Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 1

F ASHION LIFESTYLE ART ENTERTAINMENT

MARCH 2007 FREE

Special 2nd Anniversary Issue!

A Cinematic Journey with Ham Tran Donna Cole in the Minority What’s Baking on Bellaire? Going for the Gold Fashion Pops

yellowmags.com

Halter dress and motorcycle jacket by Philipe and David Blond Shoes by Cesar Paciotti

Photographer : Jhane Hoang Fashion Stylist/Art Director : MarcSifuentes.com Hair/Makeup : Erica Gray Digital Retouching and Graphics : Arianna Stolt Model : Mayuko at Elite Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 2

FROM THE PUBLISHER

It is hard for me to conceive that Yellow Magazine is marking its second anniversary! How cliché it seems to state, “it feels like yesterday” when we launched the inaugural issue. This is a sense that one generally gets during times of heightened activity and of great joy. The publication of Yellow Magazine represents both to me and, hence, time is passing at a breathtaking pace.

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect about publishing the magazine is the consistent support communicated to us by you, the readers. As I take part in many of the community events that occur during the year, I am humbled by the appreciative comments that have been shared with me. I am proud to be an Asian American, and I am proud of the contributions that Asian Americans make to the community at large. It is this magazine’s mission and its honor to elevate the awareness of these contributions and to foster the positive intercultural dynamics that benefit us all.

While Yellow Magazine is a lifestyle, fashion and entertainment publication, we have also endeavored to provide fresh and interesting editorial in the form of interviews and other articles of meaningful interest. So, while we do highlight the latest in haute couture, we also convey the pulse of ’s Asian American community as we document the cultural, social and business events that occur each month.

During the last year, we have hosted monthly release parties for each new issue of the magazine at such venues as Westside Lexus, Tansu, Dive Lounge in the Downtown Aquarium, and in February at Sake Lounge. We have held events in conjunction with Museum of Fine Art, Houston, and Neiman Marcus. We have organized cognac tasting parties with Hennessey and Martell at which Maurice Hennessey and Bertrand Guinoiseau traveled from Cognac, France, to share the finer points about their spirits that impressed the connoisseurs in attendance. We participated in the effort to add the first piece of art by a Vietnamese American to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston’s permanent collection. And, in all these ventures, we recognize and are appreciative of the gracious participation, support, and patronage of all of you. You have enabled us to be your partners in having a significant impact upon our community and our city.

Finally, speaking of partnership, Yellow Magazine has recently partnered with MV Media, a young and vibrant company that will accelerate and facilitate our expansion and growth. We are excited about the prospects ahead of us, and we look forward to continuing our evolution with you.

Viet Hoang Publisher Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 3

The color yellow has played a recurrent symbolic role throughout the history of Asian culture. It symbolizes the earth 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 publisher of the 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.

Publisher Viet Hoang, President of MV Media

Editor Henri Merceron Fashion Editor Marc Sifuentes Arts and Entertainment Director Celeste Tammariello Lifestyle Editor Jessica Ritter Travel Editor Matt Sims Contributing Writers Philip Cusimano Hien Tammy Vu Bonny Maynard Creative Director Jeff Martin Social Photographer Sopheavy Than Fashion Photographer Jhane Hoang Fashion Stylist/Art Director MarcSifuentes.com Hair/Makeup Erica Gray Digital Retouching Arianna Stolt

Business Manager Karla Montejo Web Marketing Zulu Creative Tina Zulu zulucreative.com

National Advertising Verve Communications Group 325 N. St. Paul Street Suite 2360 , TX 75201 214.965.9933 x106 vervecommunications.com Local Advertising 713.528.6000 x103 [email protected]

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.

March 2007 Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 4

Yellow February Release Party Photos by Sopheavy Than Held at Sake Lounge

The February Issue Release party for Yellow Magazine was held at Sake Lounge in the heart of Houston’s Theatre District. Guests had a chance to experience a massage from Chrysalis and enjoyed desserts from Indulge Desserts while beautiful models from Neal Hamil squeezed through the crowd in clothes from Betsey Johnson. Sushi and chocolate martinis provided by Sake Lounge were plentiful throughout the night. Guests also had a chance to win a weekend Cadillac rental provided by Stewart Cadillac.

Tony Dinh, Mimi Dinh, John KimDaniella Rojas, Brittany Reicheck Jeff Shell, Jenny Wang

Richard Phan, Doan Nguyen, Andy Phan Bob Basu, Stacie Giroux, Matt Hanasono Julie Vo, Suiwah Ma, Donna Ngo, Fatema Naqui Miya Shay, Priscilla Kwan and Lincoln Goodwin

John Phan, Cindy Nguyen Lily Hsu, Teresa Tran, Suzette Nguyen, Dinh Nguyen, Angelia GuinaraSabina Khan, Mimi Dinh, Kimberly Michelle Kenneth Goh, Gina Whitaker

Charles Vora, Quynh Nguyen David Dong, Chris Wu, Roger Huang, Eric Ou Christie Nguyen, John Vasquez, Dawn Truong Claudia Martinez, Joseph Tung Sixto Wagan, Shawna Forney

Erin Dallas, My Dien Le, Jenny Jacobson, Hoa Le Sonja Alavrez, Mary Wesley, Santos Chapa Lisa Wilmore, Hector Vallejo

Did you miss out on last month’s party? Just email us at [email protected] to get on our invite list. Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 5

Artist Tam Van Tran Reception and Presentation Photos by Rochelle Abante and Rudy Lopez Held at the Museum of Fine Art, Houston

Air Power is a work of art by Tam Van Tran that was inspired by nature, particularly, the bamboo groves near the home of his uncle in DaNang, Vietnam. Tran makes his own paint by mixing spirulina and chlorophyll with acrylic. Air Power focuses on the release of air. Most importantly, it is about non-conceptual space, which one is more likely to experience in nature where there are few distractions. In this space, the mind is more relaxed and at peace, which enhances a person's subtle view of perception. This is a concept influenced by Buddhist beliefs. On January 27, 2007, Air Power was presented to the MFAH, representing the first piece of art by a Vietnamese American to become part of the museum’s permanent collection. The acquisition was made possible by generous donations from Bobbi Nguyen of Accurate Fidelity, Vican Tan of Viet Hoa International Food, and Donna Cole of Cole Chemical Company, amongst others.

