March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 1

Photographer : Debbie PorterStylist : Summar Salah

Hair: David Bamford for TovasMakeup : Tree Vaello

Cake : Rosie Garcia for La Victoria Bakery

MARCH 2006

Houston, Texas

FREE

Yellow, WhatHue Are You?

In The NameOf Yellow

It’s ALLYellow

ANNIVERSARYISSUE!

Join the Celebration!

F A S H I O N L I F E S T Y L E A R T E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Vera Wang black dress $760. Neiman Marcus

March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 2

F R O M T H E P U B L I S H E R

Shakespeare immortalized the famous question, “What

is in a name?” It is a question that appears simple yet

belies a deeper and more complex nature. Consider my

last name, Hoang. To most Americans, it is simply a

common Vietnamese surname. It is very likely that only

a few are aware that it means “yellow” in English.

Similarly, other Asian nationalities have variations of

my surname such as Wong, Kwang, and Ong, amongst

others that also mean “yellow”.

Yellow. It would appear to be a very simple word. Yet,

when one considers the recurrent symbolic role it has

played throughout the history of Asian culture, one

becomes keenly aware of its importance. Symbolizing

the earth that sustains all life, yellow has been embraced

by Buddhist monks as an expression of their humility

and by reigning emperors as an expression of

unchallenged power. Such is the role of yellow, always

revered but in different ways under different

circumstances.

In similar fashion, 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. Of course, not every photo shoot or article

will appeal to all readers, just as all crops produced by

the yellow earth will not appeal to all who eat.

We measure our success when one reader, similar to

the Buddhist monk, appreciates us for one reason, and

another reader, like the Emperor, appreciates us for

another. And, finally, if everyone emerges with a sense

of pride and empowerment, notwithstanding whichever

aspect of Yellow Magazine they enjoy, we will know we

have accomplished all that we had hoped.

Thank you for supporting Yellow Magazine throughout

our first year of publication.

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 RitterTina Hernandez

Events Calendar Editor

Kyle Fu

Contributing Writers

Kerwin McKenzieJustine HernandezPhilip CusimanoSusie HernandezLeo Sipras

Art Director

Jeff Martin

Photographer

Debbie Porterwww.debbieporter.com

Stylist

Summar Salah

Hair Stylist

David Bamfordfor Tovas

Makeup Artist

Tree Vaello

Account Executive

Tai Lai

Business Manager

Stephanie Vu

National Advertising

Verve Communications Group325 N. St. Paul StreetSuite 2360Dallas, TX 75201214.965.9933 x106www.vervecommunications.com

Local Advertising

713.528.6000 x103sales@yellowmags.com

Yellow Magazine

3400 MontroseSuite 510Houston, TX 77006713.528.6000

yellowmags.com

Yellow Magazine is published monthly. All rights reserved.Reproduction in whole or part of the magazine is strictly prohibitedwithout the permission of the publisher. Yellow Magazine is notresponsible for any unsolicited materials submitted. Subscriptionsto Yellow Magazine may be purchased for $36/12 issues. Mail checkto: Yellow Magazine, 3400 Montrose, Suite 510, Houston, TX 77006.

March 2006

March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 4

4 | M a r c h 2 0 0 6

For millions of fashionistas and TV addicts, watching Project Runwayhas become a Wednesday night ritual. The irresistible reality show hasstruck a chord with avid fans and has propelled it to become the marqueeshow on the Bravo network. In its second season, Project Runway scouredthe country to find “the next great American designer”. Thousandsauditioned but only sixteen designers made it to New York City, hopingto hear host Heidi Klum tell them “you’re in” instead of “you’re out”.Being “in” is critical because it will put these designers closer to theNew York Fashion Week final collection competition and potentiallywinning Project Runway. The show’s winning designer will receive a$100,000 cash prize, a mentorship with the Banana Republic DesignTeam, a new Saturn automobile, and a fashion spread in Elle Magazine.

Fortunately, Houston’s own Chloe Dao (featured in our July 2005issue) has been “in” from the very beginning. By winning challengesand impressing the judges with her creations, Ms. Dao showed the worldher design capabilities and her calm, focused demeanor. Her signature

style of clean lines and femininity has garnered rave reviews from notedfashion designers and Project Runway fans alike. Each week, Ms. Dao’sprofessional eye and precise style has allowed her to move one step closerto showing her collection in the final competition under the BryantPark tents at New York’s fabulous Fashion Week. For a fledgling designer,showing in Fashion Week is a dream come true and can establish his orher presence in the fashion industry.

