CREAM No.5

FEB / MAR 2011 NO 5 FREE

C I T Y M A G A Z I N E

founder & publisher fernando de haro production director analee g. paz

copy editor

C I T Y M A G A Z I N E

graciela garcia

NO 5

february • march 2011 C I T Y M A G A Z I N E

interns

jerome averill, gabriela enriquez, mayra flores, jessica mancha, beba torres

design & production photographer ferch graphic designer analee g. paz

writers valeria barcelo, ana chaverria, fernando de haro, gabriela enriquez, moon jamaluddin special thanks

publisher 2011 has begun full of energy and optimism. At Cream we have worked tirelessly to bring you our fifth edition for February and March. First, we make room for Valentine’s Day with a special article dedicated to love and friendship. You will meet four couples who talk about their experiences on their path to discovering the meaning of true and lasting love.

We join the community in celebrating the traditional festivities of the George Washington Celebration by showcasing some very interesting interviews with Carole and Abe Wilson and Altagracia and George Garcia, who portrayed Martha and George Washington in 1980, 1991, and 1999. Arleen Averill and Jaqueline Ramirez also share memories of the time when they were debutantes as they revisit their sumptuous gowns and pose for our main feature photo shoot.

celina diaz, sara serna de paz, k clancy, averill family, ramirez family, ana chaverria, katie gutierrez, van gogh, electricity, mafalda, burberry, flaming hot cheetos, the subway crew and steve jobs

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N o5 | cream team

We want to thank all of our followers, who have supported us in every issue.

We appreciate your opinions and positive comments through our Facebook page where, very soon, we will include alternative content with pictures and video from some of our features. You can also visit us at www.creamcitymagazine.com—here you can always find past issues of Cream and information about us.

To all the wonderful people who, in their own special way, contributed their time and dedication to make this publication possible, thank you!

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Analee G. Paz

2

Elma Garza

3

Gabriela Enríquez

4 Jessica Mancha 5 Beba Torres 6 Mayra Flores 6 Graciela García 7 Jerome Averill 8 Valeria Barceló

Cream City Magazine on Twitter for daily updates, tidbits, behind the TWEET US! Follow scenes pics+videos+links, and pointless babble at twitter.com/creamcitymag Copyright © 2011 Cream City Magazine is a bi-monthly publication.

All rights reserved. Points of view expressed do not necessarily represent those of Cream City Magazine. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement we believe is incompatible with our mission. We also reserve the right to refuse any advertisement we deem competitive or contrary to the best interests of the magazine.

Advertisers are legally responsible for the content, accuracy, and images in their ads. Printed in Mexico.

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ALEX & PAULINA ZAMUDIO, AL FRESCO Alex felt instantly attracted to Paulina’s green eyes and sense of humor.

Today they manage al fresco at Mall del Norte and, very soon, at La Cantera in San Antonio.

OVIDIO & CHACHA CAVAZOS, LEGNO A couple who enjoys traveling with their family.

They share a vision and taste for fine furniture through their job.

OSCAR & MARTHA PEREZ, SKY LIMITED Each door and kitchen they create builds a future for them and their loved ones.

Sky is the limit with their passion and commitment.

Three visions. One city. valeria barceló

In this special edition, Profiles features three business firms that are managed by couples. Learn what keeps them moving forward as they share some of their secrets.

OVIDIO & CHACHA CAVAZOS Legno ALEX & PAULINA ZAMUDIO al fresco al fresco had its start…when we were looking for an outdoor dining set and realized there wasn’t much out there.

Alex was ready to seize the opportunity since we had always considered the idea of having our own business. After much thinking and planning, the store opened.

We met at a party…and what attracted me to Paulina was her sense of humor and, of course, her eyes. She is so enthusiastic.

She employs her creativity and energy to improve the store’s image.

Alex is always thinking ahead…and I love that about him. I also admire his self confidence and how well he gets along with everyone because he enjoys people.

Thanks to his skills, we will soon open a store in La Cantera in San Antonio.

The advantages of working together…are that we know one another so well that it’s easy to understand each other’s ideas and points of view; furthermore, we trust each other. It’s also fun to spend time together.

There’s a great…team behind us. My father and brothers work with us. We all make sure that the store looks beautiful and that everything runs in order. It’s very gratifying to help our customers find what they are looking for.

To anyone who might be contemplating the idea of opening a business, our advice is… don’t be afraid. “Grab the bull by the horns,” and go for it. Follow your joy. Have fun and enjoy the process.

We have been married seventeen years… and have worked together eight years in the store. We did not plan on working together; however, when Chacha showed interest in the business, we decided to give it a try. It has worked out very well.

Chacha possesses great qualities…that she employs to manage the store. She is very organized and has great taste and vision; these qualities come in handy when selecting furniture. She keeps me balanced and calm when I feel stressed. She is also very insightful and always gives me encouragement.

OSCAR & MARTHA PEREZ Sky Limited What I enjoy the most about working together… is the ease and comfort that the job gives me so I can look after my children. I also like the fact that I am working with my husband, who listens to me and respects my opinions. I admire his talent and commitment.

Oscar usually opens in the mornings and… is the first one in and the last one out.

Sometimes he has stayed till 9:30 at night.

It’s important to share the same goals…and the process that’s required to reach those goals. We always remember that we are a family.

Martha contributes her…organizational skills and supervises everyone and everything. She worries about me and supports me in all my endeavors.

An ordinary day at Legno is not easy… I won’t lie; working as a couple has been a challenge, but we have achieved good results. In spite of the problems that might come, we forge ahead!

We trust and support each other…implicitly.

She takes charge when I’m not in the office.

That’s reassuring, because who better than your wife to take care of your business?

We take delight in traveling…either as a couple or with the whole family. We try to get away two or three times per year.

When traveling as a couple, we go to the beach to any of those resorts that are designed with adults in mind because they focus on resting and de-stressing. When vacationing with the children, we go to attractive places that can also provide a learning experience. We visit different places every year.

I believe that a worthwhile job…is not easy; but it’s important to enjoy every step and stage as the business grows. We love our job, and consider it a blessing. Our best advice: Do what you enjoy and good things will follow.

Part of our success lies in the fact that… from the very beginning, we agreed to keep the business problems at the office while our personal or family matters were to be resolved at home. It may not be always easy, but we try very hard to stick to this agreement.

Many people think that it’s not a good idea… to work with your husband, but I think it has great advantages. You have to be willing to collaborate. Some people are not patient enough, which we are. We also have discovered talents and capabilities in each other. That has made our bond stronger.

WANT TO NOMINATE SOMEONE FOR UPCOMING PROFILES (OR HAVE SOME FEEDBACK) EMAIL US AT PROFILES@CREAMCITYMAGAZINE.COM OR MESSAGE US ON FACEBOOK!

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SCHOLARS smw awards students Cream attended the Society of Martha Washington’s January general meeting, where the 2011 scholarship recipients were presented. These scholarships make it posible for juniors and seniors from local high schools to attend the Presidential Classroom in Washington D.C.

TEQUILA tasting at paseo real The Laredo-Webb County Bar Association very successfully hosted its second annual Tequila Tasting to benefit TAMIU and LCC scholarships.

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Humberto González Serna, Castaño, Andrea rto be Ro l, z wi re Ta Pe ulina n, Pepe stian Rosas, Pa Gabriela Alarcó from left // Seba rnando Alvarez, The wallflowers Lini Simpson, Fe

guitar strings vs piano keys Guitar strings would be more fun than having to learn how to play the piano keys. - SEBASTIAN ROSAS

design runway fashion vs model runway fashion I’d rather be a famous model in a runway fashion show because it’s more exciting. - LINI SIMPSON calculators vs stethoscopes

makeup expert vs hair styling diva Makeup expert so I can also do my own makeup!