Bobbi Nguyen Diane Tran-Yu, Danny Nguyen, Stephanie Tan, Tam Van Tran, Vican Tan, Viet Hoang, Katherine Le

Linda and Richard Trimm, Stephanie and State Representative Christine Starkman, Barry Walker Tina Hernandez Zulu, Josh Zulu, Morgan Holleman Frank Perez, Karla Montejo Anthony Dang, Monique Hoang, Catherine Le, Bac Vu, Ninh Ngo Hubert Vo Hoang Quan Vu

Sam Nguyen, Haleigh Nguyen, Rick and Carole Harrington Mark Dang, Tam Van Tran Devin Borden, Ted Lee Barbara Davis, Hiram Butler, Nora Howard Vicki Nguyen, Joanne Nguyen Kimsa Nguyen, Na Li

Kim Oanh, Viet Hoang, Monique Hoang, Ricardo and Susan Acosta Bobbi Nguyen, Tony To, Mimi Huynh, Michael Dang and Thao Nguyen and friend Teresa Mai, Tung Tran Margo Handwerker Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 6

MOVIES A Conversation with an Award Winning Director Ham Tranby HIEN TAMMY VU Writer/director Ham Tran

April 30, 1975, marks The when a civil war erupted between North and What was the biggest challenge of making the movie? When I look back at my directing journal, I think the main concern that South Vietnam. The North Vietnamese, or Viet Cong, invaded the capitalist South came up for me personally was, “What right do I have to tell the story Vietnamese territory. fled their homeland and endured journeys about boat people and the re-education camps if I’ve never experienced either?” That’s the reason why I surrounded myself with artists who were of hardship in the form of re-education camps and subsequent voyages as boat people not only amazing in their field, but have also experienced the story of this film firsthand. From the people we cast to our make-up artist and costume upon an uncertain and hostile sea. More than 200,000 Vietnamese were imprisoned designer, they are the ones who helped to create this vision.

in re-education camps, and almost two million fled the country by boat. How did you get the Vietnamese American community involved in financing the production of the film? More than 30 years later, writer/director Ham Tran has captured the struggles and When my short film, The Anniversary (Ngay Gio), was in the top 10 for the Academy Award in 2004, a group of Vietnamese business people saw the sacrifices that were experienced during that period in his film, Journey from the Fall. film. They approached me and asked what I was doing next. When I pitched Journey they totally supported the film. Anh Truc Ho was the first to say, Compared by many to Schindler’s List, the film explores the Vietnamese experience “I want to help you find money to make your next movie.” My Executive through the eyes of one family as they fight for freedom in the wake of war-torn Producer, Alan Vo Ford, was the first to write us a check for $30,000, and said, “Do what you need to put together an investment pitch.” Our pitch Vietnam, communist political prison camps, and the mass exodus of boat people. was simple: “2005 is the 30th anniversary of the fall of Saigon and yet our community still does not have anything to share with the world to show what it was like for us to leave Viet Nam, and why we are here in I had a chance to screen the movie with a few Vietnamese senior citizens the U.S. If you give us the money by April 30, 2004, we will give you a film who lived through the Vietnam War. Many were brought to tears while by April 30, 2005.” watching the depictions of the prison camps and the scenes of the boat After ten weeks of filming in Thailand, the film finished shooting by April journeys. How were you able to capture these scenes so accurately? 30, 2005, and the post-production work was completed by October 2005. Part of the reason why my producer, Lam, and I paid extra attention to the Since then, we’ve been screening exclusively at film festivals and picking historical accuracy of the film is because we knew that we did up some awards along the way. Now, after a year and a half, we are finally not have firsthand experience with a lot of the big events in the releasing the film theatrically. film. This awareness led us to cast non-actors for most of the film. In the production, only and Long Nguyen are Do you feel that the movie has helped the Vietnamese people who were formal actors. Everyone else had never done a feature film before. affected by the war overcome their traumatic experiences? Nguyen Thai Nguyen, who has the lead role, arrived in the United For Lam and I, the first reason for making Journey is to give back to the States only 6 months before he was cast for the part. We cast Vietnamese community a story that will help them heal from the scars people who had been in re-education camps to act in the camp of the Viet Nam war. It’s a way to find solace in their suffering and to begin scenes and we cast real boat people to be in the boat scenes. the path of overcoming the traumatic experience of being a war refugee During filming, if something didn’t feel right to them, we would by first acknowledging what happened to us as a community. We find it make the appropriate changes so that it was more accurate. extremely rewarding after a festival screening, when we overhear people comparing their own experiences to the events in the movie. What it What is your impression of Hollywood’s portrayal of the war? means for us is that the silence is at least broken, and that people