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F ASHION LIFESTYLE ART ENTERTAINMENT

SEPTEMBER 2009 FREE

James Kyson Lee Has Powers! Italy Comes to Big Travel in Micronesia Harry Shum Jr Gets Gleeful

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FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF

How would you like to travel to Italy without having to go through security, dealing with delays and the countless other inconveniences of international travel? Well, we can suggest the next best thing. Houstonians will be able to participate in their very first Italian Style Expo. Considered to be America’s largest “Made in Italy” exposition, the best of Italian food, wine, tourism, design, and entertainment will be showcased. A dizzying array of activities and areas of interest will be available, promising something for everyone (including the kids). Fortunately, it is a three day event to ensure that you have the opportunity to see everything!

Thank goodness that Tina Turner sang We Don’t Need Another Hero and not We Don’t Need Another Superhero. It seems that during the course of the last few years, superheroes have dominated Hollywood blockbusters. And, on the small screen, Heroes on NBC is a feast for the insatiable appetite of lovers of the superhero genre. On September 21st, the series will launch into its fourth season and fans cannot wait. James Kyson Lee plays Ando on the series, and has only recently received his powers. He shares his insights about the entertainment business, his movie, White on Rice, that will be released this month, and what he considers to be the ideal woman. Take note ladies, he is single!

Are you familiar with Harry Shum, Jr., who plays Cable in the Step Up movies, the third of which is expected to be released in 2010? If not, you are probably familiar with those ubiquitous iPod silhouette dance commercials that Apple so effectively featured on almost every channel possible. Harry is the dancer behind the silhouette. And, now, you will be able to see him in the musical comedy series, Glee, premiering on Fox on September 9th. You wouldn’t know it by looking at him but in his interview, Harry tells us why he thinks “geek is chic”.

Finally, we want to extend our warm congratulations to Angela Wang, who was recently crowned Miss Chinatown Houston. She will be representing Houston when she competes for the Miss Chinatown USA title in San Francisco Photo by Collin Kelly next February.

V. Van Hoang Sep09 1-10-P 9/5/09 5:35 AM Page 3

The color yellow has played a recurrent symbolic role throughout the history of Asian culture. It symbolizes the that sustains all life, yet has been embraced by Buddhist monks as an expression of unchallenged power. Such is the role of yellow: always revered but in different ways under different circumstances. The mission of Yellow Magazine is to introduce our readers to the artistic , fashion, lifestyle and entertainment contributions made by Asian Americans. It is our hope that the depth and breadth of the topics and events we cover do justice to the pride that the color yellow has represented throughout the millennia. As the editor in chief of Yellow Magazine, my last name is Hoang, which also means yellow. Just as I am proud of my name, I am proud of my heritage, and proud of Yellow Magazine.

Editor in Chief V. Van Hoang, President of MV Media

Editor Contributing Photographers Henri Merceron Chad Landry Cultural Editors Thang Nguyen Vuthy Kuon [email protected] Tricia Volore Timothy Frederick Health Editor timothyfrederick.visualserver.com Ivy Yang Shehla Z. Shah shehlazshahphotography.com Travel Editor Peter Tham Matt Sims Fashion Photographer Wine Editor Collin Kelly Philip Cuisimano Fashion Stylist Music Editor Leslie Rivas Tyler Merceron Hair and Make-up Lifestyle Editor Chad Landry Chau Nguyen-Todd Stylist Assistant Beauty Editor Jennifer Joe Tree Vaello Photographer Assistant Contributing Writers Andrew Dana Deanne Nguyen Business Manager Leo Sipras Karla Montejo Creative Director Web Marketing Jeff Martin Tina Zulu Social Photographer zulucreative.com Chad Landry Website Leo Sipras

Publisher Publisher/Managing Director MV Media Frank Perez

National Advertising Local Advertising Verve Communications 713.528.6000 x103 Group [email protected] 325 N. St. Paul Street Suite 1360 Dallas, TX 75201 214.965.9933 x106 vervecommunications.com Yellow Magazine 3040 Post Oak Blvd. Suite 1440 Houston, TX 77056 p 713.528.6000 f 713.228.3186

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Yellow Magazine is published monthly. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of the magazine is strictly prohibited without the permission of the publisher. Yellow Magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited materials submitted. Subscriptions to Yellow Magazine may be purchased for $36/12 issues. Mail check to: Yellow Magazine, 3040 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 1440, Houston, TX 77056. © 2009 MV Media

On the cover: Silk blouse by Prada $760, available at Neiman Marcus Brocade by D&G $895 available at Neiman Marcus Chocolate suede booties by Fendi $850 available at Neiman Marcus “Athena” and “Croix” bracelets by De Petra, available at Kuhl- Linscomb

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CULTURE Visit Italy and Leave Your Passport at Home Italian Style by HENRI MERCERON

Between Friday, September 25th and Sunday September 27th, you will have an

opportunity to experience the cultural wealth of Italy without undergoing the hassle

and inconvenience associated with international travel. In essence, Houston’s inaugural

Italian Style Expo to be held at the George R. Brown Convention Center is bringing

Italy to you.

If you want to catch a glimpse of what’s new in Italian fashion, there The Porta Portese Market will be erected within the confines of the will be runway shows that feature trendy apparel for men and women. convention center. It is, in fact, a replica of an Italian street market that Or you may want to join in the complimentary Italian cooking classes and will be populated with a number of shops selling a variety of designer receive hot culinary tips from Houston’s very own Chefs from the handbags and leather goods; home accessories and unique jewelry pieces restaurants of Amici, Arcodoro, Quattro and Tony’s. Are you getting hungry? made of Murano glass, handcrafted by Italian artisans; imported antiques We can’t help you right now but just wait until you get to the Expo. More and vintage one-of-a-kind Italian handicrafts; contemporary art direct than twentry of Spec’s Food & Wine vendors will be offering samples and from Italy, as well as many more trendy and contemporary wares. selling their gourmet specialty products throughout the three day event. You may find that the Italian Style Expo piques your interest in Italy Also, Paciugo will tempt you with their authentic gelato. After all, you will and that you will want to visit the country for real. Well, there will be a need your energy to get through all the activities in which you will be able number of resources on site available to help you plan your trip. If you are to participate. lucky, you will win two roundtrip airline tickets compliments of Continental Aside from the fashion shows, there will be jewelry runway shows Airlines based on a drawing of entry tickets received at the door. Don’t featuring the creations of Oro di Roma. Masters from the Mosaic School worry, though, if you don’t win the grand prize: there are tons of other in Spilimbergo, Italy will captivate you with their artistry as they create opportunities to win complimentary dinners at the many participating classical mosaic masterpieces right before your eyes. If the kids get a little restaurants, as well. Best of luck! Or as the say in Italy, “In bocca al lupo!!” Italian Style Expo Houston restless, fencing demonstrations are an effective way to focus their George R. Brown Convention Center – Hall B attention. Better yet, you may want to enroll them in the fencing classes Friday Sept 25th offered so that you may enjoy that glass of wine you have been served. 2:30 pm – 9:00 pm Depending upon their ages and interests, there are competing and Saturday Sept 26th complimentary activities in the form of street painting, magic shows, 11:00 am – 9:00 pm ballet, opera and even an Italian DJ playing the contemporary hits of Italy. Sunday Sept 27th 11:00 am – 6:00 pm Mamma mia! Need I say more? I can. There are Italian language classes, musical concerts, and exhibits of Italianexpo.us collectible firearms, Ferraris, Ducatis, Vespas and others. There is a home design area that has on display a replica of an Italian home complete with a modern kitchen and a living area that will inspire you with its trendy, top-of-the-line Italian furnishings. If you are not familiar with high end modern Italian furniture, you are in for a treat. You will want to go home and have a garage sale to get rid of your old (even if it isn’t) furniture and replace it with the Italian pieces. The furniture should come with a warning! Join in the complimentary Italian cooking classes and receive hot culinary tips from Houston’s very own Top Chefs from the restaurants of Amici, Arcodoro, Quattro and Tony’s

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PEOPLE He Now Has Powers on Heroes But He Just Wants to Eat James Kyson Lee by HENRI MERCERON

A couple of years ago, I got hooked on NBC’s new sci-fi series, Heroes. The show has

captivated an ever expanding base of viewers with its intelligent approach to the

classic good versus evil framework within the context of superheroism. Season three

will be available on DVD on September 1st and season four will begin airing on

September 21st. As the show has grown in stature, so has that of the Japanese

character, Ando, played by James Kyson Lee. Until this interview, I had no idea that

