December 2010

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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

Holiday GiftingEssentials

San Francisco TreatsThe Personal Jewelry

of Le Dragon d’OrAsia Society Texas

Center BuildsParty Pics Galore!

yellowmags.com

F R O M T H E E D I T O R I N C H I E F

This December marks the end of a year that has been difficult for many. When you think about the people, restaurants,

events and places that Yellow Magazine has covered this year, it becomes apparent that we accentuate the positive.

While we are not oblivious to the forces that surround us, we choose to celebrate all that is good within our community

as reflected in arts, entertainment and fashion. When you think about it, there is much for which we have to be

grateful and thankful. It is all a matter of perspective which is particularly relevant at this time of year. The spirit of

the holiday season is based upon these sentiments.

We will be celebrating our 6th year of publication in 2011 and we have every confidence that it is going to be a very

good year, indeed. In keeping with the spirit of the season, we at Yellow Magazine extend our warmest wishes to all

of our readers for the holidays and a safe, healthy and happy New Year.

V. Hoang

Photo by Collin Kelly

Editor

Henri MerceronCultural Editors

Vuthy KuonTricia VoloreHealth Editor

Ivy YangTravel Editor

Matt SimsWine Editor

Philip CuisimanoMusic Editor

Tyler MerceronLifestyle Editor

Chau Nguyen-ToddBeauty Editor

Tree VaelloFashion Editor

Vi HuaContributing Writers

Deanne NguyenLeo SiprasCreative Director

Jeff Martin

Website

Leo SiprasContributing Photographers

Chad LandryThang Nguyenkevinvideo1@yahoo.com

Timothy Fredericktimothyfrederick.com

Shehla Z. Shahshehlazshahphotography.com

Peter ThamFashion Photographer

Collin KellyFashion Stylist

Leslie RivasHair and Makeup

Bianca LinetteFashion Intern

Reisa TraboulayBusiness Manager

Karla Montejo

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Yellow Magazine is published monthly. All rights reserved. Reproduction inwhole or part of the magazine is strictly prohibited without the permissionof the publisher. Yellow Magazine is not responsible for any unsolicitedmaterials submitted. Subscriptions to Yellow Magazine may be purchasedfor $36/12 issues. Mail check to: Yellow Magazine, 3040 Post Oak Blvd., Suite1440, Houston, TX 77056. © 2010 MV Media

December 2010

The color yellow has played a recurrent symbolic role throughoutthe history of Asian culture. It symbolizes the earth that sustainsall life, yet has been embraced by Buddhist monks as an expressionof unchallenged power. Such is the role of yellow: always reveredbut in different ways under different circumstances.

The mission of Yellow Magazine is to introduce our readers to theartistic , fashion, lifestyle and entertainment contributions madeby Asian Americans. It is our hope that the depth and breadth ofthe topics and events we cover do justice to the pride that the coloryellow has represented throughout the millennia. As the editor inchief of Yellow Magazine, my last name is Hoang, which also meansyellow. 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

Publisher

MV MediaPublisher/Managing Director

Frank Perez

On the cover

Hat by Angiolo Frasconi$260, available atNeiman MarcusCoat by Symitre Paris,available at Saks FifthAvenueJeans by Gwenevere$189, available atNeiman MarcusModel

Angel Shi

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The City That Always Surprises

San Francisco

T R A V E L

After I picked up my baggage at the airport, I decided that I would makeuse of the convenient mass transportation and navigate my way to the hotel.Whereas, the trip was really a no brainer, figuring out how to use the automatedticket machine took a little time. But once I figured it out, the trip was relativelydirect and dropped me off within several blocks of the hotel.

I stayed at the Hilton Hotel in the Financial District, which is smack inthe middle of everything and borders the city’s legendary Chinatown, whichhas the largest Chinese population outside of China. If you stay at this hoteland happen to be on a diet, you are doomed. The only thing that can saveyou is superhuman will power to resist the incessant aroma that emanatesfrom the endless number of Chinese restaurants. I sampled quite a few andthink that everyone in Chinatown knows how to cook really really well!

Not surprisingly, the decor of the hotel is decidedly Chinese. Perhaps moresurprising, the Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco is located onsite inthe hotel. It is focused on preserving and promoting Chinese and ChineseAmerican culture and features lectures, workshops, and classes, as well as artexhibitions and a variety of performances, including dance and music. Oneof the exits from the Center takes you on a pathway that crosses the street infront of the hotel and into a large park where quite a few residents congregateto socialize and gamble. As my hotel room overlooked the park, I saw a largegroup of people practicing Tai Chi early in the morning.

San Francisco is miniscule compared to Houston. At 46.7 square miles(roughly 7 by 7), the saturated mass transit system almost seems to beexcessive; it includes subways, trolleys, cable cars and buses. When I visit acity, I want to get to know it as a native and not as a tourist. While everydestination has certain “must see” sights, it is in the nuances that I reallyform an appreciation of a place. So, with that mindset, I try to explore asmuch of a city as possible. Rule #1: Don’t have a car!

The Buena Vista Cafe achieved its fame as the first establishment tointroduce Irish coffee to the U.S. in 1952. Today, they serve more than 2000cups daily. While eating breakfast there, I noticed that people were drinkingIrish coffee with their meals. “When in Rome…” I did the same. I don’tknow why I thought it would taste like Bailey’s Irish Cream which I reallylike. The coffee and cream were unsweetened and the whiskey was potent,which did not work well for me. But if you like your coffee black and yourwhiskey stiff, you will enjoy yourself.

