Just when I thought I’d seen it all, I came across this video on CNN.com of Vietnam Television’s report on a (fairly new) exercise class taking place in Hanoi. Imagine this: a group of health-conscious locals working out together outdoors, being lead by a single instructor. No, they’re not practicing tai chi or aerobics. What makes this visual unique is that 1) this group … [Read more...] about Hip Hop: A New Trend in Elderly Exercise
Why Jeremy Lin Matters: Asian Male Image in the Media
Since he burst into the national consciousness just a week ago, basketball sensation and New York Knicks guard Jeremy Lin has proved that he’s just not any old underdog story. His is a very specific one. It leads me to a scene in the film “White Men Can’t Jump” where Wesley Snipes tells Woody Harrelson, “You can listen to Jimi (Hendrix), but you can't hear him.” Because to … [Read more...] about Why Jeremy Lin Matters: Asian Male Image in the Media
A Valentine to Sriracha
I have never been very enthusiastic about Valentine’s Day. Before you write me off as a misanthrope or a bitter old maid, let me assure you: I’m not that old. Just bitter. And I do like people, for the most part. Also, in second grade I found out that the holiday has its possible origins in the decapitation of a guy called St. Valentine (it was an act of martyrdom). Even … [Read more...] about A Valentine to Sriracha
Vietnam to Internet Entrepreneurs: Come Hither
The scenario: You're a tech savvy youngin' with the next billion dollar internet idea tucked in your pocket. It could be the next Groupon or Twitter. Maybe even the next Facebook. Whatever it is, it’s big. But you're in America and you're worried the market is getting saturated. Everyone and their 12-year-old cousin is developing apps and designing sites. There's something … [Read more...] about Vietnam to Internet Entrepreneurs: Come Hither
And the Floral Emblem Award Goes to…
For most of 2010 and 2011, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has been busy as bees flying from Ha Noi to Da Nang to Sai Gon in their endeavor to find a flower fitting the following criteria: Indigenous to Vietnam Easily and popularly grown Beautiful and scented Frequently used and highly valued in various art forms, including but not limited to art, literature, … [Read more...] about And the Floral Emblem Award Goes to…