At California's WeHo, Art Imitates Life This Halloween

Like every other state, Californians are concerned about so many issues on the ballot come this Tuesdays election. You would wonder if folks might forgo celebration this year.

People of all races, backgrounds and family statuses flock to West Hollywood, CA every Halloween. Everyone knows WeHo is the place to be for the most flamboyant, animated and exciting fun-fest around.

People all over the country have expressed concern over an image many have seen by now. One gay couple in West Hollywood thought it would be fun to inject some political satire in with their annual decorations.

For weeks a mannequin dressed like Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin was hung from a noose around its neck in front of their West Hollywood home causing quite a stir. One of their neighbors put up a less violent display featuring presidential candidate John McCain. A Redondo Beach woman hung a blood effigy of Obama with a butcher knife through his throat.

Annual West Hollywood Carnival is a big draw every year. As over the tops as it is, there is so much to see and do for any taste. Live music, good food and the most outrageous costumes you could imagine. The city's website http://www.weho.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/DetailGroup/navid/339/cid/1974/ links to details and last years pictures. This year, E Channel's Chelsey Handler will be crowned Queen of the Carnival for 2008. This year's Halloween Carnival is sponsored by many including a non-profit organization http://www.realitycares.org/.

Most are using Halloween as an overdue excuse to escape from everyday stresses. At the local Party City and Spirit Halloween stores, Palin, McCain and Obama masks are completely sold out. When ringing the doorbells this year, will they be asking for tricks, treats or votes?