Ms. Dao isn’t exactly a fledgingdesigner, though. As a graduate of TheFashion Institute of Technology (FIT),she has gained plenty of experienceon both the creative and business aspectof the fashion world. After years of

working in New York City, Chloe returned to Houston and opened herown boutique, Lot 8, in Rice Village. A self-professed one-womansweatshop operation, Ms. Dao’s creations are born in the garage of herparent’s house in Houston. That’s a far cry from the fast-paced circus ofNew York Fashion Week. But making it to Fashion Week was the goalfor the designers on Project Runway – a goal only obtainable for the finalthree designers on the show.

At press-time, Chloe had made it into the final three, along withfellow Project Runway designers Santino Rice and Daniel Vosovic, andhad just shown her Fall 2006 Collection under the watchful glare offashion industry insiders, celebrities, and the media – along with theshow’s judges. Her strong collection consisted of empire waist eveninggowns and chic cocktail dresses, and she also played with volume byopening the show with a pink puffed sleeved dress and later a gold halterbaby doll dress with pockets. Her collection exemplified her talent as adesigner who understands the needs of women. Chloe’s female-friendly

aesthetic and her passion for design made her one of the Project Runway’sstars from the very beginning of the show, and finally lead her to NewYork Fashion Week and the finals. Although, the winner of Project Runwaywon’t be known until the March 8 season finale, the exposure andexperience Ms. Dao has gained from the show is immeasurable. Andremember: you met her first here in Yellow Magazine last year!

by LEO SI PR AS

A FashionableReality Star is Born

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

McCarthy that resulted in a Bergdorf Goodman-

worthy outfit consisting of a reversible jacket

with a high waist skirt and scarf tie top. Judge

Nina Garcia, fashion director of Elle magazine,

fell head over heels for it.

NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 10: The Dao sisters at the Project Runway Fall 2006 show during Olympus Fashion Week in Bryant Park.

Fashion’s Other Chloe

U P D A T E

Her signature style of clean lines and femininityhas garnered rave reviews from noted fashion designers and Project Runway fans alike.

For the “Garden Party Challenge”, Chloepainstakingly glued thousands of leaves to createa tiered effect that, from a distance, mimickedprinted fabric.

Regarded by many as her high point, this moderndesign is a result of a jersey dress and black jackethybrid for the “Clothes Off Your Back” challenge.

Chloe’s first stab at menswear resulted in a winfor the “Makeover Another Designer” challenge.

Chloe Dao

Lot 86127 Kirby DriveHouston, TX 77005t 713.807.1565chloedao.com

Brav

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oto:

Bar

bara

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Get

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ages

March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 5

International Décor Gallery Anniversary Celebration

International Décor Gallerycelebrates Chinese New Year2006 with an art exhibitionpreview “ The Art of Harmony”.Guests enjoyed the classical andexotic sounds performed byviolin quartet from the HoustonSymphony and traditionalChinese dance presented byDance of Asian America. Hannah Bacol Busch and

Dr. Gerald BuschYali Zou, Shawn and Lilian Ai Sirun Guan, Gordon and

Silvia Quan, Ms. Wang ChiPaul Wishnow, Greg Hurst,Suzanne Wishnow

Liang-Chern, Kathy Hsu

Dr. Ralph Espada, Monica Barry,Hannah Bacol Busch, Susan Hessman

Erica Hui, Janie Yao, Julie Nguyen

March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 6

6 | M a r c h 2 0 0 6

The readers of Travel & Leisure Magazine rated Bangkok as thesecond best vacation spot after Sydney, Australia and followed by Romeand Florence, Italy.

My favorite travel destinations are in Asia and I must concur thatBangkok, the largest city and capital of Thailand, is an exciting destination.The city is a manifestation of antiquity and the contemporary. Ancientshrines with golden yellow domes shimmer in the sunset in closeproximity to gleaming glass skyscrapers that rival any found around theworld. There are more than 400 temples (wats) housing a multitude ofmonks clad in traditional saffron yellow robes riding water taxis that racepast rice laden barges on their way to market on the Chao Phraya River(“the River of Kings”).

King Rama I built the Grand Palace in 1782 when he moved thecapital across the river from Thonburi for strategic military purposes.The city sprouted around the river which winds its way through thecentral districts. While the grounds are open to visitation, none of thebuildings may be entered. Within the compound is the Wat Phra Kreo,a royal chapel that is exquisitely decorated in gold and glass entrancing

visitors as they gaze upon it in the sunlight. Ithouses the stunning Emerald Buddha that datesback to the 14th century. Only the king ofThailand may approach the statue; he changesthe robe worn by the Buddha seasonally inaccordance with the Buddhist calendar.