After breakfast, I stepped out onto Hyde Street and just walked awayfrom Fisherman’s Wharf. By the end of my walk, I came to think of it asJekyll and Hyde Street because from start to finish, I felt like a changed man.Portions of Hyde rise at a 45 degree angle. Each cross street provided a shortplateau where I could rest and shed a layer of clothing before I continued.At the base of the hill, I was wearing a T-shirt, sweater and windbreaker andhad a cap on my head, as it was chilly. By the time I reached the peak, mysweater and windbreaker were wrapped around my waist, my cap was in myhand and I was sweating as though I had just run a marathon. I noticed thatSan Franciscans generally carry some kind of bag which I suspect holdsclothes that they will need at certain times throughout the day as thetemperature changes. Apparently, only tourists have sweaters and jacketswrapped around their waists as I did.

The view from the top of Hyde was exceptional as you have a clear viewof the bay. One of the cross streets near the peak is Lombard, famously knownas the world’s “crookedest street.” It snakes left and right a half dozen timeswithin a 50 yard distance at a 45 degree angle and is lined with well landscapedhomes. I wondered how residents managed to park cars in their garages andif they ever tired of the endless stream of tourists that drove past them.

As I descended the other side of Hyde, I felt the pull of gravity as myquadriceps strained to keep me from toppling over. All I could think aboutwas that this was not a city for the disabled or the elderly. No wonder theyhave so much mass transportation. A half mile trek can wear you out.

There are a number of destinations within short driving distance thatare worthwhile and affordable. Napa Valley is home to many vineyards butDomaine Chandon has Etoile. This restaurant prepares foie gras that is flownin from France especially and exclusively for their menu. No trip to SanFrancisco is complete if I cannot have my foie gras at Etoile. Unfortunatelyfor me, I like my foie gras seared and Etoile only serves it that way for dinnerand not for lunch which is when I was there. Everything on Etoile’s menuis ridiculously delicious, so I cannot say that I suffered through the meal.Next time, however, I will make sure that I go there for dinner! I really loveseared foie gras and theirs is incomparable.

If you plan to do a lot of wine tasting, you probably should secure carservice which will set you back about $400 because Napa is an hour and ahalf away with the normal heavy traffic. You can save quite a bit if you renta car, which I did for just under $40 including gas.

On the way back to San Francisco, I was captivated by the waves ofthick fog that rolled over the many hills and valleys that I passed as nightapproached. It was a dramatic sight that constantly tempted me to take myeyes off the road.

The next day, I drove 12 miles over the Golden Gate Bridge to MuirWoods, the pre-eminent redwood forest. I actually got dizzy as I drove upsteep winding roads to the 560 acre national park. There are six miles oftrails that include a 2 mile (1.5 hour), 1 mile (1 hour) and half mile (.5 hour)trail. I think this is absolutely a “must see” as it is such a unique and awesomeexperience. Three hundred foot trees are everywhere; you feel like an ant.I gathered some interesting facts about the forest from one of the guides.Each tree drinks 500 gallons of water every day. During the rainy seasons,the bark swells to twelve inches in thickness providing a natural barrier tofire damage. The trees do not have sap but are saturated with tannins thatdeter insect infestation and fungi. The leaves are flat, perfectly suited tocollect vast amounts of water from the perennial fog that envelops the forest.The droplets feed the trees’ roots that only run thirteen feet deep but ahundred feet wide. Hence, the roots of all the trees are intertwined forstrength against the winds that swirl high above. Most of the trees are between500 and 800 years old with some as old as 1,000 years. For more information,visit nps.gov/muwo .

I did visit some of the more touristy places in the city. I sampled someof the signature sundaes at the Ghiradelli complex (the whole menu issundaes). I walked to and across the Golden Gate Bridge (which is really“international orange”). I walked to the Ferry Building and stopped by anumber of shops inside – it is kind of like a very upscale farmers marketwhere you can find items that you have never heard of along with the regularitems. I viewed the rows of hand painted garage door murals in the Missiondistrict. I took the ferry to Alcatraz which was well organized but disappointingin that they never showed us Al Capone’s cell, which is what I really wantedto see. In the final analysis, the problem with tourist attractions is that youexpect to be “wowed” by them. When you walk aimlessly throughout thecity without an itinerary, the “wows” come from the simple things such asstumbling upon an interesting gallery or store, and “discovering” a hole inthe wall café that serves freshly made brioche and cappuccino with anincredible frothy head (such as they have at the very quaint Brioche Bakeryand Café), and walking up a street so windy that you get dizzy or so highthat you think you are in heaven. The bonus is that when you return, youwill know exactly where you want to go.

The last time I went to San Francisco I was caught off guard. It was during the summer

and the temperature in Houston was blazing hot. I knew it would be cooler in San

Francisco but failed to do my due diligence and check out average temperature data

for that time of year. Well, it was their winter and suffice it to say that I was colder

than I would have liked most of the time. This time, I was determined not to repeat my

previous error and consulted my iPhone Weather button and discovered that, in

November, the temperature in San Francisco was almost identical to Houston’s. Perfect!

by H EN RI MERCERON

When you walk aimlessly throughout the city without an itinerary, the “wows” come from the simple things.

Van Gogh, Gauguin,Cézanne and Beyond:Post-ImpressionistMasterpieces from theMusée d’OrsayAt the DeYoung Museumthrough January 18, 2011

If you are visiting San Franciscoyou can’t afford to miss this trulyonce-in-a-lifetime event – thisparticular group of paintings willnever travel again.

Visit deyoung.famsf.orgfor more information

Hilton San FranciscoFinancial District750 Kearny StreetSan Francisco, California 94108415.433.6600sanfranciscohiltonhotel.com

The Buena Vista Cafe2765 Hyde StreetSan Francisco, California 94109415.474.5044thebuenavista.com

étoile Restaurant atDomaine Chandon Winery1 California DriveYountville, California 94599888.242.6366chandon.com

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Riding High on the Wings of the Golden Dragon

Thanh Hoang Designs

F A S H I O N

When was Le Dragon d’Or founded?

