founder & publisher fernando de haro C I T Y M A G A Z I N E
NO 23
february • march 2014 Here in Cream, we welcome
C I T Y M February A G A and Z I the N Elong-
awaited Valentine’s Day, publisher where we celebrate the day of love and friendship with a photosesh covered in the emblematic symbol of this date: chocolate. This month is special since it gives us yet another reason to spread the love not only with our special someone, but also with the rest of our family and friends. We wish for you to live to the fullest and may the romanticism of the season shine upon you so every day can be a 14th of February. Another thing that people have fallen in love with is photography, an art that has expanded in great part due to technology in an incredible way and every time more and more people have the chance to take photographs, whether they have good equipment or not, since cell phones have now facilitated the opportunity to capture that perfect moment at any given time. One of these moments must include the now consecrated selfie; something that has gone far beyond a fad and has evolved into something that is part of a culture of our time and a way of expressing ourselves. It is not only a “young people” thing, but also a custom for people of all ages around the world. That is why Cream shares with you an interesting article full of tips on how to achieve your best possible selfie! I hope you all enjoy this edition since it was made with a lot of love for you! I bid you farewell, but not without first giving a shout out and heartfelt thanks to our dear friend and former creamer Elyssa Canales, who is about to embark on a new chapter in her life. We wish her all the success in the world and we will miss her dearly!
copy editor joana santillana
design & production executive coordinator elyssa canales photographer ferch graphic designers gabriela lozano alicia ruiz-inzunza
interns fernanda maldonado angie sifuentes
writers
elyssa canales, rubén bazán iii, maita fernández, michelle cook gutiérrez, memo jiménez, joe arciniega special thanks chocolateka, powell watson, city of san miguel de allende, alejandro mortera, babysitters, coffee, and cherry coke
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cream team #23 Copyright © 2014 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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CARLLYN WALKER Beauty & style all in one
JUAN GILBERTO GARCÍA, JR. Celebrating education at every level
MARISSA RODRÍGUEZ LIMÓN News through a different lens
Meet three dynamic achievers who contribute to the development of both Laredos. They are flying high on Cream’s radar.
CARLLYN WALKER
Owner, Primped Style Bar
Having a background in makeup selling Mary Kay, I always loved it, but never would have imagined I would someday own a luxury makeup and style bar. At 52, I realized I hadn’t yet really explored my career life fully. I wanted to create something fresh, something I felt passionate about, and a venture I could start with my daughter Kandy. A friend of mine told me about the new, hot concept of a blowdry bar, and that struck my interest. My youngest daughter, Marygene, was also a professional makeup artist in L.A. From all of this, my idea for a full on style bar was born; a place where women could come for all of their beauty needs, not only with blow-outs, but cuts and color, makeup, tanning, and a designer accessory boutique. In the process of creating the style bar, I bought a successful makeup boutique called Pout located inside Polly Adams, which we eventually incorporated into Primped.
My inspiration stems from having the ability to make women feel their best, while making a difference with our monthly Ladies Night Out community fundraising events. I also love my employees and enjoy continuing to develop my team and raise the bar. lt’s touching to watch them bloom while believing in themselves and evolviong both as people and artists. I am always striving for the very best in what I do. “WOW” is the experience I want every person who walks into Primped to have. So I have worked to make sure everything is the best; including the ambience, customer service, quality services, top designer makeup brands, and luxury accessory brands: from head to toe- I want my clients to feel completely pampered.
Although my mom was a teacher, a career in higher education was never even an option. Today, I thank TAMIU for giving me the opportunity to grow professionally in such a noble field that truly changes hearts and minds daily. Having the opportunity to help and guide students while pursuing their education is the greatest satisfaction of my career. Students enter this University with different goals and dreams, and it is our job to help them accomplish all of them.
Always be willing to learn. Every classroom is a gateway to your future. Higher Education is a dynamic, constantly-changing field. You will be learning something new every day. MARISSA RODRÍGUEZ LIMÓN Reporter, Noticias Univisión Laredo
I’ve always loved everything in the communication field. I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Communication from Universidad Valle Del Bravo in Nuevo Laredo, and completed my internships in local radio stations and at El Mañana. Then, I started off in the production department at KLDO-TV, writing commercials and creating promos for the station in 1988. I love community service; I am fascinated by people who spend their lives helping others. In my line of work, I am able to share information that can be useful to people at any given moment. This is a very demanding career and before I go on the air, there has been a great deal of research that went into that particular story, such as verifying information and running around from one place to the next. On TV everything seems very calm and not hectic, but a lot of work goes into just one segment.