James was not Japanese and does not even have a Japanese accent. In fact, he is of

Korean descent, and speaks with an accent that betrays his New York City roots. He

will appear in the romantic comedy White on Rice that opens this month in theaters

everywhere. Speaking of everywhere, it seems that James’ career is on the super fast

track as he has had roles in a half dozen films recently produced. Not bad for someone

who has only been in the business for 8 years. Photo by Bryan Lamb

How has your heritage impacted how you live your life and pursue your career? There is no other city in the world that has such a concentration of people In a lot of ways it was a challenge. I always thought I was a bit of a aspiring to be in one profession. The professional union, Screen Actors Guild, maverick growing up because I was very passionate about things, a trait not has 100,000 members, 95% of whom make less than $5,000 a year from commonly found in the Asian-American community. I always had the feeling acting. It is the only union in the world that has a 90 % poverty rate! that maybe I was too much “out there” and perhaps I needed to tone myself I think my total lack of knowledge about Hollywood when I arrived down. Everyone around me was so restrained. New York is a diversified but worked in my favor. Had I known all of the facts beforehand, I would have Photo © NBC Universal segregated place. I’m all for neighborhoods retaining their flavor and their stuck with my marketing job at Gillette! culture. For myself, I had to break out of those surroundings to fully find Do you have a “dream” project that would totally fulfill you? myself. Now that I am older, I fully appreciate my heritage but I don’t feel It would be nice to do a good comedy – a Judd Apatow kind of comedy. contained by it. Or a big action movie like a Marvel superhero type of film where I’d get What did you do between finishing college and heading off to LA? to do some spectacular fighting and what not. I’m pretty athletic in real life. I had a good marketing gig at Gillette in . Two months in, I knew I like getting dirty with my hands and roughing it up a little bit. it was not for me, however. I did not want to invest twenty or thirty years You’re in good shape. Are you into health and fitness? of my life on that path so I quit and bartended for about a year to try to Yeah, I go to the gym and I eat right. It’s important to me. I play sports figure out what I wanted to do. A friend asked me if I wanted to try improv. and try to stay in shape. I play basketball on a team called Hollywood Knights I didn’t even know what it was but I had the time of my life. It was a composed of a bunch of entertainers who play for charity. breakthrough. I hadn’t had that much fun in a long time and it brought back I know you are a big Twitter and Facebook user. How much time do you dedicate memories of playing as a kid. We performed at summer camps and everyone to them personally? noticed that I came to life on stage. I felt like there was something there and that it needed to be explored further. It doesn’t take any time to tweet and it’s a great way to connect with I moved to LA, enrolled in community college and just started taking fans, give them a behind the scenes glimpse and provide insights into the all these classes to expose myself to everything. I took acting, musical theater personal things I’m involved in. I think they appreciate that. When I have and singing classes and discovered new worlds. Even though I grew up the time I do look at incoming comments but for me it’s more of an outgoing James Kyson Lee as Ando in NYC, the mecca of art and culture, I was shielded from that type of process. I can do it from my phone so if I’m somewhere and notice something returns to Heroes on NBC, that I want to share, I just send it out. with a two-hour premiere on creativity. Twenty years of repressed creativity just exploded in me. Monday, September 21 Within three years of moving to LA you got your first TV role on JAGS; and What do you do for enjoyment on a regular basis? a couple of years later, you scored your role in the hit series, Heroes. How did I love watching movies, especially documentaries. I’ll watch a good you manage this? documentary over some mindless movie any day. I love reading and just I was lucky, energetic and hungry. But don’t be fooled. A lot of people escaping for two hours with my Time magazine. I’m a big arts and music don’t realize how hard the life of a working actor can be. Before Heroes, I guy and enjoy seeing any new exhibits and live band performances. Any was a working actor doing episodes on different TV shows, commercials, time I go to a new city, one of the first things I do is check out the museums modeling for print, and got voiceover jobs. I left the house at 7 a.m. to do and art galleries. up to four auditions a day. I traveled all over the city and kept five changes Do you have a best fan moment? of clothes in my car, literally stripping down in the street between each Hahaha. Ye-ah. I was invited to speak at Northwestern University and audition. Sometimes I got a chance to grab a bite to eat and most days I as I was walking to the auditorium we ran into a guy dressed up as a giant didn’t get home until after 7 p.m. So, basically, I worked my ass off the entire hotdog passing out promotional fliers. When he saw me, he just yelled, “You day and how much money did I make? Zero! That’s the life of the working are awesome!” and collapsed on the ground. It’s weird having a giant weiner actor. Hopefully, maybe, they book one of the jobs for which they auditioned just faint right in front of you. It doesn’t happen every day. and it might sustain them for a week, a month, or two months. But when What are you watching on TV? it’s gone, they’re right back at square one. I Tivo my two favorite comedies, 30 Rock and The Office. I also love There are about 250,000 actors or people trying to be actors in LA. Flight of the Conchords. I’m into quirky humor.

I always thought I was a bit of a maverick growing up because I was very passionate about things, a trait not commonly found in the Asian-American community.

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How do you think your friends and family would describe you? I’m the same way. Trust me, it’s harder in Houston. Friendly, fun, outgoing, animated….someone who laughs really loud. Hahahahaha. There’s nothing better than the response you get when you Is there anything about you that would surprise your friends, family or fans? ask for an organic breakfast at Denny’s!! I have two tattoos that surprise people when they see them. They’re not You’re involved with a film called Haitian Street Kids Revisited. What’s big tattoos. I have some Chinese characters on my left bicep that says Justice that about? Righteousness Courage Love. And I have a small tiger on my right shoulder. It’s a documentary I was asked to narrate. I met You don’t have one that says Rachel, Ashley or something like that? the two producers through a mutual friend and For the most Haha. No, I was smarter than that. they are really passionate about their charity work and wanted to produce a film to raise more Tell us the truth, do you have an easier time finding dates since you’ve been awareness about what is going on over there. When part, I’m pretty on Heroes? they showed me what they put together, it was Hahahahaha. You know, I don’t know, man. I mean, I have always been really touching. Basically, they asked me to lend happy go lucky. a big fan of women. I think they’re the most beautiful of God’s creatures my voice for a good cause and I said yes. and I mean that in a very genuine way. I’m more of a relationship kind of I try to do what I can. Over the last three years, it has been one aspect guy, though. I rather have one awesome girlfriend than be with twenty of Hollywood that I really enjoy. Being able to participate in things that different girls. support really good causes and having the opportunity to bring a voice to How would you describe your “perfect” woman? things that normally do not have one is truly fulfilling. Intelligent, funny, healthy, fit, beautiful, and has great energy. What is your fashion style? Has anyone ever come close? I like mixing it up. My style actually changes year to year. This summer, I’ve been able to date some amazing women but I have been attracted I have been doing a lot of vests and hats. I’m a big hats and accessory guy to different aspects of them. You know, no one is perfect. You shouldn’t because I feel like it is one of the ways that I can express myself. I like putting expect someone to have it all. I mean, if you want that, you better have it stuff together that would not normally be put together. I think that’s part all, too. Although LA has more than its share of beautiful people, I have come of creativity and fashion is fun when you get creative. I like more of the rare to value the non-physical aspects such as personality, intelligence and sense boutique stuff over the mass produced items. Vintage is cool. Whatever you’re of humor. That is a lot more important to me than the way somebody looks. comfortable with. What do you think are your best features? When Heroes fades into the sunset, what would you like to do? I think I am pretty loosey goosey. For the most part, I’m pretty happy I love to mix it up. Being able to go between television and film keeps go lucky. I do have my intense side when I’m at work and have to get the it interesting. It would be nice to try a different genre such as comedy as job done. in sitcoms. It would be fun to do a big action movie on a grand scale. Who Between us, what character on Heroes has the power that you most covet? knows, I may even go back to the stage if there was an amazing play. I think the journey of an actor is only interesting if you travel along different types That’s a popular question about the show. I don’t know, I mean who of paths. wouldn’t like to fly? You know what I want? I want instant metabolism because I’m a big foodie and, seriously, if I could eat anything even if it’s for one day out of the year and it had no effect on my body…Ahhhh! What would you eat? Are you kidding me?! First of all, I’m a big sucker for desserts. That is my Achilles heal right there. Any desserts. but I will indulge myself a little. I mean, going to the gym is so much work! your favorite food? Hmmm…. as I am chewing down my watermelon. I am a big fruits guy. I love all kinds of food…French food, Asian, Indian and there’s nothing better than mom’s old fashioned cooking, of course. I do love fruits and vegetables. You are such a Californian, now. They don’t care about all that healthy stuff in NYC. You have been transformed! Yeah, I guess I have. I have gotten all healthy organic here.

