazingly supportive family, friends, and mentor-types.

I hope you've all been having a stellar new year! It seems to be TEH YEAR to make things happen; many of my peoples seem to have some AMBIIIIITIOUS goals! I can't wait to see you all pull through! In the meantime, I will be your #1 cheerleader. <3 (I love adding <3<3<3<3 to anything.)

I've neglected this site since I've been developing my show and I found myself in Chicago for an extended period of time. So....drumrolllll PLEASE!

Hanalei Ramos
Guns and Tampons: A History of Violence Against Women I Know
Friday, February 9, 8:30 p.m.
$10 admission, $5 for members
Asian Arts Initiative, 1315 Cherry St, 2nd Fl, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Guns and Tampons: A History of Violence Against Women I Know is the debut of new work by spoken word artist and writer, Hanalei Ramos. In her first multi-media solo show, Hanalei has created one act plays based on the experiences of three women who are victims and survivors of domestic violence. By staging portraits of some of the most intimate moments in a woman's life, Guns and Tampons challenges our working definition of womanhood and examines how it is warped by cultural expectations, societal conditioning, and subtle forms of violence. Ultimately, the patchwork testimony of several individuals becomes the story of all women, and a compelling glimpse into a world of survival and strength.

GUNS AND TAMPONS: A History of Violence Against Women I Know will be debuted in its entirety 3 days before my 25th birthday! How exciting is that? I've been solidifying the writing and memorizing my lines! So, let's do this Rockapella!

love,

hanalei

Have you ever watched "Purple Rain?"

2006-10-12T12:39:00.000-07:00

HELLO! I have terribly neglected this website. As a result, I've given it a new look? Because I'm so busy, of course I should pay attention to my website's layout, despite my former layout being perfectly good. Yes, of course. A couple of thank yous and things:

foiled stars is now available! YES YES YES! it's my first collection of poems and prosetry!
Thank you to the Asian Arts Initiative! My first show Guns and Tampons: A History of Violence Against Women I Know will make its debut at the AAI in February 2007! <3
thank you to Jesse O! for all the work he's put into all my projects. he hand silk-screened all my chapbooks' covers, and he also made that lovely lil name logo of mine up there. he is #1 not #4. BFF4LYFE!
Thank you to AnnaMarie for the great new portraits she's taken of me! You can see old and new pix in the album! Despite my being sooo grumpy after minimal sleep and not knowing how to model; she was still overly pleasant to work with. Check her out and hire her!
of course, I updated the treehouse for the emotionally homeless
Yeah, I made this background myself, that's why it's crooked.
And then, I'm off to Chicago for a couple of days! I'll be doing NAASCON, but I'll also be karaoke-ing and eating some big-ass sandwiches (not to be confused with big ass-sandwiches.) GO ME!
and i really love Butters from South Park.

alright. i think that is the current blur of my life.

lovelovelove,
hanalei

you ever regret writing crap?

2006-07-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

I found a forgotten blog of mine on blogger. Let me tell you…I am one emo yotch. Let’s revisit, shall we?

January 2001

there are some things
that poetry,
a hot shower,
and a lazy sunday afternoon
can`t even cure.

so,
i
purge myself in days
i poured laughter in the air
in layers so thick…
i felt empty afterwards.

i press my fingers
against the blue sky
and feel my body slowly
readjust itself into the crevice
where my happiness hid.

and only then
would i remember that this existed
forgetting to map
the way back
forgetting the days i`d need the added comfort
of its presence.

in the meantime
my fingertips roam
the valleys between my shoulders,
the hills of my heart,
and the borders between my truths
searching for that void.

waiting to be filled.
knowing no other function.

AND THEN! (another part of another entry….)

augmented truth linnea said on new year’s eve:

“see, hanalei’s an idiot who plays hard to get. then when she realizes that boys do like her, she remembers that she still believes in cooties.”

I really wish i could go back in time and tell the then-me that it was all gonna work out. : )

Whilrwind!