It was founded in 2005 after I gained some valuable knowledge andexperience. The jewelry business is in my blood and I’ve always had apassion for jewelry. By accident and to my surprise, I discovered that I reallyknew a lot about fine jewelry. It makes sense, though, because as a younggirl, I grew up in my parent’s jewelry store where I was exposed to all aspectsof the business including planning, operations, marketing, merchandising,buying and designing. Through their business, I have met some of the world’smost respected craftsmen and reputable people in the industry. I grew upplaying dress-up with my mother’s jewels and jeweled her up for events.

Is there a meaning behind the name Le Dragon d’Or?

It is French for “The Golden Dragon”. In the eastern world, dragonsrepresent power, luck and wisdom and gold represents strength and wealth.My grandfather and I were born in the Year of the Dragon. He started hisjewelry business in 1939 in Vietnam and was a huge inspiration to me. Heinstilled in me to love and respect history and tradition and to contributein a very meaningful way to my family’s business and endeavors.

What type of jewelry do you design?

I like to design heirloom jewelry with a modern twist. My goal is tooffer a distinctive fine jewelry assortment featuring important pieces witha youthful and refreshed elegance, spanning a broad range of price points.Each piece is a modern-day interpretation of both classic and uniquecollectors. The collections are comprised of the finest materials, created bythe most accomplished craftsmen and include gemstones of unparalleledquality and cut.

My design philosophy is simply that jewelry should pay homage to thepast while embracing the future. It should take on a new sensibility -romancing tradition.

How would you describe your style and what inspires it?

Everything inspires me! I know that is a very typical answer but I reallythink that we can find inspiration in everything. It can come from architecture,music, food – it can be anything. I love the glamour of old Hollywood, thehistory of the world’s monarchies, and the femininity of classic French andEnglish design. I leaned towards classic designs until I turned 30 when Ibegan to feel stronger, more empowered, and a little bit edgier! I have a newline coming out called Bound, which is a beautifully crafted collection thatlives on the edge between delicate love and raw sensuality. It centers on are-imagination of the handcuff with delicate details that create a sexy, refined,and versatile look. Each piece in the collection is an expression of strengthand is fitted with subtle hardware details that bring the motif to life.

Walk us through the process you go through to create your jewelry.

When I’m creating a one-of-a-kind piece such as the ones in the TrésorCollection, it all begins with the stone. I let my imagination inspire a uniqueand extraordinary design.

When I’m creating custom jewelry for a client, it all begins with gettingto know them. I get to know their story and I become inspired to translateit into a piece of jewelry. It’s as if I hold the key to their deepest wishes, theirshadow selves. They are looking for the ultimate expression of their uniquepersonality. Their vision and style allows me to create a masterpiece for themthat is like none other. I always admire people who carry their own stylewith confidence and know who they are. There’s something about havinga custom jewelry piece made because of the personal emotions they conveyfor the person who wears them.

Do you have a favorite precious metal or stone?

I’ve completely fallen in love with rose gold. It became fashionable atthe turn of the 19th century. It captivates me and the deep, rich chestnutcolor adds a new level to jewelry design when it is bathed in diamonds andother gems. It compliments all skin types.

Is there anyone in particular for whom you would be inspired to create a pieceof jewelry?

There are so many inspirational and remarkable actors in the world thatI would love to see wearing my jewelry, but the person that I am dying tosee wearing my cufflinks is not an actor, but one of the many people whoI admire in this world – Warren Buffet.

Do you see yourself ever mass producing your pieces?

I’m open to the idea of mass production in the future but, at this time,I am focused on building and nurturing my relationships with clients withpersonalized jewelry.

What was the first piece that you designed and where is it, today?

The first piece that I designed and beaded myself was a pearl necklace withgold beads and colored stones. It’s tucked away in my mother’s jewelry box.

Tell us about the Le Hoang Foundation that you founded with your sister, Dane.

Our first trip to Vietnam after 30 years was a turning point in our lives.We formed the foundation because we saw a potential to generate realchange on a community level. Investing in young children is proven to bethe most effective way to exercise meaningful and long term societal changein entire communities. I hope the foundation will inspire these youngchildren to stay in school and invest in their futures.

What’s in the future for Le Dragon d’Or?

I want Le Dragon d’Or to stay true to itself in quality and to remainindependent because many companies are increasingly corporatized anddominated by groups. In the future, we’re looking for international strategicretail partnerships to allow us to expand. As long as there are women, therewill be a demand for diamonds. As long as there are diamonds, surely, therewill be Le Dragon d’Or.

Thanh Hoang is the founder of Le Dragon d’Or where she has designed numerous

collections of jewelry that are exceptional and uncompromising in terms of quality of

material and workmanship. While the inspiration for the designs in her collections may

originate from almost anything, it is the custom designs that she creates for clients

that truly excite her. For these masterpieces, she draws inspiration from the hearts and

minds of the clients themselves. A person cannot own a more unique and precious

piece of jewelry than one inspired by their essence as interpreted by Thanh.

by V. HOANG

My design philosophy is simply that jewelry should pay homage to the past while embracing the future.

Jewelry designerThanh Hoang

For more information visitledragondor.com

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Asia Society Texas Center Begins to Take Form

From Vision to Reality

A R C H I T E C T U R E

The fact that an architect of Taniguchi’s stature was going to designa building in Houston, Texas was very big news. After all, this is the samearchitect who designed the recent extensive renovation of the worldfamous Museum of Modern Art in New York City. He has also designed anumber of Japanese museums, including the Nagano Prefectual Museum,Toyota Municipal Museum of Art, and the Gallery of the Horyuji Treasuresat the Tokyo National Museum.

Asia Society of Texas Center will be the first freestanding building thatMr. Taniguchi has designed in the United States. Last month, I had thepleasure of touring the Center with him. Although the building was not yetcompleted, Mr. Taniguchi highlighted certain elements that allowed me toenvision what the Center will look like on opening day. He pointed to wherethe exterior walls would be, stating that they would be made out of Juralimestone, which is only mined in the Black Forest of Germany. He pointedto where glass walls imported from Singapore would be installed.

