C I T Y M A G A Z I N E
N 19 O
june • july 2013 the date was june 4, 2010 and endless emotions publisher filled my mind. It was a great day for me as one of my lifelong dreams was becoming a reality. The anticipation was enormous— the moment to launch Cream City Magazine had finally arrived. The event turned out to be a huge success. The all-embracing journey that comes with creating something unique and different in our town had been achieved after many hours of work, effort, and planning. But that would be just the beginning, and today issue #19 marks our third anniversary. These 36 months have not been easy because making each edition is quite an experience in and outside of our studio. I am delighted by the opportunity of meeting the many fascinating people that have enhanced our pages with their anecdotes, stories, and experiences. They have served as inspiration for us here at Cream. My deepest appreciation to my team, who has gotten the magazine to where it is. These amazing individuals with their different personalities, likes, and creative talents are the ones that make this magazine special. Thanks to Mariana Ortega, Graciela García, Elyssa Canales, Sandy Lugo, Elisa Cortés, Rubén Bazán III, Memo Jiménez, Michelle Cook, Maita Fernández, Celina Díaz, Anna Carolina González, and, especially, Analee Paz— for her constant dedication I am forever grateful. I hope you enjoy this anniversary issue and may God permit us to continue with this dream named Cream…Cream City Magazine.
C I T Y M A G A Z I N E
founder & publisher fernando de haro production director analee g. paz
copy editor graciela garcía
interns
elyssa canales anna carolina gonzález sandy lugo mariajose mendiola daglys andrea rivas
design & production photographer ferch graphic designer analee g. paz
writers
elyssa canales, rubén bazán iii, maita fernández michelle cook gutiérrez, memo jímenez, sandy lugo special thanks familia paz + serna, celina díaz, mariana ortega, gaby lozano, rey ortíz, blas castañeda, rosie cisneros, elisa cortés, and laura reynoso.
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NO°19 TEAM MARIANA ORTEGA • ANNA CAROLINA GONZÁLEZ SANDY LUGO • FERNANDO DE HARO GRACIELA GARCÍA • ELYSSA CANALES ANALEE G. PAZ
Copyright © 2013 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 of their ads. Printed in Mexico.
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FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT
All in the Family
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GON E PL AT I N U M
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Dr. Juan L.
Maldonado
XAVIER VILLALÓN Enhancing the entertainment culture of South Texas.
DR. JESÚS A. ARMENTA JASSO A caring surgeon keeping pace with the times.
MARCELA MORÁN Part professor, part award-winning filmmaker, all visionary.
Meet three dynamic achievers who contribute to the development of both Laredos. They are flying high on Cream’s radar.
XAVIER VILLALÓN
General Manager of the SMG-managed Laredo Energy Arena
I’ve always wanted to be my own boss. Having and running a business was always an aspiration of mine. So, I guess you can say that I’m living my dream. I discovered my passion for marketing and sales while mentoring under a successful restaurant owner in San Antonio shortly after college. I continued to gain valuable experience at one of the largest Hispanic marketing agencies before being offered a job as director of marketing and sales at the (then) brand new SMG-managed American Bank Center in Corpus Christi. When the general manager position opened in Laredo, I felt it would be a wonderful advancement in my career and a great place to raise my family. My daughter, Isabella Zelie, and my beautiful wife, Leticia, inspire me. I admire many people, including my grandfather who came from humble beginnings in Mexico and worked his way to becoming a successful business owner in San Antonio. He taught us the importance of determination and family.
I have a lot of goals in life, and I keep adding more as I continue to reflect on myself and my progress. If you’re going to get involved in this business, when you first start, the goal cannot be about pay because it’s not there; it has to be about the bigger picture. You have to give yourself time to grow. I take great satisfaction in knowing that my team and I are actively working to bring top names to Laredo. Through our efforts, we enhance and diversify the entertainment culture of South Texas, and with that, we also help in creating special memories that won’t be forgotten.
DR. JESÚS A. ARMENTA JASSO Gastrointestinal and Bariatric Surgeon
We as doctors must transform our behavior and adapt to the new medicine era. We must rise to meet the contemporary challenges of society. After ten years of practicing gastrointestinal laparoscopic surgery and endoscopy, eight years ago I decided to move into laparoscopic bariatric surgery due to the growing problem of young people with the degenerative diseases associated with overweight and obesity. I am a man of perseverance and honesty. I am honored by all the people who trust me with their health. To see them recover and develop a better way of life gives me a lot of satisfaction. I am continuously learning. I would counsel future doctors to stay
focused and learn each and every single day. But not just about medicine, find out how the patients feel about their disease and try to put yourself in their shoes.
I offer in my practice all that I am. I give the best of me to my patients because they are my motivation. Mistakes are the best teachers, but they hurt for a lifetime. All the same, I would not change anything from my past. I have seen the largest evolution in medical technology, and I hope to be part of these changes so I can help my patients for the next thirty years. MARCELA MORÁN
Filmmaker/Associate Professor of Communication at Texas A&M International University
I grew up going to the movie theater every Sunday after church (back in the days of the double feature). As a child cinema was very much a part of my life and remains so today. Upon receiving my master’s of fine arts in film from Ohio University, I moved to Los Angeles and landed a job as an editorial apprentice at Sony Pictures ImageWorks, a leading visual effects company. I learned the ins and outs of the industry very quickly and met incredibly talented, creative people.