JUAN GILBERTO GARCÍA, JR.
I thank God for allowing me to reach so many homes through the newscast. My job has granted me the opportunity to interview important figures like former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Texas Gov. Rick Perry, former Mexican President Vicente Fox, as well as a multitude of Laredoans that work day to day to make this city a better place.
My career began by luck. I found myself helping my soccer teammates during our out of town trips, reading the University catalog, and helping random students do their class schedules. Then, I became a part-time academic advisor during my junior year, which was my first job on campus, and my introduction to the professional world of higher education. Since then, I’ve kept advancing in this profession to my current post.
My work has allowed me to reach my professional goals in my chosen career, serve my community, and learn something new every day. Experience helps a lot, but the world changes constantly and in this business, one must learn to change and adapt. I admire all the women who have a career, the mothers, and the people who struggle day to day to make a better life for themselves and their families.
Higher Education Administrator, University Registrar Texas A&M International University
cream february / march 2014
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THE
EX D IN
Rites of Passage th 7 on Avenue
As young boys, we are taught to not display any fear and that a man’s worth is mirrored in his bravery. Since time immemorial, the greatest warriors were often chosen on this basis (and they still are, so let’s hear it for the great volunteers of the armed forces). However, there are other instances in which acts of bravery are seen. Any time a man conquers a certain fear, a battle is won. Yet, what happens when a man’s single life is at stake? I hope this got your attention.
T
here is no such thing as a “wedding season.” For people in their mid-20s to mid30s, it’s more of a “wedding decade.” Toss in the fact that these newlyweds begin having children, which naturally imply birthday parties and baptisms, and we pretty much have no weekends available anymore. As a man, I have noticed a multitude of men getting down on bended knee and asking that one question that all women yearn for since they first saw Chandler propose to Monica on Friends. It is, without a doubt, the most difficult question that a man will ask a woman throughout their life together not because the words are hard to verbalize, but because it is in that moment that the man gives up his life for somebody else. Rites of passage like these are life-altering, yet when the woman says “yes,” she is giving him life right back. She’s doing the same thing you did, the only difference being that she didn’t have to worry about the four Cs of diamond quality, a trait I quickly learned from luckily growing up with four women who appreciate a good sparkle. I proposed in Times Square on New Year’s Eve, surrounded by over one million people, in the coldest climate a south Texas boy can imagine. She cried, of course. She didn’t expect it (at least I tell myself that she didn’t - it’s nice to think I was doing something somewhat original that didn’t involve the clichéd wine and dine). I cried, too. I trembled as I dropped the ring seconds after the New Year’s Eve ball dropped on Times Square because I knew I was getting myself into something I inherently wanted for so long.
I trembled as I dropped the ring seconds after the New Year’s Eve ball dropped on Times Square because I knew I was getting myself into something I inherently wanted for so long.
It was an ecstatic evening, plagued with both love and wonder. As happy as I was, I did ask myself a series of questions. Why did I take so long? What was I so afraid of? What battles lay ahead of me now that I’m an engaged man? The answer was quite simple. I was afraid of letting go. I was afraid of splitting my life in half (bye bye, bachelorhood), and I was terrified of not having the same amount of contact with my family and friends who, for 29 years, knew every problem and satisfaction and crevice of my life. These folks took care of me. They pushed me to become a better person. They dedicated a very large portion of their lives to accommodate my needs. They metaphorically beat me up when I was on a wayward path and they applauded every triumph I went through -
BY RUBÉN BAZÁN III THERUBENINDEX@GMAIL.COM 8
cream february / march 2014
no matter how big or insignificant. They showed so much love. It was stupid of me to think that, as a married man, this would all go away. They all love me as much as I love them, and since love, for me, is the extension of one’s own for the betterment of someone else, I realized that I had nothing to fear and that the woman I am going to take to the altar is already offering all of these things as well.
