Applications are due Oct. 4 and the competition takes place Nov. 14 at the Oakland Asian Cultural Center. Ask your favorite altruist -- your brothers, boyfriends, co-workers, friends or yourself. Help celebrate the men of Asian America who devote their time and effort to worthy Asian American community organizations.

Each contestant competes on behalf of a community group of his choice, and the winner takes home a $1,000 donation to their organization from Hyphen, not to mention a kick-ass crown and the bling of a heavyweight Hyphen belt.

As in previous years, contestants will compete in fashion, talent and a Q&A. Various forms of dress and undress are modeled during fashion show. The guys show off their talents -- singing, dancing, rapping, cooking a meal (not recommended) or whatever they do best. And, the venerable judges will grill them with hard-hitting questions.

We've had comedians Ali Wong and Samantha Chanse as our emcees, making it a fun evening. The cash bar helps, too.

So if you know anyone who has what it takes to be Mr. Hyphen, tell them to apply. And come out and see the show. I'll probably be working behind the bar, so see you there.