As filmmaker, I have the satisfaction of sharing my perspective. As an educator, I exchange knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm for what I’m most passionate about. My work has been influenced by life on the border and my exposure to two cultures. When I was in Whitesburg, Kentucky screening my film Audiencia about lucha libre in Laredo, there were filmmakers from Indonesia as part of a cultural exchange with little knowledge of English and none of Spanish. After the screening, one of them congratulated me and asked for my autograph. To me, it showed the ability of moving-image art to communicate beyond cultural and language barriers. A lot of things inspire me, but especially art that sheds light on the human condition and teaches us how to be better. Jane Campion, Lina Wertümuller, Mary Ellen Mark, Marina Abramović, and Graciela Iturbide are women who have made major contributions and broken barriers in what remain male-dominated fields. I will always feel compelled to create new things. It isn’t necessarily always about the end result. It is also about the journey. For me, it is about the amazing human connections.
cream june / july 2013
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THE
INDEX
FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT For 29 years, I have carefully observed people from all walks of life. This includes the busy, the lazy, the social butterflies, the workers, the ignorant, the wealthy, the angry, the remorseful, the tired, the fighters, the depressed, the pessimists, the blissful, and, amongst all the other adjectives I can come up with, the hopeful. You name it—I’ve seen it. It is what the world is, a combination of individuals working for a place on this planet. However, there is something they all have in common.
I
f you’ve ever had the opportunity to talk to me, you’ll discover that I’m quite the mixed martial arts fan. I can give you stats. I can explain the rules. I can get passionate about the fighters and I’ll order the match even if I have to watch it by myself while eating greasy pizza and drinking Shiner Bock (not a bad way to spend a Saturday night). I’ve screamed at the television in a futile attempt to manipulate the outcome of any given brawl. There is something about hand-to-hand combat that has always intrigued me. However, I understand that, regardless of whether or not I have been in a fight myself, these men are searching for something more.
“WE ALL FIGHT...
LIFE BECOMES MUCH MORE VALUABLE WHEN WE ARE STRUGGLING FOR SOME GREATER GOOD—BE IT COMMUNAL OR PERSONAL. ”
eclipsed. Your priorities change. You drop what was unimportant. You begin to see what you were created for and you minimize yourself for the betterment of your world. So here we are, trying to make sense of what we’re given or the place we’re in. We ask ourselves if everything we have is enough, or if there is a way to expand it. You cannot become a better person if you run away from your personal issues without at least attempting to kick their butts. Half of the UFC fighters don’t win their fights, but they aren’t afraid of putting on their gloves, walking into the cage, and swapping leather. This is what I admire.
Most of these athletes display their prowess in an eight-sided cage. They train for months at a time just to get that one shot to prove themselves as worthy individuals in their world. In their pre, or post, interviews they commonly mention that they vie for the betterment of their families, their loved ones, or themselves. UFC fighter Forrest Griffin stored all of his belongings in a storage bin in Atlanta for months simply hoping he could make a name for himself to survive. He became a champion soon after and garnered a fighting contract, all because he believed in himself and fought what was the fight of his life.
You’re a fighter. You have issues that you must overcome. You have a family business to run—fight for it. You have a girl that still loves you—fight for her. You have a mortgage with a high interest rate—fight for it. You deal with issues that nobody understands, and this is something to be proud of, because this is you. So put on your gloves, stand up against your enemies—be it social or personal—and throw some smacks by flexing your intellectual and psychological muscles.
We all fight. Whether our adversary is a man standing in front of us in a cage, or our opponent is an issue we are facing, we’re all fighters. We yearn for that one chance to overcome what we are presently dealing with. What is important about our battles is not the fact that we are fighting, but that we have something to contend with. Life becomes much more valuable when we are struggling for some greater good—be it communal or personal. When you are embattled for something, all else becomes
Until next time...
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Hope to see you in the cage soon.
BY RUBÉN BAZÁN III THERUBENINDEX@GMAIL.COM
cream april / may 2013
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recognition The Bridge Advisory Board at TAMIU held its annual banquet at Johnny Carino’s to distinguish supporters from the community and student reporters who worked tirelessly on behalf of the university’s newspaper. Sandy Lugo one of Cream’s own interns and publisher Fernando de Haro were among the recognized.
creamout&about
PHOTOGRAPHY ROSIE CISNEROS
bridal shower Friends and family of Ariann Muzza feted her with a bridal shower for her upcoming July marriage to Mauricio Mendoza. The lovely celebration took place at Pasillo de San Agustín in an afternoon filled with good wishes.
want to feature your event? contact us for more info at info@creamcitymagazine.com
VEGA’S INTERIORES MEJICANOS Roberto Vega, Estela M. Vega, Jorge Vega-Peredo 4002 San Bernardo Ave. Laredo, TX 78041 956.724.8251
All in the Family REPORTED BY SANDY LUGO EDITED BY GRACIELA GARCÍA
Family holds us. Family molds us. Some people cannot wait to move out and move on. Then there are the lucky ones who get to stay to tread on the path set by their nearest and dearest. They lay claim to their birthright through loyalty and love. Because with family, being there for each other is the main job.
Success takes time; continuance, trust. Vega’s Interiores Mejicanos has been in business for over forty years because it has earned the confidence of its customers. The founder of this enterprise believed that if you treat your establishment honorably and with respect, it will be generous to you and your family. Roberto Vega, Jorge Vega-Peredo and Estela M. Vega can build whatever their clients can imagine. Their store is a showroom of beautiful arts and crafts from the interior of Mexico, Central, and South America.
"[We have a] desire to continuously create something unique." Vega's Interiores Mejicanos MEMORY LANE
HOW DID VEGA’S BEGIN? In 1939, my father, Roberto Vega Sr., opened his first store, Vega’s Curios, in Nuevo Laredo on Guerrero Avenue. In 1948 we had a huge fire that almost wiped us out. The 1954 flood caused by the Rio Grande destroyed the store and our restaurant, The Shamrock Bar and Café. Then in 1969, we inaugurated Vega’s Furniture in Nuevo Laredo, a totally new venture for us. We opened in Laredo, Texas in 1973. We rented different locations until we bought this property. We moved to our current location in 1980. WHAT HAS HELPED VEGA’S CONTINUE THROUGH GENERATIONS?
