We`re 7! The NINH Lifestyle Scouting Page

FASH ION
LIFESTYLE
ART
E NTE RTA I N M E NT
MARCH 2012
FREE
We’re 7!
The NINH
Lifestyle
Scouting
Page Parkes
Bagan’s
Temples
yellowmags.com
F R O M
T H E
E D I TO R
I N
C H I E F
Perhaps it is because Houston has faired the economic storms so well or perhaps the unseasonably spring-like weather has been so
uplifting. Or perhaps, it has something to do with the remarkable sun flare activity that has mesmerized the world by magnifying and
expanding the range of the beautiful aurora borealis. Or, just maybe, it has something to do with an unknown Asian American Harvard
educated basketball player who has captured the nation’s imagination in such a powerful and inspiring way. Whatever the reason, 2012
has already proven itself to be a promising and extraordinary year. On the Houston social front, all you need do is look at the many pages
of events we have chronicled in our “picture pics” to see that on the local level, as well, it is already an unusually active year.
This March begins a period of some once-in-a-lifetime events that will take place in our city. As reported in previous issues, the long
awaited and coveted Ai Weiwei Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads installation will be on display in Hermann Park from March 3 – June 3,
2012. Only six cities in the U.S. were selected to host the installation which will be located in Hermann Park close to the southeast corner
of McGovern Lake.
Also high on the list of long anticipated events is the unveiling of one of Houston’s most sophisticated architectural and cultural gems,
the Asia Society Texas Center. Actually, I am so excited about this center which will serve as a badge of distinction for Houston and
its Asian American community that I am bringing it to your attention just a little prematurely. The center will open in early April. I just
wanted to get you warmed up!
Please join me in recognizing and congratulating Steffi Hu on her being crowned Miss Chinatown USA. What an accomplishment for
Steffi. It seems that Houston has a knack for raising beautiful and talented Chinese American women who are appreciated on the
national stage.
Photo by Collin Kelly
And last, but certainly not least, this month marks Yellow Magazine’s seven year anniversary. The year of the Water Dragon is very
auspicious indeed!
In Loving Memory of our dear friend Yuki Rogers.
V. Hoang
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 editor in
chief of Yellow Magazine, my last name is Hoang, which also means
yellow. Just as I am proud of my name, I am proud of my heritage,
and proud of Yellow Magazine.
Editor in Chief
V. Van Hoang, President of MV Media
Editor
Creative Director
Henri Merceron
Jeff Martin
Cultural Editors
Website
Vuthy Kuon
Tricia Volore
Leo Sipras
Health Editor
Ashley Vu
Ivy Yang
Contributing Photographers
Travel Editor
Matt Sims
Mitchell Alexander
Thang Nguyen
Wine Editor
kevinvideo1@yahoo.com
Philip Cuisimano
Timothy Frederick
Music Editor
timothyfrederick.com
Tyler Merceron
Lifestyle Editor
Chau Nguyen-Todd
Beauty Editor
Tree Vaello
Fashion Editor
Vi Hua
Contributing Writers
Deanne Nguyen
Leo Sipras
Ashley Vu
Assistant to the Editor in Chief
Shehla Z. Shah
shehlazshahphotography.com
Peter Tham
Fashion Photographer
Collin Kelly
Fashion Stylist
Leslie Rivas
Hair and Makeup
Bianca Linette
Fashion Stylist Assistant
Katie Stanford
Business Manager
Karla Montejo
Publisher
MV Media
Publisher/Managing Director
Frank Perez
Advertising
713.528.6000 x103
sales@yellowmags.com
Yellow Magazine
1990 Post Oak Blvd.
Suite 815
Houston, TX 77056
p 713.528.6000
f 713.228.3186
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 $36/11 issues. Mail check to: Yellow Magazine, 1990 Post Oak Blvd., Suite
815, Houston, TX 77056. © 2012 MV Media
On the cover
Black dress by Temperley,
available at Gregory’s
Earrings available at Little Bird
Gold dress by Mandalay, available
at Gregory’s
Models
Chloe Nguyen & Lauren Nguyen
March 2012
T R AV E L
From Burma
To Myanmar
Bagan’s Timeless Temples
by M AT T S I MS
The headlamp on my bicycle cast a pale light into the pre-morning darkness as I travelled
on a rough dirt road toward a collection of ancient temples that I could not yet see but
knew was out there. In the darkness, I passed men, women, and children getting an
early start to their day. They glanced at me with mystified amusement, and when I
asked them for directions, I was pointed to conflicting routes. Maybe it was my poor
pronunciation of their language, or perhaps they just didn’t know, but I made countless
wrong turns before the faintest light of day revealed a tall structure rising from the
© Photos by Matt Sims
horizon, and I knew I was close. I arrived at the stone temple just as dawn was breaking,
and my tired legs barely had enough energy to climb the steep steps to the uppermost
level. When I finally made it to the top and turned around, I saw a spectacular sight—
sunrise at Bagan.
Bagan was a thriving kingdom full of pagodas until sacked by Kublai Khan in 1287
Thanaka paste, made from
crushed tree bark, is part
sunscreen and part cosmetic.
