Contributors&Publisher’s Letter
founder & publisher fernando de haro
september • december 2021
N 61 O
Design & Production
W
copy editor elizabeth cortÉs
elcome to our 61st edition! After half a year on hiatus, we have been preparing and gathering all the elements necessary for this edition amidst the pandemic, and we are thrilled to have you with us for our 61st issue. It has been a time of many highs and lows around the world and of many changes in Cream. We are experiencing a transformation and expansion which has taken some time and planning, and we are still not done transforming ourselves. However, I am looking forward to returning soon to normality one step at a time, as everyone is doing.
lead designer gabriela lozano photographer ferch sales representative leticia gaytán
Writers joe arciniega víctor hugo garcía elyssa canales villarreal lisa astorga watel nayeli nava citlalli esquivel leonor rodriguez
SALES & ADVERTISING
For this issue, we traveled to the amazing San Miguel de Allende in Guanajuato. We had the chance to capture the exquisite beauty of the actress María del Carmen Félix for our fashion editorial. We had a fantastic time, and the pictures with María were top-notch! Plus, she shared many details about her career in showbiz during an exclusive interview at the majestic Sagrada Ranch! There are lots of extraordinary things going on right now at Cream! I want to add that from now on, we will include more articles and stories from San Antonio, Texas since we are going through a transition until we fully become a magazine with our heart on both cities. This is a mission we have been seeking, and each day we are getting closer to achieving this goal.
I want to officially welcome our new contributor who will delight our readers with culinary topics, an absolute rock star chef: Lisa Astorga! Beginning with this edition, Lisa will be part of our Cream Team, and it is an honor for me to have such an exceptional human being amongst our pages. You will love her section “Chef en Heels.” It’s a must-see!
I hope you enjoy this Cream as much as we did! We are constantly evolving and working to bring you the latest stories of the most influential people, prominent companies, high-end commercial outlets, and trendsetters worldwide! See you on our December edition with lots of surprises and, most of all, loads of Cream!
XOXO,
sales@creamcitymag.com
Ferch
Cream Team No. 61
gaby
info@creamcitymag.com
elizabeth
956.220.5440
cream city magazine creamcitymagazine
lety
Copyright © 2021 Cream City Magazine. 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.
citlalli
cream_citymag
24 María Bonita
María del Carmen CREAM Fashion Editorial
Contents Antonio's 6 San Movers & Shakers
11 14 18 32
Sagrada Holistic Ranch San Miguel de Allende
Food+Fashion +Passion
Chef en Heels
Being Him
Arciniega Eyes
A Piece for the Uninspired
Mommin’ Made Chic
from 40 Smiling Within
San Antonio,TX | Cream City Magazine
San Antonio’s
Movers & Shakers Want to meet San Antonio’s top power players who are redefining and shaping the city’s landscape? This wave of innovators has taken the city to new heights, bringing an impressive surge of energy to their industries. We caught up with these extraordinary personalities who are raising the bar and who let us in on their must-visit places, noteworthy picks, powerful advice, and what’s in store for the city’s future ahead.