The desire to continuously create something unique. We have customers that have shopped with us for generations, because they know we always have one-of-a-kind items. Also, our staff is part of our family. We have employees that have worked with us for 40 plus years. In the summer of 1942 when the U.S. military base in Laredo gave out a weekend pass to its soldiers, Nuevo Laredo thought it was being invaded as a sea of military men flooded the bridge, streets, and businesses. But it was a “profitable invasion,” a period of economic and tourist boom for both cities.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ANECDOTES?
WHAT IS THE MOST FUN PART OF BEING IN THIS INDUSTRY? We have had some illustrious people visit our stores, Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt visited in December of 1940. Lady Bird Johnson and Governor and Mrs. John Connally visited in the 1960s. WHAT MAKES YOUR FAMILY RELATIONSHIP UNIQUE WITHIN THE BUSINESS? Each family member has a distinct sense of style. We all share a common idea for the store, but what we bring individually is what shapes our business. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS YOU’VE ENJOYED THROUGH THE FAMILY FIRM? The ability to travel to different parts of Mexico and beyond; meeting great master artisans and their families and making lifelong friends; and finally, sharing our adventures with our customers who love and appreciate these talented craftsmen. It really has been more incredible than I could have ever imagined.
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CAKELAND Amanda Montoya, Magdalena Ramos, Juan and Aurora Gonzรกlez 2803 Zacatecas Laredo, TX 78046 956.722.2253 620 E. Saunders St. Laredo, TX 78041 956.726.3292 6950 McPherson Rd. Laredo, TX 78041 956 753-2253
Cakeland has been able to subsist through four generations thanks to the wise strategy of “first, we are a family then, business partners.” It all started in 1971 as Retama Bakery, a small pastry and coffee shop, was founded by Juan and Aurora González and Cresencio and Eudelia Salazar, grandparents and great-grandparents of Amanda Montoya. Their patrimony keeps them connected for a common good. Moreover, the embrace of the community plus trust, respect, and communication keep them going strong.
"We often see the beauty of life evolving full circle with our clients." Cakeland MEMORY LANE
Momentous occasions are commemorated with a cake. We often see the beauty of life evolving full circle with our clients. For instance, I recently met with the mother of a bride-to-be who told me that we made her wedding cake back in the early ‘80s. Since then we have made her daughter’s baptism and quinceañera cakes, and now her wedding cake, plus all those in between.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BAKERY.
WHAT
HAS
HELPED
CAKELAND
CONTINUE
THROUGH
GENERATIONS? We have managed to balance a work environment
that allows us to put our pride aside and always do what is right for the business. We have all inherited a love for our work, our employees, our customers, and our community. WHAT BUSINESS ASPECTS HAVE EVOLVED SINCE IT BEGAN?
Almost everything has changed; however, the most noticeable has been the evolution of our cake creations. As styles and trends fade, so does cake decorating. Back then you would see a lot more elaborated piping designs. Quinceañera cakes were all about fountains and staircases. Now they are eclectic and still detailed but with more youthful and sophisticated elements. I enjoy being able to create art. It allows me to express my creativity and be rewarded through a customer’s smile and satisfaction.
WHAT IS THE MOST FUN PART OWNING A BAKERY?
WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT FOR YOUR FAMILY IN THIS VENTURE?
Our customers. They have allowed us to serve them for over forty years. They inspire us to maintain our family tradition and motivate us to become a better quality firm and always strive for something more. HAVE YOU THOUGHT OF OPENING A DIFFERENT BUSINESS AS A FAMILY? We have recently expanded into the restaurant business by opening Bolillos Café. It is an extension of our previous bakery/café concept from Retama Bakery. HOW DO YOU SEE CAKELAND IN THE FUTURE? I would like it to expand as our city continues to grow. In the meantime, we are staying present by bringing to life new ideas and making sure that our product, quality, and service flourish through the test of time.
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Thanks to this mother and daughter team, Ballet Becky Dance Academy continues to enthrall dance enthusiasts. Countless students have benefitted from the guidance of Becky Salinas Chapa. Triana, her daughter, who also teaches is currently the artistic director of the company. Both are very dedicated because to them dancing is a way of life, and “when you do something with your heart, it doesn’t feel like work.” Their partnership enriches our community as they inspire dancers with discipline, passion, and dedication. HOW DID YOUR DANCE ACADEMY BEGIN? Encouraged by family and friends who knew that dance was a major part of my life, I started my business in 1974 in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Then, we founded “The Compañía de Ballet Laredos” 20 years ago. It is an amateur company nurtured by Ballet Becky Dance Academy and other dance studios from both Laredos. Our focus is to provide free dance performances for our communities. WHAT MAKES YOUR ACADEMY UNIQUE? Discipline and dedication.
We instill confidence and build stamina; we try to motivate each child to be the best they can be.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES IT HAS FACED? We have had many challenges, but the most recent and definitely the hardest one was in 2011 when my husband, Pedro Chapa, passed away and we had our recital 2 days later. As difficult as it was, we went through the performance as planned. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS YOU’VE ENJOYED BECAUSE IT’S A FAMILY FIRM? I enjoy traveling with my daughter to the different
ballet seminars and workshops. It is a bonding experience that we both treasure.
DO YOU CONSIDER SOMEONE ELSE AS FAMILY WITHIN THE BUSINESS?
my family.
I consider all my students, parents, and assistants as
Triana has taken numerous intensive courses, workshops, and seminars, and during her last intensive training in New York City, she was awarded “the most outstanding student” of the course.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ANECDOTES?
DOES
THE
DANCE
COMPANY
COLLABORATE
WITH
ANY
Through the Fernando A. Salinas Charitable Trust and The Compañía Ballet Laredos, under my direction, Mr. Javier Santos graciously provides to recipients of this benevolent organization complimentary tickets year after year to the Christmas performance of “The Nutcracker.”
ORGANIZATIONS?
IF YOU HAD ANOTHER TYPE OF BUSINESS WHAT WOULD IT BE? I would not choose any other because I love what I do. Yo no bailo porque vivo; yo vivo porque bailo.