A primordial mist rises and swirls around the bases of a seemingly infinite
number of ancient temples and pagodas which decorate the land as far as
the eye can see. Some are large, solitary monoliths several stories tall filled
with hidden staircases and towering Buddha statues, and others are simple
stupas that are no bigger than a funerary monument. Many are rumored to
contain sacred relics such as a hair of the Buddha or the bones of a great
monk. All are remnants of a thriving and rich culture that flourished a
thousand years ago before Kublai Khan, the grandson of Genghis Khan,
stormed in and sacked the entire area.
Today, this wide flat plain next to the Irrawaddy River in the mysterious
country of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) is a magnet for adventurous
travelers who are willing to explore the little-visited country in South East
Asia that is sandwiched between India on the west and China and Thailand
to the east. Many are put off by the difficulties of reaching this small country
but for those willing to take a chance, the cultural rewards are enormous.
Although troubled by the oppressive military dictatorship that has
violently suppressed its people and has kept Nobel Peace Prize winner
Aung San Suu Kyi under house arrest for 15 of the last 20 years, I wanted
to see Myanmar for myself, meet its people, and explore the remnants of
its ancient civilizations. The recent release of Aung San Suu Kyi and other
pro-democracy leaders convinced me that the time was ripe. And although
I planned on visiting several different areas of the country, Bagan was first
on my list of must-see destinations.
Most people visit a small number of temples on organized tours, travel
by bus, and eat in restaurants oriented towards tourists. I believe that the
best way to explore another country is on your own. The most visited
temples always have a small crowd of locals selling souvenirs. As they are
active religious sites, it is not surprising to be surrounded by a carload of
Burmese who come to pray. If you would prefer to explore more quietly
and at your own pace, the more distant temples provide you with that
opportunity. You can hire a horse-drawn cart for the entire day for only a
few dollars and the driver will take you to all the major temples, as well as
those that are more remote. The horse drawn carts may be found around
the hotels. Why not have your driver take you to any of the three nearby
villages of Old Bagan, New Bagan, or Nyaung U for an authentic Burmese
lunch on your way to or from a temple or other sight? I liked Golden
Myanmar in Old Bagan, a traditional roadside restaurant with a shady open
air ambience where I ate a complete meal of curry chicken and rice with
about 6 or 7 side dishes, a Coke, and all the bananas I could eat for $1.50.
The nearby tourist restaurants, Sarabha I and Sarabha II, are also good, but
you will be surrounded by busloads of tourists. You may prefer to do as I
do and rely on the trusty Lonely Planet guidebook for dining advice.
Chicken curry and twelve side dishes for $1.50
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March 2012
Buddha inside a temple entrance
On the recommendation of another traveler photographing the sunrise,
I made my way via bicycle to a distant temple rarely visited by tourists.
He told me that within the temple there is a hard-to-find staircase which
leads to a high platform from which the view of Dhammayangyi Temple,
Bagan’s largest temple, was simply astounding. I rode past farmers who
guided water buffalo through the fields and horse-drawn carriages that
plodded along dirt paths.
If you would prefer to explore
more quietly and at your
own pace, the more distant
temples provide you with
that opportunity.
I pedaled down a series of ever-narrowing roads until I had to stop
and push my bike along a sandy trail covered in forest undergrowth. I finally
arrived at the crumbling brick gate of a walled temple that was seemingly
in the middle of nowhere. There were no signs of other visitors—no buses,
cars, bicycles, or sandals respectfully left outside. As I approached the Buddha
just inside the temple entrance, I got that Indiana Jones sensation of being
the first explorer to enter this ancient structure to discover some long-lost
treasure. I quietly explored the recesses of the pagoda and the stone walkway
was cool beneath my bare feet as I examined the old statues. Soon, I found
a dark tight and steep staircase that led me to a ceremonial terrace half-way
up the grand structure. Another staircase took me to an even higher level
where I emerged into bright sunlight from the dark close to the pointed
top of the ancient temple.
The 360 degree view from that vantage point was tremendous and I
relished having it all to myself. I had seen photographs of these magnificent
buildings in books, but no picture could do justice to what I saw. Every
view, irrespective of the direction, was a National Geographic cover come
to life. Finally, I had to sit down, stop taking pictures, stop thinking about
the next place, and simply absorb the incredible presence of the place. It was
the most natural place to let the world go and meditate within the peace
and serenity of my surroundings.
Traditional farms among the hundreds of old temples
FA S H I O N
The Return of
the Renaissance
NINH Collection
b y V. H OA N G
New York based menswear designer Ninh Nguyen plunged into the fashion world and
made quite a splash at New York Fashion Week with his debut Autumn/Winter 2011
collection. Born in Paris (France, NOT Texas, y’all), Ninh graduated from the New York
Fashion Institute in the Menswear Program. His designs are infused with his
interpretation of how the modern Renaissance man should be dressed.
You studied Biology in college. When did you decide to pursue a career as a
fashion designer and what prompted that decision?