2006-07-07T12:38:00.000-07:00

My life is a whirlwind and I love it! Though I've been consumed by bad photoshop jobs, I've managed to get my other projects moving along. A couple of thangs to note:

Hanalei's Women's Project Site will be a posting space for my workshop participants. I'm hoping that an internet presence will encourage them to write a little more. My women range from beginner to advanced writers. If you have ever been one of my students, I would love to post your work! Old and new pieces are welcome! Please email me at hanalei@hanaleihanalei.com to submit.

I am developing a collaborative work with the jesse o! it's gonna be great. don't wanna tell you too much, but prepare to be amazed. Sure, name your first born after either one of us. You'll want to after this project's unveiling.

New poem posted! Under my WORK section. And hmmm....should i become a performance artist? Am I one already?

OH! Our old collective now has a home.... the 101 Project!!! MEMORIES.

I forgot what this other list item was for.... SORRY! But things are always best in fives after threes! so! 5!

summer means that autumn is near....
I LOVE FALL!
love,
hanalei!

Back from L.A.!

2006-06-25T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Great things going on at the treehouse! So, please check it out. Since I'm all set up there, I think it'll also serve as my blog. OK! Such are the updates...this is a rush job.

HUGE thank yous to Rana and Gayle of the AAI for getting me to LA for the NEXT BIG BANG, the first ever Asian-American Theatre Conference! and to Kristina Wong for hosting me while there! and to Abby for taking me to In N Out. <3<3<3<3 Fresh - never frozen - burgers are pure love.

Meat and love. WHO KNEW?

My Return!

2006-05-19T12:37:00.000-07:00

Haaaaaay guuyyyyys!

It's been a very challenging last couple of months! I'll spare you the details, but thank you all for supporting me! There were days when I felt like nothing was left, yet knowing that there were a handful of folks that Letters to Martha needed to reach helped me through the day. The feedback I've gotten from the Chinatown show has been so warm, so THANK YOU for all this. Really....I am overwhelmed.

UPDATES GALORE!

please check out my Treehouse for the Emotionally
Homeless! ask me anything via hanalei@gmail.com !!!!!!!!!!
new pictures section under my bio!
check out some newly posted work and see me and binky on youtube!

let's be myspace friends : http://www.myspace.com/hanaleihanalei

Readings!

2006-04-10T12:37:00.000-07:00

i'm now booking for the upcoming 2006-2007 school year, as well as the remainder of spring/summer 2006. please contact me at girl@hanaleihanalei.com for more info.

-----------

Upcoming Letters to Martha Readings!

hey y'all!

i wrote martha stewart a bunch of letters while she was in jail.

it turned out to be a lot about love and life.

now it's a book.

now, i have readings.

now you should go!

April 25 // TUESDAY: Sulu Series @ Galapagos Art Space

8 - 10 pm & FREE!

70 n 6th street williamsburg brooklyn

http://www.galapagosartspace.com

(i will be performing alongside ishle yi park and taiyo na! aaww createnow, UNITE!)

May 17 // WEDNESDAY: Tea Bag Poets Lounge

8 - 10:30 pm & $1, plus a one drink minimum ($5)

30 Mott St., ground floor - in the back, Chinatown NYC

http://www.teabagnyc.com/poetslounge.shtml

OF COURSE i will have copies of LTM available, don't be ridiculous! (say it like balki! +5pts for you if it didn't fly over your head.)

if you can't attend either reading, but still want a copy, you can purchase it on my website via paypal:
http://www.hanaleihanalei.com (then click "buy") or

blacklava.com for non-PayPal users! or

head to the Asian Arts Initiative in Philadelphia, PA and the East
Meets West Bookstore in Cambridge, MA...to support your local
Asian-American art spaces!

ok! hope to see you there! please circulate this email far and wide,
yes? thank you!

love,

your local hanalei

-------
i'll also post some pictures taken by Kristina Wong of the artists exchange, soon!

thank you!

2006-03-16T12:36:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT!

Buy Letters to Martha now! :)

LTM!

2006-03-11T12:36:00.000-08:00

haaaaaaaaaaay! these books are good to go. for more info please visit the "buy" page!

exciting? YES!

WE ARE LIVE, FOLKS!