The ground floor of the building will consist of four rooms, including:the 1,800 square foot Great Hall, an ideal setting for cocktail receptions;a 280 seat theatre complete with dressing rooms for performers; and atea room contiguous to the gift shop. As you travel upstairs, you willobserve three gardens. The Sculpture Garden consists of rocks and is linedwith black bamboo plants at the far end. It is located next to the 4,000square foot art gallery, which showcases rotating art exhibits.

The front area of the second floor consists of a 1,500 square foot loungethat overlooks the Water Garden. This garden contains an infinity poolwhich provides an unobstructed panoramic view of Houston’s downtownskyline. Behind the lounge is a 3,000 square feet meeting room that canbe subdivided into smaller rooms that overlook the Jasmine Garden linedwith Cypress trees that block out the views of neighboring buildings. Intotal, the Asia Society Texas Center is a 38,000 square foot structure witha price tag of approximately $48.4 million. By this time next year, Houstonwill have a first class landmark building designed by Yoshio Taniguchi. Itwill be an important cultural addition to Houston’s Asian Americancommunity and to the community at large.

A little more than four years ago, Yellow Magazine published a story on Asia House

(renamed Asia Society Texas Center) when it was in the developmental stage. Asia

Society Texas had acquired the land and hired the world renowned Japanese architect,

Yoshio Taniguchi. I was one of the lucky few to have seen the rendering of the Center

and Yellow Magazine published the exciting news.

by V. HOANG

By this time next year, Houston willhave a first class landmark building designed by Yoshio Taniguchi.

Photos by Jeff FantichArchitectural renderings by Taniguchi and Associates

For more information visitasiasociety.org/centers/texas

Architect Yoshio Taniguchi

Rendering of the Lounge

Rendering of the Meeting Rooms

Rendering of the Southmore Elevation

Current construction

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Tiffany & Co. Launches Yellow Diamond CollectionHeld at St. Regis Hotel

Tiffany & Co. and Yellow Magazine hosted a special invitation-only evening at the luxurious St. Regis Hotel to present thenew Tiffany Yellow Diamond Collection. The special collectionfeatures the rarest of the rare: fancy yellow diamondsdistinguished by color that places them among the world’sfinest and most sought-after stones. Michael McClure, directorof Tiffany & Co., welcomed guests as they sipped on cocktailsand enjoyed a wide variety of delectable hors d’oeuvres asmodels dripping in diamonds – yellow of course – circulatedthroughout the evening. Cocktail rings as well as a largecollection of Patek Phillipe watches were also on display. Livemusic was provided by Jando.

Photos by Mitchell AlexanderFor more visit Malexphoto.ifp3.com

Duyen Huynh,Marc Nguyen

Yoon Smith, Bill Harmon, guest

Julianne and Kasey YounMichael McClure, Maggi Jones, Viet Hoang

Andre Humphery, Petra Martinez

Linda and Dr. Minh Le Lorna Thomas, Suyuan Liu

Models

Julie Vo, Adam Kuspa Jacquie Baly Chaumette,Mandy Kao

Yuki Rogers, Stacey Sun Frank Perez, Karla Montejo

Gordon Quan, Amy Sung, Huyen Luong

Dane Hoang, Leslie Rivas, Collin Kelly

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Photographer Collin Kelly

Fashion Stylist Leslie Rivas

Hair and Makeup Bianca Linette

Fashion Intern Reisa Traboulay

Model Angel Shi

Hat by Angiolo Frasconi $260, available at Neiman MarcusCoat by Symitre Paris, available at Saks Fifth AvenueJeans by Gwenevere $189, available at Neiman Marcus

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Hat by Philip Treacy $850 and Vest styled as cape by Haute Hippie $495, available at Neiman MarcusLong coat by Theory $645 and Sequined vest by Catherine Malandrino $595, available at Neiman Marcus

Skull print leggings by Alexander MqQueen $695, available at Saks Fifth AvenueStudded moto boots by ASH $395, available at Neiman Marcus

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Long vest by Ralph Lauren $3398 and Burgundy shawl coat by Royal Underground $695, available at Neiman MarcusStudded shirt by Stella McCartney $1465, available at Saks Fifth Avenue

Velvet Hot shorts by Winter Kate $165 and Distressed thigh high boots by Chanel $2400, available at Neiman MarcusCroc style gloves by Neiman Marcus $150 and belt $88, available at Neiman Marcus

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Cashmere and fur poncho styled as hat by Adrienne Landau $1095, available at Neiman MarcusFloral cocoon robe by Eskandar $1295, available at Neiman Marcus Lace Blouse by Valentino $3000, available at Neiman Marcus

Gold foil print trousers by Alexander McQueen $1365, available at Saks Fifth AvenueShoes model’s own

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Hat by Angiolo Frasconi $260, available at Neiman MarcusStriped fur capelet by Inochi, available at Saks Fifth Avenue

Scarf styled as Obi belt by Etro $310, available at Saks Fifth AvenueSkirt stylist’s own

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Foil print jacket by Diane Von Furstenberg $595, available at Neiman MarcusStriped fur vest by Alice & Olivia $395, available at Neiman MarcusSkirt by Jean Paul Gaultier $1295, available at Saks Fifth Avenue

Over the knee suede boots by Stuart Weitzman $675, available at Saks Fifth Avenue

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Holiday Mix & Match Time is of the Essence,So We’re Here to Help

E S S E N T I A L S

Simply Timeless

Beautiful, clean design is always in style, no matter what theseason. This gorgeous black with gold logo face watch fromthe inimitable Marc Jacobs just screams style.Marc by Marc Jacobs Gold Logo Watch, $200neimanmarcus.com