Photo by Eric Blackman Photo by Mimi Nguyen

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STYLE All Fashion Questions Answered, All Style Secrets Revealed! Miss D’s FAQs

Hello again darlings! Did your summer go well? Good, because I’m ready for my

September Fall Fashion fix. Miss D is always ready for new, you know. I saw all of those

shows back in March when the new fashion debuted and have been dying, dying to tell

you about them, and to actually see the in our stores. However, I did receive

a question recently from someone who does not quite share my enthusiasm.

Miss D, to be honest, the clothes I’ve been seeing from my favorite luxury brands are a little tired, even the black. I need something new for my wardrobe! Are there Qualms or questions about any “under the radar” designers I should be watching out for this season? fashion getting you down? There, there, sweetie. Let Miss -Bored of Brands D handle them for you. Frankly, my child, I couldn’t agree more! Sometimes those high and Send your worries to [email protected] mighty designers whose names frequent our glossies can become predictable and dull. But something concerns me about your query: puh-lease tell me you are NOT projecting these feelings of boredom onto that wonderfully mysterious shade as well! Black is the supreme queen of timeless fashion, a classic untouchable by any editor or writer (including yours truly) who attempts to dethrone it. I love a good color but I stand by her majesty. So with that in mind, I’d like contrast this issue’s fall hue-saturated editorial with something more ominous from my three “must-have” brands. Meet Rad Hourani. He launched his first label in 2007 and, more recently, a second, more affordable line ($100-$400) which represents his brand of urban chic. It is taking off. He’s been heralded as the next Rick Owens, with his urban-Goth play on luxe fabrics and nomadic layering. His Autumn/Winter collection for 2009 is his best work yet. The subtleties of leathery and lame sheen mixed with a dash of solar cell-esque sequins present the darker hued garments with their space-desert, wanderlust feel. The darling Rad must have also had fashionable couples in mind; the silhouettes he chose the dark she-vagabond as well as her male companion. I would gladly travel the galaxy clad in his image. If Rad’s collection was gender blending (he mixed both male and female models on the runway, as well), Phi’s is ferociously feminine with his form fitted pieces and paneling corsetry that would put Herve Leger to shame. You can almost hear the lioness growl from the magnificent plumes of black fur. The Phi brand has been on my radar for some time now, 4 years since Phi Andreas Melbostad was named creative director. The man’s definition of tough chic just gets better and better. Phi designs the perfect uniform for an army of “Underworld” femme fatale warriors and nocturnal dominatrixes who strut about in his boxy cut bombers, thin , and slim hardware details, looking fabulously bullet proof. So can you, dear. Even such strong looks may lose their intrigue from over wearing, and Rad Hourani Miss D is not one for sticking to one style of . My latest obsession is a designer by the name of Iris Loeffler, bred in Germany, based in New York, whose creations are from some other realm. Reminiscent of Jil Sander minimalism and a touch of deconstructed bedroom glamour, her garments As for those who are a bit hesitant to stray from a strict diet of name will leave you feeling elfishly dark and seductive. The ethereal cascade of brands with celebrity status, for shame my dears, you don’t know what you’re fabric down your back, drape perfectly on your frame as if you had wrapped missing! These designers and many talented others are not completely without your morning sheets around yourself; words cannot describe the kind of public advocacy, however, it’s a pity their press presence seems to be lacking. luxury you feel when clothed in one of her pieces. Trust me girls, if you’re Thus, finding their wares will be tricky business in our city. A lucky few in the market for a second skin, give Iris a call and tell her I sent you. may have their own online store or an archive of stocklists, but most of you Ah, but I digress! You know, I get carried away with these passionate may have to inquire directly. Don’t let that discourage you, honey; I swear talks of fabrics and musings. But do you think these three are too young for on my mother’s hand draped Dior wedding that your efforts will pay you to pull off? Come now darlings, the point of fashion is to have fun, so off! A lesser-known brand’s elusive presence is exactly the basis of its appeal Iris Loeffler why should we let the young ones have it all? If you have the check book and gives the clothing an almost haute couture feel: no one in Houston will to back it up, I say disregard the dowdy skirt suit for the moment and treat be wearing what you’re wearing, dear! Haven’t we always been trying not yourself to a little bit of this alternative black culture. Though the young to look like our fellow luncheon ladies? designer’s palettes are foreboding, it is the brightness of their creative ambitions Kisses, that illuminate the runway and delight the eyes. Surely you see the light -Miss D. now, darling? Reminiscent of Jil Sander minimalism and a touch of deconstructed 1940’s glamour, Iris Loeffler’s garments will leave you feeling elfishly dark and seductive.

Iris Loeffler

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EVENTS

The Legend of Yin & Yang: A Broadway Style Musical Love Story October 31, 2009 and November 1, 2009, Houston Baptist University Morris Cultural Arts Center bilingual musical spectacular with acrobats, martial arts performers, from Mainland China and hip hop dancers from Houston. The Legend of Yin & Yang is being produced by Worldwide Stage, Inc.

Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet October 9, 2009 to December 31, 2009, Houston's Discovery Green This exhibit will display 50 artistically decorated, super-sized globes that depict simple solutions to global warming and educate individuals and companies about how they can partake in making their city and homes a greener place to live.

Chaotic Harmony: Contemporary Korean Photography October 18 2009 to January 3, 2010, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston It is the most comprehensive exhibition of contemporary Korean photography to ever be shown in the U.S. Chaotic Harmony will features large scale photographs by 40 Korean artists.

Kimsooja, A Needle Woman, 2005 © Kimjoosa

Your Bright Future: 12 Contemporary Artists , 2008 from Korea November 22, 2009 to February 14, 2010, ©Do Ho Suh

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston llen Star 1/5 This is the first major museum exhibition in the Fa continental United States in almost two decades

to focus on contemporary art from South Korea. Do Ho Suh, Your Bright Future, a deliberately ambiguous title taken from a sculpture by Bahc Yiso, represents each of the 12 Korean artists in the show through a large scale installation or substantial body of work, ourtesy of the artist and Lehmann Maupin Gallery, NY. ourtesy of the artist Maupin Gallery, and Lehmann

including site-specific installations, video arts, and C sculpture.