Wat Po, located about a half mile from theGrand Palace, is the largest temple in Bangkokand is known for its 150 foot long recliningBuddha (the largest statue in Thailand) that is

clad entirely in gold leaf. Its feet are 9 feet long and decorated inillustrations made from mother-of-pearl. This temple is considered tobe Thailand’s first university and the place to learn how to perform Thaimassage from the traditional source. Classes are available in English andrequire 7 or more days of study. Thai massage is unique in that itincorporates yoga positions to relieve stress and improve circulation.Hence, it is more commonly described as “invigorating” versus “relaxing”.

Visitors should be advised that there are strict dress codes enforcedbefore entering the sites of temples. If your apparel is considered toorevealing or inappropriate (e.g., shorts, flip flops, mid-drifts etc.), unflatteringreplacements will be loaned to you secured by your passport or deposit.

As is true in many Asian countries, the shopping environment inBangkok is world class. The city is considered to be a blend of NewYork, Los Angeles and Washington DC because it is the center ofentertainment, finance and government. Many have the sense that thecity is far removed from the roots of the surrounding country becauseso much of the country’s wealth and resources is concentrated there. Itis a city of 12 million people (one fifth of the country’s population). Forall of these reasons, the shopping culture in Bangkok rules supreme. TheThai people place a premium upon fun (sanuk) which is responsible forthe country often being referred to as “The Land of Smiles.” The peopleconvey an intoxicating sense of joy. So, while bargaining is expectedwhile negotiating a sale, buyers will only prevail if they execute theprocess with a sense of fun. Hard negotiators who do not display a senseof fun may very well leave empty-handed.

As a final note, many visitors may want to more deeply experiencethe mixture of traditional culture with the ultra-modern one that isevident throughout the city. Consider renting a long-tail boat (hang yao)at the Tha Chang ferry near the Grand Palace or the pier at the RiverCity Shopping Complex. Bare in mind that the boat operator willprobably not speak English well and, therefore, he will essentially be yourdriver and not your tour guide. Have the boat travel the canals (calledKlongs) that crisscross a world of villages that occupy the Thonburi sideof the Chao Phraya River. You will capture a perspective of Bangkok ofwhich most tourists may be unaware. The banks of these canals, whichbranch off into even smaller canals, are lined by old wooden homesdecorated colorfully with painted flower pots. Women sell rice andnoodle dishes from floating kitchens and the only way neighbors canvisit each other is by boat.

The contrast of complexity and simplicity, ancient and modern,golden temples that are next to towering skyscrapers is what definesBangkok and makes it a destination of choice among the well traveled.

Bangkok, Thailand The Yellow Gleamof Golden Buddhas and Temple Spires

T R A V E L

The peopleconvey anintoxicatingsense of joy.

by KERWI N MCKENZI E

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.

March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 7

Origami Puppies Adoption at Mo Mong Restaurant

Sandy Atha, Van Pavlik, Kyle Fu

Annie Peng, Mandy Kyle Fu, Nan Leverett

Tony Dinh, Mimi Dinh, Bao Han

EsmeraldaRamirez,GaybrielBrooks,KimberlyPortie,KamilleFrancisco

Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Lee Ardis Bartle Kitty Wang

Cathlea Quirona, Ronnie Green

Chelsey and Brian Shor

Austin Werner, Careen Plummer, Chris Smith

Mikel Marketing Christmas Party

Stephanie Iorio, Sarah Lampe

March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 8

8 | M a r c h 2 0 0 6

It may be stated with conviction that yellow has ruled supremelywithin the context of Chinese history and has colored the very fabricof its culture.

The name of the Yellow River is attributable to the fact that it containsmore silt than any other river in the world. The silt causes the water tohave a yellowish appearance. Huang Di (literally, the Yellow Lord) isconsidered to be the founder of Chinese civilization and the centralancestor of the largest ethnic group in the world (Han) who represent92% of modern day Chinese (19% of the world’s population!). Prior tohis rule (2698 BCE – 2598 BCE), China consisted of farming tribesgoverned by warring chieftains who sought to dominate one anotherand the land they controlled around the Yellow River.

Huang Di’s military prowess enabled him to conquer the other tribeswho elected to unite under his leadership. His tribe honored the yellowearth, the symbol of farming, and he came to be known as the legendary

Yellow Emperor. And so the yellow race was born.Legend credits Huang Di with inventing the compass to find an

enemy that traveled safely under the cover of a sandstorm. He found theenemy and conquered them. Notwithstanding the legend, scholars concurthat the first compass does appear to have originated in China. Intraditional Chinese culture, there is a fifth cardinal direction in additionto north, south, east and west. It is the center. Each direction is representedby a color. As the Yellow Emperor established the Yellow River as thecenter of Chinese civilization, the center of the compass is symbolicallyyellow, as well.