Rahul B. Patel
San Antonio,TX | Cream City Magazine
Rahul B. Patel A visionary and a leader, Rahul B. Patel is rock-solid in the San Antonio scene as an entrepreneur, attorney, and NBA Executive. He leads one of the fastest-growing law firms in the nation as co-founder and partner of Patel Gaines. We loved his unique personal story of resilience, hard work, and dedication that is truly inspiring. Thanks for sharing your story with our readers, Rahul. Can you tell us more about yourself? Where are you from, and since when do you call San Antonio your home? I grew up in a small-town Lima, Ohio – I like to say: never rich in dollars, but rich in family. I moved to San Antonio with less than $600 and a car full of stuff in 2009. What inspires you every day? Leaving behind a legacy that my kids will be able to take one step further. My parents came here with nothing but a dream and a bag – so it’s up to us to make that mean something. Besides running your business, what is something you are passionate about? Health and fitness. Our nation needs to tackle the over 70% overweight and obesity statistic. A better world starts with our nutrition and fitness. I went through a weight loss journey myself, and I know that every one of us out there can do it. We know you love basketball; what sparked your passion for this sport? The game’s speed, the global nature of the game, and just the overall accessibility to all. No matter the size, strength, or position, a single person can affect and create their desired outcome. Please tell us Jordan, Kobe, or LeBron? They are all great. But the one that will get there next will be Keldon Johnson. But I grew up a Jordan fan! We have noticed you have a high sense of sophistication in your workspace and remarkable personal fashion style; how have you developed such a good taste? If you look good, you feel good. It is important to be comfortable and have a workplace that feels the same. Looking good is unique to each person. However, for me, I enjoy it for myself. The challenge of mixing, matching, and coordinating things to create a look that makes me feel like the best RBP I can be for that day! What is your most valuable personality trait? Resilience. The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties leads to the best way to grow! Do you admire anyone in particular, and why? My father. He came to this country with nothing more than $8 and a dream. It didn’t always sit right at the time – but today, I appreciate more than anything what he did for me! He worked his tail off, worked hard, saved, and always pushed me to be better, stronger, and smarter. Rahul, please tell us about your career and what sparked your interest in it? I always had a passion for making a deal and making friends along the way. To find common ground, so all can win. But, more importantly, I wanted to do something different – something that my other family members, cousins, and other Indian Americans were not doing. And honestly, I hated science and loved business. Then finding law school just married the best of all worlds for me!
What challenges did you face at the beginning of your career? The biggest challenge for me was working up the self-courage to follow my passion and not what was expected of me. Of course, doing that brought out a doubt in my supporters and me. But those early dark days make the light even brighter when it shines through. In the ever-changing property tax and real estate climate, what makes Patel Gaines stand out? Attention to detail, and most importantly – we care. We know what clients deal with, what they need to operate their business, and more than anything – we are there to make sure they are making the best decision for them and their business. As one of the founders of Patel Gaines, what has been your most rewarding experience? Building a business with people that have become my family. I love knowing about my team members’ families, kids, and what makes them happy. To what factors do you attribute your success? It all stems from breaking from what was “expected of me” – growing up Indian American, the path in life was the medical field. When I broke from that – the pressure was on me to prove to all my loved ones that I wanted to follow my “heart,” not what society said was best for me. Rahul, have you enjoyed your Cream experience with us? Do you have any words of wisdom for us and our readers? 100% fantastic team! I love the publication, and most importantly, they do a tremendous job of showcasing what is so exciting about Texas. The opportunity, the success, and most importantly – the amazing fashion we all have! CREAM 7
San Antonio,TX | Cream City Magazine
Javier Vazquez
When Javier Vazquez first moved to San Antonio in 1998 to attend university (UTSA), he was impressed with how big the city was, compared to Laredo, his hometown. However, after years passed, his perspective changed, and he feels San Antonio “it’s a big city but with a small-town feel.” Although he misses his family and friends at Laredo (and the food too, of course!), he has made this city his hometown. Always on the move, Javier also enjoys relaxing with a nice glass of wine and his loved ones. But, when asked about his greatest passion, he says, “I love to help people in any way possible, so I think it matches perfectly with what I am doing in my daily life.”
As a dream home matchmaker located in San Antonio and the surrounding areas, Vazquez believes buying a house is an essential milestone in everyone’s life. However, in San Antonio’s hot real estate market, his main advice is patience!
Describing himself as hyper and intense, Vazquez is highly motivated by the future. As a firm believer of “don’t sit and relax, just act!” he constantly competes with himself. Inspired by his grandfather Mr. Rosendo Martinez and his mother, Gladys Martinez, Javier visualizes himself growing his real estate business three or four times its size with a great team by his side. What is your favorite thing to do in San Antonio? My favorite thing to do in SA is to discover new restaurants and bars. I simply love it! I believe I was a food critic in another life. Where is your favorite after-work hangout spot in San Antonio? After a long day, the best place to hang out with friends or clients is Mirasol and enjoy some Chispas.