No matter how simple men are, we are needy and at times hard to love. Gentlemen, if you find a woman who does this wholeheartedly, don’t think twice. Wife the woman who pushes you to do better, cradles your need for time with the guys, and adores you in spite of all of your quirks and imperfections. I found her, and I will spend the rest of my life paying it back since I know of no other woman who would understand my background, my large family, my erratic work schedule, my love for professional wrestling, my penchant for mid-week beers with the boys, my need to be fed every three hours, and who would ever tell me that she prefers for our children to resemble me more than her. To Fabiola, who in the blink of an eye became my muse, my map, my sounding board, my cornerstone, my restored faith, the Atlas who carried the weight of my world, the definition of being incredibly patient, and the woman who said “yes” to me many years before I even popped the question on that freezing New York night. My entire being,
Rubén Bazán III
LOLITAS BISTRO 6950 McPherson Rd. Suite C Laredo, Texas 956.568.5334
PASTA WITH CRISPY PROSCIUTTO AND SCALLOPS at Lolitas Bistro
O
ne of the most enjoyable things you can do as a couple is to cook together. Whether you do so often or once in a while, I think you’ll agree with me that it’s really amusing whether it be a simple dessert, breakfast for dinner or a luscious gourmet feast, cooking together can be so much fun. You get the chance to mix your personal ideas and tastes while spending quality time. It’s not only fun, it’s a de-stressing and romantic activity that gives you the chance to explore your inner creativity and best of all: you get the chance to impress each other!
Seven years ago when I was beginning to date my boyfriend, he asked me how hard cooking could really be. He thought cooking elaborate recipes was no big deal. After his comment I thought to myself, “yeah right...you have never even made a sandwich, let’s get our hands dirty and you’ll see what it’s all about!” So, I suggested we cook together. I was nice enough to let him choose any recipe he wanted. He decided he wanted to try baking a chocolate cake with fudge frosting. We chose to make it completely from scratch. The end result was a crooked and slightly dry cake with a gooey but decent frosting. Maybe the cake itself was not an extraordinary one, but the time we spent getting all the ingredients together, measuring, and getting messy with flour and eggs is a wonderful memory that will always bring a smile to my face. Best of all, if it weren’t for that cooking date, I probably wouldn’t have come to create what is now the famed ultra-rich and moist, decadent Chocolate Abuelita Cake.
Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto and Scallops ingredients
8 oz. angel hair pasta 3 tbsp olive oil • 3 garlic cloves finely minced • 8 oz. sliced prosciutto • 2 cups baby spinach • 2 cups sliced mushrooms • ½ cup grape tomatoes • 1 ½ pound fresh sea scallops • Half a lemon
Salt and pepper to taste ½ cup grated parmesan cheese • Fresh basil for garnish
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instructions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
Half the joy of cooking is not in the end result, but in the process.
In a large skillet, heat 3 tbsps. oil to medium high and sauté the garlic until golden brown. Add the prosciutto and cook until crispy about two minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook until soft. Mix in the spinach, tomatoes, pasta, and salt and pepper until the spinach begins to soften.
So, I highly recommend that if you have never cooked with your partner or rarely do, make it a date night, preheat the oven and get to it! Open up a bottle of wine while you are at it and make it a party for two! Remember, it’s not the destination, but the ride that counts the most.
Toss the seared scallops with the pasta and serve with grated parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil for garnish.
This Valentine’s Day, treat your honey to a succulent pasta recipe that will make both his soul and tummy happy. Enjoy yourselves while both preparing and sharing this delicious meal together! BY MAITA FERNÁNDEZ
In another pan, heat remaining oil until very hot. Sear scallops until golden brown for 1 minute on each side. Drizzle with lemon juice and add salt and pepper to taste.
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. cream february / march
2014
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creamout&about
grand inauguration Bethany House of Laredo officially opened the doors of the Barbara A. Kazen Center for Hope. This new venue is an expansion project that follows the same mission of helping the less fortunate by providing additional housing space.
living the dream Cream Founder and Publisher Fernando De Haro was invited to speak to an audience of young students in Mueller Elementary’s Career Day. In the company of other distinguished members of the community, including public servants, local businesspeople, and many prominent Laredoans, he discussed his passion for his work. He hopes to inspire many by showing how you can accomplish anything if you love what you do every single day. Cream thanks Principal Mayra Ramírez, faculty, and staff for a warm reception.
want to feature your event? contact us for more info at info@creamcitymagazine.com
CH OC OL AT
forget love
...I’D RATHER FALL IN CHOCOLATE! –SANDRA J. DYKES
It is the sensual concept and magnetizing aroma that draws us to this calorie-packed delicacy: chocolate. Something for both romantics and skeptics, chocolate is a global unifier as delightfully decadent as can be. Like no other, it can bring together people from all walks of life. This February 14, let’s indulge in one of life’s many pleasures by merging our passion for our loved ones with our obsession for this delicious sweet treat. From everyone at the Cream motherload, Happy Valentine’s Day!
PHOTOGRAPHY
FERCH
M O D E L S J O S E FA & C I B E L E S T E N A G U E R R A MAKEUP KRISTINA HOGAN HAIR J STUDIO / JANET BARRERA S P E C I A L T H A N K S C H O C O L AT E K A
DIY selfies!!!