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"I consider all my students, parents, and assistants as my family." Ballet Becky Dance Academy MEMORY LANE
BALLET BECKY DANCE ACADEMY Becky Salinas Chapa and Triana Chapa 7019 Village Blvd. Ste. #106 Laredo, TX 78041
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SAMES AUTO GROUP Evelyn and Hank Sames 6001 San Dario Laredo, TX 78041 956.721.4700
"If you treat everyone with respect... great things can happen." Hank Sames knows a thing or two about entrepreneurship. Sames Auto Group has been part of Laredo’s profile for over a century. The finance major, who once dreamed of being a banker, is at the helm with his daughter Evelyn and proud to see the fifth generation of family descendants joining the company. Their vision has allowed them to stay on top and also be appreciative of the public’s support by giving back to the community. It was founded in 1910 by my great-grandfather, William J. Sames, who came to Laredo from Hartford, Connecticut by way of Mexico. He got into the wholesale grocery business and took on the Ford franchise as a side-line. Eventually it became his best business, and he gave up the wholesale grocery.
HOW DID SAMES AUTO GROUP BEGIN?
WHAT HAS HELPED SAMES CONTINUE THROUGH GENERATIONS?
We have a very simple mantra: "Hang in there." When things are tough you have to make smart choices, communicate to employees what you are doing, and sometimes just muddle through. We survived two World Wars, the Great Depression, and the burning of the bridge during the Mexican revolution. The worst I ever saw was the devaluation of 1982. Fortune Magazine wrote an article "Down and Out in Laredo." How wrong they were. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE FAMILY VALUES IMPLEMENTED INTO
Honesty and the Golden Rule. I tell people, "No one got fired for making a mistake." If you treat everyone with respect, from the top employee to the lowest person in the corporation, great things can happen. This philosophy applies to customers, too. YOUR BUSINESS GUIDING PRINCIPLES?
When the building was downtown, it was one of the first to have a freight elevator. At the company Christmas party, Santa Claus would come down the elevator and give stockings of candy to every child. It was very exciting for me, a young boy who still believed.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ANECDOTES?
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES SAMES AUTO GROUP HAS FACED? In 1981 my father bought out his two sisters and took on a lot of debt. In 1982 came the peso devaluation and we faced hardly any sales. Although we had many sleepless nights, we never missed a payment on the debt and were able to downsize, recover, and prosper. 18
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WHAT MAKES YOUR FAMILY RELATIONSHIP UNIQUE WITHIN THE BUSINESS? Emotions can get in the way of sound corporate practice. Therefore, we now have a policy that family members must work two years outside the company before they work for us. They have to understand what a real job is like. HAS THE FAMILY EVER TAKEN A BUSINESS RISK? All business is a risk, albeit a calculated one. We moved to North Laredo in the ‘70s when nothing was out there. We opened Honda and Kia and used car locations. We bought a Ford dealership in Corpus Christi and opened a used car facility in Austin. These actions have had their trials and tribulations.
My wife and I started Sames Scholars, a partnership with TAMIU and UISD. We take students in the 10th grade, mentor them with TAMIU professors, and then offer them a full scholarship to TAMIU when they graduate high school. It is an innovative and successful program.
IS SAMES INVOLVED WITH ANY ORGANIZATION?
HAVE YOU THOUGHT OF OPENING A DIFFERENT BUSINESS AS A FAMILY? We are open to new ideas but our strength is in the automotive sector. Do what you know!
Sames Auto Group MEMORY LANE
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ONLY BOUTIQUE Norma Limón, Christian Newton, Oralia L. Newton 101 W. Hillside Ste. #4 Laredo, TX 78041 956.791.6659 shoponlyboutique@aol.com
After dedicating many years to the retail industry, Norma Limón decided to open a women's boutique in 1991. The name was an acronym for her family members’ names (Oralia, Norma, Lizette, Yvonne). After 20 successful years, she retired and passed the business to her daughter Oralia L. Newton who opted to change the name from ONLY Collections to ONLY Boutique. Today, along with her daughter, Christian, they keep building on the dream started by Oralia’s mom, treating customers as if they were family. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE FAMILY VALUES IMPLEMENTED INTO YOUR BUSINESS GUIDING PRINCIPLES? Respect, positive energy, and communication. These family values were passed down to me and have been instilled to my daughter, Christian. WHAT MAKES YOUR BOUTIQUE UNIQUE? We offer customer service at a personal level and make sure that our customers trust us and our judgment. We are committed to our buyers because they rely on us. WHAT HAS INFLUENCED THE MOST TO KEEP IT ONLY FAMILYRELATED? The fact that my mother established it has influenced me deeply to keep it within the family. The hard work that our
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"The name itself reminds us each day that family is what started the business." ONLY Boutique MEMORY LANE
family has put into it is priceless and cannot be replaced. The name itself reminds us each day that family is what started the business. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOUR BOUTIQUE HAS
The challenges have been minor. We are grateful to have such loyal customers.
FACED?
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being owner of this store is what I am most proud of. I am blessed and fortunate that ONLY has been successful for over 20 years. WHAT IS THE MOST FUN PART OF OWNING A BOUTIQUE? The
most fun of being in the retail industry is dressing women in fabulous clothes and making them feel special about themselves.
WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT FOR YOUR FAMILY IN THIS VENTURE?
To be sure our clientele is satisfied. We have endured because of our commitment to service beyond the needs of our patrons. WHAT MAKES YOUR FAMILY RELATIONSHIP UNIQUE WITHIN THE
Because it is family-owned, we enjoy seeing each other and spending time together every day. Sometimes we treat ourselves to coffee and pastries when the time allows it. This is like a second home; we always have fun and laugh a lot, but most of all, we share the pleasure of seeing our customers leave with a smile.
STORE?
