March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 1
F ASHION LIFESTYLE ART ENTERTAINMENT
MARCH 2006 Houston, Texas FREE
ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Yellow, What Join the Celebration! Hue Are You? In The Name Of Yellow It’s ALL Yellow
Photographer : Debbie Porter Stylist : Summar Salah Hair: David Bamford for Tovas Makeup : Tree Vaello Vera Wang black dress $760. Neiman Marcus Cake : Rosie Garcia for La Victoria Bakery March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 2
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Shakespeare immortalized the famous question, “What In similar fashion, the mission of Yellow Magazine is to is in a name?” It is a question that appears simple yet introduce our readers to the artistic, fashion, lifestyle belies a deeper and more complex nature. Consider my and entertainment contributions made by Asian- last name, Hoang. To most Americans, it is simply a Americans. It is our hope that the depth and breadth of common Vietnamese surname. It is very likely that only the topics and events we cover do justice to the pride a few are aware that it means “yellow” in English. that the color yellow has represented throughout the Similarly, other Asian nationalities have variations of millennia. Of course, not every photo shoot or article my surname such as Wong, Kwang, and Ong, amongst will appeal to all readers, just as all crops produced by others that also mean “yellow”. the yellow earth will not appeal to all who eat.
Yellow. It would appear to be a very simple word. Yet, We measure our success when one reader, similar to when one considers the recurrent symbolic role it has the Buddhist monk, appreciates us for one reason, and played throughout the history of Asian culture, one another reader, like the Emperor, appreciates us for becomes keenly aware of its importance. Symbolizing another. And, finally, if everyone emerges with a sense the earth that sustains all life, yellow has been embraced of pride and empowerment, notwithstanding whichever by Buddhist monks as an expression of their humility aspect of Yellow Magazine they enjoy, we will know we and by reigning emperors as an expression of have accomplished all that we had hoped. unchallenged power. Such is the role of yellow, always Thank you for supporting Yellow Magazine throughout revered but in different ways under different our first year of publication. circumstances. Viet Hoang Publisher March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 3
Publisher Viet Hoang
Associate Publisher Phi Hung
Editor Henri Merceron
Arts and Entertainment Director Celeste Tammariello
Lifestyle Editors Jessica Ritter Tina Hernandez
Events Calendar Editor Kyle Fu
Contributing Writers Kerwin McKenzie Justine Hernandez Philip Cusimano Susie Hernandez Leo Sipras
Art Director Jeff Martin
Photographer Debbie Porter www.debbieporter.com
Stylist Summar Salah
Hair Stylist David Bamford for Tovas
Makeup Artist Tree Vaello
Account Executive Tai Lai
Business Manager Stephanie Vu
National Advertising Verve Communications Group 325 N. St. Paul Street Suite 2360 Dallas, TX 75201 214.965.9933 x106 www.vervecommunications.com
Local Advertising 713.528.6000 x103 [email protected]
Yellow Magazine 3400 Montrose Suite 510 Houston, TX 77006 713.528.6000
yellowmags.com
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, 3400 Montrose, Suite 510, Houston, TX 77006.
March 2006 March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 4
UPDATE A Fashionable Reality Star is Born Fashion’s Other Chloe by LEO SIPRAS
For millions of fashionistas and TV addicts, watching Project Runway working in New York City, Chloe returned to Houston and opened her has become a Wednesday night ritual. The irresistible reality show has own boutique, Lot 8, in Rice Village. A self-professed one-woman struck a chord with avid fans and has propelled it to become the marquee sweatshop operation, Ms. Dao’s creations are born in the garage of her show on the Bravo network. In its second season, Project Runway scoured parent’s house in Houston. That’s a far cry from the fast-paced circus of the country to find “the next great American designer”. Thousands New York Fashion Week. But making it to Fashion Week was the goal auditioned but only sixteen designers made it to New York City, hoping for the designers on Project Runway – a goal only obtainable for the final to hear host Heidi Klum tell them “you’re in” instead of “you’re out”. three designers on the show. Being “in” is critical because it will put these designers closer to the At press-time, Chloe had made it into the final three, along with New York Fashion Week final collection competition and potentially fellow Project Runway designers Santino Rice and Daniel Vosovic, and winning Project Runway. The show’s winning designer will receive a had just shown her Fall 2006 Collection under the watchful glare of $100,000 cash prize, a mentorship with the Banana Republic Design fashion industry insiders, celebrities, and the media – along with the Team, a new Saturn automobile, and a fashion spread in Elle Magazine. show’s judges. Her strong collection consisted of empire waist evening Fortunately, Houston’s own Chloe Dao (featured in our July 2005 gowns and chic cocktail dresses, and she also played with volume by issue) has been “in” from the very beginning. By winning challenges opening the show with a pink puffed sleeved dress and later a gold halter Chloe Dao and impressing the judges with her creations, Ms. Dao showed the world baby doll dress with pockets. Her collection exemplified her talent as a her design capabilities and her calm, focused demeanor. Her signature designer who understands the needs of women. Chloe’s female-friendly Her signature style of clean lines and femininity has garnered rave reviews from noted fashion designers and Project Runway fans alike.