BY FERNANDA MALDONADO
K
ylie Jenner, Miley Cyrus, and Snoop Dogg. What do these celebrities have in common besides the fact that we are constantly bombarded with their faces by every media outlet known to man? Well, the fact that despite this, they seem to be continually inundating us with their own faces through social media as if they don’t have a paparazzi repertoire of 145,387 pictures. Here, take a look at the one million different angles of Taylor Swift’s face! Uh, okay very nice, thank you.
LEZ
ONZA
RID G
L ING
MODE
A step up from Ryan Seacrest, who sports about a hundred pictures on his Instagram making the same so-very-shocked expression. And just like it has become popular amongst celebrities, ever since the invention of the front-facing camera, the “selfie” has been facilitated to us common folks as well (because mirror pics are just soooo MySpace). But anyways, whether you do it yourself or get dragged into it- You. Are. All. Guilty. Luckily for our Cream readers, we are about to show you some basic guidelines so you can take a museum-worthy selfie. Well, maybe not to that degree, but definitely one you’ll be proud of.
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Be aware of your surroundings. You most definitely want to make sure there isn’t clutter or strewn pairs of underwear ornamenting your background. Just avoid bathroom pictures in general. There is absolutely nothing flattering about your toilet bowl making a cameo appearance in your photo, whether it’s made of gold or even the finest furs (hopefully not). Beware of the mischievous photobomber, for it is not a mythical creature and is very much real, just waiting for you to take that painfully flawless photograph to make an appearance (although they’re usually good for a laugh).
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Post in moderation. Let’s just completely avoid using #dailyselfie or any variation of that at all costs. But hey, what will I lose if I unload an influx of self-portraits on my social media of choice? Friends, followers, etc... and our respect. Also, by hoarding your peers’ daily feed with yourself, it appears as if you’re an attention hoarder. Nothing screams “look at me!” more than documenting yourself performing your everyday mundane activities for everyone to see. “Here I am in class”, “Here I am stuck in traffic”, “This is me opening a jar of pickles”... Seriously, can you say overkill?
creamdiy
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Know your face. Miranda Kerr or not, everyone has that special angle which is most flattering to their face shape and features (“No, wait. Take it from my good side!). Don’t be afraid to experiment with a variety of different perspectives. Take as many shots as you need to choose which one you like the best; even supermodels don’t walk into a photoshoot and go with their first shot. There’s many little techniques you can use in order to get that perfect angle. For instance, everyone wants to avoid that pesky double chin, which makes us seem like we had a few too many glazed donuts in our day. Simple solution! Set the camera above or right at eye level and prop out your chin. In fact, an angle that can be considered “universally flattering” is achieved by holding the camera slightly above your face and angling it to the side a little, as opposed to facing the camera straight on.
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Just be yourself! After all, you are the protagonist of your own...Instagram. But okay, first and foremost, the absolute most important rule and for the love of all that is holy: CEASE THE DUCKFACE or I will pursue you during hunting season. Please, I beg of you dear reader, display some dignity. We do not care if Kimmie K., reigning queen of selfies herself, mentions how it “emphasizes your cheekbones;” you will still look absolutely ridiculous and evoke various eye rolls. You are more than likely not a Kardashian. Much like the tongue selfie (popularized by one Ms. Cyrus) and the kissy face selfie, it is overrated and does nothing to compliment one’s features. When in doubt, simply smile.
caution Oh, and this is not really a rule, but I believe it should be brought to the attention of many young (and even older) networkers out there: refrain from posting pictures you will potentially be embarrassed about either the next day, in a few weeks, or even a year from now. Whether you’re at a party or club, and you’re having a little too much fun or you decide to take a suggestive picture that leaves little to the imagination, remember that a picture is worth a million words. And people always remember...
Lights. When taking a selfie, lighting is often an underrated factor that should actually not be overlooked. There’s many ways to get your lighting to look Vogueworthy. For instance, natural window light is probably the most flattering, but try to avoid direct light for it creates those harsh shadows. But then again, if your lighting is less than optimal, there’s always those complimentary Instagram filters that you can stick on your photo and call it a day. I mean, seriously, I personally think those are great but more power to you if you need #nofilter.