Chinese New Year is the most celebrated holiday in Chinese culture.While the calendar is based upon a complex calculation of astronomicalmeasures such as the sun’s longitude and the phases of the moon, it isbelieved to be a product of Huang Di’s inventiveness in the 61st year ofhis reign. This is the year 4704, which is the sum of the West’s Gregoriancalendar year of 2006 added to the beginning year of Huang Di’s rulein 2698.

Yellow has been used symbolically in other ways. In the early 1400’sone of the Ming emperors relocated the capital of China to Beijing. Thecapital consisted of the Forbidden City which housed the emperor andhis family, the Imperial City for government officials and the Outer City

for everyone else. For 500 years and throughout the reign of 24 emperors,the confines of the Forbidden City were unseen by outsiders. Theplacement of the palace and the architecture to which it conformedstrictly followed feng shui principles. It was aligned along a north-southaxis. The number nine which represents the ultimate symbol of masculinityfigures prominently throughout the structure: the corner towers aresupported by nine beams; there are eighteen pillars; there are 9,999 roomswithin. Completing the symbolism, the use of yellow is exclusively reservedfor the Forbidden City and its inhabitants. Yellow glazed roof tiles, paintedbricks, sheets, decorations and clothing were only found here.

Ironically, whereas yellow has been reserved for the highest echelonof Chinese society, the royals, it has also been embraced by the most humbleof people who shun the accumulation of wealth and all things material,Buddhist monks. Their saffron robes are symbolic of daylight, earth andcalm. Once a color worn by criminals, yellow was selected by Gautum

Buddha as a symbol of renunciation, the absence of desire and humility.The reverence surrounding yellow is not unique to Asian culture. Ancient

Egyptians believed that since the sun and gold are yellow, the color representedpermanence, indestructibility and the eternal. Since the skin and bones ofthe gods were believed to be made of gold, they constructed statues of godsand the death masks of pharaohs from it, as well.

During England’s Elizabethan period, the Sumptuary Laws governedthe rules as to who was permitted to wear yellow garments. The wealthand social status of citizens was conveyed by the colors they wore. Sincethe colorfast dye used to produce yellow fabrics was made from expensiveimported saffron, only expensive clothes were fashioned in this color.

As a final testament to the pervasive presence of yellow within Asianculture, consider that the surname, Huang, is the 7th most commonname in China with more than 29 million people so named. Further,it is the name for more than 2 million overseas Chinese and 1 millionKoreans. (No data is presently available for Vietnamese). These numbersdo not include all the transliterations of the name (i.e., Wong, Hoang,Vong, Bong, Ng, Wee, Oi, Oei, Ooi, Ong, Wang, Whang and Huynh),which would surely elevate the numbers considerably. With a historythat 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.

It is a popularity that has spanned millenniaand lives within the tens of millions ofpeople who are named after it.Undoubtedly, the stature of yellow willbe significant for millennia to come.

Yellow

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.

8 | M a r c h 2 0 0 6 Yellow Magazine

by H EN RI MERCERON

A Long History with a Royal Reign

March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 9

| 9M a r c h 2 0 0 6

Tiger Ball 2006 Uniquely Singapore

Jim Fonteno, Joe Ting Elsie Huang Mehwish AejazMonjula Chadambaram, Shaila Patel

Tom Griffin, Glen Gondo, Mya Shay Pat and Kathy Chaudhury

Yang Park

Reiko Nip, Susie Ting

Fred and Donatella Benckenstein, Joyce Frassanito

Susan Shagagi, Daniel AparvizAneeta Jamal, Michael D. Millard

Nancy Hawes, Kay Ikawa

Libbie and Greg Nelson, Honorable Yoshihiko Kamo, Etsuko Kamo Naila Qureshi

Neil and Maria Bush

Louann Chae, Donna Cole, Linda Metcalf Michael and Shelley DeeJohn Kim, Richard Cole Mrs Chae, Mrs. Juhn

Yuki Rogers, Alice Chen

Charles Foster, Hushang, Shahla Ansari, Geoffrey Connor

Dan Nip, Reiko Nip, Diana Jackson, Honorable Chan Heng Chee

March 1-10-P 2/17/06 3:13 PM Page 10

by SUSI E H ERNAN DEZ

Practical tipsto enrich your daily life

Discovering Zen

L I F E S T Y L E

Everyone wants to be rich, but does the amount of money you havereally determine how rich you are?