I graduated with a B.S. and minor in Psych, with the intention of
becoming a psychiatrist. But med school wasn’t my calling and I couldn’t
find the passion to do it. In 2007, I applied to the Fashion Institute of
Technology and got into the Menswear program. The rest is history.
Photo © Jeffrey Clark Grossman
Did biology influence your sense of fashion in any way?
Knowledge is power, as they say, and even though you would probably
never use your skills cultivating bacteria in petri dishes for the fashion world,
my studies of the human anatomy has helped me better understand the
proportions of the male figure.
From what or whom do you derive inspiration?
I get inspiration from anything and everything. You can literally walk
down the street and admire someone’s look, and use their color combination
as part of the palette for your next collection. Usually architecture, paintings,
films, and sculptures are what I look to when I want to create and design.
The world is infinite when you’re working with a blank canvas.
Designer Ninh Nguyen
Who is the NINH man?
NINH Collection is for the modest and confident, the intellectual and
cultured, the passionate and open-minded—a modern-day Renaissance man.
He is well-groomed and open-minded, has proper etiquette and respects
others—the quintessential gentleman.
Does your collection aesthetic reflect your personal style sensibility?
A lot of designers design for the people and do not wear their own
collection. I design clothes that fit my lifestyle while listening and seeing
what the customer wants.
You were born in Paris, France, and now you live in New York City. Have you
observed a difference in the fashion preferences and styles between French and
American men?
Europeans have always been much more stylish than Americans. Men
in Europe are more open to wearing form-fitting clothes and dressing up
on a casual day, which could be seen as dressing formal here in the States.
I definitely look at London, Paris and Milan fashion week for inspiration.
6
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March 2012
What are your three favorite pieces that were part of your debut F/W 2011
collection?
The debut collection Fall ’11 was very military-like. We used a lot of
army details, navy double-breasted coats, aviator jackets, desert boots, and
warm neck scarves. Along with the streetwear concept we added formality
to the theme with blazers and overcoats. Some of my favorite looks are the
navy buffalo blazer with double lapels, the grey military blazer with contrast
trims, and the white woven top with bib.
What are your favorite pieces in your spring 2012 collection?
I based the line on a nautical theme, using navy, white and grey colorways
alongside thick wooden buttons and intricate detailing. Some of my favorite
looks are the sleeveless double-breasted trench coat with waist belt and the
shawl collar half-lined blazer.
A lot of designers design for the
people and do not wear their own
collection. I design clothes that fit
my lifestyle while listening and
seeing what the customer wants.
Where are your clothes available for purchase?
NINH Collection can be purchased through our online store at
ninh.co/shop. Eventually, for next season, we plan on expanding and selling
in local boutiques and stores around New York City.
What do you think you would be if you were not a designer?
I think I would follow the traditional “Asian” route of becoming a doctor.
But, on average, people change their careers about 10 times during their
lifetimes, so who knows what I would have been, or will become…
FA S H I O N
Page Parkes Talent
Could Be Scouting You!
Page Parkes on the Search
Page Parkes has established herself as a fixture in the fashion world through her Page
by V. HOANG
What do you see as current and future trends in the fashion industry?
Parkes Talent Agency, which she started in Houston more than three decades ago. I have
Multicultural models rule!
had the pleasure of knowing Page for many years and have been delighted to have had
Is it important for you to keep up with fashion as a whole in order for you
to be successful?
the opportunity to collaborate with her in our mutual pursuit of our passion for fashion.
Yes, I started with a fashion degree and it is what I study to this day.
There are so many gems in the treasure chest that is Houston for which this city does
How important are relationships in your industry?
not gain deserved recognition. The Page Parkes Talent Agency is one of those gems and
They mean everything! I never forget that the clients and the models are
my bosses. I love that.
Houston is most fortunate that Page’s participation in the reality fashion show featured
Is there a second season of Scouted coming up?
on the E! Channel, Scouted, elevates our city’s profile on a national scale and in such a
You will be the first to know! You have been so good to us at Page Parkes.
Let’s scout together. Thanks for all you do!
positive and sophisticated manner.
What prompted you to launch your own agency?
I worked for a local agency after college and signed an agreement to buy
it. By the time the purchase was scheduled to be finalized, the agency’s
income tripled and they backed out! My Mom was the one who said, “Baby
you can waste time suing or we can back you.” So I chose to move on with
my own agency, opening in 1981 when I was 22 years old!
Did you have any other industry experience?
I was a fashion design student at the American College and studied in
Switzerland, London, Paris and Italy. Can you share any interesting stories or anecdotes from the early days?
I won the Young Couture Award from Emilo Pucci and spent time studying
at his castle. While there, I learned the power of the model!
What do you look for in a model today compared to when you first began?
In 1980, American models were the hottest in the industry. Today, the
Eastern European models have taken that spot. Once the walls came down
around the world, the look changed. The hottest thing this season is the
Asian model; they have taken over the runways as well as the catalogues.
Who are your biggest discoveries?
Channing Tatum, Alexis Bledal, Shannon Elizabeth, Brook Burns, Charles
Divins.... to name few. Is there anyone who you regret not signing?
Woody Harrelson attended the Page Parkes school but the agency did not
sign him! The hottest thing this season is the
Asian model; they have taken over
the runways as well as the catalogues.