rtant to consider the fact On another note, it is especially impo ed to the dictionary and that the word “selfie” has been add , beating out the flagrant declared the 2013 word of the year the selfie is here to know we so term “twerk” in the process, appear from the surface, stay. As vapid and vain as they may e is in reality not nearly as the whole institution behind the selfi gists have actually correlated superfluous as it seems. Psycholo esteem by allowing them their selfthe selfie to uplifting a person’s control the outcome of their brief moment to shine. They get to retion, and boom! Before you photograph, post it at their own disc derful ego boosters in the know it, you’re going through the won much better about that ng feeli and form of comments and likes, But honestly, as nice as it small expression of your personality. measured by the amount of may be, don’t let your self-worth be ments by people you rarely likes or praise you receive from com d. Cue the cliché, but what worl ical interact with back in the phys and that you’re chronicling and truly matters is that you’re having fun life. So from your friends at preserving a special moment in your y! Cream, just loosen up and snap awa cream february / march 2014
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PHOTO
CHALLENGE FishEye
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cream february / march 2014
Photography is an art that inspires many of us; it makes us feel emotions and create memories that will be forever frozen in time. For this edition, we included a mini challenge that consisted in seeing the world in a different way...a more circular way that is, which is why we invited four of our readers to show us the way they experience things and share with us a few hours of their day through their unique images.
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San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, MĂŠxico
visits
san miguel de allende
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FERCH
S
San Miguel de Allende is a place that manages to be both quaint and cosmopolitan at the
same time. Once an important stop on the silver route between Zacatecas and Mexico City, its historic center is filled with well-preserved buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries. With its narrow cobblestone streets, leafy courtyards, fine architectural details and sumptuous interiors, San Miguel de Allende is arguably the prettiest town in Mexico. Famous for its spas and boutique hotels, it is a perfect place to live deep the real flavor and spirit of Mexico. This city is worthy of the title of Cultural Heritage of Humanity, as recognized by UNESCO in 2008. –Miguel Angel Isidro, Consul General of Mexico
eyes Growing up in south Texas has many advantages, the food and the weather among them, but from my earliest sensory memories, it was the music I heard that nourished and warmed me. From the time I could turn the knob on a radio I loved it all, from “British Invasion” pop to Motown soul. But what burrowed into my being and never left were the swooning bolero sounds of the Trio Los Panchos.
Answering the call of love
L
os Panchos’ unabashedly romantic ballads in Spanish featured They called themselves Trio Los Crystales, and they played the trio harmony led by a light as paper, almost feminine tenor music of Los Panchos as if they had lived and written the words voice, accompanied by rhythmic guitar strums, all of which of those songs themselves. Willie was known as “El Curro,” his alpha personality and song styling easily made him the front man were answered by the delicate plucking of the requinto, a smaller, and lead vocalist, while his brother Johnny supported the melody. higher pitched guitar that was invented by Alfredo Gil, one of the My father sang harmony too, but as “El Requinto,” delicately original members of the trio. Gil and Chucho Navarro, both from frisking his bejeweled fingers across the taut guitar strings in Mexico, and Puerto Rican Hernando Avilés met in New York City parry to the melody, his ardent focus was on his guitar. Not even in 1944, and with such iconic recordings as “Si Tú Me Dices Ven,” slim manicured hands “Solamente Una brushing against his Vez,” and “Sabor A My father sang harmony too, but as “El Requinto,” delicately suit pocket, deftly Mí,” they became inserting folded bits of globally famous frisking his bejeweled fingers across the taut guitar strings in cocktail napkins with and eternally parry to the melody, his ardent focus was on his guitar. phone numbers could beloved. All three distract him, as my sang and played mother can still recall. guitar, with Avilés’ Naturally shy, my father’s reserved, almost glacial detachment on lead vocals standing as yearning calls of love answered by Gil’s stage only embellished his lean dark looks, and made him the one precise, melodic fingernail skips across the requinto. And though to watch, as they listened, and listened, and listened. like most of the world I loved the melodies, it was “El Requinto” (which came to identify both the instrument and the player) that These reflections of my father come became a key part of my life’s soundtrack, more so because my from my own potent childhood father was one from the time I could remember. memories, added to those of my Joe Edward Arciniega Sr. never learned to read music. From the age of seven when everyone knew him by his childhood nickname Sweepy (a derivative of Sweetpea the “Popeye” cartoon character), he taught himself to sing and play guitar entirely by ear, recreating the musical sounds wafting through his central San Antonio house from his talented uncles and mother. Los Panchos hit the local airwaves just before my father was ten years old, and before long he formed a trio with Willie and Johnny Champion, two young sons from another neighborhood musical family. At first, they indulged their love of music for family and friends, but by their teens, their popularity grew and fueled them toward professional engagements headlining at nightclubs across San Antonio.
mother, my aunt and uncles, and some of my father’s friends. I still have questions, but Alzheimer’s disease has robbed my father of his ability to fill in the blanks himself, just as it has stilled his fingers forevermore.