WINE Fashionably Speaking and Sipping Wine is the Rage by PHILIP CUISIMANO

One definition of fashion offered by Merriam-Webster is As popular as wine is today the opportunity for future Clearly wine is in that of “a prevailing custom, usage or style”. As such, wine is growth is even greater. Even though our per-capita consumption style and should be indeed “in fashion”. In fact, I boldly posit that in the arena of (PCC) continues to trend upward, we still drink far less than for some time to alcoholic drinks wine is currently “The Rage”. That this is so our European neighbors. An examination of data sourced from come, so to be in can be gleaned intuitively from mere observation as one only The Wine Institute shows that in 2005 the American PCC was vogue join in and needs to look around. Visit any grocery or package store and 8.69 liters versus 55.85 liters and 48.6 liters for France and Italy, have a glass with note the amount of shelf–space allocated to wine. And what respectively. In other words, the average French and Italian your next meal. fine restaurant does not proudly tout it’s extensive wine list? We citizen drinks almost seven times as much wine as does the Castello di Romitorio Rosso Photo by Chad Landry see people buying and drinking wine throughout society. average American. It is worth noting that America is the 3rd di Montalcino Magazines and newspaper columns abound that are solely most populous country in the world while France and Italy Castello di Romitorio is a massive structure located on a hilltop dedicated to wine, specifically extolling and describing certain rank 20th and 23rd, respectively. It is apparent that if the PCC in the Tuscan region of Montalcino. The winery is owned and directed by Sandro Chia, one of the worlds most successful artists bottles and discussing the wine milieu, in general. Apart from of wine in the United States approaches that of Europe, we and whose works are reproduced on the labels that adorn his our day to day observances, there are also empirical data supporting will indeed dominate the world’s wine supply. The potential wines. This is a massive Rosso produced from the Sangiovese- Grosso grape of Brunello and these wines are often referred to wine’s emergence as the American adult beverage of choice. volume of the American wine market has wine producers as “Baby Brunello”. This offering is rich and bold featuring bright drooling all over the world. red-berry fruit infused with notes of peppers and spice. The How do we explain wine’s emerging popularity in America? tannins are soft and round while the finish lingers. Serve with As popular as wine is today truffles. $26.60 As with most cultural components, there are no linear Zaca Mesa Chardonnay “Santa Ynez” 2007 determinants. However, I can point out a few variables that Zaca Mesa is located on California’s central coast, a landscape the opportunity for future have helped make wine such a fashionable drink. First, it is offering gorgeous vistas and also producing great wines especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This single vineyard varietal is a social beverage best enjoyed when shared in the company fermented in 40% stainless steel and 60 % French oak allowing growth is even greater. of others. Additionally, it is the perfect accompaniment for the wine to develop complexity and body but not at the expense of flavor. The Santa Ynez Chardonnay is crisp, dry and clean with The Wine Market Council (winemarketcouncil.com) has food; the fermented grape juice serves to cleanse the palate notes of tropical fruits heavily balanced towards the citrus side documented that for some time now the United States has while its flavors enhance the taste of food. Finally, we cannot of the spectrum and with subtle notes of oak. The palate is full led the world in total wine purchases in terms of dollars sold. discount the impact upon consumption rates as a result of and long. Serve with seafood. $16.27 Tohu Gisborne Chardonnay 2007 Additionally, both total wine consumption as well as per- recent medical findings indicating that wine taken in moderation This New Zealand winery is owned by three Maori tribal groups capita consumption (the amount consumed by one person in can have healthy benefits and may even prolong life. thus allowing the claim that this is one of the only “indigenously one year) has grown for fifteen consecutive years in America produced wines from New Zealand imported to America”. This unique Chardonnay offers a flavor profile containing elements and peaked in 2007 at around three gallons. similar to both Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc. The wine is crisp, bone-dry, infused with minerals, herbs and notes of grass while the body is full with a tasty undertone of both cream and Wines available at Spec's Wines, Spirits, & Finer Foods, various butterscotch. Serve at a warmer temperature than a typical white locations. Visit specsonline.com for the store nearest you. wine and it should pair well with Asian cuisine. $15.78

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Photographer Collin Kelly Fashion Stylist Leslie Rivas Hair and Makeup Chad Landry Photographer Assistant Andrew Dana Stylist Assistant Jennifer Joe Model Bundharic Gift Taout

Dress by Prada $ 1595 “Hekate” and “Croix” bracelets and ring by De Petra Clothing and shoes available at Neiman Marcus Jewelry available at Kuhl-Linscomb

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Silk blouse by Prada $760 Brocade skirt by D&G $895 Chocolate suede booties by Fendi $850 “Athena” and “Croix” bracelets by De Petra

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Fringe by Zac Posen $1990 Caramel booties by Sergio Rossi $995 “Ourea” and “Delphi” necklaces by De Petra

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Burgundy shell by Akris $795 Harem pants by Robert Rodriguez $295 Cashmere sweater by Oscar de la Renta $2990 Studded sling backs by Prada $750 Pythia” Necklace by De Petra

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Crinkle dress by Eskandar $1090 Caramel booties by Sergio Rossi $995 “Naga” bracelet and “Circe” necklace by De Petra

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TRAVEL Small Islands, Big Fun Micronesia by CHAU NGUYEN-TODD

When I tell people I recently traveled to Micronesia, they usually ask me where it is

located. I would ask the same question had I not lived in that region many years ago.

In Greek, Micronesia literally means small island. As geography goes, the region is

comprised of several small islands along the western Pacific Ocean, with many close

to the equator.

Now, when I say western, I mean it’s almost four thousand miles west of Hawaii. Getting to Micronesia is no hop, skip and a jump. An eight hour flight from Houston to Honolulu, followed by another eight hour flight to Guam. You will cross the International date line, meaning you lose a day upon arrival. Once in Guam, however, you are on home base to begin the We chose wisely. This 22 room privately owned hotel had a small swimming island hopping. And that’s exactly what my husband and I did for 16 amazing pool and overlooked the bay. The service was friendly, and the dive shop days. Thank goodness for Continental Airlines, our exclusive vacation airlines, and its guides were very accommodating. which made the planning so much easier. One friendly reminder, however. Should you decide to travel to Yap, bring Saipan cash! Just as we arrived, we quickly learned that there were no ATMs on the A place I consider my second home (I lived there in my early 20s), Saipan island. Yap’s currency is the U.S. dollar. Locals working in the private sector is an easy a 30 minute flight from Guam. It’s a United States Commonwealth earn a paltry dollar and change an hour. Tip well. They really appreciate it. and has huge historical significance in terms of World War II. A bloody battle So, what draws 5,000 visitors a year to this island of just 20,000 people? was fought there and thousands of Japanese soldiers literally jumped to their Manta rays, manta rays and more manta rays. Scuba divers from all over the deaths rather than surrender to the Allied troops. War history aside, this island world come to Yap just to see these big, beautiful creatures. Of course, this is as beautiful as they come. Just 44 square miles, you can take a drive (or a is what drew us. Vince, our dive guide, assured us that we would see some. hike) to the top of the entire island and view it from all sides. As many times On our second dive, we witnessed our first manta ray of the trip. They are as I have been on top of Mt. Tapochau, I never tire of its spectacular view. beautiful. We parked on a sandy bottom along the manta ray’s feeding station I highly recommend an island tour booked through Marianas Trekking just to watch these wonderful creatures glide by. Way cool. (marianastrekking.com), that offers everything from hiking, biking, kayaking, Still, the highlight of scuba diving for us would be the shark feeding. We and snorkeling tours of the island. My favorite hiking and swimming spot is had two options: bring down the chum (fish food) and watch the reef sharks Forbidden Island. Unless you’re a local, Forbidden Island is not a hike you munch on what Vince gave them as we swam alongside. Throw in some readily find on Saipan. Ask for Chris Nelson at Marianas Trekking, and he will cookies for the smaller fish to feed and watch the sharks as they circled us. totally take care of you. The 20 minute hike takes you to a gorgeous rocky Something about diving near a bunch of sharks feeding on bloodied chum beach line, not to mention great swimming holes and some neat cave pools. made me nervous. We chose the cookies option. For scuba diving, make sure you hire a guide to take you to the Grotto, a gorgeous swimming hole with three underwater swim throughs for scuba So, what draws 5,000 visitors divers. Ask for Eric at Speedy Tertle Scuba Diving (speedytertle.com). He has been diving on Saipan for more than 10 years and knows all the dive a year to this island of just 20,000 spots well. As for the Grotto, scuba enthusiasts rank this one of the top dive sites in the world. While I have dived the Grotto in the past, this time people? Manta rays, manta rays around, my husband and friends decided to swim and snorkel. It’s simply perfect for swimming. The water is warm and clear, making the 100 steps and more manta rays. to the Grotto hole worth the walk. There are a number of hotels on Saipan, many of which are managed by Japanese or Koreans. (Saipan is a close destination for Japanese and Korean What happened once we descended definitely earned a spot as a top ten tourists). My pick is the Hyatt Regency Hotel Saipan (hyattregency.com). lifetime experience. This place offers all the modern amenities of a five star hotel, not to mention As soon as Vince released the cookies to the small fish, the reef sharks some great dining. Sunday brunch at the Hyatt is a must and a favorite for started circling. Within minutes, there were twelve sharks. Like a scene out of the local expats. a movie, I looked over at my husband to see if he was in awe as I was. Was I afraid? Not at all. I trusted my dive guides. They knew what they were doing Yap and that the sharks were so well fed that they didn’t need to snack on us. Our next four day jaunt was to the island of Yap. This place is so unknown I don’t carry an underwater camera when I dive, so I am grateful to that they even make t-shirts that say “Where the heck is Yap?” In Yap, things William Massey for taking some amazing photos of our shark experience are still very traditional, as the men still wear lava lavas (skirts) and the women and sharing them with us. Will is a 24 year old from Savannah, who can still be seen going topless. Most Yapese fish for food and television wasn’t moved to Yap to teach. I’ve always found one of the greatest things about introduced until 2001. Yap is just a one hour ten minute flight from Guam. travelling is the interesting people you meet. My husband and I spent a great You know you are in a remote place when your plane has to be pulled in deal of time with Will, who would come to serve as our tour guide, showing because a small earthquake damaged the tiny airstrip. Nice. us some of the neat beaches and acquainting us with the local culture. We There are only a handful of hotels on this tiny island, which is about the loved the Yapese people, and we appreciated our friendship with Will. Thank same size as Saipan. We chose Trader’s Ridge Resort (tradersridge.com), you Will. See you in Houston. because judging by the photos we saw online, it seemed to be the nicest.