Some people want to be rich because they want to have enoughmoney to do anything and everything they want to do, therefore, theythink this will solve all of their problems and they will be happy. But ifthis were true, why is it that wealthy people still have problems? This isbecause having a lot money has absolutely nothing to do with solving the

issues. We can all make a long list ofsuccessful athletes, musicians, actors, andmillionaires who have some serious issues.Having an abundance of money does notmake anyone immune to problems.

In reality, happiness is what everyonereally wants. We’ve all suffered and

probably know someone who is suffering now, and quite possibly hasbeen for years. For some, it could be due to a relationship ending, losinga job, or something more tragic. And why do we even suffer at all? Thisdreaded feeling usually comes around when our emotional and physicaldesires are not satisfied with the reality of what life dishes out to us.When we can tame our minds, become unattached, and grow out ofour ego-driven actions, this struggle will not exist. When we are flexible,our minds, though intangible, can be likened to the physical characteristicsof water. Water can fit in any type of container, so when our minds arelike water, we can fit in any situation or condition without any struggle.

But how do we train our minds to do this? Meditation is a great andeasy way, and it has even been scientifically proven to improve health.When we meditate, we become conscious of every thought that entersour minds. The thoughts we choose to follow are like different investment

options. It’s a good idea to make the right choices so we can enrich ourlives with every thought.

How can the right choices lead to a rich life? By a universal law ofcause and effect. Good investments lead to good profits, just as poorinvestments lead to poor profits. Likewise, if we choose to follow angrythoughts, such as jealousy, greed, or hate, what does that make us? Anangry person. When we are angry, we become tense and stress is created.Anger leads to irrational temper, violence, frustration, bad health andharmful words that can damage relationships. All of these effects can besummed up into one description: miserable. However, if we choose tofollow good thoughts, such as charity, kindness, forgiveness and compassion,then we can become a happier person. When we are happy, our bodiesrelease revitalizing chemicals, we smile, we glow, people are drawn toour magnetic personality, and our relationships with others improve.When we are happy, even a breath of fresh air, the sound of chirpingbirds, or an evening sunset can make us smile. When we are able to makethe right choices to avoid the path of emotional poverty, then we arewise. Since money does notbring true happiness, butwisdom coupled withcompassion can, then theway to become rich is tocultivate the path ofmeditation. True happinessis not found in materialthings, it comes from within,and meditation can help uscultivate this inner joy.

The Four Tenets of Chung Tai:To our elders be respectful;

To our juniors be kind;With all humanity be harmonious;

In all endeavors be true.

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March 16-24-P 2/17/06 4:39 PM Page 1

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.

An Eye For Yellowby J USTI N E H ERNAN DEZ

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

Charles and Lily Foster David Lu, Phil Cao Tu Ha, Nu Ly, Linda Ho

Grace Li, Frank Chou Grace Sun, Lisa Ma

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

You’ll Be Golden WithThese Yellow Essentials

18 | M a r c h 2 0 0 6

E S S E N T I A L S

shu uemura Limited Edition Sweet Lip Glossand Pressed Eye Shadow

“Excitement and delights are essential to our happy lives”says Shu Uemura, and his new Sweet Mode collectiondelivers just that with a candy color inspired palette. It’ll behard to choose, but we bet you’ll love the sheer sunflower-gold lip gloss and bright yellow metallic eye shadow.Plumeria Sweet Lip Gloss $18ME (Metallic) Yellow 330 Eye Shadow $19

shu uemura Depsea Water Mist

A floral and soothing mist that can be used anytime overthe face, skin, or hair to revive spirits and provide hydration.Depsea Water is found only in three places in the world; itis extracted from 320m below sea level, smells incredible,and contains over 60 minerals that will do wonders for yourskin.Hamamelis Water Mist $22shuuemura-usa.com orNeiman Marcus, Houston Galleria 713.621.7100

by TI NA H ERNAN DEZ

Retro Meitian Scooter

You’ll look so fab zipping around on this stylish scooter. Plus, you’ll save a pretty penny on gas with over 90miles per gallon.Priced from $1,550Scootersmith, 3204 White Oak, 713.869.4885

Hello Kitty Champagne Diamond Pendant

Who says Hello Kitty is just for kids? Even the mostsophisticated lady will love this character pendant whichfeatures 1.3 total carat weight of champagne diamonds setin yellow gold with a ruby hibiscus flower.Available at Neiman Marcus by special order.$3,700