can I think we can safely say that there are essentially three ways now begin to share with their own family what they had to endure. The in which Hollywood and some foreign critics view Viet Nam best thing about watching the movie is that their families can now see films. One, there has to be a hooker as a main character. Two, what they are talking about when they say, “Yes, I was a boat person.” Or there has to be an American G.I. in the picture. Three, it has to “Yes, I was in a re-education camp.” have shots of majestic landscapes, with stoic Vietnamese characters who don’t talk and are emotionally repressed. I should probably include the obligatory shot of a beautiful girl in a white As far as independent Vietnamese silk dress (ao dai). These are outdated stereotypes. We all know films are concerned, we’ve already Journey from the Fall will be released that a Vietnamese woman will speak her mind. She is intelligent, March 23, 2007. For information, visit strong-willed, and she will do whatever it takes to protect her accomplished a lot. JourneyFromTheFall.com or family. What we are trying to say with Journey from the Fall is MySpace.com/journeyfromthefall that the history of the Viet Nam war did not end with the Will it be shown throughout the United States? withdrawal of the American soldiers. There is a gap in historical Our distributor, ImaginAsian, initially plans to release the film in ten ★ Grand Jury Prize - Amazonas consciousness when it comes to what happened to millions of theaters across the country. Whether or not we can show it in more International Film Festival, Brazil Vietnamese people after the fall of Saigon. We are trying to theaters depends upon how many people come out to see the film on the ★ Winner, Best Feature Film - bridge this gap with a story that introduces three-dimensional first and second weekends, so please tell your friends and organize group Anchorage International Film Festival people who had to deal with the realities of displacement, screenings at the theaters! ★ Winner, Best Cinematography - fragmentation and dehumanization, basically, the inherent Milano International Film Festival Obviously, this project is dear to your heart. How will you personally consequences of war. ★ Winner, Long Nguyen, Best Actor - measure its success? Newport Beach Film Festival Have you noticed any changes in how Asian Americans are In essence, this film is already a success merely because we got it made, ★ Special Jury Prize - Newport Beach portrayed in films in recent years? found a distributor, and it will be released in theaters across the country. Film Festival More and more, we are seeing stereotypes fading. We are seeing It will be on DVD and in video stores! As far as independent Vietnamese ★ Audience Award - films about Asian Americans with plots that do not revolve films are concerned, we’ve already accomplished a lot. International Asian American around what it means to be Asian American. In the media’s eyes, What I hope for the future is that this part of history will actually find its Film Festival we are becoming more multi-faceted, richer in personality, and way into textbooks, so that when high school students read about the ★ Grand Jury Prize - International Film Festival able to get the best of both worlds as Asians and as Americans. Viet Nam war, they will know about boat people and the re-education camps. I hope there will be other films about boat people. This one topic ★ Jury Award - Asian Film Festival of Dallas Was the Hollywood establishment receptive to promoting this alone has a million stories. I hope that our community can heal from the ★ Winner, Ham Tran, Best Director - movie? scars of the war, and that old and young generations can better understand Asian Festival of First Film To tell you the truth, I don’t think Hollywood really cares what ★ one another. Winner, Lam Nguyen, Best Producer - we do with this film, mainly because they wouldn’t know how Asian Festival of First Film to market it. When one considers Journey from the Fall in the Do you have other projects in the works? ★ Audience Award - Toronto Reel Asian eyes of “the industry”, it is a foreign language, historical drama I’m currently working on several projects, but it all depends on finding the International Film Festival with no notable “American” actors. It’s a marketing disaster. Yet, right person who will say, “Here’s some money for you to go and write ★ Special Project Award - The Princess this is only when you look at a film from a bottom line your next film.” I have so many films to make that are personal, such as Grace Foundation, USA perspective. Hollywood only cares if and when this film breaks the box a story about human trafficking and my dream of filming my version of office. I recently met the director of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, and Once Upon a Time in . But, it all boils down to finding that first he loved the film because of its message. He said, “In my day, the studios investor who will put up the money to get the films made. If you know used to tell me, “You want to send a message, send Western Union!’” Our that person, give him my number! goal is to get enough people to come see the film in the theaters, so that we can turn Hollywood’s head to a new target audience, Asian Americans.