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Palau There is a reason the popular reality TV show Survivor was filmed in Palau not once, but twice. It’s plain beautiful. Gorgeous. Heaven on earth. This place is hands down my favorite in Micronesia, not to mention home to some of the best scuba diving in the world. Palau (as former Survivor contestant and Houston City Councilmember Jolanda Jones will attest) is one of the places you really have to experience before you die. Our stay took us to the famed Palau Pacific Resort (palauppr.com), a five star hotel which is proudly celebrating its 25th anniversary. The resort is perfectly maintained and groomed. It has a private beach complete with dive facility and offers great snorkeling in the bay. The pool area boasts a fabulous beach bar and large Jacuzzi, where we found ourselves after our daily dives. Palau’s beauty lies in its rock islands, a chain of tiny, uninhabited islands that look like big bushes jutting from the clear blue water. Whether you wish to dive or snorkel, boats will weave you in and out of the rock islands. Our kayak guide likened them to big chia pets. These islands were once coral formations, which were transformed over tens of thousands of years. There are so many ways to see Palau. Our first choice was by scuba diving. We chose Fish and Fins (fishnfins.com), since the dive operator limited the number of divers to six per boat. We had a small boat with just a handful of divers, and our two days of diving was comprised of four great dives. Blue Corner, touted as one of the best dive sites in the world, lives up to its reputation. There was an abundance of marine life that included sharks, schools of barricuda, and gigantic Napoleon Wrasses. I would not recommend this site for the novice diver. The currents are so strong we had to use a hook to attach ourselves to the coral wall to avoid being swept away. We spent our final day kayaking the rock islands. It is a great way to float around the islands and snorkel in some calmer waters. Planet Blue Kayak Tours (samstours.com/kayak.html) offers a one-day kayak tour through Palau’s rock islands and crystal blue lagoons. We saw old World War II planes and relics underwater, and parked for lunch on a rock island which served as a command post and jail during the war. One last and incredible attraction is Jellyfish Lake, a saltwater lake that is home to ten million jellyfish that have lost their sting. You can snorkel and play with them after you pay a $30 park fee. Guam Our last stop before heading back to Houston was the island of Guam, a U.S. Territory, which I always tell people is like a mini Honolulu. It has all the American amenities such as malls, movie theatres, and a huge Kmart. Guam’s Waikiki is Tumon Bay, where hotels line the beach and shops line the streets. We decided to make Guam our final stop and it was a good choice. After spending several days on very remote islands, Guam gave me a certain comfort that I was once again, on American soil. We stayed at the Guam Hilton, (guamhilton.com) one of the older hotels on the island which, like the Palau Pacific Resort, was very well maintained. The island is a favorite among Japanese tourists, many of whom were staying at our hotel. The Hilton is the southernmost hotel on Tumon Bay, providing unobstructed views of the bay. Our day trip was comprised of driving south past the military base to reach Jeff’s Pirate’s Cove. It is a touristy yet quaint beach restaurant and bar once visited by Carlos Santana. (Yes, Santana actually visited Guam). The beach at Jeff’s Pirate’s Cove has a volleyball net and is where concerts are often held. If you need a Guam souvenir, this is your place. Guam’s population is about to expand when the military operations in Okinawa are moved there in a few years. So, the island’s population of about 175,000 will grow even larger. Guam is much more Westernized compared to its Saipan, Yap and Palau neighbors. Only a few still speak the indigenous Chamorro language. Still, it has a certain charm. Part American, part local. I was grateful to catch up with old friends, including my former Saipan co- anchor, Travis Coffman, who now hosts a radio talk show on Guam. (bigshowk57.blogspot.com). Travis represents those who moved to the islands from the U.S. mainland, only to settle and never come back. We’re jealous, Travis. Island Adventure Ending My husband and I returned back home to our busy lives, lamenting that we didn’t have more time on the islands. We loved the scuba diving, but mostly, we loved the people we visited and met along the way. Travelling changes you. There’s a world out there unlike the world we know. These islands will always have a place close to my heart, even if they are remote and far away.

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PEOPLE Gleefully Continuing to Step Up Harry Shum Jr. by DEANNE NGUYEN

Meet Harry Shum Jr., the original “face” of the iPod silhouette commercials, a

professional dancer, choreographer, actor, and producer. Like one of his heroes, Bruce

Lee, Harry is all about breaking Chinese and Asian stereotypes and constantly doing

something different along the way. Yellow Magazine asked Harry to talk about what

it’s like being a new breed entertainment Renaissance man.

Which came first, acting or dancing? Acting did. I love a good character. When I was a kid, I used to watch anime series religiously every day and I would always mimic their characters. It really helped because in junior high, we all had to do a mandatory “one man show” and I ended up doing my own rendition of Good Morning Vietnam. I loved getting the feel of the crowd and, for the first time, I thought “Ok, I think I might want to do this as a career.” When did dancing come into play? what music looks like, acting is what other people look like. Everyone, of I always seemed to get a lot of dares and when I was a freshman in high course, has their own interpretation of what that is. My dancing style, school, one of which was to join the dance team. At the time, there were I would say, is eclectic freestyle - a mix of jazz, swing, hip hop, popping, some guys on the team but they were mostly used as props for the girls. b-boy. I throw it all together because music shouldn’t be limited to one Something had to be done. I wanted to make it cool for guys to dance! So look. For acting, I think of it as taking a part of yourself and putting it into we started experimenting with certain moves to get a reaction from the someone else. I’ve played a lot of different roles so far – the cool guy, the crowd. For our first performance, we lifted our shirts and did a belly roll. shy guy, even the arch nemesis. Given the chance though, I’d love to play The girls went nuts. I was really nervous at the time but that one moment the hero. That would definitely fulfill a childhood dream. solved it all! Soon, the dance team became the “it” thing and even football What is a typical work week like for you? players were joining. Come to think of it, it’s exactly like what’s happening It varies depending on the projects. Sometimes, I’ll work Saturday and in Glee! Sunday and have Monday and Tuesday off. There really is no weekend. It Tell us more about Glee and your character, Mike Chang can get really hectic. One time, I had rehearsals for Glee, LXD, and Step Up Glee is about a young teacher named Will Schuester (played by Matthew 3 happening at the same time. It was a crazy day. I can’t even remember Morrison) who remembers the glory days of the show choir Glee Club the countless red eye flights I’ve flown to New York and all over the country. when they were national champions. Unfortunately, the school where he But, you know, even though you’re stabbing and torturing yourself like Glee premieres on Fox this, you actually really enjoy the pain. Wednesday, September 9 teaches does not have much of a budget for it, nor does it have any enthusiasm. He had to call upon the misfits, the bottom feeders of the That sounds rough! How do you manage? school, if you will, to try to restart the Glee Club and recapture its It’s grueling but you make time for yourself in between projects. I may sit championship status. My character, Mike Chang, is a football player who around for a day or two and do nothing, but then I get right back in. I play accidently joins the club. There are a lot of hilarious and even touching golf and just started playing croquet; I also like to go on bike rides and musical numbers in the show. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. hiking trips with my dog, Charlie. I also go snowboarding with my friends Did you always know you were going to be in entertainment? when it’s in season. I live in California, so there’s always something to do. When I was in college, I took dance and theater classes and participated It’s the only state where you can have the snow and the surf in the same in other artsy extra curricular activities but I was studying for a career in place. I know it doesn’t seem like much rest, but I’m pretty physical; I love international business. When I saw the list of advanced math courses that staying active. were required, I seriously reconsidered. I could stay the course or I could Could you see yourself in any other career? pursue dancing. I figured international business would always be there, Like I said, I’m a huge tech geek, so I could definitely see myself being an so I took my chances. My parents’ reactions were those of typical Asian editor of a tech magazine, especially online ones like Gizmodo. They cover parents; they wanted me to finish school and then they’d talk about it. more areas, such as the history of the gadgets and you get to see more of But it felt right to just go for it. People often don’t believe you until you them as they come out. Everyone is actually trying to become more tech have something to show for it. savvy; geek is chic, right now. Do you have any other current projects? What advice do you have for someone who wants to get into the business? I’m actually working on four! Aside from Glee, I’m working with Jon Chu, Outside of talent, you need to use any and all skills you learn, especially director of the Step Up movie series, on Step Up 3, where I resurrect my role common sense. Doing what I do is amazingly fun, but it’s also a business; as “Cable” and on another series called League of Extraordinary Dancers, LXD at the end of the day, you’ve got to pay your bills, you’ve got to know how for short. The story is basically about dancers who are super heroes and I to add and subtract. You have to and work hard. But if you ever feel play Elliot, who has no powers, but his shoes take over his body and give nervous, just do a belly roll and you’ll be all right! him his dancing abilities. I’ve co-choreographed 10 episodes so far with Christopher Scott, all of which will start airing in October or early November, What else can we expect from you in the future? although I’m not allowed to say which station, yet. As for the fourth, I helped Currently I’m going from project to project, working on a really huge produce Crunk Session 1, a dance instruction video for Lil C’s, who was also performance, and going back to auditions. I’m trying out writing, mostly a judge on the show, So You Think You Can Dance? I feel really lucky to be focusing on the comedy/dramedy route, but I’d be open to action or any able to work with such talented people and to try new things. other genre. I’d also love to do voiceovers. I know people who do it and they say it’s a blast creating the characters and coming to work in your How would you describe your dancing versus your acting approaches? pj’s. There are a lot of things I want to put out there. I want to be in every I’m always trying to get both involved, which is why I like producing. part of the entertainment industry. Movement in acting and dancing is such a huge thing for me that I can’t really separate the two. But there are the subtle differences; dancing is Given the chance though, I’d love to play the hero. That would definitely fulfill a childhood dream.