Do most of your models seek you out or do you discover them?
It is a combination. Since we are a household name, many models do seek
us out. But, I am definitely obsessed with scouting!
Where do you usually discover your models?
Anywhere and everywhere. We find them at concerts, fast food drive thru
lanes, my kids’ friends...my friends’ kids. Everywhere!!!
You have been very successful in discovering girls on the television reality
show, Scouted. To what do you attribute this success?
I am only as good the last star we find. The Page Parkes staff is the reason
I won. I credit the Page Parkes Center, Page Parkes Model Camp and
iscout (our scouting app) for making the winners, not me.
What makes a successful model?
Being tall and thin; having unusual looks and determination;
and being passionate about the art of the industry.
What do you think is the biggest misconception about the
modeling industry?
That if we want you, we pay for your training and tools...not true!
Do you think all the shows about modeling have helped or hurt the
industry?
I can only speak of Scouted. There is no drama. It is very organic and draws
upon real examples within the industry. From that perspective, it is a big
help to people who want the truth about the industry.
Do you feel that the industry has changed over the past decades?
Yes, it has changed with technology. When I started, the only way to reach
Europe was by telex! Today, we can sell models to top designers with a
simple click.
8
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March 2012
White pleated blouse by Badgley Mischka
Black and white organza ruffle sleeve blouse by Oscar de la Renta
Both available at Neiman Marcus
in the making...
Photographer Collin Kelly Fashion Stylist Leslie Rivas Fashion Stylist Assistant Katie Stanford Hair and Makeup Bianca Linette
Models Chloe Nguyen & Lauren Nguyen
Location Asia Society Texas Center
10 |
March 2012
Yellow Magazine
Capelets by EyeDoll, available at Gregory’s
Necklaces available at Little Bird
March 2012
| 11
Jumpsuit by Temperley,
available at Gregory’s
Bolero by Oscar de la Renta,
available at Little Bird
Shoes by Gianmarco Lorenzi,
available at Gregory’s
Beaded flapper dress by Bob
Mackie, available at Little Bird
Boots by Gianmarco Lorenzi,
available at Gregory’s
12 |
March 2012
Yellow Magazine
Jacket by Oscar de la Renta
Pants by Chloe
Hat by Chanel
Necklace by Lanvin
All available at Little Bird
Shoes by Gianmarco Lorenzi, available at Gregory’s
Cane by Pasotti, available at Little Bird
Vintage Coats by Oscar de la Renta
Metallic belt by Fendi
Red belt by Dolce and Gabanna
Fur necklace by Marni
Beaded necklace by Marni
All available at Little Bird
Shoes by YSL
March 2012
| 13
Black dress by Temperley, available at Gregory’s
Earrings available at Little Bird
Gold dress by Mandalay, available at Gregory’s
14 |
March 2012
Yellow Magazine
Black dress by Isaac Mizrahi, available at Little Bird
Necklace available at Little Bird
Boots by Gianmarco Lorenzi, available at Gregory’s
March 2012
| 15
Lunar New Year Event Showcasing Versace 2012 Spring/Summer Collection
Held at Versace Boutique
Photos by Mitchell Alexander
Many fashionistas and fashionistos attended the Yellow Magazine
Annual Lunar New Year party where they were the first to see Versace
2012 Spring/Summer Collection. This year the event was co-hosted
by Dane Hoang, Duyen Huynh, and Katherine Le. A portion of the
evening’s proceeds benefitted the Le Hoang Foundation. The Le Hoang
Foundation creates and manages programs providing tangible help
and transforming the lives of special needs and financially
disadvantaged children in the United States and around the world.
Paul Nguyen, Anh Hoang, Andrew Huynh, Duyen Huynh
Model
Danny Nguyen, Jeannie Belle Ly, Christine Hau
Antonio Gallegos, Mercedez Hooks, Jacklyn Chua Cross, Jay Le
Ari Domingo , Gloria McGowan Marco Mananzo, Viet Hoang
Aline Tran, Tien Hoang
16 |
March 2012
Viet Hoang, Dane Hoang
Trang Trinh, Nina Vu, Phoung Doan, Trang Nguyen
Issacc Emmanuel, Lily Bui
Catherine Le
Priya Shivangi, Saki Indakwa
Daniel Delgado, Randall Gonzales, Henri Merceron
Mandy Kao
Allen Lee, Sandy Nikko
Tiffani Dang, Annie Le
Dominique McGhee, Ameer Jumabhoy
Kate Min, Jason Yeh
Kim Nguyen, Clarissa Trevino
Donae Chramosta, Harriet Gertner
Model
Thanh Luu, Tran Luu
Angelina To
Mylene Pham, Toan Vu
Model
Kristina Supamanee Spritzer DJ Tuzzo
John & Deneice Leigh
Julie Vo
Nina Vu, Katherine Le, Phuong Doan, Lili Tiongson
C U LT U R E
Spectacular Three Day Celebration
Opens New Texas Center
Asia Society
b y F RITZ L A N HA M
Asia Society Texas Center parties in the finest places. See for yourself April 13-15 when
the pan-Asian cultural center opens the doors of its stylish new building in the heart
of Houston’s Museum District. A two-day Open House and First Look Festival on
Saturday and Sunday, April 14-15, marks the building’s debut to the general public.