Alexandra Knight Alligator Corralita Clutch

Houston handbag designer Alexandra Knight creates cleanno-fuss classics that have caught the eye of many celebsand fashionistas who know a great thing when they see it. 9”W x 4”H x 2”D Clutch $3,100alexandraknightonline.com or 713.527.8848

Mat;Yellow the Fragrance

Created by Japanese designer MasakÏMatsushÏma, Mat;Yellow is theultimate embodiment of the messagethat Yellow is the color of hope andlove of life. It’s the perfect blend offresh fruits, sap, and leaves, blendedwith watermelon, lotus flower, crystalmusk, and reed wood.Eau de Parfum Spray 1.35 oz. $60sephora.com

shu uemura Limited Edition 24K Gold Eyelash Curler

Complement your lifestyle and taste with a shu uemuraPrecious Metals Eyelash Curler - a special edition to celebratethe 15th anniversary of this iconic product. Ideal for use onsensitive skin or women who insist on only the best!Eyelash Curler $22shuuemura-usa.com orNeiman Marcus, Houston Galleria 713.621.7100

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

Donna Cole,Ted Nava Stephanie Friedman, Grace Yung, Richard Dyo

Gregory Crowe, Natsuo Tashiro, Pete Del Vecchio, Yuki Rogers, Yasush Tago

Paola Carvajah, Coleen Chang, Humberto DarragaEtsuko Kamo, Honorable Yoshihiko Kamo Ryuichi Nakata David Mendez, Will Williams

Katsunori Kobayashi

Charles Duncan

Helen Chang

March 16-24-P 2/17/06 4:00 PM Page 5

by PH I LI P CUSIM ANO

Pour some of the next big thing in wine

Be Soave

W I N E

It is difficult to predict trends in wine consumption, but Ibelieve there will be an uptick in the popularity of a dry whitefrom Italy known as “Soave.” It is a blend of grapes that takes itsname from the area where it is grown in the Veneto region. Thecuvee is a mixture of Garganega and Trebbiano, the former beingthe more important grape.

A good producer will provide a wine that is crisp and dry withfine acidity. You will taste an infusion of minerals typical for

quality Italian wines having a fruit profileranging from citrus tropical to hints of appleand pear. Due to its finely coordinatedbalance, Soave is propped up by a firmbackbone and one can even find slight hintsof cream in its finish.

One obstacle preventing consumersfrom embracing Soave is its past marketinglife. In the 1970’s, the wine was popular andin demand. It could be found in grocerystores, wine shops and restaurants. It was

advertised heavily on television and in print. To meet the hugedemand, the wine was mass produced and quality suffered asa result.

It has been difficult in recent times to persuade people toeven try the wine. Thankfully, there is a whole new generationof wine lovers who are open to new experiences. A large numberof these consumers have been weaned on Italian Pinot Grigioand it will be easier for them to accept transition to anothertype of Italian white wine. Most importantly, good rendentionsof Soave are available in the market. Look for the followingproducers of quality wine: Pra, Anselmi, Inama and Gini.

In keeping with our celebration of Yellow Magazine’s one yearanniversary, we offer to our readers a selection of cool “yellow”wine to contemplate:

Veuve Clicquot Brut “Yellow Label”

The house of Clicquot has becomea powerhouse. I believe this is themost popular non-vintage blendedbrut cuvee champagne in Houstonand, perhaps, America. The legacyof the “widow clicquot” isdomination and her competitorsare reeling. The blend varies year-to-year but is about 55% PinotNoir,15% Pinot Meunier and 30%Chardonnay. Elegant and toasty, thisdry champagne is consistentlyproduced to the highest standardand is always in vogue. $39.00

Pra Soave Monte Grande 03

Graziano Pra only produces Soaveand he is a master. Thisinternationally acclaimed, singlevineyard cru consists primarily ofGarganega with a small bit ofChardonnay and receives somewood aging. Dry, crisp, withminerals, tropical fruits, a subtle hintof butter and soft wood undertones,this wine could easily be mistakenfor white burgundy. Look for thepartially yellow label and foil andget it while you can. I don’t think itwill be available for long. $24.00

Yellow Tail Shiraz 04

From South Eastern Australia comesthis popular brand and grape varietalthat I can enthusiasticly say is “nottoo bad”. By this, I mean to say, itshould not offend anyone andcombined with its low price, it willdo very nicely in a pinch. Australia isa monster wine producing regionknown for their “shoot by the hip”wine making style. They do what isnecessary to get the most out ofwhat the climate and soil has giventhem in any year. This wine has niceblackberry jam on the front and ashort finish. $6.00

What you havehere is the topsecret formula

for a great winethat is smooth

and delicious withan underlying

complexity.