6| March 2007 Yellow Magazine Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 7 Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 8

TRAVEL Hong Kong will Suit You to a T Hong Kong by MATT SIMS

I emerged from the underground subway entrance and hastily glanced up and down the street. No sign

of them. Satisfied, I walked briskly along with the flow of the massive crowd surging down the street.

Then, I spotted one just as he saw me. Quickly, I ducked into an alley and made my escape without looking

back. When I felt sure I had lost him, I reached again into my pocket for the cryptic note on the small scrap

of paper I had been given. But to my surprise, when I looked up again, he was standing in front of me

smiling, triumphantly. I had to face the fact. I was no match for my tenacious adversary.

“Would you like to buy a suit, Sir? Very good price.” “No,” I said. “For graciously pointed me in the right direction when I got close. My 30 minute the last time, NO!” wait for a table was rewarded with the best cha sui bao and har gow I’ve Okay, truth be known, I was not evading an enemy agent of a hostile ever tasted. Plus, I got to sample quite a few delicious dishes I had never government, but just trying to avoid another sales pitch by those selling seen before, including a pair of steamed shrimp dumplings sculpted to look inexpensive suits in Hong Kong along Nathan Road. I had already been like tiny mice. measured for a new suit at Hong Kong’s premier tailor shop, Sam’s Tailors, For more upscale shopping and dining, head to any one of the better and I was on my way to the fitting. hotels close to the water, such as the Peninsula or Intercontinental. You will Hong Kong is one of Asia’s most interesting cities, where you can move find shops offering brand names like Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, to the frenetic pace of 7 million residents as they hurry from one place to Hermes, Versace, or Tiffany & Co. After shopping, have a drink in the lobby the next, trying to squeeze 25 hours of activity into a 24 hour day. Or, at a of one of these architectural wonders and absorb the ambience. One of the slower pace, you can explore exotic shops and temples, chat for hours over most pleasant evenings I spent in Hong Kong was sitting in the lobby lounge dim sum, or stroll along the harbor at night while gazing upon the architectural of the Intercontinental. I sipped a delicious pinot noir while listening to a wonders of glass and steel, their lights reflecting romantically on the water. jazz band. My gaze drifted to the huge window close by that framed one Getting a custom fitted suit from Sam’s is just another one of those of the most beautiful views in the city. A person could get used to this! unique Hong Kong experiences that should not be missed. As soon as you If you are as addicted to night markets as I am, the Temple Street Night enter the shop, you are treated like royalty. Signed photos of appreciative Market is a great place to go and take part in a few more hours of busy customers include kings, princes, prime ministers, presidents, and other commerce. After that, you can walk along the harbor or take the Star Ferry celebrities. You may be impressed that you are shopping at the same over to Hong Kong Island. establishment that has made suits for Princes Charles and Philip, Presidents You will want to check out the trendy Lan Kwai Fong area, which holds Ford, Reagan, Bush, and Clinton, as well as Margaret Thatcher, Tony Blair, the island’s hippest dining and entertainment establishments. You can find George Michael, Luciano Pavarotti, Richard Gere, John McEnroe, David almost any type of cuisine and dine with the island’s elite. I expected to see Bowie, and even Michael Jackson. Jackie Chan or Chow Yun Fat around every corner. For dinner, I opted to By the end of the day, my beautifully tailored suit arrived at the hotel try a fashionable Vietnamese restaurant filled with well-dressed clientele, but along with several custom fitted shirts, all for the price of a nice dinner jacket was a little disappointed to find that it wasn’t as authentic as I had hoped. from a high-end store back in the States. For more authentic ethnic cuisine, I should have stuck with traditional Hong Kong is a fast paced metropolis of dazzling skyscrapers, luxury Cantonese fare. hotels, busy restaurants, scenic vistas, and seemingly tireless shoppers. On Hong Kong Island itself, it is very well worth going to the top of When people talk about Hong Kong, they are referring not only to Victoria Peak. Don’t worry, you don’t have to hike in those new shoes you Hong Kong Island, but a couple of other nearby areas as well, including just bought. A tram will take you to the top where picture perfect views of Kowloon, Lantau Island, and the New Territories. My hotel, the New World Hong Kong abound. Renaissance, was on the Kowloon side of the bay, so my first forays into Later, as I walked around the peak and looked out over some of the most shopping and eating were in the Tsim Sha Tsui district along the famous expensive real estate in the world, I couldn’t help but wonder how this area Nathan Road. This busy street is a shopper’s mecca, with innumerable must have looked in the late 1800’s when the British took possession of it specialty clothing shops and restaurants lining both sides of the road and in order to more easily import opium into China. Since then, I have seen almost every side street. Just start walking, and when the crowds start thinning old photographs of thickly forested hills surrounding a pretty bay filled with out, cross the street and go back the other way. Don’t shy away from venturing Chinese junk boats. Who could have predicted that the whole area would down the other nearby streets, as the entire area is full of interesting places one day be filled with giant skyscrapers? Some traditional-looking junk boats and people. remain to take tourists on short cruises of the harbor. In 1997, Hong Kong If you need to get off your feet for a while or are simply hungry for dim was returned to China and now, after about 100 years, it is back under the sum, get a recommendation from a local resident (English is spoken at most control of the Chinese government, trying to retain its economic vitality larger stores and hotels) or pick a restaurant that appears busy. One within a different political system. I remember watching the handover recommendation I got from a local sent me to an obscure place (with no ceremonies on TV, and wondering how it would affect the lives of the people. English name or sign) on the third floor of a busy office building. Thankfully, I guess the leaders in Beijing thought that it would be crazy to interfere with he wrote the name in Chinese on a card, and people in the neighborhood Hong Kong’s energy. I know I wouldn’t want to be the one to try. Hong Kong is a fast paced metropolis of dazzling skyscrapers, luxury hotels, busy restaurants, scenic vistas, and seemingly tireless shoppers.

8| March 2007 Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 9

Martell Cognac Tasting Event Photos by Sopheavy Than Held at the home of Dr. Kim and Betty Gee

Martell Cognac conducted a tasting of its various cognacs at the home of Dr. Kim Gee and Betty Gee. Bertrand Guinoiseau arrived from Cognac, France to deliver a very insightful and informative presentation.

Bertrand Guinoiseau Brand Ambassador for Martell Bertrand Guinoiseau speaks to the guests Betty and Dr. Kim Gee Mandy and William Kao Yuki Rogers

Terry and Ann Cheng Ricardo Acosta from Pernod- Ricard Daniel Tran and Bobbi Nguyen Tammy and Dr. Michael Su Rekha and Huan Le

x

Danh Le, Thanh Luu, Anthony Dang Susan and Joe Ting Dr. Jeremy and Jamie Szeto Jennifer and Timothy Wong Tammy Do and Sam Nguyen Mar07 1-10-P 3/30/07 9:07 AM Page 10