What is your favorite restaurant in San Antonio? I have a lot, and don’t get me started on that subject. But my favorite one is Bohanan’s Prime Steakhouse. What was the biggest surprise this past year brought? Of course, last year was a challenging year for everyone. But one of my biggest surprises was that I was able to grow my business almost double in a very different scenario, a global pandemic.
Javier, can you please share any words of wisdom with our readers? There is a quote in Spanish that I simply love. “Trabaja para vivir, no vivas para trabajar. El tiempo con tus seres queridos no se puede comprar con dinero.” 8 CREAM
Ana Villarreal Born in Mexico City, Ana lived in different cities before settling in her new hometown. With her finger on the pulse of San Antonio’s urban planning scene, Ana Villarreal truly enjoys doing what she does best— “researching trends, creating maps, and working with communities” to shape this city’s future.
In 2021, architecture is all about...the human experience. Design goes beyond aesthetics, and it has the ability to respond to the needs of people, inspire and connect communities, and foster innovation in sustainable ways. Being a daughter of an architect, Ana was exposed early on to the idea of buildings, but didn’t grow a deep appreciation until she “started traveling and understanding the built environment as an integral part of culture, experiences, perceptions, and behavior.” As an incredibly creative person, Villarreal is deeply inspired by photography. She looks at life through a unique lens; which allows her to go through a transformative process that gives her a fresh perspective and appreciation of her surroundings. Inspired by San Antonio’s rich history, Villarreal’s main goal as an urban planner is to “increase its quality of life, expand economic opportunities, and further support diversity and inclusion of all people.” Working as a Senior Planner for the city what she enjoys the most is “the people-oriented process where diverse groups come together to reflect on shared experiences, concerns, and aspirations”, shares Villarreal.
Highly motivated by being of service, Villarreal likes to contribute to causes that are bigger than her. She has learned through her work experience that “we are all interconnected to everything around us. Let’s reflect on these connections and our individual responsibility to co-create the places we want to inhabit. There’s much more to gain if we see beyond ourselves and work together.”
What is your favorite architectural style? While I admire most styles and innovations of construction over time, I feel particularly drawn to vernacular architecture principles. This style is fundamentally driven by its context, which provides visitors an insight into the geographic conditions, values, materials, techniques, and needs of a particular place. A building tells us a lot about a city’s culture and way of life. What is your favorite building or structure in San Antonio? My favorite building experience in San Antonio is standing on the original city center marker inside the San Fernando Cathedral. Not only was it the town’s center when it was first built in 1730, but it continues to be the main church of the Archdiocese of San Antonio and a center of activities today. What is your favorite thing to do in San Antonio? My favorite thing to do in San Antonio (especially after the pandemic hit the city) has been to take daily walks along the southern stretch of the River Walk. I highly recommend a visit as it’s not only beautiful but safe, free and accessible to all people. Where is your favorite after-work hangout spot in San Antonio? Tito’s Mexican Restaurant is my most frequented spot in the city. It’s located on a vibrant street with amazing views of downtown San Antonio and an unbeatable mango-chamoy margarita on the menu. What is your favorite restaurant in San Antonio? Battalion is my hidden gem. Tucked in a small corner of Southtown, it offers great Italian food inside a beautifully restored historic fire station. And, it also scores major points on location as it is within walking distance of both neighborhood-scale amenities and major downtown attractions.
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Editorial | Cream City Magazine
Sagrada
Holistic Ranch
L
ocated high in the cool hills of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende is a colonial gem of cobblestone streets and picturesque churches. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 for its beautiful color, character, and light. It’s no wonder both artists and tourists alike continue to flock to this magical town. It is also the home to Sagrada Holistic Ranch, a 15-acre, all-inclusive eco-chic boutique hotel nestled amidst a stunning Organos Cacti garden more than 400 years old. Equal parts beautiful, heavenly, and thoughtfully crafted by our very own Laredo native, Victor Hugo Garcia.