In a Clutch

The Tiffany leather collection brings the company’s famousattention to detail, quality, and design to a set of luxuriousaccessories that exemplify timeless sophistication. TheMorgan Jewel clutch is satin with palladium-plated solidbrass hardware, silver leather lining with an interior pocket,and jeweled T closure with Austrian crystals.Tiffany Morgan Jewel Clutch (Tiffany Blue® or onyx), $995tiffany.com

Yellow Beauty

Exclusively from Tiffany & Company’s stunningnew Yellow Diamonds collection these TiffanyBezet rings are sure to bring sparkle and style toany holiday event.Tiffany Bezet Yellow Diamond Rings, pricing uponrequesttiffany.com

Prince of Prints

Taschen takes fashion books to a whole new level withthe new limited edition (500 signed and numberedcopies) Pucci Vintage Art Collection, bound in an originalvintage Pucci fabric and accompanied by four art printsof original drawings from teh designer Emilio Pucci.Hardcover in acrylic box.Pucci, Vintage Art Edition, $1,000taschen.com

Just a Holiday Twirl

Last month we brought you the new Twirl fragrance fromKate Spade, and now we’ve followed up with the fun, newTwirl dress designed as part of a capsule collection featuringessentials for the perfect party. We think this sparkling, flirtydress is a must-have for all your festive holiday events.Kate Spade Twirl Dress, $595katespade.com

Tabletop Tuskers

These inspired elephant salt and pepper shakers from thetalented Jonathan Adler make the perfect hostess gift foryour holiday parties. Brown stoneware with sheer white glaze.Jonathan Adler Elephants Salt & Pepper Shakers, $48jonathanadler.com

Well, you’ve waited until almost the last moment to find that special something

for your special someone. Or maybe for yourself? Whatever the case, we’ve put

together a mixture of glamour, fashion, and technology to help you make the

right gift choice, no matter what the occasion.

Feminine Sensuality

New from the fragrance geniuses at Estée Lauder, SensuousNoir embodies the warm, fluid sensuality of the woman whowears it. Features a deep heart of Molten Woods, Creme Noirand Patchouli, surrounded by florals including Spiced Lily andPurple Rose.Estée Lauder Sensuous Noir, 1.0 oz $48esteelauder.com

Fit for a Queen

The amazing Alexander McQueen made sure evenings at thesymphony will never be the same. The perfectly sized QueenSkull Box Clutch features bright red patent leather in a scalepattern with a truly unique skull clasp.Alexander McQueen Queen Skull Box Clutch, $2,265neimanmarcus.com

Santa’s Jealous

Now your fashion-forward spawn can carry around alltheir holiday presents in this backpack from Burberry,starring the traditional check canvas with berry heartprint, rasied heart design on the buckled flap closure,top handle and shoulder straps.Burberry Mini Backpack, $395neimanmarcus.com

Sound On

Fill any room with with Bang & Olufsen sound and style withthe new BeoSound 8, a powerful, essential speaker dock thattakes your digital music collection to a whole new level– conveniently and seamlessly. If you keep your music on aniPad, iPhone, iPod or computer, you are all set for breathtakingsound quality wrapped in a stunning, portable sound system.It is also one of the few docking stations that is directlycompatible with the iPad, without requiring additional wiresor adapters.Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 8, $999bang-olufsen.com

Camo Whammo

Made in Italy, this unique Prada card case has camo-print leather, fabric lining, and two card slots. Thematching wallet has eight card slots and two bill slots.Prada Camo Card Case, $180Prada Camo Wallet, $355neimanmarcus.com

Slap to It

Griffin brings back a bit of nostalgia added to the latesttechnology with their fun, colorful Slap watch bands for thenew Apple iPod nano. Wrapping a memory-metal wristbandwith soft, silky silicone, the Slap band self-adjusts to acomfortable, exact fit every time.Griffin Slap Wristband, $24.99griffintechnology.com

Retro Tech

Created by two Apple enthusiasts, these retro-chic, custom-made wooden backplates makes your new iPhone 4 a littlebit reminiscent of the days when technology had a bit moreorganic feel to it. The wood selections will be updated eachmonth to reflect the changing seasons and styles.MaterialSix Wood iPhone Backplate(Birdseye Maple shown), $89shopmaterialsix.com

Jam Out

Ever wish you had a small, stylish, wireless speaker system for your iPhone or other Bluetooth-enabled device? Your wishcomes true with the super fun Jambox from the audio pros at Jawbone, makers of the gorgeous Jawbone headsets. Notonly do you get pristine, powerful sound, you also get integrated intelligence that lets the Jambox get smarter every timeyou plug it in, by syncing it with Jawbone’s industry-first MyTALK online platform. To top it off, the Jambox also featuresa built-in microphone so you can have crisp, clean-sounding conference calls wherever you set up office!Jambox from Jawbone, $199jawbone.com

Tiny Big

The new Pico Projector from Samsung packs performanceand multimedia integration into this tiny, portable projector.The palm-sized Pico features bright, high resolution LEDoutput for the user on-the-go. 1GB of internal memory allowsyou to load content directly, for the utmost in flexibility, oryou can easily connect directly to your computer.Samsung SP-H03 Pico Projector, $300amazon.com

Get Out of the Stone Age

The Jabra STONE2 Bluetooth headset expands upon the easeof use of the original award-winning Stone. You no longerneed to even touch the headset to answer or reject a call– you just use your voice. The portable charger enables youto fast charge on the go up to three times, so you are neverwithout the power to communicate.Jabra STONE2 Headset, $130jabra.com

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A Cultural Beacon of Lighton the Mississippi Sound

The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art

A R T S

Hurricane Katrina destroyed the former, which was replaced, and severelydamaged the latter, which was moved and renovated. The final campus willinclude five new structures designed by internationally recognized FrankGehry, one of the 21st century’s most innovative and admired architects.One of Mr. Gehry’s most notable structures is the Walt Disney Concert Hallin Los Angeles. He designed the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art campus toconsist of a series of six small pavilions woven among the grove of Live Oaktrees and connected by an open brick plaza. The result is an inviting andlively arts campus that maintains the existing park setting and encouragespedestrian circulation throughout the site. The campus will provide a totalof 25,000 square feet for art exhibition and education, and cultural andcommunity events.