2006-03-08T12:35:00.000-08:00

http://www.hanaleihanalei.com/

.WE ARE LIVE, FOLKS!

also, Letters to Martha will be available online at http://www.blacklava.com by next week. i'll have paypal.com purchase options available, too!

i'm blinding myself with all this excitement! :) but dang, i got homework to do! toodles!

p.s. a couple of layout changes, too.

Artist Exchange!

2006-03-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

A great heartfelt thanks to those of you who have really helped me through this process! hi5s to Stephen, Omar, and Chaz!
(Letters to Martha be ready for purchase next week! exciting!)

Re:Location
Asian Arts Initiative 2006 Artist Exchange Performance Event
Friday, March 17 / 8 p.m.
$8 admission; $6 for members

Asian Arts Initiative: http://www.asianartsinitiative.org

1315 Cherry St.

Philadelphia, PA 19102

Over a dozen artists from throughout the country share their new work
in a multi-disciplinary showcase, and reveal through spoken word,
dance, theater, and poetry, their multi-faceted explorations of the
hot topics of gentrification and displacement—and the role of the arts
in fighting or furthering these complex dynamics!

Featured Artists:

Mango Tribe: Jen Cendana Armas (Queens, NY), Kay Barrett (Chicago,
IL), Sarwat Rumi (Chicago, IL), Marian Yalini Thambynayagam (Brooklyn,
NY), San Tong (New York, NY), Kelly Zen-Yie Tsai (Brooklyn, NY)

Rodney Camarce – Philadelphia, PA

Ching-In Chen – Boston, MA

Sham-e-Ali al-Jamil – Cary, NC

Mytili Jagannathan – Philadelphia, PA

Pradeepa Jeevamanoharan – Minneapolis, MN

Achinta McDaniel – Venice, CA

Michelle Myers – Swedesboro, NJ

Alison Park – Philadelphia, PA

Hanalei Ramos – Jersey City, NJ

Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarsinha – Toronoto, ON

Kristina Wong – Los Angeles, CA

TWEAKED!

2006-03-06T12:33:00.000-08:00

<TWEAKED on August 20ish, 2006

(?day 3:15 am)

newnews:

I'm confirmed for NAASCON 2006 @ Northwestern University--- check me out on Saturday, Nov.4, ok? new workshops offfeeerrrred! Lies About Love (domestic violence.partner abuse) and The Universe In My Palm (a women-only creative writing workshop!)

Hey y'all! Here's what I've been working on:

Expect some updates on the treehouse ~~SOON!~~ IN A LITTLE BIT! (i must have meant "soon" in a broader sense...) NEW CHAPBOOK: foiled stars: a collection of poems and prosetry by hanalei ramos (with cover illustration/printing by JesseO!) will be out on September 10th! my short story collabo with jesse O! expect it in its fully published glory by summer 2007! (but we will have product before that...) a SOLO show ~~(whaaaaaaaaat?)~~ Guns and Tampons: A History of Violence On Women will hopefully be debuted in January 2007!!!!! ~~getting funny!~~ I AM FUNNY! celebrate, peasants!

and my inner nerd has been feeding on the Japanese children's show, "Pitagora Suicchi," for inspiration!

learn the algorithm march! new and improved with ninjas! I STILL RECOMMMEND THE ALGORITHM MARCH! I hope life is stellar! <3

love,

hanalei!

Zhenxing Jiang deportation case!

2006-02-22T12:33:00.000-08:00

**please scroll down for upcoming show info!

hello! please help support and follow the Zhenxing Jiang deportation case! Briefly:

In early February "during a regularly scheduled meeting with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) here in Philadelphia, a Chinese immigrant woman, Mrs. Zhenxing Jiang, reported for her regularly scheduled meeting with ICE officials. She informed ICE that she was pregnant with twins, at which point they told her she was illegal (she had exhausted her appeals in 2002 and was trying to reopen her case) and had to be deported immediately. While her husband and children waited for her to finish her appointment, she was dragged out the back door of the building into a waiting van and driven to JFK Airport. According to reports, she was denied adequate food and water and pushed and shoved during the course of the transportation. Mrs. Jiang complained of severe stomach pains and requested medical help which she says were ignored. At the airport, Mrs. Jiang's screams of pain upset bystanders who insisted that immigration officials call an ambulance. They finally agreed, and she was brought to a hospital where it was found she had miscarried her twins.