Festival-goers can enjoy Asian music and dance, Asian and Asian-fusion food, a family
activity zone, and more.
Asia Society Texas Center
1370 Southmore Boulevard
Houston, TX 77004
713.496.9901
For more information, visit
asiasociety.org/texas.
Image from Treasures of Asian Art:
A Rockefeller Legacy
They will also have the chance to tour the new Center, designed by the
renowned Japanese architect Yoshio Taniguchi, and savor Treasures of Asian
Art: A Rockefeller Legacy, the inaugural exhibition in the Louisa Stude Sarofim
Gallery. Treasures of Asian Art comprises 60 works from the famed Mr. and
Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection in the Asia Society Museum in
New York and features stunning examples of South Asian and Southeast
Asian sculpture and East Asian ceramics. Also on display will be two other
exhibitions: Contemporary Asian Art: Texas Connections and Lee Ufan: The Art
of Emptiness. Admission to the exhibitions and all festival events is free.
“We’re thrilled to be opening this beautiful building and want as many
people as possible to help us celebrate this day,” said Martha Blackwelder,
the Texas Center’s executive director. “This Center is for all Houstonians,
and we promise all a wonderful time.”
Festival highlights include performances by Naniwa Tobi Denryu
Hozonkai. The spectacular acrobatics of this Osaka-based troupe of real-life
construction workers pay homage to techniques used by 19th-century
Japanese firefighters (known as hikeshi) in battling blazes.
Also taking the stage on both days will be the Mountain Music Project,
a quartet that marries Nepalese folk music and Appalachian bluegrass; the
Sufi-inspired musical group Riyaaz Qawwali; and Australian Aboriginal
didgeridoo player Cameron McCarthy.
The festival runs noon-6 p.m. on both days. The Center is at 1370
Southmore at Caroline.
Lighting up the Friday night before, on April 13 from 7 to 11 p.m., will
be Spotlight Asia: Cocktails & Cultural Fusions. Tasty treats and urban beats
set the tone for this glitzy party in the Center. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres,
wine and beer come with every ticket.
Divya and Chris Brown are chairing the evening, which promises to be
one of the stellar social events of the Spring season.
Members of Asia Society pay $25 in advance, $50 at the door. Nonmember tickets include a one-year membership in Asia Society. Advance
Young Professionals tickets are $50 ($75 at door), standard tickets (over age
40) are $75 ($100 at door). Add $25 to the price of any ticket and you get
VIP status, which includes free valet parking and admission to the VIP
Lounge with its full bar.
To purchase advance tickets and for more information on the Spotlight
Asia party, visit SpotlightAsia2012.org or contact Kristina Supamanee Spritzer,
Membership Manager, 713.496.9905, KSpritzer@asiasociety.org. For
information about the Open House and First Look Festival contact Sabrina
Motley, Director of Programs, at 713.496.9914, SMotley@asiasociety.org.
B E AU T Y
Don’t Miss Out On
Limited Edition Beauty
Chen Man for M•A•C
Chen Man is the star of the Chinese fashion photography world, rising to prominence
on the strength of a series of groundbreaking covers created for the Shanghai- based
Vision, China’s first avant-garde fashion magazine, merging her exquisite aesthetic
with computer virtuosity.
For her M·A·C collaboration, a bold, sensual and lyrical colour collection
inspired by the artist’s fascination with love and water (represented by
the colours pink and blue). Defining the moment while heralding the
future, M·A·C Chenman defies the gaze to look away.
The collection includes Play It Proper Pastel soft pink beauty powder
($23.00), Supersweet Duo half bronze, pink, gold mélange/half solid golden
pink (frost) mineralize eye shadow duo ($20.00), and Force of Love Vivid
honeysuckle pink (matte) lipstick ($14.50).
M.A.C Chenman
Available March 1
through April 5, 2012
March 2012
| 17
Lunar New Year Party
Photos by Mitchell Alexander, Thang Nguyen, Mai Xuan Canh
Held at Momentum BMW Southwest
Over 500 guests attended the annual Yellow Magazine’s
Lunar New Year Party, which was co-hosted by Asian
American Bar Association, Asia Society Texas Center Young
Professionals, Chinese America Citizens Alliance, Hope
Initiative, Korean American Society of Houston, Filipino
Young Professionals of Houston and the Vietnamese
American Chamber of Commerce. Guests were greeted
by the lion dance provided by Lee’s Golden Dragon,
followed by colorful traditional dances from J&H Dance
School. The evening also included a fashion show from
Thursday Island. Drinks were provided by Hennessy and
food were provided by Kim Son Restaurant.