The plaintive melody line, that yearning call of love, is all he can manage now, and the only thing left for me to do is answer it. BY JOE ARCINIEGA
cream february / march 2014
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STYLED
es
accessori
staples
shoes
u.” “for a lighter yo on title with: up tI w bu , llo le fo tic to ar self-help might have of ing this into a n rn io tu ct fle of re n e io er nt No inte e pack a m w w ho l t/ al ha sm w is orts with was wondering, people at airp t ou a ab h g ug in ro isc th in flow ourselves? Rem quickly they noticing how d smart; it’s only an as s on em yth rr ca I think of ly al iti in t, e how boring or rp al crowded ai er that I re iz os cl tle lit a them when I look at
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l costs. I was y to avoid at al tr I t ha w is e, which ort; no offense their clothes ar sion at an airp ca oc e my on in ” Félix women, but to called “María most beautiful o’s nt ic ou ex M am e of e th t due to there, she was on was pointed ou to it s ve on ic lie ot be I em t e uld use som disappointmen co I ish w d I de re ci e is whe time I de of baggage (her s reasons, this ou vi e ob e th r th fo r g ce). Fo you alon describe my fa topic and invite g in ng le al ch t os er. to tackle my m packing togeth lve to solve over –or ever y ride. Let ’s reso e previous tips th of l al y pl ap rtunity to getaway should This is an oppo for a weekend r, te at m at th of adowed by the rule in the book weekend oversh a t no alize , ay w ta ge ng when you re be just that, a go terribly wro to bad a it r ith fo w ly ng on me or endi ho extra luggage ck ba n te ot was forg ght. O uch. that something cause of the wei be er ld id ou sh sprained on. No one sa practical carr ya is le hi is w th d to un n e tips I fo The only solutio so here are som e, in nc rie to sc di a t E no e’s y Magazin ck that packing is Lu ). ch ar . se ts re en ch (yes, ns and ev doing my resear ng out occasio pi ap m it e ts es rit w gg n su outfit; Chief Eva Che st day and first start by the fir to sy ea it d un I fo ve to... down if you ha
Let’s begin with Friday, the day we travel, so a
casual/comfortable look is key. Take advantage of wearing your chunkiest knit or coat instead of tucking it in your suitcase, these take up most of the space. Being on a tight schedule could be the case, so changing into a new outfit might not be an option. Be ready with accessories and makeup at hand. The taking an outfit from day to night tips a.k.a. two-timing is perfect for this scenario. Go with what you feel comfortable in, always thinking of staples like jeans and a grey t-shirt.
The following list includes my must haves for a fun weekend adventure. Gals, take this as a guide when embarking on the difficult task of packing for a spontaneous trip away from home. Apply all the tips, but again always remember to be true to your own style and keep things simple.
Staples:
-blazer (Denim Anorak) -1 pair of jeans -white tee shirt -LBD (little black dress) -coordinating set (shorts + jacket)
Saturday: Luckily for me, matching sets are
day
still trending strong this season and the excitement of killing 3 birds with one stone elevates my status to pro packer.
DAY
2
Accessories:
-a pair of sunglasses -2 statement necklaces -1 hat -evening clutch -shoulder bag for day
Shoes:
-slip ons (great for traveling in airports) -pumps for night -boots
DAY
3 As for Sunday,
the day of our return, there’s brunch planned and maybe some last minute shopping. Although a more relaxed day, we must still look put together.
No woman in her right mind reserves only one outfit per day, but the whole point is to get as many sets from limited pieces. The contents of our suitcase(s) should not reveal anything else but our sartorial choices, and if we fall short, it gives us the perfect excuse to shop (using our saved cash from baggage fees) and fill all that extra space in our luggage which in all makes us look good, smart, and flow carelessly through check point. Mission accomplished. BY MICHELLE COOK GUTIÉRREZ
Michelle is a street fashion blogger living in Laredo, Texas. Follow her blog at nicethingsandstuff.blogspot.com
cream february / march 2014
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creamtips
Check
this out!