The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art pays homage to the independent,innovative, and creative spirit personified by the legendary ceramic artist,George Ohr. Ohr was known as Biloxi's “Mad Potter,” a wild-haired manwho created revolutionary pieces upon his pottery wheel at the turn of the20th century. As is often the case with cutting-edge artists, his work was notfully appreciated during his lifetime but, today, his ceramic pieces areconsidered to be the first of American abstract expressionism.

The art and architecture of the museum form a symbiotic relationship.Gehry’s trademark style of curved brick staircases, geometric roof lines andundulating buildings dovetail perfectly with the style of Ohr’s ceramic works.The campus is comprised of structures which individually and collectivelyreflect the mission of the museum to promote and preserve the culture ofMississippi and the Gulf Coast. Each building focuses on specific aspects ofthe museum’s mission.

Four of the six buildings were completed in Phase 1. The MississippSound Welcome Center serves as the primary entry to the campus andhouses a gift shop, café and small gallery. The intimate IP Casino Resort SpaExhibitions Gallery is naturally lit by three skylights and the gallery featureschanging exhibitions of contemporary work from the 20th and 21st centuries.The Gallery of African American Art is clad in brick and stainless steel panelswith a series of dramatic deeply recessed skylights. The building is dividedinto 2 spaces; the main one is the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino Galleryand the smaller one is the Star Gallery. Exhibitions in the Gallery of AfricanAmerican Art feature work by or about African Americans and otherethnicities that comprise the diverse population of the Mississippi coastalregion. Until the George Ohr Gallery is completed in Phase 2, the exhibitof Ohr’s work will be housed in the Star Gallery. The Pleasant ReedInterpretive Center was not designed by Mr. Gehry but is a reconstructionof the historic Pleasant Reed House that was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina.

It is anticipated that the final two buildings will be completed in Phase2 in 2012. The City of Biloxi Center for Ceramics structure will housepottery studios, and programming and community meeting spaces. Finally,the George E. Ohr Gallery will complete the campus and will house theworks of its namesake. The shape of the four galleries is a symbolicrepresentation of the twists that Ohr so famously incorporated into hispottery pieces.

The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Campus was fifteen months from opening when

Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005. Delayed but not abandoned, the $21 million Phase 1

of the campus’s construction was completed last month. When Phase 2 is completed,

the campus will be home to a remarkable blend of architectural styles spanning more

than a century of history. The Pleasant Reed Interpretive Center and the Creel House are

each examples of 19th century regional vernacular architecture.

Ohr-O’Keefe Museumof Art386 Beach BoulevardBiloxi, Mississippi 39539228.347.5547georgeohr.org

Ohr was known as Biloxi’s“Mad Potter,” a wild-haired manwho created revolutionary pieces upon his pottery wheel at the turn of the 20th century.

Photos courtesy of Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art

Gallery of African American Art IP Casino Resort Spa Exhibitions Gallery

Rendering of the new Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Campus

Opening of The Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Arts of China GalleryHeld at Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Caroline Wiess Law Building

Over 130 guests attended the event to take in the majesty of Asian artfrom past and present. The night began with cocktail reception andgallery viewing followed by a seated dinner and entertainment by amusical performance by Guzheng artist Changyuan Wang. The galleryheld 42 large panels by a Chinese gunpowder artist, Cai Guo-Qiang whichwere ignited to create the new permanent installation in the Museum.The explosion left behind a magical and serene landscape (includingflowers, mountains and clouds), titled Odyssey, that is now showcasedon four walls ( the panels match up perfectly) creating a smokey greyand feathered masterpiece.

Photos by Jenny Antill

Kent Schaffer, Joan Lu

Lily and Charles Foster

Christine Starkman

Mrs. In-suk Koo,Chong Ok Matthews

Nidhika and Pershant Mehta Anne Chao, Cai Guo-Qiang, Albert Chao Amy Purvis, AAM President Dr. Ford Bell, Danielle St. GermainJean Lee Baker, Reverend Juemin, Miao Xiu

Pam Ott, Cornelia Long,Nanako Tingleaf

Michelle and Frank J. Hevrdejs Sushila Mathew, Valerie Greiner, Dr. A.P. Raghuthaman, guests

MFAH Director Peter Marzio, Leslie and Brad Bucher

Sima and Massoud Ladjevardian

Model

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Children’s Museum of Houston Birthday BallHeld at Children’s Museum of Houston

The Children’s Museum of Houston (CMH) received a fabulous birthdaypresent as it raised an historic $1.2 million from underwriting, big boardand silent auctions during the Birthday Ball gala on October 16, co-chairedby mother-daughter team, Kathryn Rabinow and Sarah Rabinow Pesikoff.More than 500 of Houston’s philanthropic leaders came to show theirsupport as CMH turned 30 during an exciting evening of dining anddancing at the museum. During the silent auction, guests had theopportunity to bid on exclusive stays in Telluride and London, winter skiingin Aspen, cheer on the floor with the Rockets and Dynamos, and lightingthe Christmas tree with the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Founded in 1980, the Children’s Museum of Houston has come a longway to what it is now – 90,000 square feet of interactive exhibits,exhilarating activities, hands-on workshops, and mesmerizingperformances. Today, a year and a half after the expansion grand opening,14-galleries, 12 state-of-the-art exhibits, auditorium, library, café andInstitute for Family Learning, the museum continues to touch the livesof more than 900,000 children, parents, and caregivers annually, continuallyserving the diverse needs of Houston-area families.