WINE

Salute! Vino Italiano by PHILIP CUSIMANO March with Italian Wine

St. Patrick’s day is observed this month. Wearing green is of Italian Vino is that it is best when served with food, a fact required, it is mandatory to consume massive quantities of well known to culinary and wine professionals. There are two Here are some suggestions to try on St. Joseph’s Day (and other days!) beer, and “kiss me I’m Irish” finds its way in many shapes and reasons why Italian wines are so compatible with food. First, forms. It is less widely known that there is another saint who in the case of white wines, the better Italian offerings are Fontodi Chianti classico 2004 From the vineyards of Fontodi, located in Tuscany, comes this is honored during March, namely St. Joseph, whose day of recognized for their higher levels of acidity. Acid gives a wine entry that is clearly the “Godfather of Chianti”, and is also one feast is March 19th. While St. Patrick’s Day is near and dear crispness and briskness, which is essential for successfully of the world’s best wines, winning more critical acclaim than to the Irish, St. Joseph’s Day is just as special to the Italians pairing it with food. An example of acidity is the fresh, there is space to post. Fontodi Chianti is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes (most chiantis today are blends) and aged in who consider this feast as a special occasion to celebrate their exhilarating, clean sensation that fills your mouth when you oak for one year prior to release. The wine is big and rich, enticing heritage and culture. St. Joseph’s Day celebrations have food take a bite out of a red delicious apple. That is acidity. Now, with a violet nose, bright red berry fruit and layered with notes of pepper and spice. The finish is long and fulfilling. Fontodi will as their focal point and, of course, let’s consider a typical California taste better if allowed to aerate. Serve with red meats and hearty any mention of Italian food Chardonnay that has a flavor robust fare. $35.00 would be incomplete without Any mention of Italian food profile that comes at you in Valditerra gavi 2004 discussing the wine that stages; first, the fruit and a hint Gavi is a region located in Italy’s Piedmont zone, and the wine would be incomplete is made entirely of the Cortese grape. This offering comes from accompanies it. of sweetness, followed by some the winery owned by Laura Valditerra, a boutique producer. It is To better understand Italy’s without discussing the wine butter and then finishes with a the best Gavi I have come across and also one of the best white wines, period. A floral bouquet invites one to a medium-bodied, impact on the world’s wine that accompanies it. note of wood. This wine is crisp, dry wine infused with the taste and feel of minerals, tropical market, let’s start with a few somewhat fat and just a tad fruits and an elusive hint of cream at the end. The acidity is right observations: Italy produces more wine than any other country heavy. It will pair well with dishes that feature notes of cream on and the wine goes well with seafood and lighter dishes that feature notes of garlic and citrus. $24.00 on the planet, and it also produces more types of wine than such as a lobster entree served in a rich buttery sauce but its Brigaldara Valpolicella 2004 any other region. Indeed, just about every grape grown use is limited. Brigaldara is a winery owned by Stefano Cesere, an artisan anywhere else will thrive in the rich Italian soil. At the same Italian red wines, which can be identified by their smooth craftsman who has garnered much critical acclaim. The wine takes its name from the area in which it is produced – the time, Italy’s unique soil composition is such that certain grape velvety feel in the mouth, are more compatible with food Valpolicella zone – which is located in Italy’s Veneto region. This varieties may only be cultivated there. Finally, it is important because they have notes of peppers and spices so characteristic wine is a blend of three grapes, the most important being the to point out that Italy is also the world’s largest exporter of of their taste. It’s these flavors that match so well with similar Corvina variety. This is a very good wine that is also fun. It is medium bodied with luscious, bright cherry fruit intertwined wine. Clearly, Italy is a major player in the arena of international tastes of peppers and spices in food to assure elegant dining. with peppers and spices and soft pleasant tannins that linger. wine production. How about a rich spicy Chianti paired with a grilled, peppered It is a versatile wine you can have every day. You can serve this with medium weight red meats, game fowl or even grilled, That’s enough with all the statistics. The really neat aspect lamb chop? One can only say “Mamma Mia!” blackened red fish. $17.00

Wines available at Spec's Wines, Spirits, & Finer Foods, various locations. Visit specsonline.com for the store nearest you. Mar07 11-15-P 3/6/07 6:18 PM Page 1 Mar07 11-15-P 3/6/07 6:18 PM Page 2 Mar07 11-15-P 3/6/07 6:18 PM Page 3 Mar07 11-15-P 3/6/07 6:18 PM Page 4 Mar07 11-15-P 3/6/07 6:18 PM Page 5 Mar07 16-24-P 3/30/07 4:43 PM Page 1

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Cowboy Vintage Boots Need to add a bit of boogie to your boot scootin’? Get your fashion kicks with a one-of-a-kind pair of decorated vintage boots care of local artist Debbie Porter. $450 cowboyvintage.com

4ct. Genuine Citrine Sterling Silver Ring Launched in 2001 by Thai-born UTA MBA graduate Sheena Marnie Rocks “Kelly Anne” Earrings Ratanapichetchai, Silver Shake has become the go-to web Rock the night away in a dazzling pair of 18k gold earrings resource for attractive, affordable sterling silver jewelry. Now your lobes will love. you can buy jewelry as often as you want to without breaking Being square never looked so cool! the bank! $1,140 $49 Marnie Rocks, 2604 Persa #3, Houston, TX 77098 silvershake.com 713.533.0550 marnierocks.com Glam Box 24K Get your sparkle on with Sephora’s Glam Box, made of genuine 24k gold leaf. Dab anywhere you desire an eye and watch the gold diggers drool. Del Sol Shoreliner 3i Deluxe $10 Chances are you’ve also realized that Houston freeway Sephora, various locations construction will go on forever. Ditch the driving and start sephora.com easy riding with a stylish throwback beach cruiser. $299 Lucy B Stung Lips Organic Lemonade Lip Balm Sun and Ski Sports, various locations sunandski.com This moisturizing citrus balm will not only quench thirsty lips but will also bring back memories of that oh-so-pleasant lemon drop martini buzz. Added bonus: no killer hangover! $16 beautyhabit.com

Mindy Lam Crystal Flower Brooch Add a sexy splash of color to a drab outfit with a custom- created Mindy Lam brooch. The Swarovski crystal and golden pearl combo creates some serious flower power. $240 Available at Tootsies 4045 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77027, 713.629.9990 tootsies.com

16 | March 2007 Yellow Magazine Mar07 16-24-P 3/30/07 4:43 PM Page 2

Photos by John Li NAAAP Annual Date Auction Held at Venue

More than 400 people attended the National Asian American Association Professional (NAAAP) Annual Date Auction at Club Venue. Scholarship funds were raised to assist Asian American high school students in Houston in their pursuit of higher education. Fundraising centered around an auction of eligible singles for dates, followed by a fashion show produced by Lizzie Tran. NAAAP Social Chair: Na Li.Judy Moon, Quynh Bui , Mandy Wang, Raena MicuJonny Newinn, Carol Newinn Model: Tiffani Dang Howon Yang Pam Wollgast