Brick vgp
is introducing Laredo to the first all wood burning pizza brick oven. Within weeks, this hot spot has received great reviews for its delicious and unique spin on the famous Italian import. Be sure to visit this eatery for lunch or even late dinner at 120 W. Village Blvd. Suite 115, and try the classic, yet tasteful Queen Margherita Pizza and La Poblana Pizza, among many other Cream favorites! 36
cream february / march 2014
nuestra familia es
años de casados
el secreto de nuestro amor es
ELIZABETH P. DE GÓMEZ REJÓN
RAÚL MANUEL GÓMEZ REJÓN
creamout&about
disbursement dinner The Women’s City Club of Laredo has once again showed its altruistic side by holding their annual disbursement dinner, where all proceeds go towards benefiting various charitable organizations. We congratulate them for their dedication and the great example they set for the community.
art exhibit Here at Cream, we have the pleasure of featuring a wide range of up-and-coming new artists. Keeping that in mind, Ricardo Antonio Guerrero III’s art exhibit “Zoolirium” was a true display of talent from a unique craftsman. You can check out more of his work via our “Crème Brûlée” section illustrations.
want to feature your event? contact us for more info at info@creamcitymagazine.com
creamlifestyle
We
BY ELYSSA CANALES
Cars MODELS JOSÉ ARMANDO JIMÉNEZ ELIANA ARIZOLA
F
or every one of our publications, we are constantly striving to find the latest and the greatest, from techy gadgets to fashion trends...we are on it! That’s why it’s no surprise we’re raving about Powell Watson’s Mercedes-Benz of Laredo! This issue is all about Cream certifying the elite and the luxurious fleet of vehicles catered for all of today’s society. Topped off by a level of customer service that leaves almost nothing to its competitors, let us show you why these guys are ranking high on our charts.
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cream february / march 2014
20 QUESTIONS
monica notzon BY ELYSSA CANALES
For a moment, Judge Mónica Zapata Notzon enters the Cream office and there is an instant aura that fills the room. A sense select few contain and a caliber of greatness that physically resonates. There is something undeniably sexy cool about a woman who radiates confidence, independence, and effortless class. Is this what rock stars are made of? In a recent sit down, we had the pleasure of getting to know a little about her life. Here is a look at the woman behind the black robe...
G
IVE US YOUR BEST ACRONYM FOR
THE LETTERS J.U.D.G.E. Justice, Understanding, Dedication, God Fearing, Efficient WHAT CAREER DID YOU ASPIRE TO PURSUE AS A CHILD? A ballet dancer. I danced ballet from the age of two through law school graduation. IF YOU COULD CHOOSE ANYONE TO MEET DEAD
OR
ALIVE,
WHICH
HISTORICAL
Wyatt Earp. So manly. I’ve watched the movies and read the books. He was fearless and terrifying. DO YOU THINK ITS POSSIBLE
FIGURE WOULD YOU PICK?
TO EVER TO FEEL FULLY ACCOMPLISHED?
Satisfied, yes; accomplished, no. There’s always so much to learn, even outside my field. I’m always striving to keep up with politics, current events, and the arts. IF YOU COULD LEARN TO DO ANYTHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Martial
Arts, any form.
WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO START YOUR
I’ve always participated in community service, but with my current position, I am able to do so much more. The sweater drive was the brainchild of my staff. It is small because my staff sponsors the event but we look forward to this event every fall. As for the toy drive, the kids we service are so grateful. I can’t express the satisfaction I feel after visiting the second graders for this Santa treat. WHAT OR WHO ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? My three children. My daughters Natalí and Ana Claudia are ANNUAL TOY AND SWEATER DRIVE?
beautiful inside and out, both excelling in college. My son, Jack, is the treasure of my life. He’s 11 years old but still so dependent on me. He still lets me hold his hand but also lectures me about sports. THREE TIPS FOR MOMS BALANCING A FAMILY AND A CAREER? 1. Eliminate guilt, 2. Make lists, 3. Make some time for yourself everyday. WHAT STORY DOES YOUR FAMILY ALWAYS TELL ABOUT YOU? In high school I was caught smoking behind the school gym. LETS MIX IT UP! FAVORITE CINEMA TREATS? I channel Olivia Pope. Popcorn and red wine. Is there anything else? DO YOU HAVE ANY ORIGINAL RECIPES? Not sure if it’s original; pounded chicken breasts coated in egg and Dijon mustard with a seasoning of almond flour, panko and cayenne pepper baked for 30 minutes. YOUR FAVORITE FEEL GOOD MOVIE? The Goodbye Girl. YOU’RE HAPPIEST WHEN… My kids and I are enjoying a movie and conversation while camped out in my living room. I am a total homebody. WHAT WAS THE LAST MOVIE, TV SHOW OR BOOK THAT MADE YOU CRY OR TEAR UP? None recently, but I cried to a song, Linkin Park’s “In The End.” I heard it in a hospital room at the request of my best friend’s husband. He was suffering from terminal cancer and was having a bad day. We will miss him. WHAT’S YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Scandal. A retired Judge turned me on to this TV show. I’m hooked. WHAT’S THE #1 MOST PLAYED SONG ON YOUR PLAYLIST? Miss Independent by Ne-Yo. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON OF THE YEAR? WHY? Winter. The reason is simple, I live in Laredo, enough said. WHAT WAS THE FIRST THING YOU BOUGHT WITH YOUR FIRST PAYCHECK? Red YSL lipstick. WHEN YOU HAVE 30 MINUTES OF FREE TIME, HOW DO YOU PASS THE TIME? Exercise!! I’m a gym rat. Anytime. Everyday. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE VACATION SPOT? San Miguel de Allende. It’s like traveling to another era, the best of Mexico. cream february / march 2014
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creamtips
YOGApose of the month Realign this new year with the Half Moon Pose (Ardha Chandrasana).