style of clean lines and femininity has garnered rave reviews from noted aesthetic and her passion for design made her one of the Project Runway’s fashion designers and Project Runway fans alike. Each week, Ms. Dao’s stars from the very beginning of the show, and finally lead her to New professional eye and precise style has allowed her to move one step closer York Fashion Week and the finals. Although, the winner of Project Runway to showing her collection in the final competition under the Bryant won’t be known until the March 8 season finale, the exposure and Park tents at New York’s fabulous Fashion Week. For a fledgling designer, experience Ms. Dao has gained from the show is immeasurable. And showing in Fashion Week is a dream come true and can establish his or remember: you met her first here in Yellow Magazine last year! her presence in the fashion industry. Ms. Dao isn’t exactly a fledging designer, though. As a graduate of The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), Lot 8 she has gained plenty of experience 6127 Kirby Drive Houston, TX 77005 on both the creative and business aspect t 713.807.1565 of the fashion world. After years of chloedao.com
Chloe-centric highlights from Project Runway:
• Chloe winning the “Clothes Off Your Back Challenge”, where the Queen of wrap dresses herself, Diane Von Furstenberg, praised her jersey halter dress.
• Insider and Chair of the Fashion Department at Parsons, Tim Gunn, renaming a particular shade of blue, “Chloe Blue”.
•A collaboration with fellow designer Emmett Nitke Photo: Barbara Bravo For the “Garden Party Challenge”, Chloe Regarded by many as her high point, this modern Chloe’s first stab at menswear resulted in a win McCarthy that resulted in a Bergdorf Goodman- painstakingly glued thousands of leaves to create design is a result of a jersey dress and black jacket for the “Makeover Another Designer” challenge. a tiered effect that, from a distance, mimicked hybrid for the “Clothes Off Your Back” challenge. worthy outfit consisting of a reversible jacket printed fabric. with a high waist skirt and scarf tie top. Judge Nina Garcia, fashion director of Elle magazine, fell head over heels for it. Getty Images
NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 10: The Dao sisters at the Project Runway Fall 2006 show during Olympus Fashion Week in Bryant Park. 4| March 2006 March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 5
International Décor Gallery Anniversary Celebration
International Décor Gallery celebrates Chinese New Year 2006 with an art exhibition preview “ The Art of Harmony”. Guests enjoyed the classical and exotic sounds performed by violin quartet from the Houston Symphony and traditional Chinese dance presented by Dance of Asian America. Hannah Bacol Busch and Yali Zou, Shawn and Lilian Ai Sirun Guan, Gordon and Paul Wishnow, Greg Hurst, Dr. Gerald Busch Silvia Quan, Ms. Wang Chi Suzanne Wishnow Liang-Chern, Kathy Hsu
Dr. Ralph Espada, Monica Barry, Erica Hui, Janie Yao, Julie Nguyen Hannah Bacol Busch, Susan Hessman March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 6
TRAVEL
The Yellow Gleam of Golden Buddhas and Temple Spires Bangkok, Thailand by KERWIN MCKENZIE
The readers of Travel & Leisure Magazine rated Bangkok as the Visitors should be advised that there are strict dress codes enforced second best vacation spot after Sydney, Australia and followed by Rome before entering the sites of temples. If your apparel is considered too and Florence, Italy. revealing or inappropriate (e.g., shorts, flip flops, mid-drifts etc.), unflattering My favorite travel destinations are in Asia and I must concur that replacements will be loaned to you secured by your passport or deposit. Bangkok, the largest city and capital of Thailand, is an exciting destination. As is true in many Asian countries, the shopping environment in The city is a manifestation of antiquity and the contemporary. Ancient Bangkok is world class. The city is considered to be a blend of New shrines with golden yellow domes shimmer in the sunset in close York, Los Angeles and Washington DC because it is the center of proximity to gleaming glass skyscrapers that rival any found around the entertainment, finance and government. Many have the sense that the world. There are more than 400 temples (wats) housing a multitude of city is far removed from the roots of the surrounding country because monks clad in traditional saffron yellow robes riding water taxis that race so much of the country’s wealth and resources is concentrated there. It past rice laden barges on their way to market on the Chao Phraya River is a city of 12 million people (one fifth of the country’s population). For (“the River of Kings”). all of these reasons, the shopping culture in Bangkok rules supreme. The King Rama I built the Grand Palace in 1782 when he moved the Thai people place a premium upon fun (sanuk) which is responsible for capital across the river from Thonburi for strategic military purposes. the country often being referred to as “The Land of Smiles.” The people The city sprouted around the river which winds its way through the convey an intoxicating sense of joy. So, while bargaining is expected central districts. While the grounds