- ANDREA GONZÁLEZ SERNA

do karate chops vs use boxing gloves Boxing gloves because girls think they’re sexy, and I also like to watch boxing.

- PEPE PEREZ

Padilla,

fly the sky vs sail the ocean I would rather fly the sky to experience the world from a different perspective.

- ROBERTO CASTAÑO

cook on the grill vs bake in the oven Definitely bake in the oven— desserts and pastries are so cute! - PAULINA TAWIL

Calculator because you can do more things with it! - HUMBERTO PADILLA

take pictures vs make movies Take pictures because it is one of my hobbies; looking at the pictures afterwards makes you recall the great memories! - GABRIELA ALARCÓN ride a horse vs ride a motorcycle I would rather learn how to ride a motorcycle since I already know how to ride a horse. - FERNANDO ALVAREZ

chill the

out

STARTER

Mussels in White Wine

102. 3 FM PLAYLIST INGREDIENTS 1

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1 pound of cleaned live mussels 1 cup of white wine 1 finely chopped shallot 2 finely chopped cloves of garlic 2 tablespoons of diced red bell pepper 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley 1 tablespoon of chopped tarragon ½ tablespoon of red pepper flakes Zest and juice of one large lemon 2 tablespoons of butter 1 baguette

MAIN COURSE

Seared Tiger Shrimp with Chorizo Sauce served over a bed of Spanish Fideo

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1. LUIS JUNIOR // “COLACHE (SOMETIMES MIX)” 2. CHRISTIAN PROMMER// “SUEÑO LATINO (DJ HELL´S ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE REMIX)” 3. UNDERWORLD// “MOON IN WATER” (DJ HELL´S ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE REMIX)” 4. JK SOUL// “THE MUSIC” 5. KOLLEKTIV TURMSTRASSE// “SCHWINDELIG” 6. SOLEE// “LEGENDS (SLOW MOTION MIX)” 7. LUCIEN N LUCIANO// “BEHIND MY SOUL” 8. GRAMATIK// “DUNGEON SOUND” 9. FOUS DE LA MER/ / “ALL WE NEED IS LOVE” 10. NICK WARREN/ “IN SEARCH OF SILVER (AMBIENT MIX)” escucha cada sábado y domingo de 1-3PM lo mejor del chill out presentado por CREAM CITY MAGAZINE

INSTRUCTIONS: In a large enough sauce pan to fit all the mussels bring white wine, shallots, garlic, and red pepper flakes to a simmer. Once simmering, add mussels and cover tightly. As soon as the mussels open (3-5 minutes) remove the mussels from the pot with a slotted spoon. Then add the red bell pepper, parsley, tarragon, lemon zest, lemon juice, and butter (salt and pepper to taste). Once the butter has incorporated into the sauce, pour over the cooked mussels and serve immediately with a baguette.

INGREDIENTS 6 large tiger shrimp ½ pound of bay scallops 7 oz. package of fideo 1 finely chopped shallot 2 cloves of garlic (1 clove finely chopped and clove grated) 3 tablespoons of diced red bell pepper 1 tablespoon of saffron threads 2 cups of seafood stock 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley ½ cup of frozen peas ½ cup of toasted pine nuts ½ cup of shredded Manchego cheese 1 Spanish chorizo link diced 1 cup white wine 2 tablespoons of olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS: In a medium size pot heat olive oil and add fideo, shallot, chopped garlic, and 1½ tablespoons of the red bell pepper. Sauté until the fideo is a dark golden brown color. Add saffron and ½ cup of white wine and let simmer for one minute. Then pour in the seafood stock and let simmer stirring occasionally. Add salt and pepper to taste. Once the fideo has just about absorbed all of the liquid, stir in parsley, peas, scallops, pine nuts, and cheese. Remove from heat and cover tightly to keep warm.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium size pan. Salt and pepper the shrimp and sauté 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove the shrimp from pan and add the chorizo and sauté until the chorizo has released some of its color. Then add remaining red bell pepper and grated garlic and sauté for one minute.

Add ½ a cup of white wine and let it reduce slightly.

To serve, place a bed of the fideo on the plate. Then place three of the sautéed shrimp per plate on top of fideo. Finally, drizzle the Spanish chorizo sauce over the shrimp.

DESSERT

Wine Poached Pears INGREDIENTS 2 Bosch pears (cut in quarters and cored) 2 cups of red wine ½ cup of balsamic vinegar 3 large stick of cinnamon 1 cup of brown sugar ½ cup of pistachio nuts Whipped cream

INSTRUCTIONS: In a small pot add red wine, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and cinnamon and bring to a simmer. Add pears and let simmer for 10-15 min. until slightly tender. Remove pears and let sauce reduce until it has reached consistency of syrup.

To serve, place pear wedges on a plate and drizzle syrup over them. Then top with whipped cream and sprinkle with pistachios. This entire dish can be prepared ahead of time.

MUSSELS IN WHITE WINE SEARED TIGER SHRIMP WINE POACHED PEARS

Staying in and preparing a vibrant yet intimate dinner with your significant other doesn’t have to be a tedious, intricate spectacle.

Succulent old-world recipes deconstructed to flawlessly fit in with a low- key athome vibe are a wonderful alternative to dining out in a crowded restaurant.

Slight additional effort paired with the luscious, easy to follow recipes will transform a simple evening at home into the best idea you’ve ever had. (And who doesn’t like receiving that type of acclaim?)

KARLO’S PASSION FOR FOOD RUNS DEEP. His family-instilled zeal for culinary abilities is all encompassing. This passion is also a product of being raised as part of a large family in which celebration and food were always synonymous. The bulk of his recipes are timeless, having been passed down from generations. Now, his favorite recipes are those in which he recreates those enchantingly delectable dishes…with his innovative twist as owner of Blue Olive Catering.

cream february / march 2011

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gift with purchase feb. 1 st –feb. 14 th receive a pandora jewelry roll with your purchase of $125 or more of pandora. *good while supplies last. limit one per customer.

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PHOTOGRAPHY FERCH MAKE UP KARLA GUTIERREZ HAIR JR SPECIAL THANKS

Analee Paz Anita Averill Beba Torres-Rosell Betty Moreno Celina Diaz Diana Serna Edmundo Perez Elma Garza Francis Averill Jerome Averill Jorge Monem Mayra Flores Niti Volpe Sara Serna de Paz Sebastian Veronica Ramirez a tradition that has passed from generation to generation and, without a doubt, the most important in our city celebrates its 114th year. Cream is honored to commemorate the George Washington Birthday Celebration by taking a look within; reminiscing with personages who, by participating in years past, enriched the history of such a magnificent event.

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JACQUELINE on the left ARLEEN on the right

JACQUELINE ANDREA RAMIREZ & ARLEEN LORRAINE AVERILL WHAT YEAR WERE YOU PRESENTED?

WHEN CREAM CALLED WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO SLIP BACK INTO THE DRESS,

I was presented in 2006.

JACQUELINE: I was presented the following year, in 2007. WHO WAS YOUR ESCORT? ARLEEN: My escort was Joe M. Rubio III. JACQUELINE: Mine was Jamil Jacaman. DOES YOUR

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST REACTION? ARLEEN: My immediate response was “Is it going to fit?” I never thought that I would have the opportunity to wear the dress again.

When I finally put it on and it zipped, it was a great feeling. JACQUELINE: I also thought, “I hope it still fits!” Thankfully it did. HOW DID IT FEEL TO GET BACK INTO THE DRESS? JACQUELINE: Being in my dress brought back so many fun memories.

Going to all the parties every weekend, the Sunday rehearsals, and the parade. The parade was so much fun; the crowd really goes wild and they get you so motivated. I loved it! ARLEEN: It was a very special feeling to put the dress on after so many years.

ARLEEN:

FAMILY HAVE A LONG HISTORY WITH

Yes, my two great grandmothers, Anita Parker and Ozema Nye, were charter members of the Society of Martha Washington.