T
his posture is fantastic for improving coordination and increasing your sense of balance. After the holidays, we can sometimes feel like we have lost our upright posture and get togethers can leave us feeling fatigued. Because our heart is higher than our head, Half Moon efficiently prevents fatigue. This posture also improves digestion and relieves stress, simultaneously strengthening the abdomen, ankles, thighs, glutes, and spine. It is the #1 posture for individuals who would like to increase their proprioception or body awareness. Happy Half Mooning!
Model: Adriana RodrĂguez
crème brûlée BY MEMO JIMÉNEZ ILLUSTRATIONS RICARDO A. GUERRERO III
titanic
It’s about to be Valentine’s Day. The horror! Some of you will be lucky enough to spend it with someone special, but the rest of us will have to settle for a pint of ice cream and a fully-loaded Netflix queue. I mean, why have a love life of our own when we can just live vicariously through someone else’s relationship? Take Jack and Rose’s, from Titanic, for instance. Their story is so sad because no matter how much they legit love each other, you know there’s no way they’re going to end up together. It’s not even about money or class. There are things bigger than that, like destiny. Imagine going on a cruise with your bae and then you never come back because some silly iceberg. No. Our hearts are too weak to experience real pain like that. You see, a night full of Netflix is just...safer.
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cream february / march 2014
city of angels
If you’re not into tragedies though, you can always watch something more uplifting like City of Angels, an oldie but goodie featuring none other than Nicolas Cage. I know, I know, we all forgot he used to be a rom-com kind of guy. This movie is great because it’s basically the original Twilight (a story about supernatural love), except instead of sparkly vampires we’re dealing with real life angels sent from heaven. Meg Ryan plays the beautiful mortal that angel Nick Cage falls in love with. It’s also a really stressful movie because he’s immortal and she’s getting older every day and the only way they can be together is if he gives up eternity in the kingdom of heaven. Like. What kind of stakes are those? Half the time Meg Ryan just feels like she’s losing it, and I personally don’t blame her. Lesson: don’t fall for supernatural beings.
the notebook
Instead, you should fall in love with someone like Ryan Gosling, the star of Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook. I know someone in your life (probably female) has either mentioned it or made you watch it because this chick flick is like the Olive Garden of romantic movies. The film is credited with the outstanding achievement of “Creating Unrealistic Expectations About Life and Love in the Minds of All Young Girls in America.” Ryan Gosling fixes a house for Rachel McAdams because he loves her and wants to spend the rest of his life with her. The problem is he’s also really poor and Rachel’s daddy is not into it. But you know the power of love is everything and they end up in the same retirement home. Cute, right? Wrong. She gets dementia and forgets everything. The whole point of the movie is to get her to remember him.
serendipity
But I guess if you absolutely and most definitely believe in destiny and the Rule of Attraction and love at first sight, then there might actually be a movie that will restore your faith in love. It’s called Serendipity and features a younger John Cusack and that hot girl from Pearl Harbor, Kate Beckinsale. The story is essentially about two star-crossed lovers that meet while shopping for gloves at a New York bloomies (Bloomingdale’s). At the end of their magical evening, they say something like, “If we’re meant to be then we’ll find each other again” (totally paraphrasing), and go separate ways. The two of them try to move on and get engaged but eventually they decide to go looking for each other. I won’t spoil the ending. Whichever way you decide to spend this “holiday” though, just remember that the most important relationship in your life should be with yourself. Memo is a pop culture blogger from Laredo, Texas living in Austin, Texas. Follow his blog at dirtycultblog.com