HOW DO YOU SEE ONLY BOUTIQUE IN THE FUTURE? As a very successful business and with my daughter as the owner.
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LOLITAS BISTRO 6950 McPherson Rd. Suite C Laredo, Texas 956.568.5334
TENDER BEEF BRISKET at Lolitas Bistro
Tender Beef Brisket
I
love food! But what I love most about food is enjoying it with the perfect drink. There is nothing more brilliant than finding that balance of a juicy burger and an ice cold beer or taking a bite of a decadent chocolate cake and a sip of a nice glass of chilled red wine. Doesn’t it make your taste buds tingle with excitement? Everyone has their personal favorites when it comes down to choosing, whether it be a classic steak and red wine pairing or the typical milk and cookies combination. During culinary school, while taking my first wine classes, I discovered how much of an incredible difference it makes to pair the right food with the ideal beverage. Whether it is a pizza and beer or champagne and caviar, it truly takes your eating experience to another level. It’s like Remy, the little mouse from Ratatouille explains, “Each flavor is totally unique, you combine one with another and something new is created.”
The precise drink can enhance a meal to perfection. Pairing food with the correct drink can completely change your eating experience; however, this teaming up goes way beyond just drinking and eating. The precise drink can enhance a meal to perfection. There are ultimately no rules as it’s primarily a matter of personal taste. The main idea is to find a balance with the flavor of the food and the drink so they will both bring out the best of each other. When you indulge in such blissful match, you will probably agree with me that heaven is on your tongue. BY MAITA FERNÁNDEZ
Maita Fernández has had a passionate relationship with food for as long as she can remember. As a chef and restaurant owner, she seeks to put a smile on people’s faces by creating original dishes.
ingredients
½ cup Dijon mustard 5 garlic cloves 2-3 fresh rosemary sprigs, stems removed ¼ cup olive oil 1 4-5 lb. beef brisket 5 diced carrots 4 diced celery stalks 2 sliced onions 2 cups red wine 1 16oz. can of crushed tomatoes 1 small bunch of minced fresh parsley 3 bay leaves Salt and pepper to taste instructions
Preheat the oven to 325° F. In a processor or blender, puree the garlic, mustard, rosemary, olive oil, salt and pepper to form a paste. Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan or Dutch oven. Season both sides of the brisket with salt and pepper and sear the meat to form a brown crust. Once the meat has cooled a bit, smear it all over with the mustard paste. Lay the vegetables around the brisket in the roasting pan. Add the wine, tomatoes, parsley and bay leaves. Cover tightly and bake for 3 to 4 hours, basting every 30 minutes with its juices, until the beef is fork tender. Serve the brisket sliced with homemade mashed potatoes and grilled vegetables. Deliciously and perfectly paired with a nice glass of Malbec wine.
activity challenge:
featured artist // alejandra i. calder贸n garza
M
y work consists of using nontraditional materials and transforming them. I choose to create with these objects because instead of damaging the environment, by changing their appearance and functionality, they are being repurposed into art. I am inspired by sculptor Tara Donovan, who uses common household items and turns them into something beautiful. As for the contour of my sculpture, I decided to take inspiration from organic forms found in nature; however, I juxtaposed the shapes with bright, striking colors usually seen in modern and contemporary artwork.
activity challenge:
METAMORPHOSIS Plastic bottle caps, acrylic paint
richard mims BY GRACIELA GARCÍA
Richard Mims' love for cooking began by watching his dad, Pete Mims, another cooking talent extraordinaire. He was also very curious about what made food taste good. This inquisitiveness led him to become a chef. A graduate from the Texas Culinary Institute, Mims has been cooking for five years and is ready to greet everyone at Border Foundry Grill. The young chef, who treasures family above anything else, is teaming up in the kitchen with his father, and they are certainly heating things up in town. Get a taste of Richard in his charming, quick-fire repartee with Cream.
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to see what’s new and taste flavors I’m not typically using. WHY DO YOU THINK COOKING HAS BECOME SO TRENDY? Media has made it trendy. IS THERE A CURRENT FOOD TREND YOU DISLIKE? The one that doesn’t give you a big enough portion of food. HOW DO WHERE DID THE NAME COME YOU FEEL ABOUT MOLECULAR GASTRONOMY? Who wants to eat bubbles? AND CROSSFROM? From our original family business CULTURAL CUISINE? Most cuisine now is cross-cultural; I find it the norm. WHAT IS YOUR that was founded in 1905. WHAT CAN YOU SPECIALTY? Making fresh pastas. DO YOU HAVE TELL US ABOUT ITS DÉCOR? It A FAVORITE COOKING REALITY SHOW? Anything is industrial, utilizing some of “[I like having] the ability with Gordon Ramsay is good with me. ANY OTHER the original equipment from to make someone’s day CHEFS YOU ADMIRE? Auguste Escoffier. DESCRIBE the first foundry. IS IT TRUE better with a simple dish.” YOUR PERFECT MEAL. Eggs Benedict with barbacoa YOU ARE A HISTORY BUFF? I instead of Canadian bacon. PROSCIUTTO OR JAMÓN majored in it in college, but SERRANO? Prosciutto. PERFECT TOPPING COMBINATION FOR PIZZA? Sweet and spicy definitely like the history channel more. yellow curry with clams. IS THERE A SECRET TO WINE PAIRING? Forget what is written WHAT APPEALS TO YOU ABOUT COOKING? about the wines; see what the wine does for you and the dish you’re pairing it with. YOUR The ability to make someone’s day better ESSENTIAL KITCHEN TOOL? Immersion Blender. COOKING HAS BEEN DESCRIBED AS A with a simple dish. WHAT WAS YOUR MEDITATIVE EXPERIENCE. DO YOU AGREE? They haven't cooked around my dad and me. FAVORITE CHILDHOOD FOOD? Macaroni. WHAT INFLUENCES YOU NOW? I eat out ELL
US
ABOUT
RESTAURANT.