Nhi Tran, Michele Nguyen , Tina Nguyen

Quyen Luu, Andrew Chen Tiffani Dang , Thuy Tran

Quynh Bui andTrish Bui

Dominic Tran, Howon Yang, Bao Tran, Willis Chen

Model: Linh Trong Mar07 16-24-P 3/30/07 4:43 PM Page 3

PEOPLE Fueling the Future with Super Businesswoman Donna Cole by HENRI MERCERON

Donna Fujimoto Cole’s fantastic rise as an No one would argue that you have achieved great success without having attained a college degree. Can you tell us a little about your thoughts on education, both entrepreneur is our most current example of the personally and in general? I think education and continuous learning are very important. I am not Photo by Debbie Porter realization of the “American Dream”. In this case, happy that I did not finish college. You never know, one day I just might re- Donna is a third generation Japanese American enroll and complete my degree. I know college is not for everybody but I highly encourage children to be smarter than I am and to continue their woman who rose through difficult circumstances education through the college level. I was lucky to be in the right place at to be recognized as one of the top 100 minority the right time to achieve what I have today. I always had the desire to learn and that is why I was able to succeed. I was an average student with an business owners in the country. Her Cole Chemical abundance of imagination. My teachers told my mother that they had to move me away from the windows because I was always looking outside and & Distributing, Inc., was launched in 1980 and has daydreaming. In college, I wanted to study the subjects in which I had a been on a growth path ever since. We thought it keen interest and not the required curriculum. I also believed that my parents could not afford to send me to college would be interesting to explore a little more deeply since they told my two older brothers that they did not have the money for them. They secured their education by enlisting in the military. I love to to uncover the essence of this wonderfully talented learn and have made learning one of my central themes. This is probably and civic oriented person. why I have been successful in the chemical industry. I attend the Amos Tuck School of Business, Minority Business Executive Education programs as often as I can. I know it is important to stay in touch with trends and to Donna Fujimoto Cole learn how companies resolved issued that confronted them. You are a third generation Japanese American. What brought your grandparents I encourage children to think about the things they enjoy doing and to the United States and in what part of the country did they live? which come to them more easily. Their passion for these things should be My mother’s parents came from Kumamoto, Japan, and embarked upon nurtured and they should think about how they would put their talent to a path that took them to Hawaii, Washington and Nebraska. My grandfather good use to make money. Matching talents to tasks and working diligently helped build the railroads alongside many Chinese immigrants and later in those areas will enhance the children’s skills to a level that will generate summoned his wife with whom he settled on a farm in Colorado. My a heightened sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. paternal grandfather, Fujimoto, was a 13 year old in search of adventure. He I believe you invested your entire savings ($5,000) to start your company, then stowed away on a ship and escaped capture by jumping overboard near Baja you booked close to $2 million in your first year. To what do you attribute this Mexico. He worked for a Mexican family for two years before crossing the apparent instant success? border into California. He sent for a bride and they also settled in Colorado. I had some wonderful customers who invited us to submit quotes for I marvel at how young and brave my grandparents were in their quest their business. My mentors were at formidable companies such as Dupont, to pursue a better life in a foreign country where they did not even speak Arco, Berryman Chemical and Shell. They knew that I was honest, hard the language. My maternal grandfather was so benevolent that he loaned working, responsible, responsive, quality oriented and eager to learn. so much money to people who failed to repay him that he ended up with (Additionally, I think they really wanted to help a single mom struggling in virtually nothing. My paternal grandfather was similarly generous, always an occupation dominated by men). One of my customers said, “Donna if I having room at the table for one more mouth to feed. buy X for a certain process in my refinery, then you should go down Hwy. Being of Japanese descent, the tumultuous period that defined the WWII era 225 and find others to buy the same product. When you amass enough must have posed difficulties for your family. What kind of stories did you grow volume to get a lower cost, then come back and give me a volume rebate up hearing about that particular time? for the assistance.” Another customer helped me with managing my cash It was so important for the Isseis (first generation) to make a living by flow by changing the payment terms for my company to net 15 days. It was whatever means possible so that they could provide better opportunities for this type of support that enabled me to grow the company in the beginning. their children. The attack on Pearl Harbor created such hatred and Another huge factor is my parents. Truly, I am so blessed to have had discrimination against Japanese residing in the United States regardless of their committed support. I regularly drove 4.5 hours to Uvalde, Texas, for where they were born. Even though my family lived in Colorado, they had business and my financial situation was tough. My parents provided financial to register with the FBI just like people of Japanese heritage in other parts assistance, filled my car with groceries and took care of my daughter, Tamara, of the country. Houses were searched and samurai swords and other weapons during the summers so that I could travel to meet customers. were confiscated. You were forbidden from traveling more than 2 miles from Do you think that Asian women have a harder time because they are minorities your house unless the FBI authorized such travel. My family burned books, and also female? photographs, letters and anything else that could be labeled as Japanese for I think women have a harder time giving large sums of money to fear of being charged as a traitor or a threat. The Neisi (2nd generation) did charitable causes as men. An example of this difference is evident by the not speak Japanese in public because they were afraid of being arrested. level of funds raised for the YWCA versus the YMCA, and the Boy Scouts Bartering was the means by which they were able to acquire food, shelter versus the Girl Scouts. Women are usually the last ones upon which money and clothing. Wearing used clothing and shoes and enduring frigid winter is spent; the first benefactors are the children, followed by husbands, parents, days came to be accepted as the “normal” way of life. So, too, was bathing grandchildren, the house, the church, etc. Asian women, for the most part, once a week with all family members sharing the same water. are very hard working people. However, I don’t think they take the time After the war, many items were never returned and, thus, I do not have needed to master their communication skills to more effectively get what much to show of my Japanese heritage. As a matter of self-preservation, we they want. Asian women are raised that they should be seen, not heard. They were trained to speak without an accent, assimilate into the general population are taught that it is best to listen and learn than to speak up and risk saying and to do well in our chosen jobs. something that may be perceived as being stupid. continued on next page

I have a sense of responsibility to the Asian and, in particular, Japanese and Japanese Americans to foster cultural understanding.