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If you would like your event listed, please email the information to web@yellowmags.com.

Jones Hall615 Louisiana St.,Houston, TX 77002The Peking AcrobatsSaturday, April 1 at 7pm andSunday, April 2 at 2pmDaring maneuvers, powerfulprecision and spellbindingcontortion – The Peking Acrobatsare coming back to Houston withnew acts and twists to oldfavorites! This troupe of China’smost gifted tumblers, jugglers,cyclists and gymnastics,complemented by live musiciansplaying traditional Chineseinstruments, make for abreathtaking, often hair-raising,evening for the entire family. Withacts called “Meteors of Water,” “Pagoda of Chairs” and “Peacockon a Bicycle” audiences neverknow what to expect. Restassured that the Peking Acrobatswill deliver an inspiringexploration of the full extent ofphysical human potential.

International Décor Gallery2501 South Shepherd Drive, Houston, TX 77019713-527-0523 Internationaldecorgallery.comThe Art of Harmony February 10 to March 31, 2006Featuring the exquisite modern and traditional works of Asian Artists: Wang Qi, Liang-Chern Hsu, Peihong Endris, Sirun Guan, Monica Barry and Mari Omori. For moreinformation call 713-527-0523.

Wortham Center, Cullen Theater500 Texas St., Houston, TX 77002The 2006 Dance Salad FestivalApril 13, 14, 15 at 7:30 pm11th anniversary season in Houston and 14th seasonsince its inception in Brussels, Belgium, Dance SaladFestival promises another gathering of world-classperformers. Famous in their own countries, the dancecompanies have won praise from critics and audiences

everywhere they have toured. Dance Salad Festival has presented dancers, choregraphersand companies from the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa. The following companieswill perform at the 2006 Festival: The Beijing LDTX Modern Dance Company (China), TheGuangdong Modern Dance Company (China), The Dutch National Ballet (Netherlands),Bejart Ballet Lausanne (Switzerland), Texas Ballet Theatre (Dallas/Ft. Worth), Royal DanishBallet (Denmark), Danish Dance Theatre (Denmark), Trey McIntyre Project (Florida),Goteborgs Operans Balett (Sweden), Ballett der Staatsoper Hannover/Thoss-TanzKompanie (Germany), Ronald K. Brown/ EVIDENCE (New York).For tickets call 713-315-2525 or visit dancesalad.org.

Splash Gallery6515 Corporate Dr. #M1, Houston, TX 77036, 713-270-8008Featuring artists from China. Also offering painting classes.

Viet’s Art Gallery12924 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, TX, 713-298-4045, by appointment onlyShowing Asian artists from around the world.

Tansu321 B W. 19th Street Houston, TX 77008713-880-5100, tansustyle.comPaper Planes March 28th to April 15th 2006.Opening reception: Tuesday, March 28th 6-8pm; Closingreception: Saturday, April 15th 6-8pmBronze sculptures that celebrate the unfolding of paper,consciousness, and the spiritual plane. Tansu is proud topresent an exhibit by Austin-based artist Kevin Box. Boxmarries paper and metal to create bronze sculptures withorigami influences for a contemporary fusion of bothmediums. Included in the Tansu exhibition will be asignature piece “Crane Unfolding”, an 8 foot tall sculptureof an origami crane unfolding into a star. “ This cranereveals the meaning of life as it unfolds. It symbolizes thecomplex 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 watercolorclasses. For more information visit tansustyle.com.

W H E R E A R T T H O U ?

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Color plays a vitally important role in the world in which we liveevery single day. Shades sway thinking, alter actions, and they certainly sell.They can also irritate or soothe the eyes, raise blood pressure, or evensuppress appetite. Going far beyond the question of “what’s your favoritecolor?” many people believe color reflects one’s innermost self. Take alook at a few of these classic examples to see if your personality pops fromthe pages and decide for yourself which hue rings true for you.

TRADITIONAL YELLOW (GOLD)

If your brightest color (your aura, in essence) is yellow, you valueorder and cherish the traditions of home and family. You are the perfectcommunicator. Steadfastness and loyalty are your trademarks. You providefor and support the structure of society and are generous and parentalby nature. You show you care by making everyone do the right thing.To disregard responsibility of any kind never occurs to you. “Be prepared”is the motto of those with yellow as their brightest color. You enjoy thestatus and security that being prepared offers. You have an instinct forkeeping the product in production, for maintaining the structure, andfor supporting the rules. You have a strong awareness of right and wrong.You symbolize pillars of strength - the flag, the preservation of honoredinstitutions, and the purity of home and family.