are open to visitation, none of the while negotiating a sale, buyers will only prevail if they execute the buildings may be entered. Within the compound is the Wat Phra Kreo, process with a sense of fun. Hard negotiators who do not display a sense a royal chapel that is exquisitely decorated in gold and glass entrancing of fun may very well leave empty-handed. visitors as they gaze upon it in the sunlight. It As a final note, many visitors may want to more deeply experience houses the stunning Emerald Buddha that dates the mixture of traditional culture with the ultra-modern one that is The people back to the 14th century. Only the king of evident throughout the city. Consider renting a long-tail boat (hang yao) Thailand may approach the statue; he changes at the Tha Chang ferry near the Grand Palace or the pier at the River convey an the robe worn by the Buddha seasonally in City Shopping Complex. Bare in mind that the boat operator will accordance with the Buddhist calendar. probably not speak English well and, therefore, he will essentially be your intoxicating Wat Po, located about a half mile from the driver and not your tour guide. Have the boat travel the canals (called Grand Palace, is the largest temple in Bangkok Klongs) that crisscross a world of villages that occupy the Thonburi side sense of joy. and is known for its 150 foot long reclining of the Chao Phraya River. You will capture a perspective of Bangkok of Buddha (the largest statue in Thailand) that is which most tourists may be unaware. The banks of these canals, which clad entirely in gold leaf. Its feet are 9 feet long and decorated in branch off into even smaller canals, are lined by old wooden homes illustrations made from mother-of-pearl. This temple is considered to decorated colorfully with painted flower pots. Women sell rice and be Thailand’s first university and the place to learn how to perform Thai noodle dishes from floating kitchens and the only way neighbors can massage from the traditional source. Classes are available in English and visit each other is by boat. require 7 or more days of study. Thai massage is unique in that it The contrast of complexity and simplicity, ancient and modern, incorporates yoga positions to relieve stress and improve circulation. golden temples that are next to towering skyscrapers is what defines Hence, it is more commonly described as “invigorating” versus “relaxing”. Bangkok and makes it a destination of choice among the well traveled.
Kerwin McKenzie is a freelance travel writer based in Houston, Texas. He travels about 350,000 miles a year. You can check out his website at cruisinaltitude.com.
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Origami Puppies Adoption at Mo Mong Restaurant Mikel Marketing Christmas Party
Sandy Atha, Van Pavlik, Kyle Fu Tony Dinh, Mimi Dinh, Bao Han Stephanie Iorio, Sarah Lampe
Annie Peng, Mandy Kyle Fu, Nan Leverett Austin Werner, Careen Plummer, Chris Smith Cathlea Quirona, Ronnie Green
Esmeralda Ramirez, Gaybriel Brooks, Kimberly Portie, Kamille Francisco Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Lee Ardis Bartle Kitty Wang Chelsey and Brian Shor March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 8
A Long History with a Royal Reign Yellow by HENRI MERCERON
It may be stated with conviction that yellow has ruled supremely for everyone else. For 500 years and throughout the reign of 24 emperors, within the context of Chinese history and has colored the very fabric the confines of the Forbidden City were unseen by outsiders. The of its culture. placement of the palace and the architecture to which it conformed The name of the Yellow River is attributable to the fact that it contains strictly followed feng shui principles. It was aligned along a north-south more silt than any other river in the world. The silt causes the water to axis. The number nine which represents the ultimate symbol of masculinity have a yellowish appearance. Huang Di (literally, the Yellow Lord) is figures prominently throughout the structure: the corner towers are considered to be the founder of Chinese civilization and the central supported by nine beams; there are eighteen pillars; there are 9,999 rooms ancestor of the largest ethnic group in the world (Han) who represent within. Completing the symbolism, the use of yellow is exclusively reserved 92% of modern day Chinese (19% of the world’s population!). Prior to for the Forbidden City and its inhabitants. Yellow glazed roof tiles, painted his rule (2698 BCE – 2598 BCE), China consisted of farming tribes bricks, sheets, decorations and clothing were only found here. governed by warring chieftains who sought to dominate one another Ironically, whereas yellow has been reserved for the highest echelon and the land they controlled around the Yellow River. of Chinese society, the royals, it has also been embraced by the most humble Huang Di’s military prowess enabled him to conquer the other tribes of people who shun the accumulation of wealth and all things material, who elected to unite under his leadership. His tribe honored the yellow Buddhist monks. Their saffron robes are symbolic of daylight, earth and earth, the symbol of farming, and he came to be known as the legendary