My grandfather, Chuck Fansler, was a member of WBCA years ago and worked on the parade committee for many years before he passed in 1978.

My grandmother, Lorraine Nye Fansler, was presented as a debutante in 1947.

My mother, Anita Fansler Averill, was presented as a debutante in 1978 and is a member of the Society, having served on numerous committees. My older brother, Cullen Averill, was a page in the presentation and an escort in 2002.

My younger brother, Jerome Averill, was also a page, represented the U.S. as the Abrazo Child in 2000, and is now an escort in 2011. My father, Pancho Averill, is portraying George Washington in this year’s festivities. JACQUELINE:My grandmother, Lorraine Hopson, was Pocahontas for two consecutive years in 1957 and 1958. My mother, Veronica Hopson Ramirez, was presented in 1984 and my father, Arturo Ramirez, was her escort. All of my aunts and uncles have participated as well as my siblings. My youngest sister, Isabella, is being presented this year and Cassandra was presented last year. We have had a family member participate consecutively for the past seven years. My cousins, Hannah Gilpin and Tiffany Williams, will be presented in 2015 so, we have a break for the next few years. HOW DID IT

THE WBCA? ARLEEN:

FEEL TO CARRY ON THAT TRADITION?

I attended the SMW pageants and ball with my parents over the years and couldn’t wait for it to be my turn. My mother and father would talk about how much fun they had and how exciting it was attending all the festivities. To be presented first in November by my father was so exciting and emotional at the same time. We attended dance practice for two months every Sunday before the presentation and loved having that special time together.

ARLEEN: It was a great honor to carry on my family’s tradition of participating in the festivities. I feel privileged to have taken part in such a historical celebration for South Texas and for my family as well.

JACQUELINE:

Memories came rushing back—all the fittings over several months, the (what felt like) thousands of parties we attended to celebrate all 17 debs, the long hours at weekend practices, and all the smiles and laughs we shared with each other through it all. WHAT WAS THE IDEA OR CONCEPT BEHIND THE DESIGN OF YOUR DRESS? ARLEEN: My dress had a very special meaning because a lot of the bead work was original beading from my mother’s 1978 debutante dress. Those pieces made my dress have a very personal meaning for me as I carried out this long-awaited tradition. JACQUELINE: This was the first dress my mother did and all I knew is that I wanted turquoise. I really let her do what she wanted with it because with her amazing talent, I was certain it would be beautiful! IF IN THE FUTURE YOU HAVE A DAUGHTER, WOULD YOU LIKE HER TO PARTICIPATE AS A DEBUTANTE? ARLEEN: I would love to be blessed with a daughter who would one day carry on this family legacy. I remember being a young girl attending pageant after pageant, watching the girls in their dresses and taking in these amazing pieces of art and thinking to myself, “One day I will be there.” When my time finally

I remember being a young girl attending pageant after pageant, watching the girls in their dresses and taking in these amazing pieces of art and thinking to myself, “One day I will be there.”

When my time finally came, I felt as if I had finally reached a long-awaited moment and honor.

ARLEEN AVERILL

came, I felt as if I had finally reached a long-awaited moment and honor. I can only hope that one day my daughter will feel the same. JACQUELINE: I would love for my daughter or daughters to be presented in the future. The Society of Martha Washington is an amazing organization that has been presenting the young ladies of Laredo for so many years. This pageant brings many people to Laredo and has put us on the map for honoring Martha and George Washington in such a unique way. However, I would let it be an option. WHAT WAS THE BEST PART OF BEING A DEBUTANTE? ARLEEN: The best part of being a debutante for me was representing my family. To be a member of this ongoing celebration and tradition will always hold a very special place in my heart. JACQUELINE: The unforgettable experience of relationships I formed, the parties we attended, being in my gorgeous dress all night and feeling like a princess. TELL US ABOUT YOUR MOST MEMORABLE—FUNNY OR OTHERWISE— MOMENT AS A DEBUTANTE. ARLEEN: We just had the best time together. There were so many debs being presented that year; many of us had known each other and been together since kindergarten. Whether we were leaning on

the excess fluff of the dress to take a well needed nap in the cloak room, being helped out of the dress backstage for a last minute trip to the little girls’ room, or making an attempt to show off our dance skills underneath layers of fabric and beading on the dance floor, we never took life too seriously as we smiled through it all. I thank the WBCA, the Society of Martha Washington, and my family for allowing me to take part in such an amazing experience that I will carry with me forever.

We present HECTOR & ALTAGRACIA GARCIA and

ABE & CAROLE WILSON

HECTOR & ALTAGRACIA GARCIA WHAT YEAR DID YOU PORTRAY GEORGE WASHINGTON AND MARTHA WASHINGTON?

1999.

DID YOU PARTICIPATE THE

Yes, and it made the experience so much nicer and special. We shared experiences together—rehearsals, parties, activities in general. We felt we were contributing to the Washington’s Birthday Celebration as a team. DOES YOUR FAMILY HAVE A LONG HISTORY WITH THE WBCA? HECTOR: My association with the WBCA started back in the early 80’s when we were very involved with the Laredo Chamber of Commerce, particularly during 1985-87 when I presided over the Chamber and many of its activities were related to the Celebration. Being designated as George and Martha came from our involvement with the Society of Martha Washington to which we are greatly indebted for selecting us to portray our nation’s most famous founder along with his wife.

ALTAGRACIA: Yes, because of my dance school we were parade participants every year. I organized the International Festival at Shirley Field with all the schools participating including Nuevo Laredo talent. My dancers also took part in the Noche Mexicana for many years. All this gave an added international flavor to the Washington’s Birthday Celebration. Also, our daughter was a debutante in 1983 and our son was an escort in 1988. Three of our grandchildren were Abrazo children in 2005, 2008, and 2010, respectively. HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU FOUND OUT SAME YEAR AS YOUR SPOUSE? ALTAGRACIA:

YOU HAD BEEN SELECTED TO PORTRAY GEORGE? HECTOR:

I felt humble. I knew many of the community leaders that had been very active in community affairs who had previously been

selected to portray George; I felt undeserving but thankful of the honor. TELL US ABOUT THE MONTHS OF PREPARATION BEFORE THE ACTUAL EVENT. ALTAGRACIA: All I can say is that it felt like a blur of activities—tailors, trips to the State Capitol and Washington D.C., debutantes’ parties, etc. WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND THE DESIGN OF YOUR COSTUME?

HECTOR: It started with my wife’s concept for her dress and then

she designed mine. My tailor then did an outstanding piece of work on my costume. ALTAGRACIA: The concept of my gown was that it had to be black because it’s my favorite color. The making and decorating of the gown was a very enjoyable experience thanks to the inspiration, dedication, and patience of my friend Frances Peña Villarreal, who did a beautiful job on the gown.

TELL US ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE ANECDOTES FROM YOUR

One of the duties we performed included visiting elementary schools in full colonial attire and telling stories of George Washington. After a presentation to a 3rd grade class, I decided to mingle with the children. Just then, an excited 8 yr. old boy came close and asked, “Are you George Washington? I thought he was dead.” I told him that I was only portraying George Washington. He looked puzzled. I explained that it was like being an actor in a movie, not the real thing. With a very disappointed and sad look he said, “I was hoping you were George Washington.” ALTAGRACIA: During our dance routine at the February Pageant, my husband kept trying to correct me. He must have been nervous and overlooked the fact that I was a dance teacher. WHAT WERE SOME OF THE

PARTICIPATION. HECTOR:

MOST MEMORABLE DUTIES YOU HAD AS GEORGE THAT YEAR? ALTAGRACIA: Visiting schools in full colonial attire and making

presentations on the lives of George and Martha, waving at the tremendous crowds while being on a float at the WBCA Parade, going to Washington D.C and the State Capitol. WHY DO YOU

FEEL THIS ANNUAL CELEBRATION CONTINUES TO BE SUCH A

It is so well planned by the WBCA that it brings the whole community together.