Rafael Restrepo, Tricia Calzavara, Hoa Tran,
Allison Lannhi Le, Danielle Nguyen
Event Sponsor
Catherine Shepard
Hennessy Privilège
Chris Tea, Deborah Chung
Allen Lee, Viet Hoang
Drummers from Lee’s Golden Dragon
Dancers from J&H Dance School
18 |
Monica Bernal
Elizabeth Yu
Lee’s Golden Dragon
March 2012
Momentum BMW showroom
Stella Zhang, Michelle Lin, Andrew Chen
Doug Kamen, Ruchi Mukerjee Liz Chung, Trina La
Thursday Island Model Dwayne Benn, Nhulien Hope
Hennessy Models
Thursday Island’s Model Aline Tran, Anhtien Ha
Linh Nguyen, Audrey Le, Dana Le,
Margaret Yan, Melissa & Thomas Yan
Anais Nguyen, Duyen Huynh, Marc Nguyen
Sneha & Naushir Merchant Dancers from J& H Dance School
Thursday Island
Model
Amy Mai, Christine Hau, Danny Nguyen, Laura Gonzalez
Vy Le, Gordon Quan
Miss Chinatown USA, Steffi Hu
Lucy Luo, Kirk Chen
Tiffani Dang, Annie Le
Julie Diep, Mylene Pham
Betty Gee, Tammy Su
Connie Kwan Wong, Mandy Kao, Li Na
Dancers from J&H Dance School
Michelle Vo and guest
Grace Jacobson, Cindy Leah Hanerhoff,
Ceanna Hsieh
Alexandra Vu
Lion Dance from Lee’s Golden
Dragon
Dancer from J&H Dance School
FA S H I O N
J-Fashion Pops Style
in Houston
Anime Matsuri
While it goes without saying that Japanese culture is uniquely different from that
of its American neighbor to the West, the two nations do share a common interest
in the arts, including fashion. From the wildly interpretive punk infused styles that
hail from the streets of Harajuku to the innocent doll like appearance known as
“Lolita”, Japanese fashion (aka “J-fashion”) has been making its way into the hearts
of men and women throughout the country.
Anime Matsuri is the largest
Japanese pop culture
convention in Houston and
will be held Easter weekend,
April 6-8, 2012, at The
Woodlands Waterway
Marriott Hotel & Convention
Center.
For more information,
visit animematsuri.com.
Created in 1988 by Akinori Isobe and his wife, Fumiyo, Baby, the Stars
Shine Bright, has become a popular Lolita clothing brand among young
ladies in Japan and beyond, focusing on the Sweet Lolita category. In 2004,
the designers of Baby, the Stars Shine Bright, released their new brand
Alice and the Pirates, that showcased a pirate/punk motif with bold colors.
One need not have to travel to Japan to purchase these adorable outfits,
as stores have been opened in Paris and San Francisco, as well.
Creator Akinori Isobe and designers Masumi Kano and Tomomi
Nakamura will visit Texas for the first time to present an elaborate fashion
show at the 6th annual Anime Matsuri. Their show will debut their
spring/summer line with the help of famous Lolita model, Midori Fukasawa,
renowned for her appearances in such Lolita magazines as Gothic Lolita
Bible and KERA. World champion aerial silk gymnast, synchronized
swimmer and performer in Cirque Du Soleil ‘O’, Mai Yamamoto, will perform
at the exclusive event. Absent safety wires and harnesses, Yamamoto will
open the J-Fashion show to a soundtrack composed by Daisuke Ishiwatari
and Yoshihiro.
Model Midori Fukasawa
1st Annual Ballroom Dance Extravaganza
Photos by Melissa Yan
Held at Villa Rinata
The Connie Kwan-Wong Charitable Foundation held its 1st
Annual Ballroom Extravaganza benefitting Children Defense
Fund (CDF). Guests were entertained by Houston’s professional
dancers and highly proclaimed Latin ballroom dancers Riccardo
Cocchi and Yulia Zagaruychenko. The evening also included a
Professional/Amateur Couple competition. The Connie KwanWong (CKW) Foundation helps raise awareness about
immediate problems and issues facing children in Houston.
CKW Foundation serves as a bridge between the Houston
community and established children’s charities to foster growth
and community involvement.
Leo Wong, Shirley Kwan, Shun Wa Ling, Judy Yan, Stephen Wong,
Connie Kwan-Wong, Peter Leung, Winnie Leung, Tracy Yuen, Eliz Wong
Billy King, Selena Morano
Courtney Zavala
Isabel Farinha, Susan Yeh, Betty Yeh, Sally He, Lonnie Mathison,
Yana Kristal, Maryann Nichols, Winnie & Simon Chan
Mandy Kao, Miya Shay,
Tammy Su
Gurur Denktas,
Suur Ustundag
Jennie Zarasvand,
Sybil Lyssy, Becky Hazzard
Viet Hoang, Li Na
Riccardo Cocchi, Yulia Zagoruychenko
Marc Nguyen, Duyen Huynh, Trang Trinh
Stefan Golubovic, Rebecca Avila
10th Annual Toast of Living Well
Held at Hilton Americas
ZT Wealth and Altus Healthcare Management Services
hosted its 10th Annual Toast to Living Well black-tie
event benefitting The Rose. More than 1200 of Houston’s
elite gathered for a fun casino-themed evening that
also included a book signing by Houston socialite Joanne
King Herring, author of Diplomacy and Diamonds. To
start off the event, Taseer Badar, CEO of ZT Wealth and
Altus Healthcare Management, presented The Rose with
a $30,000 check and the Hillcroft Physicians added
another $20,000 to the contribution. The Rose is the
Houston area's leading 501(c)(3) non-profit breast cancer
organization providing mammography screening,
diagnosis, access to treatment and support to all women
regardless of their ability to pay.