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Zulu Creative 3rd Anniversary Party Held at Spacetaker Artist Resource Center (ARC)

Zulu Creative celebrated their 3rd anniversary by hosting a TOMS Style Your Sole Party to provide children in need with a new pair of shoes and party goers the experience of being shoe designers for a day. The wildly creative community event was attended by a diverse mix of 300 guests whose purchases provided 150 children with a new pair of TOMS shoes. The party was held at The Spacetaker Artist Resource Center (ARC) in Houston, where Whole Earth Provision Co. set up a pop-up shop of TOMS classic styles and a sneak preview of the 2009 Fall Collection. An art supply bar was generously provided by Sharpie and Jerry’s Artarama. Brad Otts from TOMS Shoes spoke about the company's “One for One” mission Dea Chincuano, Miro Stephanie Marie FraideViet Hoang, Krysta Merceron, Celeste Tammariello, Chris Goins, Josh and Tina Zulu and thanked everyone for their participation. Tyler Merceron Brian Neal

Ole Petersen, Leandra McPartlan

Philip Cuisimano

GONZO 247 designing for a fan DJ Chicken George

Isabel Antolin, Luis Benavides, Cindy Romero

Shelly Dowlen, Doris Simpson, Maggie Newton, Denia Meza- Kinchen Sep09 16-24-P 9/5/09 5:47 AM Page 5

EVENTS The Theory of Everything The UP Futureby CHAU NGUYEN-TODD

On October 15th, some of the world’s most exciting speakers will descend upon

Houston for what is being touted as “One mind blowing day”. The Up Experience

(theupexperience.com) is a one day meeting of 16 powerful minds who will share

their areas of expertise to educate, inspire and challenge those in attendance. They

will discuss such topics as the environment, cutting edge technologies, and health

and well being to illuminate for us what’s really going on and what lies ahead. Do you think some of the things we might see in the movies, like science Yellow Magazine interviewed one of the speakers, Dr. , a world fiction, can come true? renowned theoretical physicist, professor, best selling author and self I think so. Take invisibility, for example. We’ve already been able to make professed popularizer of science. And as we learned, he is one very objects invisible out of microwave radiation. I’ve interviewed hundreds of interesting guy who’s bringing the sizzle back to science. scientists. I’m able to interview the people who are inventing the future. So, I get a front row seat. What are your thoughts about the state of science in American culture? When I was growing up, Sputnik was the talk of the town. Today, it’s all And what do they tell you? Paris Hilton and Britney Spears. We’ve lost our way. We have to put the I’ll give you just a few predictions: luster back into science. A chip will cost a penny, which means the word computer will disappear Do you think people care about science? from the English language. The destiny of the computer will disappear. So, where will the Internet be? In your contact lenses, you will have a full Well, the media sometimes says that the average person doesn’t want to Internet screen. Just by blinking, you will be able to access any movie, any know about these things. But, that’s not true. Look at the popularity of sound, any song. You’ll teleconference by blinking. You’ll simply blink. We cable television. We have The , The Science Channel, The already have the Internet in glasses. Very soon, it will be in your contact History Channel , National Geographic. This goes to show you that people lenses, as well. To learn more about Dr. are interested in science, if it’s presented well. Michio Kaku, visit his website Your clothes will be intelligent. Let’s say you’re on a lone country road and at mkaku.org Who were your great influences? you’re in a car accident in the future. Your clothes will alert the police, and I had two role models growing up, Flash Gordon and Albert Einstein. In ambulance, convey your exact coordinates, and give your pulse rate and Dr. Kaku's radio program, Flash Gordon, it was the scientists who made the tv series popular. Flash all the information about your situation to the medics before they arrive. Explorations in Science, can be got all the credit. Without Dr. Zarvov, there would be no Flash Gordon. I heard every Tuesday at 6pm In the future it will be impossible for you to die alone. on FM 90.1 KPFT. learned that science is the engine of prosperity. There’s no prosperity In the future, your toilet will be able to detect a colony of 100 cancer cells, without science. for example, and be able to zap them. Albert Einstein had just died when I was 8 years old. Everyone was talking When you blow on your bathroom glass, it will sequence the genes of about him. The greatest scientist of our age had just passed away. On the your body and tell you whether or not you might have lung cancer. evening news the caption read “This is the unfinished manuscript of the greatest scientist of our era.” I wanted to know what was in that unfinished manuscript. What could be so hard that the greatest scientist of our age A chip will cost a penny, couldn’t crack the question? I went everywhere looking for what was in the book. To me, this is more which means the word thrilling than any murder mystery. I had to know what was in that book. Today, we know the book is the unfinished theory of everything. The computer will disappear unified field theory. The theory that would allow you to, “read the mind of God.” From the creation of the to the formation of plants, life, from the English language. earth and even love. We now think we have a theory and it’s going to be tested in a few months. How about reversing the aging process? In a few months? We’re going to grow organs as they wear out. The first bladder was grown Yes. The Large Hadron Collider might shed light on the “theory of 3 years ago. The first windpipe was grown six months ago. Within five everything,” a single theory which can explain all the fundamental forces years, we will be able to grow a pancreas and liver. We’re going to have a of the universe, a theory which eluded Albert Einstein for the last 30 years human body shop and it is coming very fast. of his life. This is the Holy Grail of . After the expenditure of $10 billion and 14 years of work by thousands of physicists and engineers, the You have twenty minutes to speak at the Up Experience. How will you collider has finally been fired up. The data will be analyzed by people like wow the audience? myself. This is my day job. I’m giving them a glimpse of the future. A day in the life of a person in the years 2020 and 2030. They’ll see what robots will look like. They’ll see how cars will drive themselves, and what computers will look like when they are in contact lenses. Any final thoughts? Asian Americans have a pioneering instinct and they want to move ahead. They know they have to pull themselves up by their boot straps. I strongly encourage young Asians to look at science and engineering as a possible career goal. As a nation, we should not ignore science and engineering and be obsessed by our investments, our culture and fashion.

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39th Annual Miss Chinatown Houston Scholarship Pageant Held at the Crowne Plaza Houston, Reliant Park

The Chinese American Citizens Alliance (CACA) Houston Lodge presented their 39th Annual Miss Chinatown Houston Scholarship Pageant at the Crowne Plaza. Angela Wang was crowned Miss Chinatown Houston 2009-2010, and Jennifer Yang Miss Chinese New Year Houston 2009 -2010. The theme for this year’s pageant was “Miss Chinatown Musical”, and the audience was entertained by Chinatown Beat doing their own interpretation of popular musicals. Cindy Wu, Miss Chinatown Houston 2008-2009, who also was crowned Miss Chinatown USA 2009, performed some of her songs.