Houston Community CollegeCentral received the firstConfucius statue in the UnitedStates from the ChineseConfucius Foundation donatedby the American ConfuciusFoundation. HCC Central hasbeen selected because of theirhigh enrollment of internationalstudents and the unique culturesthe students bring to the school.The inaugural ceremony for thebronze statue of Confucius wasco- sponsored by HoustonCommunity College Central andthe American ConfuciusFoundation which took place inthe San Jacinto AuditoriumCourtyard where the statuestands.

Weihua Liu, Chinese interpreterBayromov Rusian, Russian interpreterAndre Humphery

Confucius Bronze Sculpture Loren Shen, Dr. Irene Porcarello, President of HCC- Southeast Dr. Fena Garza, President of HCC- Southwest Terence O’Neil, Dr. William Harmon, President of HCC- Central

Photos by Kim Coffman

Viet Hoang, Yuki Rogers Eli and Jenifer Ben-ShoshanWilliam J. Hill, Executive Director Tammie Kahn

Anthony and Nicole West Frank Billingsley, Gina Gaston Elie, Debbie Festari, Kevin Gilliard Jack Bellows, Karen Cox, Warren Bellows John and Diem Allis Rebecca Ringel, Kathryn Rabinow,Sarah Rabinow Pesikoff

Inauguration of Confucious StatueHeld at Houston Community College Central

Cheryl Peters

by PH I LI P CU ISIM ANO

Ringing in the New Year

W I N E

The Holidays Bring Out the Bubbly

Here are some recommended sparklers tohelp bring in the New Year with panache:

Soligo Brut Prosecco N.V.Prosecco is currently in vogue with the American consumerand this is one of the best on the market. Crisp and dry withripe pear and tropical fruit flavors in a medium body witha light hint of toast in the finish. It is a very fashionablebottle to have on your New Year’s Eve table. $20.50

Braida Brachetto D’ AcquiThis elegant wine is an alternative to traditional sparklers.The flavors of red berries are fruity and sweet in a way thatis not syrupy or heavy but light and refreshing. Think ofMoscato d‘Asti but only red (that’s right, a red wine). Thisoffering is semi-sparkling and will please all in your party.$30.50

Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut Non-VintageThe house of Bollinger is one of the most prestigious namesin Champagne and this wine offers up the tradition, historyand romance that define Champagne. The Special CuveeBrut is a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier,and showcases fruit flavors of pears and apricots in a bonedry package of subtle cream and toast. This one is sure toimpress. $51.00

People everywhere will celebrate New Year’s Eve with atoast and, not surprisingly, the beverage of choice will besparkling wine. This elegant quaff is unique with its rich fruitflavors, supple body, and compatibility with most types offood. Of course, we would be remiss if we neglected tomention the satisfaction imparted by those bright and beautifulbubbles that tease, tickle and tantalize the palate. Even thosewho usually eschew alcoholic beverages or only imbibesparingly will be inclined to raise a glass in conviviality andsalute the New Year while bidding “adieu” to the old. Moresparkling wine will be consumed in December than in anyother three months combined.

In simplest terms, sparkling wine is table wine that hasbeen subjected to a second fermentation. Fermentation is thechemical process in which sugar is transformed into alcohol;when grapes are crushed, the sugar in the juice naturallyferments and yields wine. In order to induce a secondfermentation, additional sugar and a fermenting agent (yeast)are added to the wine. During the second fermentation,carbon dioxide is released in the form of bubbles.

There are three methods by which wine is fermented thesecond time; to a large extent, the method determines thepedigree of the final product. The process referred to as“Methode Champenoise” is viewed as the ultimate methodof production resulting in the finest sparkling wine. With thismethod, the second fermentation occurs in the very bottle

in which the cuvee is packaged. This is an exacting processthat is both expensive and time consuming. Wines made inthis manner state on the label “Methode Champenoise” or“Fermented in This Bottle”.

A less costly method of fermentation is the “Charmat Process”.With this technique, the secondary fermentation occurs in large,specially constructed holding containers and the finished cuveeis later transferred to bottles under pressure. The labels of winesproduced in this manner will state “Charmat Process”.

A third type of production is known as the “TransferMethod”. The secondary fermentation occurs in individualbottles but upon completion the wine is transferred into largeholding containers where the cuvee can be fine tuned priorto release.

Because of innovations in sparkling wine production, thereis a wider variety of selections available with prices suitablefor any budget. This is unlike most other classes of wine whereyou almost always get “what you pay for”. Even though,currently, it is certainly a buyers market for wine, the consumeris constrained by what I refer to as the “Quality to QuantityRatio”. Quality is inversely related to levels of productionsuch that the greater quantity of wine produced, the less theoverall quality of the wine. An exception to this ratio is thecategory of sparkling wine.

You can find a range of good-to-great sparkling winesfrom various sources including the following: Americansparkling wine, French Champagne, Italian Prosecco and othertypes of Spumante, and Spanish Cava. Prices may range fromten to several hundred dollars depending upon the depth ofyour pockets and the refinement of your palate. This alone iscause for celebration. Wines available at Spec's Wines, Spirits, & Finer Foods, various

locations. Visit specsonline.com for the store nearest you.

More sparkling wine will be consumed in December than inany other three months combined.

H. Harloquin Fashion ShowHeld at Momentum BMW Southwest

Over 300 guests attended the H. Harloquin Fashion Showbenefiting the Hope Initiative Charity. Hope Initiative gavethe guests a sneak peak at their new 2011 calendar. Theevening began with a dance by Soreal Dance Studio, followedby H. Harloquin showcasing their cocktail dresses and gowns,perfect for the holidays. The fashion show was sponsored byVisible Changes and the models were provided by Neal HamilModels. Drinks were provided by Absolute Vodka.