calm. Once a color worn by criminals, yellow was selected by Gautum With a history that encompasses the richness of mother earth to the splendor of royalty, it is clear that the popularity of yellow is well founded and all-inclusive. Yellow Emperor. And so the yellow race was born. Buddha as a symbol of renunciation, the absence of desire and humility. Legend credits Huang Di with inventing the compass to find an The reverence surrounding yellow is not unique to Asian culture. Ancient enemy that traveled safely under the cover of a sandstorm. He found the Egyptians believed that since the sun and gold are yellow, the color represented enemy and conquered them. Notwithstanding the legend, scholars concur permanence, indestructibility and the eternal. Since the skin and bones of that the first compass does appear to have originated in China. In the gods were believed to be made of gold, they constructed statues of gods traditional Chinese culture, there is a fifth cardinal direction in addition and the death masks of pharaohs from it, as well. to north, south, east and west. It is the center. Each direction is represented During England’s Elizabethan period, the Sumptuary Laws governed by a color. As the Yellow Emperor established the Yellow River as the the rules as to who was permitted to wear yellow garments. The wealth center of Chinese civilization, the center of the compass is symbolically and social status of citizens was conveyed by the colors they wore. Since yellow, as well. the colorfast dye used to produce yellow fabrics was made from expensive Chinese New Year is the most celebrated holiday in Chinese culture. imported saffron, only expensive clothes were fashioned in this color. While the calendar is based upon a complex calculation of astronomical As a final testament to the pervasive presence of yellow within Asian measures such as the sun’s longitude and the phases of the moon, it is culture, consider that the surname, Huang, is the 7th most common believed to be a product of Huang Di’s inventiveness in the 61st year of name in China with more than 29 million people so named. Further, his reign. This is the year 4704, which is the sum of the West’s Gregorian it is the name for more than 2 million overseas Chinese and 1 million calendar year of 2006 added to the beginning year of Huang Di’s rule Koreans. (No data is presently available for Vietnamese). These numbers in 2698. do not include all the transliterations of the name (i.e., Wong, Hoang, Yellow has been used symbolically in other ways. In the early 1400’s Vong, Bong, Ng, Wee, Oi, Oei, Ooi, Ong, Wang, Whang and Huynh), one of the Ming emperors relocated the capital of China to Beijing. The which would surely elevate the numbers considerably. With a history capital consisted of the Forbidden City which housed the emperor and that encompasses the richness of mother earth to the splendor of royalty, his family, the Imperial City for government officials and the Outer City it is clear that the popularity of yellow is well founded and all-inclusive. It is a popularity that has spanned millennia and lives within the tens of millions of people who are named after it. Undoubtedly, the stature of yellow will be significant for millennia to come.
8| March 2006 Yellow Magazine March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 9
Tiger Ball 2006 Uniquely Singapore
Jim Fonteno, Joe Ting Elsie HuangMonjula Chadambaram, Shaila Patel Mehwish Aejaz Yang Park
Tom Griffin, Glen Gondo, Mya Shay Dan Nip, Reiko Nip, Diana Jackson, Honorable Chan Heng Chee Pat and Kathy Chaudhury Yuki Rogers, Alice Chen
Reiko Nip, Susie Ting Aneeta Jamal, Michael D. Millard Susan Shagagi, Daniel Aparviz Charles Foster, Hushang, Shahla Ansari, Geoffrey Connor
Neil and Maria Bush Nancy Hawes, Kay Ikawa Fred and Donatella Benckenstein, Joyce Frassanito
Libbie and Greg Nelson, Honorable Yoshihiko Kamo, Etsuko Kamo Naila Qureshi
John Kim, Richard Cole Louann Chae, Donna Cole, Linda Metcalf Michael and Shelley Dee Mrs Chae, Mrs. Juhn
March 2006 |9 March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 10
LIFESTYLE Practical tips to enrich your daily life Discovering Zen by SUSIE HERNANDEZ
Everyone wants to be rich, but does the amount of money you have options. It’s a good idea to make the right choices so we can enrich our really determine how rich you are? lives with every thought. Some people want to be rich because they want to have enough How can the right choices lead to a rich life? By a universal law of money to do anything and everything they want to do, therefore, they cause and effect. Good investments lead to good profits, just as poor think this will solve all of their problems and they will be happy. But if investments lead to poor profits. Likewise, if we choose to follow angry this were true, why is it that wealthy people still have problems? This is thoughts, such as jealousy, greed, or hate, what does that make us? An because having a lot money has absolutely nothing to do with solving the angry person. When we are angry, we become tense and stress is created. issues. We can all make a long list of Anger leads to irrational temper, violence, frustration, bad health and The Four Tenets of Chung Tai: successful