There is something for all walks of life in the events offered.

STRONG TRADITION IN OUR COMMUNITY?

WHAT DID PORTRAYING GEORGE WASHINGTON MEAN TO

It feels like you are the face of the Celebration.

It’s an integral part of the Society of Martha Washington which not only aims at presenting our daughters as debutantes, but honors the memory of the most famous founding father of our nation along with his wife, Martha. DO YOU CONTINUE TO PARTICIPATE WITH THE WBCA? HECTOR: One of the benefits of

YOU? HECTOR:

great balls and hosted state and international events. ABE: In 1980, there was not much attention paid to George’s costume.

Many of the previous George’s wore military costumes. I wore period civilian evening clothes and the costume was rented. TELL

US YOUR FAVORITE ANECDOTES FROM YOUR PARTICIPATION. CAROLE: The dress was extremely heavy; I was in real pain having

to stand during the entire presentation and then the Colonial Ball.

Afterwards, my friends formed a circle around me and I took off the dress right there in the Civic Center parking lot. ABE: I was amazed at the number of small children who wanted to shake George’s hand and really believed I was George Washington.

WHY DO YOU FEEL THIS ANNUAL CELEBRATION CONTINUOUS TO BE SUCH A STRONG TRADITION IN OUR COMMUNITY?

Washington’s Birthday Celebration is unique to the city of Laredo. It provides the opportunity once a year for many different organizations, political, civic, school, and social to unite together

It was an exciting time in our lives

being presented at the Colonial Pageant belongs to Martha, the parade belongs to George.

ABE WILSON

serving as George during the Celebration is being inducted as a Caballero of the Republic of the Rio Grande. This takes place annually in a banquet during the Celebration which also includes the induction of the President of the WBCA and the same goes for Mr. South Texas for that year. As an 80 year old previous George, that’s about the only event in which I participate; I attend as a guest any of the other WBCA events. ALTAGRACIA: Me too. As a member of the Society of Martha Washington since 1973, I have served in numerous committees such as Program Chairperson twice, Asst. Mistress and Mistress of the Wardrobe for the Pageant, and I have choreographed the dances for the November Presentation and February Pageant for many years now. They are all activities that augment the WBCA. ABE & CAROLE WILSON WHAT YEAR DID YOU PORTRAY GEORGE AND MARTHA

I portrayed George in 1980 and Carole portrayed Martha in 1991. WHAT IS YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY WITH THE WBCA? ABE: My mother, Evelyn Wilson, became a member of the Marthas in the 1950’s. My sister, Rebecca Vernick, was presented in 1959. I served as an escort in 1954 and 1955, became President of WBCA in 1979, George in 1980, and later Jefe of the Caballeros. CAROLE: Our daughter, Michelle, was presented in 1989 and our granddaughter, Catya, in 2010. We have two more granddaughters, Tamara and Madeline who, we are hopeful, will be presented also.

Weber Wallerstein, our grand nephew, will be a page this year. TELL US ABOUT THE MONTHS OF PREPARATION WASHINGTON? ABE:

BEFORE THE ACTUAL EVENT THAT FEBRUARY. CAROLE:

The design and preparation of Martha’s dress was a wonderful but nerve-wracking experience. The preparation took most of the year. Linda Gutierrez designed and made the dress.

Much of the intricate beading was done by close friends who spent months at beading parties at my home carefully applying the beading and lace. They also helped me dress.

We had great fun together, and I sincerely appreciated their help and friendship. WHAT DO YOU FEEL MADE YOUR YEAR DIFFERENT FROM OTHER YEARS? ABE: In 1980, the celebration began to change. There was much discussion about the need for more city-wide participation and the Jalapeño Festival was just beginning. WHAT WAS THE IDEA BEHIND THE DESIGN OF YOUR ENTIRE COSTUME? CAROLE: The design was to approximate the period when Martha attended

to showcase Laredo to visitors from everywhere. Unfortunately, Laredo is the subject of negative news stories. The celebration with its colonial presentation; Pocahontas presentation; its many events and parades presents the real image of Laredo, a much more positive one and I feel the people of Laredo are proud of this image and look forward to the event each year. DO YOU FEEL THE CELEBRATION HAS EVOLVED OR CHANGED OVER

ABE: The celebration has changed immensely.

When I was President of the WBCA in 1979, there were very few events, the budget was extremely small, and we depended on the carnival for revenue—good weather, we did well; poor weather, we suffered. Today, WBCA has a full time professional staff, an extensive budget, and a very sophisticated business plan that combines professional and volunteer expertise. The nature of the celebration has changed as well. In 1980, the celebration was very political with attendance by state elected officials, national elected officials, and military from both the U.S. and Mexico. It was important to be on the honor guest list at the presentation.

Today, the celebration has a different look. There is far less political participation. It has become more of a city-wide festival with many new events for every member of the family to enjoy.

THE YEARS?

WHAT DID PORTRAYING GEORGE AND MARTHA WASHINGTON MEAN TO YOU? ABE: I grew up in Laredo, attended Martin High

School, and Carole and I have lived in Laredo since 1964. Carole taught at Martin High School. We witnessed many WBCA celebrations and to be selected Martha and George, even though at different times, made us both very proud—proud to represent the Society of Martha Washington as Martha and George, proud to represent the City of Laredo during the celebration, proud to have the support of so many of our friends and our family, and proud to have played a major role in this wonderful tradition. It was an exciting time in our lives—being presented at the Colonial Pageant belongs to Martha, the parade belongs to George. That will never change. DO YOU CONTINUE TO PARTICIPATE WITH THE ASSOCIATION, AND IF SO, HOW? ABE: I continue to serve on the Mr. South Texas selection committee and I am a lifetime director of WBCA. CAROLE: I continue to be a member of the SMW as well as a member of the Colonial Ladies organization.

about betty

about frank

My family has been in the Society for four generations. My mother, Dora Martin Bunn, who portrayed Martha in 1967, was one of only six ladies who wrote and signed the actual Society of Martha Washington Charter.

My son, Cullen, served as an escort in 2002. My second son, Jerome, will serve as an escort in this year’s presentation.

My daughter, Arleen, was presented as a debutante in 2006. My wife, Anita, was presented as a debutante in 1978.

My daughter, Scarlet, was a debutante in 2007, my son, Jarrad, was an escort twice.

I am a direct descendant of Ezekiel Averill, who served as General George Washington’s body guard in the Continental Army.

I always watched the parade from the third floor balcony at my great grandfather’s house on San Bernardo when I was a little girl.

Ever since being asked to portray this year’s George I have been fascinated with history books about his life.

I have enjoyed speaking to many different people in D.C. and letting them know about our wonderful city and WBCA celebration.

My grandparents lived on Washington Street in downtown Laredo.

I had to dress on the lawn of the White House with only a sheet to hide me.

I was introduced on the floor of both the Senate and House. The reception that Senator Zaffirini hosted and BBVA sponsored was great.

I have enjoyed this year with my husband, Oscar; having him around to help me has been great.

This year my children are hosting an after bash for me and calling it the Martha Bash keeping a social tradition that started with my parents and their friends.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S GEORGE & MARTHA WASHINGTON

betty ann bunn moreno and

leadership

One of the costumes I will use this year is a replica of General Washington’s military uniforms.

I have had fun re-living my youth as I wear the wig.

We present

frank c. averill

With my participation this year, every member of my immediate family will have been a participant in the Society of Martha Washington Presentation.