18 | March 2007 Yellow Magazine Mar07 16-24-P 3/30/07 4:43 PM Page 4

continued from previous page

Has the national attention on pollution, the environment and “natural” products encourage them to be the best they can be. It’s great knowing that my work impacted you and your business? Are you involved in any environmental causes? with the Houston Park System will help improve the quality of life in I am for balance and progress. With careful attention, the chemical Houston, which will help attract the best and the brightest to our beautiful, industry and economic development can be a very positive catalyst in shaping warm-hearted and accepting city. the world. Over the last 27 years there has been much hoopla over chemicals, There are so many people clamoring to get your money that before you their impact upon the environment and the need for natural products. I am donate, you want to be sure it is going to a worthy cause that will have the proactively engaged in educating the public that the chemical industry and greatest impact in an area about which you are passionate. I also have to chemicals are very good for the environment, people, and animals. Ten years raise funds for non-profit organizations; asking people/companies to donate ago, I worked with the University of Houston Smart Center, Mamie Moy, money implies a little “you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours” dynamic. and the Aldine ISD to start “Pipeline for the Sciences”. The program is Many people don’t understand this reciprocal relationship. I realize I don’t designed to educate educationally disadvantaged 4th, 5th, and 6th graders have enough money to help everyone, so I have to remain focused so that with a “hands on” approach to chemical experiments to engage their curiosity I don’t inadvertently “kill the goose that laid the golden egg”. I still need about chemicals and physics. Hopefully, these students will continue studying to live, after all, and I want to ensure that the organization to which I am science and will become our future doctors, dentists, engineers, chemists, donating is not mismanaged. astronauts, or science teachers. Have you always been civic oriented or was there some influence that pointed My favorite chemical is chocolate. My mandatory daily chemicals are you in that direction? pure water, high blood pressure medicine and vitamins. We have to plant I have to thank my Mom for my civic orientation, as she used to take more hardwood trees to sequester carbon, minimize NOX emissions from me with her to donate food and clothing to poor families. She encouraged vehicles, find ways to minimize emissions from facilities that rely upon fossil my participation in the Girl Scouts, volunteering with Headstart and the fuels. We now know that we must consider the long-term sustainability and Red Cross, and being a Candy Striper at the hospital. My parents are hard life cycle costs associated with methods of production, recycling, alternative workers and have always given so much of themselves to others in the form uses and greater reliance on “natural” products to determine which is really of money and gifts. the most environmentally correct way to go. The organizations to which you give your time and money focus on the development of children, women and minority enterprises, the Asian community, expansion of parks, the chemical industry and fostering Japanese-American I love talking to people of all ages intercultural understanding. Which ones are inspired by a sense of responsibility? to help them understand their Which ones from a pure sense of enjoyment? Which ones provide the greatest sense of satisfaction? Why? talents and to encourage them I have a sense of responsibility to the Asian and, in particular, Japanese to be the best they can be. and Japanese Americans to foster cultural understanding. I spent most of my life being assimilated and now it is important for me to integrate. I love talking to people of all ages to help them understand their talents and to Mar07 16-24-P 3/30/07 4:43 PM Page 5

DINING Baking It on Bellaire Blvd. (and Chilling It Too!) On the Boulevard by HENRI MERCERON

In this issue, we focus on what’s baking and chilling on Bellaire Boulevard. We visited two bakeries and a

dessert store that offer entirely different items and project entirely different personalities. One is sophisticated.

One is homey. One is hip. Together, there is something for everyone.

Jungle Café & Patisserie Juice Box 9110 Bellaire Blvd. #A Houston, Texas 77036 9889 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, Texas 77036 713.272.6633 The Juice Box is fairly representative of what you would expect from I don’t know if there is a hidden meaning a cosmopolitan new-age gathering spot such as Starbucks. I observed behind the use of the word “Jungle” in the name mostly young singles who lounged around and visited with friends. of this establishment, but it is one awesome As you enter the store, there is a long curved granite top counter that “café” and “patisserie”. The pastries created by has a display case filled with fresh mangos, apples, avocados and the Taiwanese chef reflect strong Japanese and strawberries, all neatly positioned in organized rows. Colorful glass shade French influences. The décor is very refreshing – light fixtures hang gracefully above. earthtones dominate and glass shaded light While an assortment of fixtures hang over the front counter and display smoothies is available, what case. Circular granite top tables populate the sets Juice Box apart from small space and even when fully occupied, you establishments such as do not have a sense of congestion or clutter. The Jamba Juice and Smoothie soft tones of classical music can be heard King is their Fresh Fruit throughout. Shaved Ice menu. While a I was recently in the Bellagio in Las Vegas number of patrons bought where I had the opportunity to visit the renowned smoothies and left, those Jean-Philippe Patisserie. Of course, no expense who remained were was spared on the décor and, on this level anyway, it would enjoying bowls of fresh fruit be hard to compete. Having said that, the selection of cakes shaved ice, which is what I and pastries at Jungle Café & Patisserie could be offered decided to do, as well. I at the Bellagio without apologies. Visually, the items are ordered the mango milk works of art, sculpted from the finest and richest butter, shaved ice. When describing sugar, and batter, that are blended with other ingredients this dessert, I find it useful to create a symphony of flavors. Each item is unique in to speak in terms of mounds. appearance and the chef dresses them up with various It comes in an impressively decorative chocolate accessories. In this respect, the cakes large bowl. At the bottom is and pastries are like exotic models who wear designer rings, a mound of very finely ribbons and charms that simply enhance their natural beauty. shaved ice that is as soft as Here are some of the petite pastries in which I “forced” myself to custard. The shaved ice is indulge. As you can see from the photographs, geometric shapes including totally covered by a generous pyramids, cylinders, squares and half-spheres add to the visual diversity mound of diced mango, of the samples. which is crowned with a The “Opera” is a small pastry that rests on a coffee cracker, topped scoop of mango ice cream. with cappuccino mousse that is filled with white chocolate pompennette The diced mango and and glazed with chocolate. It really sings with flavor. Similar to the rest shaved ice is drenched with of the items I tasted, the richness and sweetness is perfectly balanced what I would guess to be and not overwhelming. sweetened condensed milk, but of a lighter consistency. The “Bellona” is an almond biscuit topped with a brownie filled with By the time I finished consuming my shaved ice, I was almost a strawberry coconut mousse and topped with chocolate moussline. uncomfortably full. I would almost classify the experience as eating a “Chocoberry” consists of white chocolate mousse and white cake with meal versus having dessert. Had I eaten a meal before I arrived, I most a heart of raspberry puree and rests upon a brownie base. assuredly would have had to share this dessert because it is so fresh and “Dark Chocolate Mousse” will satisfy any chocoholic’s addiction with refreshing, after your first taste, you are committed to finishing. its ingredients of 85% cocoa chocolate mousse and brownie filled with Other shaved ice options include strawberry, strawberry mango, crème brulee and dusted with chocolate. banana, red bean milk and avocado coffee milk. I am feeling Hot coffee, ice coffee, cappuccino, expresso, smoothies and bubble adventuresome. I am going to try the avocado coffee milk next time. (But teas are also available. On the day I visited, the café was filled with young I won’t eat anything, beforehand!) families. The children could not be happier as their parents allowed them to pick the dessert of their choice. Not knowing the difference between pompennette, moussiline and brulee, they were perfectly content selecting on the basis of shape and color. Judging by their expressions, they made the right choices.