athletes, musicians, actors, and harmful words that can damage relationships. All of these effects can be To our elders be respectful; millionaires who have some serious issues. summed up into one description: miserable. However, if we choose to To our juniors be kind; Having an abundance of money does not follow good thoughts, such as charity, kindness, forgiveness and compassion, With all humanity be harmonious; make anyone immune to problems. then we can become a happier person. When we are happy, our bodies In all endeavors be true. In reality, happiness is what everyone release revitalizing chemicals, we smile, we glow, people are drawn to really wants. We’ve all suffered and our magnetic personality, and our relationships with others improve. probably know someone who is suffering now, and quite possibly has When we are happy, even a breath of fresh air, the sound of chirping been for years. For some, it could be due to a relationship ending, losing birds, or an evening sunset can make us smile. When we are able to make a job, or something more tragic. And why do we even suffer at all? This the right choices to avoid the path of emotional poverty, then we are dreaded feeling usually comes around when our emotional and physical wise. Since money does not desires are not satisfied with the reality of what life dishes out to us. bring true happiness, but When we can tame our minds, become unattached, and grow out of wisdom coupled with our ego-driven actions, this struggle will not exist. When we are flexible, compassion can, then the our minds, though intangible, can be likened to the physical characteristics way to become rich is to of water. Water can fit in any type of container, so when our minds are cultivate the path of like water, we can fit in any situation or condition without any struggle. meditation. True happiness But how do we train our minds to do this? Meditation is a great and is not found in material easy way, and it has even been scientifically proven to improve health. things, it comes from within, When we meditate, we become conscious of every thought that enters and meditation can help us our minds. The thoughts we choose to follow are like different investment cultivate this inner joy. March 11-15-v1 2/16/06 11:53 PM Page 1 March 11-15-v1 2/16/06 11:53 PM Page 2 March 11-15-v1 2/16/06 11:53 PM Page 3 March 11-15-v1 2/16/06 11:53 PM Page 4 March 11-15-v1 2/16/06 11:53 PM Page 5 March 16-24-P 2/17/06 4:39 PM Page 1
An Eye For Yellow by JUSTINE HERNANDEZ
The color yellow is associated with fun and happiness. It is not generally one that we think about when we consider eye shadow, lip gloss, and makeup. Many have the sense that yellow is an intimidating color to apply because of its brightness. Accepting this challenge, I enlisted the assistance of Sergio Escalona, makeup artist extraordinaire at Nature’s Way, an Aveda day spa and salon in the Galleria area.
Yellow is the base used in a host of shades that include gold, bronze, cream, and amber. Sergio began with an application of Lemon Spice eye shadow to highlight the area under my brow, adding an overall yellow shimmer. Next, he used Gold Leaf eye pencil under my eyeliner and to brighten my lids. Copper eye shadow was delicately blended into the crease of my lid to create sultriness. By adding light bronzes and illumination to my cheeks and lips, Sergio gave me a natural, fresh, and sexy appeal.
Consulting with a professional makeup artist really opened my eyes about including yellow among the colors that I apply to my face. Consider yellow. You may be very pleased you did. March 16-24-P 2/17/06 4:00 PM Page 2
Chinese Consulate Celebrating Spring Festival
David Moon, George Gee, Joseph Lee Honorable Jinzhou Hua, Mya Shay, Tom Griffin Larry and Stacey Morris Grace Li, Frank Chou Grace Sun, Lisa Ma
Charles and Lily Foster David Lu, Phil Cao Tu Ha, Nu Ly, Linda Ho Greg Crowe, Ping Chen, Barbara Crowe
Lily Foster, Loren Shen, Ya Li Zou, Mya Shay John Ma, Katherine and Wea Lee Susan Guo, Mrs Tong, Connie Ruan Jenny and James Callaway March 16-24-P 2/17/06 4:00 PM Page 3
ESSENTIALS
You’ll Be Golden With by TINA HERNANDEZ These Yellow Essentials
Alexandra Knight Alligator Corralita Clutch Houston handbag designer Alexandra Knight creates clean no-fuss classics that have caught the eye of many celebs and fashionistas who know a great thing when they see it. 9”W x 4”H x 2”D Clutch $3,100 alexandraknightonline.com or 713.527.8848
Mat;Yellow the Fragrance Retro Meitian Scooter Created by Japanese designer MasakÏ MatsushÏma, Mat;Yellow is the You’ll look so fab zipping around on this stylish scooter. Plus, you’ll save a pretty penny on gas with over 90 ultimate embodiment of the message miles per gallon. that Yellow is the color of hope and Priced from $1,550 love of life. It’s the perfect blend of Scootersmith, 3204 White Oak, 713.869.4885 fresh fruits, sap, and leaves, blended with watermelon, lotus flower, crystal musk, and reed wood. Eau de Parfum Spray 1.35 oz. $60 sephora.com