YOUR
NEW
It’s gonna rock.
cream june / july 2013
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GON E PL AT I N U M PHOTOGRAPHY FERCH HAIR + MAKEUP GUILLERMO CASTILLEJA MODEL LILIANA S. MANWANI JEWELRY JOE BRAND GOWNS FOREVER AFTER S T Y L I N G A N N A C A R O L I N A G O N Z Á L E Z P H O T O G R A P H Y P O S T P R O D U C T I O N A N A L E E G . PA Z P H O T O G R A P H Y A S S I S TA N T S C E L I N A D Í A Z + M A R I A J O S E M E N D I O L A
STYLED
They say in fashion one day you’re in, and the next day you’re out. Words made famous by Ms. Heidi Klum. I believe there’s something worth pointing out about these words. Yes, fads do come and go, but in a world full of contradictions as is fashion, the reality is trends thrive on recycling its counterparts. Meaning they most likely come back to haunt us.
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ewind to a few decades back, in my gross tender years of adolescence all I wanted to do was dress like the cool grunge girls, the Kate Mosses, Drew Barrymores, and Courtney Loves (questionable but true). Then came Cher Horowitz, my first fictional style icon. The movie Clueless enlightened my formative years; I was introduced to all things fashion—hence the matching separates article. Nobody pulled off the matchy-matchy like Cher. Nineties garb was summed up in that film, it was all about the plaid, knee high socks, dungarees, military boots, and fishnets. Call it nostalgia or inspiration; this season the nineties grunge get-up is on full throttle. Plaid is everywhere and most likely will be in the next few seasons. Fashion critic Tim Blanks called “grunge couture” the Dries Van Noten’s Spring 2013 RTW collection, which was packed with plaid pieces from head to toe, sheer floral prints, and oversized coats. Designer Phillip Lim injected the urban street vibe into his collection with the motif and other nineties-inspired elements. Take this skirt for example, a modern take on the trend with the tromp l’oeil waist tie, now I want to tie everything around my waist. Still on Phillip Lim (consider this article a love letter), the collection brought back the overalls, as did many designers. Not to be so literal, I proceeded cautiously by picking out these good old,
acid washed, oversized dungarees. The denim overalls at first feel childish, but they are updated when paired with heels, hologram sunglasses and clutch. I wore them with a linen blazer, a cropped Peter Pan sequin collar organza top and bright lip. From an era that brought us Nirvana, if nineties fashion represents anything it is going to be the rebellious teen. Military anoraks, slip dresses, and combat boots were major characteristics of the misfit and laid-back teens. Today we see Rihanna, Miley Cyrus and Cara Delevigne sporting these same trends; decades later the influence is undeniable, which brings me to the next look. Here, I’m wearing a sheer slip dress and lace shorts with combat boots, spike headband, and an anorak. The beauty of resurging trends is that if we failed the first time, we will most definitely succeed the second time around for we are wiser and, not to mention, have better sense of style. But in keeping with our little blast from the past, a closet programmed with rotating racks like Cher’s wouldn’t hurt to have at home either. BY MICHELLE COOK GUTIÉRREZ
Michelle is a street fashion blogger living in Laredo, Texas. Follow her blog at nicethingsandstuff.blogspot.com cream june / july 2013
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The textbook definition of a good educator is an instructor devoted to the students and the institutions in which he works. Dr. Juan L. Maldonado embodies this description. Over the years Dr. Maldonado has worn many hats, from counselor to psychology professor. Now as president of Laredo Community College, he tells Cream how he is steering this institute of higher learning into the future.
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HY DID YOU CHOOSE TO ENTER THE FIELD OF EDUCATION?
CAN YOU NAME A PERSON WHO HAS HAD TREMENDOUS IMPACT
ON YOU AS A LEADER? From a personal perspective, I will My mother, María Cruz, encouraged me to do well in forever be indebted to my mother. She taught me early on to school. The other seminal influence was my experience have integrity, character, and tenacity. In the professional arena, working for Tarrant County College in Fort Worth, Texas. It my greatest mentor was Dr. Judith Carrier. She gave me the pointed the way to my 37-year-career in community colleges. opportunities in the workplace that honed my leadership skills. The empowerment provided by education made me realize that My debt of gratitude and my appreciation I wanted to be an instrument of positive to her is immense. change. To this day, I love what I do, but Dr. Juan L. Maldonado most importantly, I love what I can do PRESIDENT OF WHAT ARE THE FUNDAMENTALS OF for others. LAREDO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
HOW DOES ONE BECOME A LEADER?
Some say leaders are born; others claim that leadership is learned. I think it’s a combination of both.
YOUR LEADERSHIP, AND HOW DO YOU COMMUNICATE THOSE VALUES TO OTHERS?
Honesty, objectivity, consistency, fairness, and flexibility are the cornerstones of my leadership style. The greatest tool I can possess as a leader in influencing and convincing others is my reputation. A leader practices what he preaches.
The greatest tool I can possess as a leader in influencing and convincing others is my reputation. A leader practices what he preaches.
Dr. Juan L.
Maldonado BY ELYSSA CANALES
WHAT ARE THE THREE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECTS OF YOUR
1. A solid academic and student support infrastructure for student success. 2. A strong platform for effectiveness that uses data-driven decision-making to assure accomplishment of our goals. 3. A modern infrastructure that will prepare us for the future.
VISION FOR LCC?
Technology is the force that is driving progress in all aspects of society. The days of the classroom teacher lecturing in front of the class are destined for extinction. Only those institutions that embrace technology will be able to adapt and be successful in the future.
WHERE DO YOU SEE LCC IN 5 OR 10 YEARS?
Some say leaders are born; others claim that leadership is learned. I think it’s a combination of both.