Dorothy Gibbons and guest, Cassie Wu, Chester Pitts, Jordon Hill, Sylvia & Gordon Quan
Thuylan Chang, Travis Johnson, Kraig Killough
Joanne King Herring, Taseer Badar
Texan Cheerleaders
Dr. My Linh Nguyen, Dr. Roger Le
Dr. Kit & Core La
Dr. Hac & Thi Nguyen
Dr. Trien Vu , Andrea Tran
Bulbo Band
W I N E
Liquid Dark
Chocolate Cherries
Sweet Libations
Dessert wines are delicious and tasty treats that are
often under-appreciated. This is due, in large part, to a lack
of understanding regarding their use as well as the presence
of market variables that, in some cases, have served to
denigrate their image. We will explore the niche category
of Dessert Wine to improve your understanding and
enjoyment of these delights.
First, we must make a distinction between dessert wines
and fortified wines. The latter are wines into which alcohol
is added. The best known types are Ports and Sherries.
Alcohol is added to Port prior to the completion of
fermentation and to Sherry after fermentation. As a result,
Sherry is drier than Port. The very best Sherry (rare in our
market) pairs well with cuisine but Port is usually sipped
after the meal, to be savored, perhaps, along with a cigar
and is often referred to as a “meditation” wine.
Dessert wines offer a
delicate type of “sweetness”
that is rich, delicious and
elegant but not at all
heavy, syrupy or cloying.
Dessert wines have no alcohol added and are typically
lower in proof than most table wines. They are meant to
accompany courses, such as pastries and fruit confections
or they may be served in lieu of dessert. Additionally, dessert
wines are the best accompaniments to most cheeses.
b y P H I L I P C U I SI M A N O
Dessert wines are sweet, which can confuse consumers
because “sweet” often carries a negative connotation of
beverages that are cheap, mass produced and which are
more chemical than wine. These beverages, including the
likes of Lambrusco, White Zinfandel, and wine coolers have
often served as a “bridge” that helped introduce generations
of novice consumers to wine.
Nothing like the above referenced beverages, dessert
wines are artisanal products extracted from low yielding
vineyards, utilizing exacting, labor-intensive techniques of
production. These wines offer a delicate type of “sweetness”
that is rich, delicious and elegant but not at all heavy, syrupy
or cloying.
A dessert wine that is developing quite a following in
today’s market is Moscato, a grape which can produce crisp,
delicious wines renowned for its flavor of green apples. The
best of these is the Moscato d’Asti from Italy. That country
also produces a red wine similar in taste to that of Moscato
but features red-berry fruits; this special wine is made with
the Brachetto grape and is readily available.
Late harvest wines make great dessert selections; these
are produced from grapes left on the vine for an extended
period of time which allows the sugars to concentrate prior
to crushing. The result is cuvees rich in ripe, luscious, fruit
flavors. One special type of late harvest wine is “ice wine”
in which the grapes are allowed to freeze on the vine and
crushed while still frozen. The result is a wine of exquisite,
fresh, concentrated fruit. Ice wines are a rare delicacy as the
grapes have to be at just the right stage of development
when “Mother Nature” decides to freeze them. The best ice
wine is from Germany (Eiswein) but Canada is also a source
of less expensive options that are more readily available.
Wine of the Month
Zeni Moscato Rosa Trentino 2005
This is a dessert wine so rare that few people even know it
exists; it is a late harvest Moscata Rosa from the Trentino
region of Italy. A red Moscato grape that produces a wine
black in color with a thick, rich body full of “in your face”
flavors of luscious red-berries infused with notes of dark
chocolate. It is like drinking liquid chocolate-covered cherries;
this wine has to be tasted to be believed. $45.00
Wines available at Spec's Wines, Spirits, & Finer Foods, various
locations. Visit specsonline.com for the store nearest you.
Dining Guide
Yellow Magazine’s featured restaurants
J A PA N E S E
Sinh Sinh
VIETNAMESE
Tokyo One
9788 Bellaire Blvd., 713.541.0888
Kim Son Restaurants
7465 W. Greens Rd., 281.955.8898
2938 W. Sam Houston S., 713.785.8899
Tokyo One is a sushi buffet restaurant, situated
in a fancy boat house with an outside deck. The
food is fresh and is constantly replenished.
Selections include: salads such as sea weed, beef,
squid, salmon and watercress. Sushi includes a
variety of rolls and sashimi.
Zushi Japanese Cuisine
5900 Memorial Dr., 713.861.5588
Zushi serves extremely fresh and high quality
sushi. Stand out items are the sashimi appetizers
served with perfectly paired sauces or any one
of the many house specialty rolls.