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Editorial | Cream City Magazine
From the moment you step foot on this gorgeous sanctuary, you are welcomed by Alejandro, striking views, and Max, the sweet ranch dog. The kind staff aims to create a zen atmosphere allowing for a foundation both nurturing and rejuvenating. Guests have their choice of beautiful adobe villas, Casas with full amenities, or glamping style in grass structures. Delicious vegan and vegetarian meals, mindfulness teaching, a cold plunge pool, sauna, an ancestral temazcal, and activities such as mountain hiking, tai chi, yoga, sound healing meditations, and massage therapy are amongst the practices found at the ranch. Massage therapist Armando is a master in emotional massage healing. His expertise assists you in understanding the core thinking behind stress and emotional symptoms that drive issues like anxiety, addiction, and depression. As a result, through his therapy, many gain a stronger sense of clarity and spiritual reflection. Undeniably so, a sense of healing is instantly felt and Sagrada quickly becomes a place that delivers a total escape from your daily stressors. As travel begins to gain momentum and the pandemic is becoming a thing of the past, Sagrada understands that travelers are also looking for a reset on life. The neat thing about this restorative vacation is its holistic approach, a retreat that offers a pathway to healing. The idea is to allow you to work through physical and personal issues in an individualized program. Wellness professionals strive to curate unique daily schedules, diet, and other rehabilitation elements. The focus for each guest, couple, or even a group is to deliver a personalized recovery plan as opposed to a one-size-fitsall. This is possibly why holistic healing programs have become internationally acclaimed and achieve long-term outcomes among the industry leaders. 12 CREAM
The name itself, Sagrada, means Sacred. A beautiful place, easily accessible yet a world away from your everyday life. Whether seeking a beautiful escape or tapping into a holistic transformation, this enchanted retreat aims to heal the mind, body, and spirit. It truly is a little piece of heaven and quite possibly will become your favorite spot on earth.
Editorial
Food + Fashion
+ Passion BY LISA ASTORGA WATEL
M
aking an impact both in the kitchen and the runway is what I am known for and spicing things up is what I love to do. I was born in Chile and trained at culinary school for my craft, but never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined creating this beautiful life both in our commercial and home kitchen, which comes alive with patrons and friends continuously. That is what prompted me to begin to share my secrets with you. My history and career begins in Chile and have been building up like a flavored layered pasta dish. In my last restaurant called Bite and my current partnership with Chef Damien Watel (also known as my husband) at Bistr09, I strive to serve our new and regular customers daily divine delicacies. Working with renowned actors and fashion designers inspired me to create San Antonio Fashion Brunches, which unites the community and my passions for that picture-worthy presentation.
Being married to a French man has its perks, I must say, like knowing more about curated wines, which I can pair with my very own creations. But please, let’s not disregard other regions of wines around the world, especially those from my native Chile. We can share more of these thoughts when you visit us both at our city’s local beautiful modern French brasserie eatery in Alamo Heights, called Bistr09. I grew up the youngest of 4 children in our family home, and that is where my love for food, style, and fashion began. I want to share and introduce you to my views and years of experience with cooking and heating things up both in the kitchen and the runway, which is where “Chef en Heels” comes from. Yes, I do wear heels routinely and sometimes even in the kitchen. Unlike the recipes I share with you below, I am sure my heels confession deserves a full disclaimer, “as that may not be recommended to try at home.” But come on, everything is sexier in heels. Whether in your stateliest stilettos or not, cooking can be fun and easy.
It begins with the right recipes for the appropriate occasion, whether it be a formal dinner or simply a friends’ elegant night at home followed by a night of dancing with shoes off. Regardless, everything can be made sexy. It begins with your eyes. Presentation is an essential aspect of the culinary foodie world, as is fashion. Bringing both together is a well-choreographed plating dish. So stay on your heels with me while I show you straight chef shortcuts to create delicious and beautiful genuine healthy eye candy easy enough to eat every day. Remember everything you do, you can always do it better in heels. They can make you feel more confident in both the runway, walking to drop your kids off at school, walking into your home or office, and even in your kitchen (which you too can master with many dishes). As I learned from my roots, as a young girl in Chile, we eat with our eyes first, so make it beautiful and put the passion and love into it as you do with your wardrobe. Be that sexy chef you know how to be, beginning with your most stunning heels forward! 14 CREAM
Berries & IceQueen Spending time in Paris and Provence and having too many loving cooks in the kitchen, you realize the need to stand out quickly. Our game was a race to the banquet table. Trust me, it was tough to stand out amongst 27 cooks in the kitchen. Only some of us would have the courage to take charge, and here is an excellent quick recipe to help you get there. From that corner gelato spots in Europe, you can gather the simplicity of the fresh fruit and how to make it part of your daily life in beautiful ways. My mother-in-law (Lucile) truly taught me the simplicity of this recipe, not to be served on a cone but even better. Get creative, even if it’s fun and flirty. Turning a tub of ice cream upside down and creating a crown of berries atop is simple, practical, and impressive.