I cannot think that any person who has portrayed George has had such a wonderful person in the woman portraying Martha as this year’s.

charisma

dedication

A word from Niti Volpe I am looking forward to the 2011 Society of Martha Washington’s 72nd Colonial Pageant and Ball. As a debutante in 1985, I remember very vividly what an enjoyable and meaningful time it was for me. This year I am very enthused about serving as President of the Society of Martha Washington. I am particularly excited about the presentation because as part of the program, we will have as a special musical guest, William Zeitler. He will play Benjamin Franklin’s invention, the glass armonica, in its 250th anniversary. This fits into our theme, the Age of Enlightenment. All the debutantes and escorts will portray artists, inventors, musicians, philosophers, and great thinkers of the eighteenth century. I expect that it will be an event to remember for many years to come.

URBAN VISION CITY MAKING AT ITS FINEST we visited frank architects to talk about architecture, urbanism and their love for Laredo.

MANY FACTORS CONTRIBUTE TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF ANY CITY. Architecture, being at the forefront of these factors, has always captured our attention. It’s amazing how architecture and urban design transform space and shape our history. Sites become a canvas where ideas and drawings become solutions that make up a better, culturally vibrant urban landscape. At Cream, we love anything connected with design and all creative venues. Our constant search for artistic expression led us to Frank Rotnofsky and Viviana Frank-Bautista of Frank Architects Inc. They cordially answered our questions about their passion for architecture and shared some recent projects that have transformed the cityscape of Laredo.

HOW DID FAI START? We began Frank Associates which then became FAI in NYC right after completing our studies at the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation. We started our practice with theoretical works (unbuilt projects) which helped define our design methodology and meaning of architecture. Some of our early work was exhibited nationally and internationally, including exhibitions in Texas, New York, the Smithsonian Museum in Washington D.C., the Venice Biennale, and the Veronafiere International Marble Exhibit in Italy. Our first client was ICF, an international furniture company, to design their main showroom for the NeoCon World Trade Fair at the Merchandise Mart Building in Chicago. The showroom was well received by the design community and was featured in Interior Design magazine. We were very lucky to be at the right place at the right time. For 24

cream february / march 2011

family and adventure, we moved to Laredo in 1990 and FAI was firmly established here after teaching at the University of Texas at San Antonio Architecture School. FAI is a Laredo story and all our success has percolated from this community.

This is a complicated question because there is no easy sound bite we can simply give you. Inevitably, when we try to explain what we do, we end up saying something way too abstract. However, we will give it a shot.

WHAT DOES ARCHITECTURE MEAN TO YOU?

Architecture has a relationship with a piece of land, an environment, a city, a culture, a history, a client, and an economy.

What that means is that we, as architects, are successful when our designs express that relationship through building tools

City of Laredo Bridge of the Americas Administration Building Bridge of the Americas Retail Building

Lamar Bruni Vergara Children’s Advocacy Center

such as, method of construction, site orientation, materials, and technologies. And we still have not talked about style or ornament. That is something else altogether, and we never begin with fashion in mind. Coco Chanel said “Fashion is architecture; it is a matter of scale.” This is why her designs are timeless.

DO YOU HANDLE A PARTICULAR ARCHITECTURAL STYLE

We do not begin with a style even when we are doing preservation projects.

Where architecture is concerned, beauty is not skin deep. A style emerges eventually from a body of work. If you live long enough and continue to produce, architects, like any other artist, can have several phases. The body of work we have produced so

OR PREFER TO BE OPEN TO DIFFERENT TRENDS?

Webb County Villa Antigua Border Heritage Museum

there were only master builders. Bring to mind Notre Dame (14th century) in Paris, remember the rose windows, gothic arches, and flying buttresses; ornament and structure are one and the same and cannot be separated without having structural failure.

WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT STEPS TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION WHILE PLANNING A PROJECT? Each project requires different consideration, but in general we begin by talking to the client and looking at the context of the project.

We collaborate. The design of a project is more like a dance. Our clients, our talented staff, and we work together to give form to the project until the project begins to have its own voice.

THE DESIGN OF A PROJECT IS MORE LIKE A DANCE. OUR CLIENTS, OUR TALENTED STAFF, AND WE WORK TOGETHER TO GIVE FORM TO THE PROJECT UNTIL THE PROJECT BEGINS TO HAVE ITS OWN VOICE.

far is definitely a child of the modern movement in this respect only; we strive to make the structural elements of the building the ornament of the building. What is fascinating to us is that this was an idea born in the gothic period of architecture when

WHICH HAVE BEEN THE MOST IMPORTANT PROJECTS THAT YOU HAVE CREATED IN OUR CITY AND WHY? The truth is all the projects we do are important to us. It is a part of an architect’s code of ethics we take very seriously. We are licensed professionals

cream february / march 2011 Photography: Left Page: Ferch, Right Page: Leigh Christian

25

Texas A&M International University Fine Arts Theather

and we take very seriously our commitment to architecture and our community. That being said, we have to say, the work we have done in El Azteca neighborhood, downtown Laredo, along the riverfront, with Laredo Main Street, the Laredo Center for the Arts, the Children’s Advocacy Center, the City of Laredo, Webb County, TAMIU and both United and Laredo ISD have been great experiences.

IN WHICH WAY DOES FAI CONTRIBUTE TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF LAREDO? The very core of our practice is based on the premise that architecture is part of a greater spatial experience whether in a city or in the countryside. After many years of studying our city, we know how it works and its problems. We also know that most Laredoans know that the city fabric is not well put together. As architects though, we are inspired to reconcile the dissonant forces which make a city develop in a disjointed way. It is this search and study that makes architecture fascinating to us and what makes Laredo fascinating to us. The muscle our community, every Laredoan, needs to flex is the right and thereby the responsibility to be involved in the development of our city: what it looks like; how it feels. You do not need a degree in architecture to do that.

We have contributed in the development of Laredo because every project that we do is concerned with its place in the city.

Our city should have a rich urban experience. It is in a city that a culture is sustainable and why the trend for sustainability in design became important across the world. In that respect as well, we have devoted much of our practice and community service in the redevelopment and preservation of downtown Laredo and why we design with green sustainable practices. Recently, Green Building and Design magazine published an article on the City of Laredo’s Haynes Health and Wellness Center, the first public building in Laredo with a vegetated roof, water reclamation, and energy saving design. We also helped Laredo Main Street and the City of Laredo establish Laredo’s first Certified Farmers Market and Arts and Entertainment District.

DO YOU APPLY ANY KIND OF INNOVATIONS IN YOUR PROJECTS? These days you can be innovative just by orienting your building correctly on a site. We know how to take full advantage of what is free to a client just by knowing how the sun, wind, water, and materials affect a building—a lost art. We then take full advantage of all energy saving technologies afforded by a project. This is a responsibility that we have, but it is gratifying to all involved. Interestedly, sustainability practiced in architecture and urban planning also defines and sustains the culture of a community.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE FAI IN 5 WORDS? Authentic, Bold,

Collaborative, Devoted, Energetic

Great question because like in history, architects need to have a champion. For the most part, our champions are our clients and the people that we partner with to do community service. As long as we have that support, we will continue to contribute to the city.

HOW DO YOU SEE FAI IN 5 YEARS?

I WAKE UP IN THE MORNING FEELING LIKE

MY DREAM FRIDGE IS FULL OF

WE ARE ALL MADE OF

I AM CREAM EVERYONE DESERVES A

MY FAVORITE THING IS

THE SOUNDTRACK OF MY LIFE IS

FERCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Truffled Love crème brulée, gummy worms or a plain ol’ hershey’s bar... to all sweet tooths alike, it’s just oh so satisfying.

Always in search for something new and creative to present to my clients, I found “Cake Truffles” to be a fantastic concept. In order to keep a straight face when mentioning them, I decided to change their original name—Cake Balls—(childish I know), and coined the term “Cake Truffles” before adding them to my menu. Chocolate has evolved over the years to meet any corner of your imagination with great exuberance. As decadent and fancy as chocolates can be, my personal weakness is the quick snap of a Kit Kat bar. There’s a cute love story behind that. Let me tell you.