LEWIS ENERGY GROUP ACADEMIC CENTER VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
2012 LCC FACULTY ART SHOW
WHAT IS THE CURRENT POPULATION OF STUDENTS, AND HOW DO
We currently enroll about 9,400 students and serve about 2,500 students more in our continuing education programs. LCC has embarked on a multimillion dollar facilities improvement plan. At the Fort McIntosh Campus, the modern Lewis Energy Group Academic Center can accommodate approximately 1,500 students. On our South Campus, we are planning a new Nursing and Health Occupations building. However, in the future, the academic classrooms will be modeled to deliver learning on the Internet or in a virtual environment.
YOU PREPARE FOR ANY INCREASE IN NUMBERS?
ARE THERE ANY NOVEL AND EXCITING PROGRAMS THAT HAVE ATTRACTED NEW STUDENTS? Some of the new programs that have been in place for a short time and hold much promise are the Oil and Gas Maintenance and Operations Program, the Cyber Security Program in the computer area, and our Dental Assistant Program. This Fall 2013 semester, we will launch the Pharmacy Technician Program to address the growing need in our service area. WHY DO YOU THINK LCC CONTINUES TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN
Our institution offers excellent programs with a caring, experienced, and well qualified staff at a very affordable price, and in an atmosphere that supports student success.
KEEPING AND GRADUATING STUDENTS?
There are three primary sources of funding: local taxes, state allocations, and student tuition and fees. These sources make up about 98% of our operational budget. Local taxes make up about 48%, the state provides about 23%, and student tuition/fees provide about 27%. Our operational budget is close to $50 million for the current year. Over the last 10 years, the state has reduced its financial support of community colleges.
HOW DOES LCC RECEIVE FUNDING FOR EDUCATION?
WHERE DO GREAT IDEAS COME FROM IN YOUR ORGANIZATION?
The main source of great ideas is individuals that care for and are committed to making LCC a great institution, whether they are students, faculty, classified staff, or administrators. WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION AND HOW DO YOU KEEP IT FRESH? My motivation is my desire to have a college that is a source of pride for our community because it empowers thousands of individuals to improve their lives and the community where we live. It helps when you surround yourself with highly intelligent, enthusiastic, caring professionals that share your vision for students. They will pick you up and push you to excel when you are feeling the pressures of your profession.
The Triton Club is made up of approximately 150 students, ages 6 to 18, all expertly supervised by six certified coaches. To be part of this club, aspirants needs prior basic knowledge of swimming techniques, and after tryouts, they are assigned to one of three teams. The Tritons are great competitors who have participated fruitfully in many swim meets. Mayela Niño, one of their expert coaches, shared with Cream how these amazing young athletes are not only exposed to water, but to different exercise activities in order to improve their training. For more information about the Laredo Triton Club, visit the Laredo Triton Club website at www.laredoswim.com.
VERSUS:
COLD WATER VS HOT WATER
VALERIA L. MONTEMAYOR
“HOT WATER RELAXES MY MUSCLES, AND I CAN SWIM FASTER. IT FEELS SO MUCH BETTER, ESPECIALLY DURING THE WINTER MONTHS. IT’S NICE AND TOASTY WHEN I GET IN THE POOL.”
SPRINT SET VS KICK SET JAVIER S. GONZÁLEZ
FREESTYLE VS BACKSTROKE
“I FEEL MORE CONFIDENT WITH FREESTYLE, KEEPING PROPER TECHNIQUE AND BREATHING PATTERN.”
SANTIAGO GARZA “I PREFER THE OCEAN BECAUSE I HAVE MORE FUN PLAYING IN THE WAVES.”
“TO ME SPRINT SETS ARE BETTER; YOU GET TO WORK ON YOUR ARMS, KICKS, AND TIME. KICK SETS ONLY WORK YOUR KICKS.”
NATALIE “NANA” N. ALVARADO
THE OCEAN VS THE POOL
BUTTERFLY VS BREASTSTROKE OSCAR MARTÍNEZ
“SWIMMERS ARE MADE. DEDICATION AND HARD WORK MAKE REAL SWIMMERS. I STARTED SWIMMING WHEN I WAS 14 YEARS OLD.”
NATURAL SWIMMERS VS MADE SWIMMERS ERIKA ESCAMILLA
MICHAEL PHELPS VS RYAN LOCHTE JOEL MARTÍNEZ
“MICHAEL PHELPS IS THE MOST DECORATED SWIMMER OF ALL TIME. THAT SPEAKS FOR ITSELF.
“BREASTSTROKE, EASILY. IT COMES NATURALLY TO ME. EVERY SINGLE MOVEMENT I MAKE IN THIS STROKE DOESN’T FEEL THE LEAST BIT UNCOMFORTABLE.”
LONG COURSE VS SHORT COURSE ISRAEL MUÑÍZ “I FAVOR LONG COURSE SINCE I LIKE TO SWIM LONG DISTANCES, AND I HAVE GOOD ENDURANCE.
DO YOU HAVE A CLUB OR ORGANIZATION THAT WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE IN CREAM’S “VERSUS?” CONTACT US AT INFO@CREAMCITYMAGAZINE.COM
want to feature your event? contact us for more info at info@creamcitymagazine.com
creamout&about
movers & shakers Recently the Bienvenidos committee from the Laredo Chamber of Commerce gathered at the H.Q. of Cream City Magazine for their monthly meeting. The dynamic group which represents diverse local businesses joins forces to plan forthcoming events that serve to welcome new establishments into town.
tough mudders Spectators and participants in the second No Mud, No Glory! five-mile mud race had a blast. Trophies were awarded in individual and team categories. The run was sponsored by District VI Council Member Charlie San Miguel and the City of Laredo.