please contact for more info:

Helen

215-563-6076; 215-808-1400 (c)

hgbf@aol.com "

2006 Asian Arts Initiative Artists Exchange (Artists X Change)

2006-02-17T12:31:00.000-08:00

**upcoming show! Philadelphia!

2006 Asian Arts Initiative Artists Exchange (Artists X Change)

Friday, March 17, 8pm - Artists Showcase

$8 admission; $6 for members

Artists Showcase

Please join us as the Asian Arts Initiative opens its 2006 Artist Exchange with a multidisciplinary showcase featuring Mango Tribe and existing work from this year’s accepted artists:

Rodney Camarce - Philadelphia, PA

Ching-In Chen - Boston, MA

Sham-e-Ali al-Jami - Cary, NC

Mytili Jagannathan - Philadelphia, PA

Pradeepa Jeevamanoharan - Minneapolis, MN

Achinta McDaniel - Venice, CA

Michelle Myers - Swedesboro, NJ

Alison Park - Philadelphia, PA

Hanalei Ramos - Jersey City, NJ

Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarsinha - Toronto, ON

Kristina Wong - Los Angeles, CA

================

Lots of construction on every page, as this website is birthed from the boredom of a Friday night, where I am babysitting. Amidst school, friends, love, and the rest of it, life is somewhat turbulent. I am currently hassling the hell out of two wonderful women I will call Tekla and AM, as my first chapbook reaches completion! They are helping me with cover art and layout respectively, and I couldn't be more grateful than to have these two women see me through this first time o' mine. I'll admit: I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT I"M DOING! So, kindly await Letters to Martha as it will be ready in March 2006! How exciting! I will finally have a chappy of my own. GO ME!

hanalei's blog

I've moved!

uh oh!

so close, yet so far.

oh, fievel!

I took this online quiz....

Your Result: New Soul

Boy, the movie

Jamaica: YES, PLEASE!

pretty!

last night.

Come through! :)

Binky's wedding

this really appeals to me.

what a weekend!

if i haven't shared this already....

hi.

gorgeous out!

The Filipino Film Fest!

:*(

7 and 7. Pretty true!

we have bev.

My granduncle's email:

I love the 80s!

this is my adorable cousin!

i love the people in my life.

thank you to the spring so far for...

this is so adorable!

What we should continue to fight for....

Texts to take out of context

Shout out to the summertime! (Rescinded)

does it take html?

gratitude list

this was meaningful.

gratitude list

Back from L.A.

gratitude 03

right before i ate the best chicken in the world:

list 02

what i did today....

jonathan morales!

gratitude list one:

wish you were there!

No Reservations PHILIPPINES!

yes.

happy valentine's day!

away and missing you.

it looks like the baby jesus is in my mouth...

how i've kept myself busy

homecoming.

the following is true:

Blue Scholars - Coffee and Snow

Fiberoptic-like data on Immigration

Love my friends....

this is my prom date's niece

daniel henney and i had a baby.

dumb meme time!

Temp page!

New Media Site!

FYI

performance

PRH invite: (the offish version)

"Intertwined"As part of the Project Rowhouses 11th Annual Arts and Music FestivalOCTOBER 13-14, 2007(this weekend!)12pm - 7 pm

What the show is all about...

The Treehouse

i miss you.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAhhhhh!

NAATF 2007

I love technology. Always and forever.

and so it begins!

Goodbye, 1315 Cherry St.

A Quadrant of my own

$64...

Bandwidth RULES my life

This is what life's felt like:

Rounding it out...

I return bearing gifts!

p-p-p-p-POISON!

My Time in Philly <3

This weekend in CRAZY:

"Intertwined"
As part of the Project Rowhouses 11th Annual Arts and Music Festival
OCTOBER 13-14, 2007(this weekend!)
12pm - 7 pm