Everyone hopes to find one true love in this lifetime. Turning over rocks and kissing frogs in search for it.

Love is not an easy thing to find, but once you do, stick to it like tempered chocolate gone cold.

Well, I never thought my passion (serving food) would lead me to Mr. Potential (the one I love). How was I to know that my own community would turn out to be the magic place? (Ok, Mom, you win.) Lo and behold, volunteering to plate and serve food for hundreds right across from me at a dinner function was my future. I monopolized most of that first conversation rambling about Momo Catering and food and why it’s all so tasty. I was hoping he was interested in more than just making sure two pieces of chicken made it onto each plate! Well... he was. Needless to say, he hasn’t left me alone since then.

My brown eyed prince charming has ever since been my wing man at every catering event, adhering to my obsession for detail and satisfying my clients. I like to think that I have taught him the kitchenpart of life, seeing and tasting food through a

Photograph of dessert: Mike at ouano.org

multifaceted food-o-scope. The best part is...he has realized early enough who the boss is around here. (Insert my smug grin here.)

I remember working late in the kitchen one night prepping for a large order for the following day when the door rang unexpectedly. In an effort to mend a small tiff during those early days of courtship, Mr. Potential drove across town late at night after work to hand deliver Kit Kat as a peace offering. He had realized he wanted to believe in my dream about soul mates, something he never cared for before. After seeing how his realistic grenades interfered with the fairyland world I live in where clouds are made of cotton candy and sidewalks are paved in royal icing, he decided to take a leap of faith and dip his toes into this sweet pool of marshmallow dreams. Mmm...best Kit Kat crunch ever. Sometimes it’s the little sweet things in life that matter the most.

As a tribute to two silly hearts that have long since melted together into one mushy puddle like a gooey Kit Kat bar left in the sun (hey, you know you would still eat it), you will find “Cake Truffles” on my dessert menu. From candy bar to the nostalgic center of these truffles, those four columns of crunch in the red wrapper will always be my favorite.

Moon Jamaluddin is a private chef and caterer in Houston, she was born in Bangladesh and brings a new light to the traditional flavors. Find more about Momo Catering on Twitter, Yelp, or Facebook.

LOVE MATTERS

Do you believe in love at first sight? Where does Prince Charming live? Is there a soul mate for everyone? Can one really feel butterflies in the stomach at the sight of the loved one? Does life really seem better through the eyes of love? Four couple let us peek at their relationships and define love in their own words.

HIS + HERS Comedic Burn Notice Mustangs Scarface Inspector George Strait Mila Kunis Sugar Free Redbull Hershey’s Chocolate Steak Golf Las Vegas Hunting

Romantic Sex and the City Bulldogs The Notebook iPad Coldplay Ryan Reynolds Vitamin Water Revive Anything with chocolate!

Sushi Running Paris and Florence Decorating

THEIRS LOVE

A love that not even the Atlantic Ocean could deter. Both enjoy going to sporting events and doing many things together. This modern couple puts great emphasis on communicating with each other and learning something new every day.

How did you meet? We met at a friend’s house; he came over and asked if we could exchange numbers. A few days later, he called; I was extremely giddy and since then, my smile has been permanent. Where and how was your first date? Lesly: Our first date was to Applebee’s for dinner and a little fun with karaoke. Although he wasn’t very good at singing (laughs) I liked that he was very outgoing. After Applebee’s, we went to El Dorado in Nuevo Laredo for a few drinks where we were able to get to know each other a little better. How or when did you know he/she was the one? Conrad: I realized she was the one after she went on a month and a half trip to Europe.

I had a countdown until I picked her up at the airport. So,

you’ve been married awhile now, what surprises you about him/her the most? Conrad: What I most admire about her is

her creativity, her liveliness and enthusiasm towards life, how she is always up for anything from going to the ranch, hunting, or even playing golf. She is always a good sport and supports me in all my hobbies. Are there any couples you look up to and what do you respect about their marriages? Lesly: My

parents have been married for 30 years, and they still hold hands. They have served as a great role model for both of us. They have tremendous respect for one another and I only hope that we can mimic their relationship. Conrad: My maternal grandparents were together till the end of their days. I know that our marriage will last till the very end also. My grandparents were also very affectionate and always strived to keep their love life alive. That is definitely something I want to bring into our marriage. With so many divorces nowadays,

how do you manage to keep the relationship alive? Respect is a priority in our relationship.

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cream february / march 2011

Communication is also a must. We set our differences aside and come to a compromise. We always put 100% into our relationship and no matter the situation we always put each other first. What do you think you’ll be doing in thirty or forty years? We hope to be retired, living at our ranch in Zapata, tending to our grandchildren. Do you have a message for couples thinking about getting married? Be prepared to learn something new from each other and that will strengthen the love for one another. No matter what the circumstances are, keep in mind that ‘All You Need is Love!’

HIS + HERS

in the success of our marriage.

We know that free time is a must in relationships, how do you prefer to spend your free time, together or apart? We love to spend our

They got married on September 2007. Respect and honesty are the foundation for their love. Though their hobbies might differ, they cherish the time they spend together with their daughter, Ryann, as they discover the joys of parenthood.

How did you meet? A mutual friend introduced us. Where and how was your first date? Paul

was playing hockey at the time; he was injured so he stayed in town while the team was away.

We had dinner and drinks at a local restaurant while we listened to the game. Our friends met with us later. Are there any couples you look up to and what do you respect about their marriages? Our parents—they have both

been married for over 30 years. Their love for each other and their families is an inspiration to us. The companionship and respect they have for each other is what we admire most.

With so many divorces nowadays, how do you manage to keep the relationship alive?

Making time for ourselves and doing the things we used to do when it was just us. We believe that trust and honesty have played a big part

free time together; however, we both enjoy time apart once in a while, shopping for me and hunting for Paul. What is a mutually liked activity that you enjoy doing? Hunting and taking walks with Ryann. We love the outdoors.

If you could change one thing about your marriage, what would it be and why? There

isn’t one thing we would change. We are happy and fulfilled. Most people don’t like cooking so who does the cooking at home? When we find the time to prepare a home cooked meal, Paul does the cooking. He loves to BBQ! Each corner of our home is special, which part of your home do you like best and why?

Our living room, colorful and cozy, it’s where we spend most of our time. Also, since we love to entertain, it’s where family and friends come together. What are some of the happiest moments in your married life so far? The birth of our daughter, Ryann Avery Elliot—it has taught us the true meaning of unconditional love; we couldn’t imagine life without her. Also, our honeymoon because it was the beginning of our lives together. How has having a child

The Office

Dexter

Enchiladas

Chicken Salad

Hockey

Softball

Browning

Tory Burch

Inspector

iPad

Vancouver B. C. Canucks Tragically Hip Kenny Powers XBOX Slapshot Royals Hunting

Cabo San Lucas Cowboys Michael Bublé Luis Miguel iPhone The Wedding Date Dustdevils Shopping

THEIRS RYANN AVERY

transformed your relationship and priorities?

You never imagine how many changes come with having a child, but becoming parents has definitely brought us closer and made our relationship stronger. What do you think you’ll be doing in thirty or forty years? If God grants us health, we hope to be retired, living on our ranch, spending all our time with our children and grandchildren.

cream february / march 2011

31

HIS + HERS Suspense

Nonfiction

Thai Food

Cereal

Weight Training

Uhmmm....?

Longhorn

Knight

Boss

BCBG

Robert De Niro Reveille James Patterson Any beach Working out Braveheart Seinfeld

Jake Gyllenhaal Dustdevil Emily Giffin Playa del Carmen Arts & Crafts Lifetime movies Modern Family

THEIRS SOPHIA ELLA

April 11th commemorates the day when their lives became one in Austin, Texas. Marriage has strengthened their romance, and now they share more beautiful moments with their lovely daughter, Sophia Ella. The day she was born was one of the happiest in their life.