Di Chen, Cindy Wu, Mimi Zhang, Sandy Ma, Jenny Sung, Jessica Chong, Angela Wang, Mandy Kao, Alice Kwok, Michael Su, Cindy Wu Jennifer Yang, Li Yi, Winnie Chung, Tiffany Yep, Jenny Wang Jacquie Chaumette

Sue Sim, Yuki Rogers Dorothy Chow, Munson Kwok

The Chinatown Beat

Cindy Wu, Vican & Stephanie Di Chen, Tony & Le Ma Tan

Michelle & Andy Escalona, Todd Stuiber, Stephanie Hoang, Chris Doan, Tramy Lam, Viet Hoang, Yuki Rogers, Henri Merceron, Chad Landry

Tiffany Yep, Judge Theresa Contestants Wang, Winston Wang

Winston Wong, Cindy Wu, Chantalle Wong, Carolyn Wong

Jane Gee, Tina Walker, Kitty So, Tammy Su, Betty Gee, Linda Wu Sep09 16-24-P 9/5/09 5:47 AM Page 7

CUSTOMS Point Counterpoint Compromise and Reconciliation That’s Not What I Meant

Trish Volore and her husband, Vuthy “Woody” Kuon, have been blissfully married

for three years. As is the case with many marriages, the early years present an

array of challenges, discussions and compromises. Coming from different cultural

backgrounds, they found that there are some challenges that are unique to

their special circumstances. This month, Trish and Vuthy discuss the effect

writing these articles has had on their relationship.

After we wrote our article last month, I was so irritated with Woody That was so sweet, Tricia! I was really expecting a vicious all-out attack since that I emailed the article to Henri, Yellow Magazine’s editor, stating that she had warned me that this month she would be refuting my last article. Since I no longer wanted to write this column because it made me mad at she so graciously took the “high road” on this one, I will refute for her. Woody. Once I cooled down, I changed my mind. You know, it is a woman’s I don’t really believe all men are dogs, like it may have sounded in my prerogative to change her mind. I told Henri that we had to write at least last article. I also don’t think women are to blame for all of men’s faults. one more article because I had to respond to what Woody said in the I took artistic license in making a point and, in the process, heavily previous article. That was my plan until I watched the second Bridget Jones exaggerated my point of view. I believe that society does definitely influence movie. I changed my mind again. how we act as men and women but, ultimately, we all must take If you have not seen the two Bridget Jones movies, you are really missing responsibility for our actions. out. They are completely funny and a bit outrageous, yet they are also Since my wife referenced movies and television shows, I will stick with poignant and often reflect real relationships and the troubles that couples the same theme. There was a reality show we tivoed a couple of years ago face. I was up early one morning and caught the second half of the sequel. which aired on VH1 called The Pick-up Artist. The premise of the show was A particular segment caught my attention. Bridget was in a jail cell in that a former loser in the “pick-up” game discovered the secrets of getting Thailand with many other women. Over time, they became confidantes women. Tricia and I looked forward to watching each new episode. A group and were comparing the various ways in which they were mistreated by of socially awkward young men were guided through various challenges the men they loved. Some of the women were beaten, forced to sell to help them build confidence and, ultimately, get girls to like them. themselves, sell drugs, and were routinely the victims of unfaithful I was amazed that many of the methods taught were the same lessons boyfriends and spouses. Bridget’s primary complaints about her boyfriend I had learned through my own dating experiences. Some lessons dealt were that he was too uptight and always had to fold his “just so” with having the men learn how to throw out “negs” and show “DHV.” A before going to sleep. “neg” is a negative remark a man should playfully make to a women to It was such a small part of the movie but it really struck a chord with make her feel less confident about herself and make him appear more me. There are definitely little ways that Woody and I are different. For confident. Also, a “DHV” stands for “demonstration of higher value,” which If you have questions instance, he loves the show South Park and I truly cannot wrap my mind men should always show, since women should not always have the upper that you would like to ask Vuthy and Trish, feel around why anyone would like that ridiculous show. It is actually profane hand. The show clearly made the point that, “women loved jerks!” free to email them at but somehow Woody finds it completely hilarious. I do like to watch Woody In my last article, I ‘fessed up. I admitted to the world, “I am a jerk!!!” [email protected]. watch South Park because he laughs so hard, it makes me feel like laughing, I learned the methods! I bought into the hype. I felt the change in myself too. He has a South Park t-shirt and I beg him not to wear in public because and saw the results. The point I forgot to make, however, is that I have I don’t want people to judge him based on the fact that he likes such a changed. I ended the article with despair, insinuating that men are bad completely immoral show. Then, there are the endless ways that Woody and women looking for a good man might as well give up. I only did this and I are different which have been well documented in our articles. We for dramatic effect and shock value. As an artist, as a writer, I love arousing have both made many compromises to allow for our differences and do strong reactions. I love a good debate. not insist on having our own way. This delicate balancing act in itself can I didn’t anticipate my wife’s reaction. I thought that making myself be tricky and if I let myself, I could always be irritated at Woody because look like a jerk would somehow help other women feel better about their of a disagreement or small difference, etc. What I realized, as I sat there situations. I thought admitting that I was a jerk may help men open their laughing at Bridget Jones is that some of these things do not matter. eyes to their own shortcomings and I would be flooded with letters saying, The truth is this. Woody is wonderful. He treats me like a princess. He “Dear Woody, your brutal honesty has really helped me and my relationship. loves me and I love him. I heard a talk show host talking about the little I can admit my faults now and I will change my ways.” things that bother people in relationships and she said to ask yourself if Instead, all I got was a wife hurt by my words. What I failed to see was being right or fighting about something is worth having a battle or an all that she loved me so, that when I put myself down, it also put her down. I out war. She said, “Is it worth dying on this mountain?” Basically, there must admit, as a man, it’s hard to understand women. What I do understand will be many disagreements and compromises in a relationship and only is that Tricia means the world to me. If she is hurt, I am hurt. If she is happy, a few things are worth a big confrontation or even ending the relationship. I am happy. I have been working hard to make sure she is happy. I may not Before being confrontational and making a big deal out of something, we be perfect, but I am not a jerk. I can be, but deep down, I am a good guy. I need to ask ourselves if the disagreement is worth creating a rift in the have many great male friends who all are good-hearted men! There are relationship. Between Bridget Jones and that talk show host, I got my tons of good men out there… a few (I mean a lot!!!) are single. priorities straight and can honestly say that hardly any disagreement is So women, don’t give up hope. Boys do grow up to become men. These worth risking the wonderful relationship I have with Woody. He is my own men will become good husbands and amazing fathers. Be patient with personal Prince Charming. them and try hard to forgive them for their shortcomings. Let ‘em watch – TRICIA VOLORE their South Park. You never know, they may in turn cuddle up with you for an evening of Haagen Daz and Bridget Jones. – VUTHY KUON