• Respects authority, rules, routines, and policies.• Allegiant, faithful, dependable, prepared, and efficient.• Remembers the traditions that work and values family.• Believes that work comes before play and is practical,

systematic, and orderly.• Identifies with groups and strives for a sense of security.• Thorough, sensible, punctual, conventional, and proper.• Believes there is a right way to do everything. Perseverant.• Evaluates actions as right or wrong.• Stable, organized, and helpful.

Famous Yellows: Mother Teresa, George Washington, LBJ, George Washington,Joan Rivers, Henry Ford, Florence Nightingale

VISIONARY GREEN

If your brightest color is green, you feel best about yourself whenyou are solving problems and when your ideas are recognized, especiallywhen you feel ingenious. You seek to express yourself through yourability to be an expert in everything. Your idea of a great day is to useyour know-how to create solutions, in that you are a complex individualistwith great analytical ability. Although you do not express your emotionsopenly, you do experience deep feelings.

People with green as their brightest color have curious minds. Theyexplore every facet of a problem or an idea to control the realities oflife. They are global by nature, always seeking universal truth. They acquireskills and perfect any product or system upon which they choose tofocus. They symbolize the abstract thinker, the unknown challenge ofouter space, the complexity and simplicity of design, and the symmetryof forms.

• Anticipates the impact of actions taken now.• Explores all facets before deciding and checks for accuracy.• Plans carefully and systematically. Enlivened by work.• Defies the status quo, initiates change and acts inventively.• Logical, theoretical, persistent, thorough, and self-sufficient.• Often not in the mainstream.• Intellectual, inquisitive, impartial, and improvement oriented.

Famous Greens: Socrates, Benjamin Franklin, Carl Jung, Thomas Edison,Eleanor Roosevelt, Katherine Hepburn, Rosalyn Carter

ADVENTUROUS ORANGE

If your brightest color is orange, you need freedom to take immediateaction. A zest for life and a desire to test the limits best express yournature. You take pride in being highly skilled in a variety of fields. Youare a master negotiator. Adventure is your middle name. You prefer ahands-on approach to problem solving and a direct line of reasoningcreates the excitement and immediate results that you seek. For you, lifeis one big party to enjoy. You live in “the here and now” becausetomorrow is uncertain. You are always ready for a business deal (or a dealof any sort), loving competition and never missing an opportunity.Impulsiveness drives everything you do and you are symbolized by theflight of the eagle, the sensation of riding a motorcycle, the roaring ofthe rapids, and the skillfulness of a virtuoso.

• “Just Do It” action oriented.• Quick-witted, charming, and spontaneous• Playful and injects fun into work.• Lives in “the here and now.” A creative risk taker.• Enjoys diversity, variety, and competition.• Is a multi-tasker who is cheerful, energetic, and bold.• Quick thinking, quick to act.• A high visibility performer who enjoys problem-solving

and negotiating.• Performs well under pressure and is resilient.

Famous Oranges: JFK, Amelia Earhart, Lucille Ball, FDR, Francis of Assissi,Lee Iacocca, Winston Churchill

NURTURER BLUE

If your brightest color is blue, you seek to express the inner you.Authenticity and honesty are valued above all other characteristics. Youare sensitive to subtlety and - with great flair - you create roles in life’sdrama. You enjoy close relationships with those you love and you arestrongly spiritual. Making a difference in the world is easy for you becauseyou cultivate the potential in yourself and in others.

You are a person of peace and love, a true romantic. You are mostsatisfied when nurturing the potential of others and are symbolized bythe dove of peace, the romantic ballad, the drama of life, and theimportance of a simple touch.

• Sensitive to the needs of others and expresses appreciation freely.• Sincere, cooperative, collaborative and creative.• A “people person” who is a team builder and team player.• Artistic, inspirational, spiritual.• A mediator and peacemaker who is idealistic, intuitive,

romantic and loyal.Famous Blues: Mozart, Thomas Jefferson, Ghandi, Mohammed Ali,Jimmy Carter

RIVAL RED

If your brightest color is red, you are always maneuvering for control.You have a strong desire to control people and your environment. If youare in control, you feel you can somehow buffer yourself from theunexpected. You do not like surprises. You are highly effective at usingintimidation and aggression in order to get what you want. Your needto dominate is so strong that you are often accused of being insensitiveto the feelings and needs of others. You have a strong, forceful personalityand are driven by the need for power and status. Being fiercely competitive,you are a survivor who will not back down from confrontation. Winningis everything.

• 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

What Hue Are You?Color Me Yellow:

by J ESSICA RITTER

22 | M a r c h 2 0 0 6

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