Photos by Thang Nguyen and Mitchell AlexanderFor more visit Malexphoto.ifp3.com

Dining GuideYellow Magazine’s featured restaurants

To have your restaurant featured in Yellow Magazine, or to recommend a restaurantthat you enjoy, please email the information to dining@yellowmags.com.

J A P A N E S ETokyo One7465 W. Greens Rd., 281.955.88982938 W. Sam Houston S., 713.785.8899Tokyo One is a sushi buffet restaurant, situatedin a fancy boat house with an outside deck. Thefood is fresh and is constantly replenished.Selections include: salads such as sea weed, beef,squid, salmon and watercress. Sushi includes avariety of rolls and sashimi.

Zushi Japanese Cuisine5900 Memorial Dr., 713.861.5588Zushi serves extremely fresh and high qualitysushi. Stand out items are the sashimi appetizersserved with perfectly paired sauces or any oneof the many house specialty rolls.

Uptown Sushi1131 Uptown Park Blvd. #14 713.871.1200Uptown Sushi personifies an upscale sushirestaurant located near the Galleria in the swankyUptown Park Plaza. The menu offers Japanesefusion dishes and a great selection of high-endsashimi and sushi. Side note: Uptown Sushi has“off-the-menu” specialty rolls served daily!

C H I N E S EAuntie Chang’s2621 South Shepherd #290, 713.524.8410Auntie Chang’s offers the most flavorful home-style Chinese cuisine around. Although knownfor their dumplings, any of your favorite classicChinese dishes are done extremely well.

Hong Kong Food Street9750 Bellaire Blvd., 713.981.9888Peking duck and roasted pork hang from cleaversin a front window display giving a Hong Kongstreet market feel. In addition, the menu isdivided into sections including Seafood, Hot Pot,Special Stir Fry, Sizzling and Chef Specials.

San Dong Noodle House9938-F Bellaire Blvd., 713.271.3945Authentic hand pulled Chinese noodle dishes areserved at a reasonable price. A few favoritesinclude the Roast Beef Noodle soup served in abeef broth accented by ginger and soy, or the ohso addicting pan fried dumplings.

Sinh Sinh9788 Bellaire Blvd., 713.541.0888The seafood at Sinh Sinh is quite excitingbecause everything served comes from live tanks.Prawns, Australian king lobster, King crabs, CoralLeopard trout, Surf clams, Geoduck clams, Trunkclams, Elephant clams, etc…are all featured aslive seafood.

T H A IThai Spice8282 Bellaire Blvd. 713.777.4888Thai Spice on Bellaire is a foodies dream. It’s acasual place that serves Thai dishes you won’tfind anywhere else in Houston, with a hugeselection of interesting, rare, tasty dishes atexcellent prices. A must have is the whole friedtilapia with hot and sour dipping sauce andpapaya salad and Tom Yum soup.

Nit Noi6700 Woodway Pkwy., Suite 580281.597.8200Nit Noi means “a little bit” and Thai food loverspack Nit Noi restaurants and cafes all aroundHouston. Nit Noi will always be known for theirPad Thai, but other must try dishes includePadThai Korat (flat noodles stir-fried withchicken, pork or shrimp with vegetables) andTom Yum Goong (spicy and sour shrimp soup).

Tony Thai10613 Bellaire Blvd., 281.495.1711A sophisticated approach to traditional Thaicuisine, Tony’s executes with perfect balanceand pizzazz. Tony’s Wings, wet or dry, and theSteamed Mussels are popular appetizers. Forthe main course try the Basil Lamb, GarlicSalmon or the Steamed Fish with Chili.

I N D I A NKiran’s Restaurant4100 Westheimer Rd. #151, 713.960.8472This northern Indian style restaurant embodiesa fusion approach to its cuisine. With a focus onwell balanced flavors rather than spice, the FlakyHalibut Swimming in Watermelon Curry sauceand the Tandoori Platter typify this perfectly.

V I E T N A M E S EKim Son Restaurants2001 Jefferson (and other locations),713.222.2461The menu is the most imposing part of this casual,highly regarded landmark Vietnamese restaurant. There are no poor choices among the 100 or sooptions. Enjoy finely prepared delicacies as wellas the expected fare, such as the pork vermicelliand  fried eggroll. Must try is their black peppersoftshell crab. Special event facilities available.

Vietopia5176 Buffalo Speedway, 713.664.7303Trendy yet elegant, Vietopia delivers top notchVietnamese cuisine at reasonable lunch prices anda stellar dinner menu. The lounge at Vietopia worksperfectly for those who want a less formal diningexperience but still want to enjoy quality food.

Mo Mong1201 Westheimer Rd. #B, 713.524.5664This Trendy Montrose establishment has a greatlunch crowd as well as a packed martini nighton Wednesdays. But the real draw is the food-traditional family recipes mixed in with sometasty modern dishes. Must try items include theMango Spring Rolls, Shrimp and Avocado SpringRoll, Volcano Chicken, and the Bo Luc Lac.

C O N T I N E N T A LVoice Restaurant & LoungeHotel Icon, 220 Main, 832.667.4470The impressive décor has thoughtfullytransformed the space of an old bank lobby intoa warm cozy and elegant dining area. Try theMushroom Soup “Cappucino”, reduction ofgarlic, onion, crimini mushrooms topped withfrothy truffle foam, and the Bryan Farms RoastChicken, a free range and 100% corn fed chicken.

Colombe d’Or Restaurant and Hotel3410 Montrose Blvd. 713.524.7999Built in 1923 and originally the mansion ofWalter Fondren, one of the founders of HumbleOil, Colombe d’Or Hotel is considered a Texashistorical landmark. Featuring French andContinental fare, we recommend the Carred’Agneau, individual rack of baby lamb grilledwith natural herbs and red wine sauce.