I Ping Bakery 9888 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, Texas 77036, 713.777.8838 As soon as you walk into this shop, you feel like you stepped back in time. You imagine that I Ping is an old-fashioned neighborhood bakery that has its “regulars”, those customers who return every week to get their supply of the rectangular blocks of freshly baked traditional Chinese bread (which the owner slices in front of you). On the day of my visit, there was a steady stream of customers who seemed to know their way around. I doubt that the store is much bigger than 400 square feet. It is intimate, but it is filled with a very wide assortment of baked breads and cookies. I am not exaggerating, either. Consider this incomplete list of breads: red bean mochi, green onion, hot dog, custard pudding, coconut, butter cream with peanut, taro, shredded pork with green onion, Cantonese style po-lo and green tea po-lo. There are a variety of light cookies from which you can choose. My favorites were the wafer thin irregularly shaped crisps that contained an abundance of sliced almonds. And the more traditionally shaped almond cookies with raisins are dry and light. I ate the whole bag of each. I convinced myself that the bags were of modest size and since there was no calories/serving label, what I did not know could not hurt me. Okay, a little self-deceptive but worth it to indulge. I was happy. For those interested in more traditional flavors, I Ping also offers such items as taro pastries with egg yolk, red bean pastries with egg yolk, and egg tarts.

20 | March 2007 Yellow Magazine Mar07 16-24-P 3/30/07 4:43 PM Page 6

Asian American Business Council VIP Party Held at Metro Bank Photos by Sopheavy Than

The Asian American Business Council (AABC) VIP party was held at MetroBank to introduce the board members and in appreciation of the executive members and donors. The AABC also introduced the Chinatown guidebook. Guests enjoyed food provided by Houston Event Planning and drinks by Martell Cognac and Mumm Champagne. Asian American Business Council Board Members Kevin Yu, Yong KwonKen Chang, Ratan Jha Faye Chin, Elsie Huang, Jan Kish Anthony Choy, Dana Wu, Donnie Chang 2nd Annual Business Networking Reception

Held at Venue Photos by Sopheavy Than

More than 450 people attended the 2nd Annual Business Networking Reception at Club Venue. Hosted by 17 local organizations, participants exchanged business ideas and opportunities with each other while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and beverages.

Brian Ching Beth Vinluan, Nancy Patel, Thao Pham, Peter Nguyen, Bobby Villagomez, Jimmy Chang, Connie Nguyen, Aitu Pham, Anisa Malik, Kei Ashizawa Michelle Ly, Derrick Nguyen Matthew Nguyen, Sarah Diacon Faisal Amin

Republic Day Celebration Photos by Sopheavy Than Held at Hilton on Post Oak

India’s Republic Day was celebrated by hundreds of guests at the Hilton on Post Oak. Attendees inclided the leaders of many community organizations, as well as Congressman Al Green, and U.S. Representatives Nick Lampson and Sheila Lee Jackson. The evening was hosted by Consul General S.M. Gavai and his wife, Rina. Rina and Consul General Sheela Rao, Sujata Anand, Sangeeta Yuki Rogers, Mr. and Mrs. Dinesh Shah Pinder Gill, Jag Gill, Avinash Gavai, Divya Unni, S.M Gavai Pasrija, Renu Sood, Priti Singh, Simrit Singh Prashant Mehta, Nidhika Mehta Sudhir Sekharan Mar07 16-24-P 3/30/07 4:43 PM Page 7

FASHION Our Guide for Next Fall (Are You Ready Yet?) NY Fashion text and photos Week - Pt. 1 by MARC SIFUENTES

Kimora Lee Simmons presented

"From Russiafaux fur with and Love" Britney - lots Spears. of bling,

Twinkle - Chunky knits for the urban girl from Wenlan Chia.

Matthew Willamson - Technicolor elegance on amazingly cut silhouettes.

Perry Ellis - Classic American Style. Chunky knits in cream, khaki and beige.

20 | March 2007 DKNY mixed urban new york with a bits of Yellow Magazine Parisian influences. Salt and pepper tweeds mixed with fluorescent yellows and pinks. Mar07 16-24-P 3/30/07 4:43 PM Page 8 Mar07 16-24-P 3/30/07 4:43 PM Page 9