shu uemura Limited Edition Sweet Lip Gloss and Pressed Eye Shadow “Excitement and delights are essential to our happy lives” says Shu Uemura, and his new Sweet Mode collection delivers just that with a candy color inspired palette. It’ll be hard to choose, but we bet you’ll love the sheer sunflower- gold lip gloss and bright yellow metallic eye shadow. Hello Kitty Champagne Diamond Pendant Plumeria Sweet Lip Gloss $18 Who says Hello Kitty is just for kids? Even the most ME (Metallic) Yellow 330 Eye Shadow $19 sophisticated lady will love this character pendant which features 1.3 total carat weight of champagne diamonds set shu uemura Depsea Water Mist in yellow gold with a ruby hibiscus flower. A floral and soothing mist that can be used anytime over shu uemura Limited Edition 24K Gold Eyelash Curler Available at Neiman Marcus by special order. the face, skin, or hair to revive spirits and provide hydration. Complement your lifestyle and taste with a shu uemura $3,700 Depsea Water is found only in three places in the world; it Precious Metals Eyelash Curler - a special edition to celebrate is extracted from 320m below sea level, smells incredible, the 15th anniversary of this iconic product. Ideal for use on and contains over 60 minerals that will do wonders for your sensitive skin or women who insist on only the best! skin. Eyelash Curler $22 Hamamelis Water Mist $22 shuuemura-usa.com or shuuemura-usa.com or Neiman Marcus, Houston Galleria 713.621.7100 Neiman Marcus, Houston Galleria 713.621.7100
18 | March 2006 March 16-24-P 2/17/06 4:00 PM Page 4
Japan America Society of Houston Luncheon
Glen Gondo, Ryuichi Nakata, John D. Hoffmeister Miguel Montenegro Toshimatsu Matsumoto Gregory Crowe, Natsuo Tashiro, Pete Del Vecchio, Yuki Rogers, Yasush Tago
Donna Cole,Ted Nava Stephanie Friedman, Grace Yung, Richard Dyo Helen Chang Katsunori Kobayashi
Etsuko Kamo, Honorable Yoshihiko Kamo Ryuichi Nakata David Mendez, Will Williams Charles Duncan Paola Carvajah, Coleen Chang, Humberto Darraga March 16-24-P 2/17/06 4:00 PM Page 5
WINE Pour some of the next big thing in wine
by PHILIP CUSIMANO
Be Soave Pra Soave Monte Grande 03 Veuve Clicquot Brut “Yellow Label” Yellow Tail Shiraz 04 Graziano Pra only produces Soave The house of Clicquot has become From South Eastern Australia comes and he is a master. This a powerhouse. I believe this is the this popular brand and grape varietal It is difficult to predict trends in wine consumption, but I internationally acclaimed, single most popular non-vintage blended that I can enthusiasticly say is “not believe there will be an uptick in the popularity of a dry white vineyard cru consists primarily of brut cuvee champagne in Houston too bad”. By this, I mean to say, it from Italy known as “Soave.” It is a blend of grapes that takes its Garganega with a small bit of and, perhaps, America. The legacy should not offend anyone and name from the area where it is grown in the Veneto region. The Chardonnay and receives some of the “widow clicquot” is combined with its low price, it will cuvee is a mixture of Garganega and Trebbiano, the former being wood aging. Dry, crisp, with domination and her competitors do very nicely in a pinch. Australia is minerals, tropical fruits, a subtle hint are reeling. The blend varies year- a monster wine producing region the more important grape. of butter and soft wood undertones, to-year but is about 55% Pinot known for their “shoot by the hip” A good producer will provide a wine that is crisp and dry with this wine could easily be mistaken Noir,15% Pinot Meunier and 30% wine making style. They do what is fine acidity. You will taste an infusion of minerals typical for for white burgundy. Look for the Chardonnay. Elegant and toasty, this necessary to get the most out of quality Italian wines having a fruit profile partially yellow label and foil and dry champagne is consistently what the climate and soil has given What you have ranging from citrus tropical to hints of apple get it while you can. I don’t think it produced to the highest standard them in any year. This wine has nice will be available for long. $24.00 and is always in vogue. $39.00 blackberry jam on the front and a here is the top and pear. Due to its finely coordinated short finish. $6.00 secret formula balance, Soave is propped up by a firm for a great wine backbone and one can even find slight hints that is smooth of cream in its finish. One obstacle preventing consumers and delicious with from embracing Soave is its past marketing an underlying life. In the 1970’s, the wine was popular and complexity. in demand. It could be found in grocery stores, wine shops and restaurants. It was advertised heavily on television and in print. To meet the huge demand, the wine was mass produced and quality suffered as a result. It has been difficult in recent times to persuade people to even try the wine. Thankfully, there is a whole new generation of wine lovers who are open to new experiences. A large number of these consumers have been weaned on Italian Pinot Grigio and it will be easier for them to accept transition to another type of Italian white wine. Most importantly, good rendentions of Soave are available in the market. Look for the following producers of quality wine: Pra, Anselmi, Inama and Gini. In keeping with our celebration of Yellow Magazine’s one year anniversary, we offer to our readers a selection of cool “yellow” wine to contemplate: March 16-24-P 2/17/06 4:00 PM Page 6
WHERE ART THOU?
Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, TX 77002 The Peking Acrobats Saturday, April 1 at 7pm and Sunday, April 2 at 2pm Daring maneuvers, powerful precision and spellbinding contortion – The Peking Acrobats are coming back to Houston with new acts and twists to old favorites! This troupe of China’s most gifted tumblers, jugglers, cyclists and gymnastics, complemented by live musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments, make for a breathtaking, often hair-raising, evening for the entire family. With acts called “Meteors of Water,” “ Pagoda of Chairs” and “Peacock on a Bicycle” audiences never know what to expect. Rest assured that the Peking Acrobats will deliver an inspiring exploration of the full extent of physical human potential.
International Décor Gallery 2501 South Shepherd Drive, Houston, TX 77019 713-527-0523 Internationaldecorgallery.com The Art of Harmony February 10 to March 31, 2006 Featuring the exquisite modern and traditional works of Asian Artists: Wang Qi, Liang- Chern Hsu, Peihong Endris, Sirun Guan, Monica Barry and Mari Omori. For more information call 713-527-0523.
Wortham Center, Cullen Theater 500 Texas St., Houston, TX 77002 The 2006 Dance Salad Festival April 13, 14, 15 at 7:30 pm 11th anniversary season in Houston and 14th season since its inception in Brussels, Belgium, Dance Salad Festival promises another gathering of world-class performers. Famous in their own countries, the dance companies have won praise from critics and audiences everywhere they have toured. Dance Salad Festival has presented dancers, choregraphers and companies from the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa. The following companies will perform at the 2006 Festival: The Beijing LDTX Modern Dance Company (China), The Guangdong Modern Dance Company (China), The Dutch National Ballet (Netherlands), Bejart Ballet Lausanne (Switzerland), Texas Ballet Theatre (Dallas/Ft. Worth), Royal Danish Ballet (Denmark), Danish Dance Theatre (Denmark), Trey McIntyre Project (Florida), Goteborgs Operans Balett (Sweden), Ballett der Staatsoper Hannover/Thoss-Tanz Kompanie (Germany), Ronald K. Brown/ EVIDENCE (New York). For tickets call 713-315-2525 or visit dancesalad.org.
Splash Gallery 6515 Corporate Dr. #M1, Houston, TX 77036, 713-270-8008 Featuring artists from China. Also offering painting classes.
Viet’s Art Gallery 12924 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, TX, 713-298-4045, by appointment only Showing Asian artists from around the world.
Tansu 321 B W. 19th Street Houston, TX 77008 713-880-5100, tansustyle.com Paper Planes March 28th to April 15th 2006. Opening reception: Tuesday, March 28th 6-8pm; Closing reception: Saturday, April 15th 6-8pm Bronze sculptures that celebrate the unfolding of paper, consciousness, and the spiritual plane. Tansu is proud to present an exhibit by Austin-based artist Kevin Box. Box marries paper and metal to create bronze sculptures with origami influences for a contemporary fusion of both mediums. Included in the Tansu exhibition will be a signature piece “Crane Unfolding”, an 8 foot tall sculpture of an origami crane unfolding into a star. “ This crane reveals the meaning of life as it unfolds. It symbolizes the complex and intelligent design just below the surface of everything seen in creation. It sums up most of my work”, says Box. Tansu is now offering origami classes, Chinese calligraphy workshops, and Chinese watercolor classes. For more information visit tansustyle.com.