How did you meet? Eliud: We met at Texas A&M, College Station

in 2000. We dated for about a year, broke up, and began dating again in the spring of 2008. Kristelle: What can I say...it was meant to be.

Where and how was your first date? Kristelle: A mutual friend, Eliud’s roommate at the time, invited me over to their duplex to hang out. Eliud “stole me away” and we watched our first movie together.

Eliud: She couldn’t resist my charm! How or when did you know he/ she was the one? Eliud: I was sick one time while we were dating, and she came over to my house with medicine and food. She took care of me and I loved that about her. So, you’ve been married for a while now, what surprises you about him/her the most? Kristelle: He still flirts with me—sending me random cute text messages. Eliud: How she becomes a wonderful mother to our daughter more and more every day. With so many divorces nowadays, how do you manage to keep the relationship alive? We take at least two trips together (alone) throughout the year. We see it as a mini-honeymoon. If you could change one thing about your marriage, what would it be and why? We both agree

that we love our marriage just the way it is, flaws and all. What has been the

most romantic thing you have ever done for him/her? Kristelle:

Eliud’s proposal to me has to be the most romantic thing he has ever done. It was at night, he had a blanket laid outside with lit candles, a bottle of champagne, strawberries, and he got down on one knee...very cliché, but perfect in every way! Most people don’t

like cooking so who does the cooking at home? Kristelle: Eliud’s a

monster on the grill; he’s also amazing at defrosting those PF Chang’s frozen dinners! Eliud: Kristelle’s specialty is breakfast. She always has the best cereal served (just kidding); she does make great French toast! What is the one thing that he/ she does that makes you go crazy? Eliud: It drives me crazy when Kristelle shrinks my t-shirts.

So in turn, she now refuses to wash them! I think I’ll have to settle for the shrunken shirts. Kristelle: It drives me crazy when Eliud untucks all the sheets in our bed. Every time he turns in his sleep, he takes all the sheets with him! Each corner of our home is special, which part of your home do you like best and why? Our bedroom, where we come together at the end of every day, is our sanctuary. What are some of the happiest moments in your married life so far? Eliud: Our wedding day, Kristelle looked beautiful...and the day our daughter, Sophia Ella, was born. How has having Sophia transformed your relationship? Kristelle: Relationships are never perfect, so for those days that the sun may not be fully shining, Sophie always manages to turn that around. She’s everything to us. What do you think you’ll be doing in thirty or forty years? We’ve always said that as soon as our daughter goes off to college, we are going to travel to Europe for a couple of months. Do you have a message for couples thinking about getting married? Eliud: Remember, the man should always have the last word, “Yes, ma’am!”

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cream february / march 2011

San Agustin Cathedral in downtown Laredo was the setting for their wedding.

They are a radiant couple who, this February, will celebrated three years of marriage. Both enjoy playing golf and tennis, and with the arrival of their daughter, Aimée, life just keeps getting better!

How did you meet? Through mutual friends at Paesanos in San Antonio. Where and how was your first date? Valarie: I still remember it very clearly; Gustavo took me to a Spurs/ Lakers game. I remember being a little nervous.

How or when did you know he/she was the one? Valarie: We had been dating for about a

What is a mutually liked activity that you enjoy doing? It’s a toss-up between tennis and golf. Most people don’t like cooking so who does the cooking at home?

Gustavo: Valarie does all the cooking; I love her enchiladas suizas. Each corner

of our home is special, which part of your home do you like best and why? Probably

our dining room, we always seem to congregate there to eat, have a drink, or just to talk—the time just flies. What are some of the happiest moments in your married life so far? Moving into our home and enjoying our time as newlyweds—traveling, having quiet dinners, finding out we were expecting, and preparing for our daughter’s arrival. The happiest moment by far has been the birth of our daughter, Aimée.

What have you learned about love from each

month and had just spent the weekend together, other? More than anything else: that you have and I still wanted to see him. So, you’ve been someone who is there for you unconditionally.

married awhile now, what surprises you about him/her the most? There is never a dull

How has having a child transformed your relationship and priorities? Our lives are

moment, nine years later and we still find out forever changed with the arrival of Aimée. things that we didn’t know about one another. It’s not just the two of us any more; there is Are there any couples you look up to and someone that needs us more than anything what do you respect about their marriages? either of us could possibly need. What do you Valarie: Without a doubt my parents, I admire think you’ll be doing in thirty or forty years? their bond and the qualities they embody. The plan is to travel the world together. Do you With so many divorces nowadays, how do you manage to keep the relationship alive?

have a message for couples thinking about getting married? It’s an amazing experience!

We’ve always communicated with one another, Like anything else worthwhile, it takes effort whether it’s good or bad we have to be able to and dedication, but it’s completely worth it! say what’s on our minds. We know that free

time is a must in relationships, how do you prefer to spend your free time, together or apart? Both, I’ve lost count of how many

weekends we’ve spent glued to one another. But at the same time, it’s important that we spend time apart as well. We have never wanted for our entire world to revolve around the other.

HIS + HERS Action

Suspense

Snickers

Peanut M&M’s

Mexican Food

Japanese Food

Golf Bobcats Dolce & Gabanna iPad Cabo San Lucas Mets Sparkling Water

Basketball Cardinals Missoni Kindle Bora Bora Spurs Frappucinos

THEIRS AIMÉE

cream february / march 2011

33

LIGHTS THAT WILL HAVE YOU SPRINGING FOR THE LIGHT SWITCH the beginning of springtime brings forth things like flowers, love, and a new school semester. However, another very important occurrence during this time will be the start of Daylight Savings Time. Not only does this event yield an extra hour of morning light, but a brand new selection of indoor lights.

Let’s welcome this extra hour with a modern, yet incredibly chic, light fixture.

Lamps ranging in prices, sizes, colors, and definitely textures are available for every taste in mind.

Just make sure to pick up a few of those energy-efficient light bulbs! You don’t want to end up in the dark. mayra flores

“These are my first ballerina slippers. I painted them yellow and they are hanging in my room.”

this is my place in this new section, Cream took time to visit one of our favorite readers. She is an extremely creative girl! Her hobbies are taking pictures, listening to music and, above all, ballet, which she practices since she was two years old. She also enjoys making collages, going to the movies, shopping, and traveling with her parents. Her bedroom is yellow because she loves bright colors. It is her favorite place and it’s decorated with her collages, pictures of family and friends, and plenty of objects reflecting her personality.

“People would describe me as joyful, happy, and the girl who wears the big bows to school.”

“I love my camera because I am always taking pictures with my friends, especially with one of my best friends, Magaly. We dress up and do each other’s makeup.

Just like little girls.”

“These are my ballerina figurines. I treasure them.

They never leave my room.”

ACROSS 4 You can eat it or listen to it.

5 What do Shakira, the circus, and the Bucks have in common?

1 3

2

6 Museum located within Centro Cultural Nuevo Laredo 11 Known in Spanish as Rio Bravo del Norte

4

12 First name of Laredo’s Martha Washington 2011 5

13 Place for teenagers to hang out, catch s movie, or shop DOWN

7

6

1 Main avenue in Nuevo Laredo 2 Organization which holds festivities every February

8

9

10

3 Laredo is also called ______ to Mexico 7 Built as a chapel in 1790

11 12

8 Number of international bridges in Laredo (Don’t forget the train!)

9 ______wave Berler 10 Coolest magazine in Laredo

13

14

12 Catch coloful ones at the Jamboozie 14 Campus built on a fort

DOWN / 1. GUERRERO / 2. WBCA / 3. GATEWAY / 7. SAN AGUSTIN / 8. FIVE / 9. HEAT / 10. CREAM / 12. BEADS / 14. LCC ANSWERS / ACROSS / 4. MARIACHI / 5. LEA / 6. REYES MEZA / 11. RIO GRANDE / 12. BETTY / 13. MALL DEL NORTE

muchas neiro en Brasil y Ja de o Rí s… an a Orle e celebración! ardi Gras en Nuev año tras año para tan important antifaz donde M al… av rn ca de o ¡Es época máscara o n de colorid l mundo se llena r desde cero una otras ciudades de de esta edición, el reto fue crea personalidad y estilo. idad r su En nuestra activ cada persona pudiera expresa , JULIO, CINDY ELSIE : ANDREA, FROM LEFT

Me gustan mucho las máscaras porque se me hacen muy creativas y ofrecen otra forma de mostrar tu persona. Para hacer esta máscara, me inspiré en lo blanco del invierno y el rosa porque es mi color favorito. Me encantan las plumas y la pedrería; ambas le dan un toque femenino a la máscara.