Beet-it Goat Salad Beet and goat cheese is very popular, but I wanted to beat it up a bit. Therefore you can make it uncomplicated, easy, and eye-catching…eat with your eyes! Balsamic reduction brings the flavors up, and you can even dress it with your own dressing. Not to mention antioxidants in the beets are so good for our skin. Not only is this delicious, but it also helps with our daily beauty regimen, so let your guests know they are eating healthy.
Berries & IceQueen Ingredients are simply your choice of vanilla ice cream, topped with fresh berries coulis (simple puree and strained berry sauce).
Nicoise Salad From my trips to Nice, I enjoyed the healthy nature choices at hand from the locals. Again going back to how simple and beautiful it can be, surrounded by family and simple organic foods, you too can create spectacular dishes. The architect of the plate can always play a lot with the food’s assembly. It is like putting outfits together. The components of this recipe shine through, so do build your very own Nicoise Salad, as this is another excellent and straightforward practical dish originating from the Mediterranean Sea.
Beet-it Goat Salad Ingredients are as follows: just cooked beets slices and warmed goat cheese piped in by the layers in between. It’s like building yourself a beets lasagna. Once you have your layers set up, press down to your liking, making sure it’s firm enough to slice and serve.
www. bistr09.com www. SAFashionBrunch.com Nicoise Salad The ingredients I used are as follows: hard-boiled eggs, French green beans, carrots, mixed green medley, seared tuna sliced to your liking, olives, roasted tomatoes, roasted bell peppers, boiled new potatoes, and garnished anchovies.
www.Che fenHeels .com
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CreamBiz | Cream City Magazine
Michel Marbel Torres proves you can have it all! The looks, the brains, the personality, and the strength to become the successful owner of Vivify. We had a chance to meet Michel, and we assure you she will take your breath away as she took ours! Read on to get a glimpse of her vibrant personality and the secrets behind Vivify’s success.
Vivify your Life! MICHEL MARBEL TORRES 16 CREAM
Among a sea of stores, Vivify is not only a fashion boutique. Vivify is a community of women who empower each other by creating partnerships to serve and promote several businesses within the same network and support other women entrepreneurs in the industry. Also, Vivify has co-hosted and collaborated on fashion shows, pop-up shops, red carpet events, commercial shoots, and art shows.
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ichel is a spirited woman born in Texas but raised in Mexico. She spent her childhood summers in Tamaulipas and Nuevo León. When she married the love of her life, they decided to relocate to Dallas, Texas to pursue better career opportunities. Then she created Vivify in 2019, a refined storefront shop located in Dallas serving all DFW metroplex clients, as well as an online boutique that ships all over the U.S. They say there has to be a personal touch to your brand, and that is exactly what Michel did. She envisioned women feeling positively revitalized when wearing her brand. The inspiration behind Vivify is to live with a vivid and invigorating chirpiness, to be spirited and vigorous. She wants her clients to experience what it means to support lifting spirits through fashion and body positivity. Those who know Michel know that she has tremendous energy and the term Vivify couldn’t define her any better. However, her entrepreneur journey started as a fashion model in Dallas when the prestigious Alice Laura Modeling Agency hired her. She had the opportunity to work on tradeshows, fashion shows, corporate events, acting commercial shoots, and charity events. There, Michel gained access to networks within the fashion industry. This experience influenced her career in building trust in clients, and she began to promote and advertise her business. Besides being a beautiful woman, she is also pretty smart. Michel graduated top of her class, earned four college degrees and an SPHR certification specializing in Human Resources Management. Ten years of HR Senior Management and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration have been extremely useful to building a small business like Vivify. Michel’s education has allowed her to run a genuine, productive, and effective brand through building trust, revenue growth, project management, planning organizational structure, customer value and retention, leadership, and inspiring women.