Uptown Sushi
1131 Uptown Park Blvd. #14 713.871.1200
Uptown Sushi personifies an upscale sushi
restaurant located near the Galleria in the swanky
Uptown Park Plaza. The menu offers Japanese
fusion dishes and a great selection of high-end
sashimi and sushi. Side note: Uptown Sushi has
“off-the-menu” specialty rolls served daily!
CHINESE
Auntie Chang’s
2621 South Shepherd #290, 713.524.8410
Auntie Chang’s offers the most flavorful homestyle Chinese cuisine around. Although known
for their dumplings, any of your favorite classic
Chinese dishes are done extremely well.
Hong Kong Food Street
9750 Bellaire Blvd., 713.981.9888
Peking duck and roasted pork hang from cleavers
in a front window display giving a Hong Kong
street market feel. In addition, the menu is
divided into sections including Seafood, Hot Pot,
Special Stir Fry, Sizzling and Chef Specials.
The seafood at Sinh Sinh is quite exciting
because everything served comes from live tanks.
Prawns, Australian king lobster, King crabs, Coral
Leopard trout, Surf clams, Geoduck clams, Trunk
clams, Elephant clams, etc…are all featured as
live seafood.
Thai Spice
The menu is the most imposing part of this casual,
highly regarded landmark Vietnamese restaurant. There are no poor choices among the 100 or so
options. Enjoy finely prepared delicacies as well
as the expected fare, such as the pork vermicelli
and fried eggroll. Must try is their black pepper
softshell crab. Special event facilities available.
8282 Bellaire Blvd. 713.777.4888
Vietopia
THAI
Thai Spice on Bellaire is a foodies dream. It’s a
casual place that serves Thai dishes you won’t
find anywhere else in Houston, with a huge
selection of interesting, rare, tasty dishes at
excellent prices. A must have is the whole fried
tilapia with hot and sour dipping sauce and
papaya salad and Tom Yum soup.
Nit Noi
6700 Woodway Pkwy., Suite 580
281.597.8200
Nit Noi means “a little bit” and Thai food lovers
pack Nit Noi restaurants and cafes all around
Houston. Nit Noi will always be known for their
Pad Thai, but other must try dishes include
PadThai Korat (flat noodles stir-fried with
chicken, pork or shrimp with vegetables) and
Tom Yum Goong (spicy and sour shrimp soup).
Tony Thai
10613 Bellaire Blvd., 281.495.1711
A sophisticated approach to traditional Thai
cuisine, Tony’s executes with perfect balance
and pizzazz. Tony’s Wings, wet or dry, and the
Steamed Mussels are popular appetizers. For
the main course try the Basil Lamb, Garlic
Salmon or the Steamed Fish with Chili.
INDIAN
Kiran’s Restaurant
San Dong Noodle House
4100 Westheimer Rd. #151, 713.960.8472
9938-F Bellaire Blvd., 713.271.3945
This northern Indian style restaurant embodies
a fusion approach to its cuisine. With a focus on
well balanced flavors rather than spice, the Flaky
Halibut Swimming in Watermelon Curry sauce
and the Tandoori Platter typify this perfectly.
Authentic hand pulled Chinese noodle dishes are
served at a reasonable price. A few favorites
include the Roast Beef Noodle soup served in a
beef broth accented by ginger and soy, or the oh
so addicting pan fried dumplings.
2001 Jefferson (and other locations),
713.222.2461
To have your restaurant featured in Yellow Magazine, or to recommend a restaurant
that you enjoy, please email the information to dining@yellowmags.com.
5176 Buffalo Speedway, 713.664.7303
Trendy yet elegant, Vietopia delivers top notch
Vietnamese cuisine at reasonable lunch prices and
a stellar dinner menu. The lounge works perfectly
for those who want a less formal dining experience
but still want to enjoy quality food.
Mo Mong
1201 Westheimer Rd. #B, 713.524.5664
This Trendy Montrose establishment has a great
lunch crowd as well as a packed martini night
on Wednesdays. But the real draw is the foodtraditional family recipes mixed in with some
tasty modern dishes. Must try items include the
Mango Spring Rolls, Shrimp and Avocado Spring
Roll, Volcano Chicken, and the Bo Luc Lac.
CO N T I N E N TA L
Voice Restaurant & Lounge
Hotel Icon, 220 Main, 832.667.4470
The impressive décor has thoughtfully
transformed the space of an old bank lobby into
a warm cozy and elegant dining area. Try the
Mushroom Soup “Cappucino”, reduction of
garlic, onion, crimini mushrooms topped with
frothy truffle foam, and the Bryan Farms Roast
Chicken, a free range and 100% corn fed chicken.
Colombe d’Or Restaurant and Hotel
3410 Montrose Blvd. 713.524.7999
Built in 1923 and originally the mansion of
Walter Fondren, one of the founders of Humble
Oil, Colombe d’Or Hotel is considered a Texas
historical landmark. Featuring French and
Continental fare, we recommend the Carre
d’Agneau, individual rack of baby lamb grilled
with natural herbs and red wine sauce.
Reserve your Marketplace ad today!
Call 832.778.4530