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 [1], 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 [2] and Samantha Chanse [3] 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 [4]. And come out and see the show. I'll probably be working behind the bar, so see you there.