By Vuthy Kuon

22 | September 2009 Sep09 16-24-P 9/5/09 5:47 AM Page 8

Dining Guide Yellow Magazine’s featured restaurants JAPANESE KOREAN Vietopia 5176 Buffalo Speedway, 713.664.7303 Shabu House Arirang Korean Restaurant Trendy yet elegant, Vietopia delivers top notch 8719- Bellaire Blvd., 713.995.5428 9715 Bellaire Blvd., 713.988.2088 Vietnamese cuisine at reasonable lunch prices and Only beef or seafood items are served and will From the décor to the cuisine, everything about a stellar dinner menu. The lounge at Vietopia works be cooked with the classic shabu shabu style. this place exemplifies tradition. The Moh Dum perfectly for those who want a less formal dining Boiling broth is situated at the bar. When the Bulgogi is a classic family style dinner which experience but still want to enjoy quality food. food arrives, place everything in the broth and includes barbecued short ribs, squid, chicken begin the unique experience. and a vast assortment of side dishes such as the Van Loc Restaurant potato salad, kim chi and spicy cucumber salad. 3010 Milam St., 713.528.6441 Tokyo One A great lunch time eatery serving classic 7465 W. Greens Rd., 281.955.8898 Korea Garden Grille Vietnamese cuisine which, according to the 2938 W. Sam Houston S., 713.785.8899 11360 Bellaire Blvd #990, 281.568.0008 establishment, has around “200 menu items Tokyo One is a sushi buffet restaurant, situated Clean with nice ambience and quiet atmosphere that come straight from mama.” Dishes to try in a fancy boat house with an outside deck. The all you can eat Korean BBQ style. Serving of are the Vietnamese egg rolls and the beef cubed food is fresh and is constantly replenished. endless good quality Korean BBQ, steaks & steak with lettuce and tomato. Selections include: salads such as sea weed, beef, seafood along with traditional side dishes, BYOB. squid, salmon and watercress. Sushi includes a Mo Mong variety of rolls and sashimi. A “must have” is the ITALIAN 1201 Westheimer Rd. #B, 713.524.5664 escobar. There are also a variety of fresh crabs This Trendy Montrose establishment has a great Da Marco Cucina E Vino during dinner. Great price and great atmosphere. lunch crowd as well as a packed martini night 1520 Westheimer Rd. 713.807.8857 on Wednesdays. But the real draw is the food- Zushi Japanese Cuisine If you are looking for authentic Italian food, Da traditional family recipes mixed in with some 5900 Memorial Dr., 713.861.5588 Marco is the place to find it. It has a charming tasty modern dishes. Must try items include the Zushi serves extremely fresh and high quality atmosphere to go along with the excellent fare. Mango Spring Rolls, Shrimp and Avocado Spring sushi. Stand out items are the sashimi appetizers All of the entrees are subtle and prepared nearly Roll, Volcano Chicken, and the Bo Luc Lac. served with perfectly paired sauces or any one perfect. Must try Sweet Corn Ravioli and Lobster of the many house specialty rolls. and the Sea Bass with Aceto Tradizionale. WINE BARS Uptown Sushi T HAI So Vino Bistro & Wine Bar 1131 Uptown Park Blvd. #14 713.871.1200 507 Westheimer Rd., 713.524.1000 Uptown Sushi personifies an upscale sushi Thai Spice So Vino highlights the unique tastes and styles restaurant located near the Galleria in the swanky 8282 Bellaire Blvd. 713.777.4888 of Southern Hemisphere wines. The pairing of Uptown Park Plaza. The menu offers Japanese Thai Spice on Bellaire is a foodies dream. It’s a stellar wines with the new interpretations of fusion dishes and a great selection of high-end casual place that serves Thai dishes you won’t traditional world cuisine is the passion of co- sashimi and sushi. Side note: Uptown Sushi has find anywhere else in Houston, with a huge founder Elizabeth Abraham. Must try include “off-the-menu” specialty rolls served daily! selection of interesting, rare, tasty dishes at cooked mussels served with a soy potatoe patty excellent prices. A must have is the whole fried Rickshaw Bambu and topped with a mushroom ragu, also the tilapia with hot and sour dipping sauce and 713.942.7272 short ribs. papaya salad and Tom Yum soup. So many great dishes and variety to match, The Tasting Room picking a favorite seems to be a daunting task. Nit Noi 1101 Uptown Park Blvd. #18, 713.993.9800 The East West Chicken Wraps, Mandarin Beef 6700 Woodway Pkwy., Suite 580 281.597.8200 Each of The Tasting Room’s three Houston and Rickshaw’s Pad Thai are favorite Pan Asian Nit Noi means “a little bit” and Thai food lovers locations offers a unique food and wine dishes. The sushi menu has seventeen specialty pack Nit Noi restaurants and cafes all around experience. Uptown has a more sophisticated rolls and, of course, nigiri and sashimi. Houston. Nit Noi will always be known for their feel that attracts a hip, professional crowd. It is Pad Thai, but other must try dishes include the newest “in” spot to sip and be seen. Check CHINESE PadThai Korat (flat noodles stir-fried with out the Sunday Brunch Buffet for $24, or their chicken, pork or shrimp with vegetables) and Auntie Chang’s delicious thin crust pizza anytime. Tom Yum Goong (spicy and sour shrimp soup). 2621 South Shepherd #290, 713.524.8410 Auntie Chang’s offers the most flavorful home- Red Basil CONTINENTAL 11322-C Westheimer Rd., 281.293.0426 style Chinese cuisine around. Although known Backstreet Café A gourmet take on traditional Thai cuisine, Red for their dumplings, any of your favorite classic 1103 South Shepherd Dr 713.521.2239 Basil offers fabulous food at a reasonable price. Chinese dishes are done extremely well. A well hidden restaurant with one of the nicest Reserve your Marketplace ad today! If you are a fan of Thai soup try the Tom Yam Hong Kong Food Street patios in town delivers the best Prosciutto with shrimp. It will evoke all of your senses of 9750 Bellaire Blvd., 713.981.9888 Wrapped Scallops in town. The tasty New York taste with its sweet, sour and spice flavors. The Call 832.778.4530 Peking duck and roasted pork hang from cleavers Strip is an 11 oz Black Angus encrusted with papaya salad and the Massaman curry beef are in a front window display giving a Hong Kong white, pink, black and green peppercorns and a few others to try. street market feel. In addition, the menu is pan seared. Highly recommended if you are divided into sections including Seafood, Hot Pot, Tony Thai looking for a romantic place for dinner. 10613 Bellaire Blvd., 281.495.1711 Special Stir Fry, Sizzling and Chef Specials. The Bistro Calais A sophisticated approach to traditional Thai Peking duck, Beef Pot and Dry Scallops are 2811 Bammel Lane 713.529.1314 cuisine, Tony’s executes with perfect balance recommended items. French and Continental fare with some Southern and pizzazz. Tony’s Wings, wet or dry, and the San Dong Noodle House favorites. Must try are the Gumbo (if you like it Steamed Mussels are popular appetizers. For 9938-F Bellaire Blvd., 713.271.3945 spicy) and Lump Crab Cakes (all crab with the main course try the Basil Lamb, Garlic Authentic hand pulled Chinese noodle dishes are minimal breading), the best in town. Experience Salmon or the Steamed Fish with Chili. served at a reasonable price. A few favorites their Sunday Brunch, which was voted best include the Roast Beef Noodle soup served in a “Morning-After Brunch” in 2008 by Citysearch. INDIAN beef broth accented by ginger and soy, or the oh Voice Restaurant & Lounge so addicting pan fried dumplings. Kiran’s Restaurant Hotel Icon, 220 Main 832.667.4470 Sinh 4100 Westheimer Rd. #151, 713.960.8472 The impressive décor has thoughtfully This northern Indian style restaurant embodies 9788 Bellaire Blvd., 713.541.0888 transformed the space of an old bank lobby into The seafood at Sinh Sinh is quite exciting a fusion approach to its cuisine. With a focus on a warm cozy and elegant dining area. Try the because everything served comes from live tanks. well balanced flavors rather than spice, the Flaky Mushroom Soup “Cappucino”, reduction of Prawns, Australian king lobster, King crabs, Coral Halibut Swimming in Watermelon Curry sauce garlic, onion, crimini mushrooms topped with Leopard trout, Surf clams, Geoduck clams, Trunk and the Tandoori Platter typify this perfectly. frothy truffle foam, and the Bryan Farms Roast clams, Elephant clams, etc…are all featured as Chicken, a free range and 100% corn fed chicken. VIETNAMESE live seafood. Colombe d’Or Restaurant and Hotel Arco Seafood Kim Son Restaurants 3410 Montrose Blvd. 713.524.7999 9896 Bellaire Blvd., 713.774.2888 2001 Jefferson (and other locations), 713.222.2461 Built in 1923 and originally the mansion of A refreshing take on Chinese seafood offering an The menu is the most imposing part of this casual, Walter Fondren, one of the founders of Humble upscale ambience. Subtle flavors allow the natural highly regarded landmark Vietnamese restaurant. Oil, Colombe d’Or Hotel is considered a Texas taste of the seafood to emerge. Dishes to try: Sea There are no poor choices among the 100 or so historical landmark. Featuring French and Cucumber, Crab Meat and Fish Maw Soup, options. Enjoy finely prepared delicacies as well Continental fare, we recommend the Carre Noodle’s with Abalone Sauce, Sautéed Snow Pea as the expected fare, such as the pork vermicelli d’Agneau, individual rack of baby lamb grilled Leaf or the Steamed Whole Tilapia. and fried eggroll. Must try is their black pepper with natural herbs and red wine sauce. softshell crab. Expansive banquet and special event facilities are also available. To have your restaurant featured in Yellow Magazine, or to recommend a restaurant that you enjoy, please email the information to [email protected]. Sep09 16-24-P 9/5/09 5:47 AM Page 9