If you would like your event listed, please email the information to [email protected]. March 16-24-P 2/17/06 4:00 PM Page 7
Color Me Yellow: What Hue Are You? by JESSICA RITTER
Color plays a vitally important role in the world in which we live ADVENTUROUS ORANGE every single day. Shades sway thinking, alter actions, and they certainly sell. If your brightest color is orange, you need freedom to take immediate They can also irritate or soothe the eyes, raise blood pressure, or even action. A zest for life and a desire to test the limits best express your suppress appetite. Going far beyond the question of “what’s your favorite nature. You take pride in being highly skilled in a variety of fields. You color?” many people believe color reflects one’s innermost self. Take a are a master negotiator. Adventure is your middle name. You prefer a look at a few of these classic examples to see if your personality pops from hands-on approach to problem solving and a direct line of reasoning the pages and decide for yourself which hue rings true for you. creates the excitement and immediate results that you seek. For you, life TRADITIONAL YELLOW (GOLD) is one big party to enjoy. You live in “the here and now” because If your brightest color (your aura, in essence) is yellow, you value tomorrow is uncertain. You are always ready for a business deal (or a deal order and cherish the traditions of home and family. You are the perfect of any sort), loving competition and never missing an opportunity. communicator. Steadfastness and loyalty are your trademarks. You provide Impulsiveness drives everything you do and you are symbolized by the for and support the structure of society and are generous and parental flight of the eagle, the sensation of riding a motorcycle, the roaring of by nature. You show you care by making everyone do the right thing. the rapids, and the skillfulness of a virtuoso. To disregard responsibility of any kind never occurs to you. “Be prepared” •“Just Do It” action oriented. is the motto of those with yellow as their brightest color. You enjoy the • Quick-witted, charming, and spontaneous status and security that being prepared offers. You have an instinct for • Playful and injects fun into work. keeping the product in production, for maintaining the structure, and •Lives in “the here and now.” A creative risk taker. for supporting the rules. You have a strong awareness of right and wrong. • Enjoys diversity, variety, and competition. You symbolize pillars of strength - the flag, the preservation of honored • Is a multi-tasker who is cheerful, energetic, and bold. institutions, and the purity of home and family. • Quick thinking, quick to act. • Respects authority, rules, routines, and policies. •A high visibility performer who enjoys problem-solving • Allegiant, faithful, dependable, prepared, and efficient. and negotiating. • Remembers the traditions that work and values family. •Performs well under pressure and is resilient. • Believes that work comes before play and is practical, Famous Oranges: JFK, Amelia Earhart, Lucille Ball, FDR, Francis of Assissi, systematic, and orderly. Lee Iacocca, Winston Churchill • Identifies with groups and strives for a sense of security. NURTURER BLUE • Thorough, sensible, punctual, conventional, and proper. If your brightest color is blue, you seek to express the inner you. • Believes there is a right way to do everything. Perseverant. Authenticity and honesty are valued above all other characteristics. You •Evaluates actions as right or wrong. are sensitive to subtlety and - with great flair - you create roles in life’s • Stable, organized, and helpful. drama. You enjoy close relationships with those you love and you are Famous Yellows: Mother Teresa, George Washington, LBJ, George Washington, strongly spiritual. Making a difference in the world is easy for you because Joan Rivers, Henry Ford, Florence Nightingale you cultivate the potential in yourself and in others. VISIONARY GREEN You are a person of peace and love, a true romantic. You are most If your brightest color is green, you feel best about yourself when satisfied when nurturing the potential of others and are symbolized by you are solving problems and when your ideas are recognized, especially the dove of peace, the romantic ballad, the drama of life, and the when you feel ingenious. You seek to express yourself through your importance of a simple touch. ability to be an expert in everything. Your idea of a great day is to use • Sensitive to the needs of others and expresses appreciation freely. your know-how to create solutions, in that you are a complex individualist • Sincere, cooperative, collaborative and creative. with great analytical ability. Although you do not express your emotions •A “people person” who is a team builder and team player. openly, you do experience deep feelings. •Artistic, inspirational, spiritual. People with green as their brightest color have curious minds. They •A mediator and peacemaker who is idealistic, intuitive, explore every facet of a problem or an idea to control the realities of romantic and loyal. life. They are global by nature, always seeking universal truth. They acquire Famous Blues: Mozart, Thomas Jefferson, Ghandi, Mohammed Ali, skills and perfect any product or system upon which they choose to Jimmy Carter focus. They symbolize the abstract thinker, the unknown challenge of RIVAL RED outer space, the complexity and simplicity of design, and the symmetry If your brightest color is red, you are always maneuvering for control. of forms. You have a strong desire to control people and your environment. If you • Anticipates the impact of actions taken now. are in control, you feel you can somehow buffer yourself from the • Explores all facets before deciding and checks for accuracy. unexpected. You do not like surprises. You are highly effective at using • Plans carefully and systematically. Enlivened by work. intimidation and aggression in order to get what you want. Your need • Defies the status quo, initiates change and acts inventively. to dominate is so strong that you are often accused of being insensitive •Logical, theoretical, persistent, thorough, and self-sufficient. to the feelings and needs of others. You have a strong, forceful personality •Often not in the mainstream. and are driven by the need for power and status. Being fiercely competitive, • Intellectual, inquisitive, impartial, and improvement oriented. you are a survivor who will not back down from confrontation. Winning Famous Greens: Socrates, Benjamin Franklin, Carl Jung, Thomas Edison, is everything. Eleanor Roosevelt, Katherine Hepburn, Rosalyn Carter • Action-oriented, spontaneous and focused on “now.” •Need freedom to follow impulses, which you trust over the judgment of others. • Cool headed and ever courageous. •Proud of their ability to handle a crisis better than most. • Excel as negotiators and troubleshooters. •Resist schedules and hierarchies. • Long term planning is a low priority as each day brings its own agenda. Famous Reds: George W. Bush, Donald Trump, JFK, Ronald Reagan, Christie Todd Whitman
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