PHOTOGRAPHY REY ORTĂ?Z
THE LILIA BRUNI WETSEL EDITION Owner at Blow Me Away
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ragrant, fabulous, and fun. These attributes go fittingly with the prevailing atmosphere at Lilia Bruni Wetsel’s favorite place, Blow Me Away. The bright, modern ambiance here is an extension of her outgoing and fascinating personality, and the mood makes everyone feel welcome. The moment her clients step into this “Blow Me Away perfectly eye-catching setting they feel oh, so special and oh, captures who I am: bright, so pampered. And why wouldn’t they? The design for this blow dry and makeup bar was inspired by modern and welcoming.” the very best salons and spas with an emphasis on relaxation. Add to that inviting feel, the professional care and personalized service provided by a staff whose magic CHATTING WITH LILIA hands make women become even more beautiful than when they walked in. Thanks to Lilia’s entrepreneurship, beauty is WHEN I AM IN THIS PLACE, I FEEL...beautiful and empowered. IN THIS PLACE I USUALLY…enjoy seeing old conveniently available. How perfect! friends and welcoming new ones.OTHERS TELL ME THIS PLACE IS...new and different to Laredo.
cream june / july 2013
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creambiztechnology SOUND CONNECTION 5220 San Bernardo Ave Laredo, TX 78041 956.717.9600
the sound of success
BY ELYSSA CANALES
In business, the key to rise above the others lies in the ability to know your product and deliver it effectively.
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ff interstate 35 across from a stretch of mallcharacterizing palm trees, lays a tech-savvy hub owned by the husband and wife team of Vijay and Pravina Mulchand. Since 1994, this power couple of sorts has geared Sound Connection toward continually providing a prime assortment of personalized acoustics for any space. Vijay, who got his start stocking cars with Bump audio systems, now, gets his fix souping up ATVs, boats, and even a 40-room ranch house with amazing sound and elaborate customization. Both are quick to point out that no job is ever alike, or too complex.
to streaming music from around the globe—an endless supply of services that may be tailored to anyone’s personal preferences. The possibilities are astounding. Vijay and Pravina’s success doesn’t simply come from a zealous understanding of their product but also from explicit attention to detail and consumer care. That passion is evident as countless certifications and awards are mounted from floor to ceiling at their store. While most ideas of “customer service” start with “for English, press one now,” the Mulchands will leave you with their personal cell phone number. Their primary focus is to be readily available and eager to engage.
Theirs is a clear and sound philosophy: be passionate, provide great assistance, and never forget to be gracious.
If one thing is certain, technology has come far from its days with the over-theshoulder ‘80s boom boxes accompanied by a gangsta lean and a hefty load of swag. (Although, that prideful feeling is still very prevalent while sporting the latest techy gadgets.) However, it’s no mystery why Laredo has catapulted Sound Connection as a leader in home automation, theatre, and car audio. More than just televisions and speakers, as an A-line store Sound Connection has first access to many products before competitors, national chains, and local vendors. This priority has resulted in a string of custom installations of Sonos, the leading contender of residential theatre systems. Such a wondrous link between sound and engineering allows satisfied patrons to gain control over electronics—from varying music volumes, temperature ranges, window treatments,
Look, I’m not a tech geek; I’m not a genius, but, quite frankly, in a sea of starving businesses, Sound Connection has devised a recession-proof plan. It’s a locally-owned firm that takes pride in their work. Theirs is a clear and sound philosophy: be passionate, provide great assistance, and never forget to be gracious. It is a continuous service-oriented company that never keeps you in the dark, that provides technology, and, here’s the kicker, that adheres to your lifestyle. A success story that has worked for over a decade and a wonderland into all things sound and technology.
cream june / july 2013
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BY MEMO JIMÉNEZ ILLUSTRATIONS ELISA CORTÉS
boo
It seems like people these days spend a lot of time online looking at pictures of cute animals doing funny things. Cats were the supreme rulers of the Internet during the first decade of the 21st century. In late 2010, however, a brave and young pomeranian took center stage and stole the spotlight from the feline hierarchy that was arguably established by the Egyptians B.C. His name is Boo, and he is often called “The World’s Cutest Dog” according to Google searches. He first gained notoriety when celebrities like Ke$ha and Khloe Kardashian proclaimed his cuteness. In true Hollywood fashion, Boo’s popularity and star power increased with every online meme, re-tweet and LIKE from his growing pool of fans. He is now the subject of two photo books, calendars, and an entire line of novelty products. Life is good for Boo the Pomeranian; even his tagline on Facebook says so.
beyoncé
Speaking of super stars and spotlights, have you been keeping up with Beyoncé’s list of accomplishments in 2013? Once the lead vocalist in Destiny’s Child, Mrs. Carter now leads her own international tour, models for the world-famous retailer H&M, sells Pepsi, and casually performs at Super Bowls and presidential inaugurations. No big deal, really. Fancy dinners with the Obamas are pretty normal. She is only married to Jay-Z, a rapper and entertainment mogul responsible for the careers of many other celebrities. They’re worth 1 billion dollars. Beyoncé is also one of the classiest women in the music industry. When the media starts nasty rumors about her, she responds with an HBO documentary. When Kanye bullied Taylor, she became her fairy godmother. When she asks, “Who Run the World?” you automatically say ‘girls,’ but you really meant to say Beyoncé. This is Bey’s world, and you’re just twerking in it.
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cream june / july 2013
tedtalks
Sometimes listening to a smart person talk about one of their passions is all it takes to trigger your curiosity. You can live a life being oblivious to important news like global warming or the collapse of the economy and live a relatively satisfying life. After all, ignorance is bliss. But when the message comes from the right person and in the right setting, something magical happens. You suddenly care about the world. TED conferences usually have that effect on the average viewer because TED has “ideas worth spreading.� You can suddenly become deeply involved in social and environmental issues after a 20 minute-long TEDTalk YouTube video. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design. This is where scientists, geniuses, and presidents, among others, present their latest discoveries, announce technological innovations, and address various world problems. The list goes on.
Memo is a pop culture blogger from Laredo, Texas living in Austin, Texas. Follow his blog at dirtycultblog.com
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cream april / may 2013
MY FASHION STYLE IS
A GOOD FRIEND IS
I AM MOST PROUD OF