Utilicé plumas y pedrería porque siempre me han gustado y quería darle a mi máscara una apariencia divertida y sofisticada. El color negro la hace más interesante. Una máscara sirve para ocultar la identidad y con esta máscara, irse de incógnito resultará muy creativo y misterioso.

Esta máscara representa tipos de danza como flamenco, jazz y ballet. Usé técnica mixta en estilo contemporáneo. Dedico esta máscara a mis cuatro bellas hijas quienes son una bendición para mí.

La historia de las máscaras es una mirada fascinante a la fragilidad humana y a la imaginación. Motivado por el arranque del Carnaval de Venecia 2011, pensé que sería una buena alternativa mostrar un poco de las máscaras venecianas ya que en ellas predomina la elegancia y el glamour. He aquí una muestra de una de ellas.

Contact us at info@creamcitymagazine.com or message us on facebook for a chace to participate on the next activity issue!

MODELO | GABRIELA REBOLLOSO

Love Mix CD!

Then play it loudly in a boombox outside their window---Cusack style!

Framed Photo of you Write a Love Letter Calling all Romeo’s!

Over sized teddy bear

Oh, we warned you it’d be cheesy!

Lingerie Flowers from a gas station Talk about last minute, but, hey?

Heart shaped jewelry

Who wouldn’t fall for the Heart of the Ocean?!

Treasure Hunt Get creative!

Write them a Romance Novel

Alright, a short story might work just the same.

Coupons

Great for date nights, movie nights, etc.

A Dedication on the Radio Hello, Love and Dedication Hour...

Placing an ad in the paper

Hey, if they don’t see it, the rest of the city can tell them about it

Car filled with balloons

Romance can equal fun, sometimes, right?

Digital Picture Frame

Gather up those JPGs and put them to good use!

Write them a Love Song

Hey, if it doesn’t get you a Valentine, it might just get you a Grammy!

Chocolate Covered Strawberries Nom, nom, nom

A Candle-lit Dinner

Time to break out your mom’s Julia Child cookbook

Memory Book

Let them know it’s the little things that count!

Romantic Message in a Bottle Might even make for some nice décor

Post-it their car

Let’s see how many post-its you can fill up with reasons you love them

Box of Chocolates Naming a Star after your Valentine That’s out of this world!

A romantic picnic Talk about photo op!

Breakfast in Bed A self portrait Get your Picasso on!

Get them a Puppyyyyyy!

Everyone is a sucker for brand new pup!

Hot Air Balloon Trip His & Her Pillow Cases Sleep to dream them

Classic Fragrance Go see a romantic movie

Guys, give in- for once, pass up the comedy/action flick

Diamonds

You know what they say, diamonds are a Valentine’s best friend...

let them eat tofu “,” says Hector, his voice rising, “you do realize you live in Laredo, right?” All I can answer is: “I know, I know.” My cool, clever, cultivated, and older brother is concerned (read: hopping mad) about the current choices in my life. And so is the waitress at Chili’s. What to do when my appetite sparks a wanderlust to go—in spirit, anyway—to the far Indian Ocean shores, perhaps, with miles of sugar-white beaches and coconut groves, or the sun-soaked coast of the Caribbean? You see, I gave up meat. And dairy products.

Here it comes, I’m a vegan now. It may seem extreme to have chosen a diet that forbids eating from the tree of any sort of meat. No one really expects to see a vegan in Laredo where every corner turned reveals meat-scented streets, but for years these scents—even the thought of them— would make me feel slightly queasy.

Okay, so I may have cheated a wee bit on my last trip to San Antonio. I usually steer clear of going into Neiman Marcus because, as we all know, I’ll end up leaving Mariposa with, like, 3 boxes of chocolate chip cookies just because. But my friend Stacy had to go. And I “accidentally” got stuck carrying the Neiman Marcus Mariposa bag with the absolute best chocolate chip cookies ever made. So, my apologies go to the vegan gods because I gave in. And again. And again.

Here’s how it all started: It was October, it was fall 2010, and I was at the Whole Foods in Austin, Texas, which always

seems a million miles away from the madding crowd trampling along the boulevard below. Iris (my almost-likea-sister aunt) had spent a considerable amount of time shopping for her veggies and those natural hand-milled bar soaps (which, by the way, smell like I imagine the garden of Versailles would smell).

She took me there to green flag my new lifestyle and introduce me to her new mandatory diet the doctor had prescribed.

With a little frown (I had started with a smile), I met this new diet and had only one recurring thought: What have I been eating my entire life?! I was fascinated by the food and that’s when I championed the idea of becoming a vegan. Sorry to break it to you meat lovers still in denial, but hamburger patties are so last season, gone with the recession and the need for killing countless cows. Soy Milk is the new milk, and instead of eating turkey as I have done in years past, this last Thanksgiving I cozily feasted on Tofurkey with some family members at my home. Lest you think this sounds dull, it wasn’t—most of my guests were convinced it was an actual turkey. Except it wasn’t dead.

Paging Captain Obvious: I’m a confessed beauty and animal fan. Trying to be a real hero of the Green movement is my main concern. From my lipstick, all the way to the mascara inside my mirrored drawer, buying products that don’t use animal testing is fighting the good fight.

Honestly, who wants to put on a lip balm knowing a fluffy bunny or an innocent cat was rubbed with it? Totally cringeworthy. Kind of like looking back at your yearbook photos.

It’s been three months, and I’m pretty sure I feel how Jay-Z and Beyonce’s baby would feel: fantabulous. Eating a plantbased diet has kept me energetic, and at the risk of sounding cliché… radiant.

It’s not a trend but a way of life. Oh, and considering my biggest crush (read: major) on chocolate, I learned how to

bake the most amazing vegan chocolate chip cookies ever. I’d like to think about it as a crush who never liked me back, and I’m finally moving on to something better.

And on that note, Valentine’s is near.

Well thanks, chocolate, for reminding us that we have exactly a couple of days to develop a crush on someone, date them, dump them, and then booze up with our friends at a skimpy bar that is—let’s face it—more fun than a boyfriend. Happy Valentine’s Day, Cream readers. gabriela enriquez That sound you’re hearing? That’s the collective rriiippp that occurs when the fabulously recipe in my Green bible makes me tear up the rule book and live a little. So, here is a fabulous recipe that will blow you away! Watch out Mark Bittman!

LEMON THYME MARINATED GRILLED TOFU WITH RED KIDNEY BEANS AND VEGETABLES Double the marinade and add some veggies, if you’d like: eggplant, zucchini, yellow squash, tomatoes and mushrooms all grill well.

1/4 cup olive oil 1/2 cup kidney beans 1/4 cup lemon juice 1 tsp basil 1 tsp thyme 1/2 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp onion powder Mozzarella Vegan Cheese Instructions: Whisk together all ingredients.

To use as a marinade for grilling tofu: First, press your tofu well to remove any excess liquid. Place the marinade in a shallow pan or zip-lock bag and add the tofu, making sure to coat well. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least one hour, and up to overnight. Feel free to add as much Mozzarella Vegan Cheese as you would like right before and after it’s out! Enjoy!