As a successful entrepreneur, Michel constantly empowers and encourages women to start their own businesses. She believes that what makes the difference is to do your homework and research until every aspect is covered. It is crucial to understand your target audience fully and know that it is completely okay to make changes to your original business proposal. Above all, Michel’s true passion is being a mother, and she wants to teach her son about leadership, commitment, and dedication. However, she also wants to teach him how to be kind, humble, generous, courageous, and disciplined. As you know, at Cream we are all about empowering and celebrating women in business, and we are amazed by what Michel has accomplished with Vivify. Meeting her has been so inspiring, and her brand’s concept certainly feels like a breath of fresh air that lifts one’s spirit! CREAM 17
Arciniega Eyes Editorial
Being Him I
n my acting days, there was always the moment when the lines were learned and began to feel like words from my thoughts, instead of a script. By then, my blocking was set; I knew when and where to enter, walk, stand, or sit. And the moment I was able to do all of that in full costume, makeup, and hair, can only be described as transformational. If I glanced toward a mirror, I could almost swear it was Don Quixote, Macbeth, or Henry Higgins lifting his chin, arching his brow, and whispering “Let’s go.” In those moments, portraying such iconic characters was supplanted by simply being them. Yet, nothing could prepare me for portraying, much less being, my great-great-great-great grandfather, Jose Miguel de Arciniega.
It was ten years ago that I first wrote and performed an interactive monologue as my own Tejano great ancestor for a celebration of his life before hundreds of his descendants and guests gathered in San Antonio from across the country. Fully costumed in Spanish colonial dress, I adopted an accent, and presented him as visiting from the past, but fully aware of the present, as befitting the privileges of eternity. The distraction of His surprise for me, in that last look my usual meticulous preparation for the performance lulled me into believing and from that moment forward, that this would be one like any other. But in the final moments before I entered was that he also made himself felt. the ballroom, a look in the lobby mirror dispelled any such notion. My plan all along was for Jose Miguel de Arciniega to be seen and heard, a live dramatization of our illustrious ancestor. His surprise for me, in that last look and from that moment forward, was that he also made himself felt. Jose Miguel de Arciniega was born to Jose Gregorio Arciniega and Maria Josefa Flores de Abrego on September 20, 1793 in what was then known as Santa Rosa located in Coahuila, when Mexico was still a viceroyalty of New Spain. He arrived with his family to present-day San Antonio in 1803 at the age of nine. His father Jose Gregorio was a Spanish colonial mounted lancer in the world-famous regiment, La Segunda Compania Volante de Alamo de Parras, which was sent to protect the territories of King Carlos IV. These soldiers and their families lived in the Mission San Antonio de Valero, which because of its illustrious Alamo de Parras Company occupants, became known as the Alamo. Young Jose Miguel lived in the Alamo until he was seventeen years old, when his father retired and received a Spanish grant of land in the center of town. In 1811, he helped his father build their first home, reportedly using discarded stones from the Alamo itself. The house still stands at the corner of Arciniega Street and South Presa, now preserved as an intimate event space for the Marriott Plaza Hotel, which sits upon a portion of this original homestead. Jose Miguel eventually joined the Alamo de Parras Company, serving from his late teens through his early forties. This lifelong patriot served the State of Texas for thirty-six years across four different governments under Spain, Mexico, The Republic of Texas, and the United States.
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Fortunately, he spoke Spanish, English, French and Native dialects. These he deployed in dealing with as many ethnic factions toward cross cooperation and peace keeping efforts vitally necessary during this volatile time in Texas. His formal government assignments were imposing, such as standing as interpreter for General Martin Perfecto de Cos after the Siege of Bexar for the signing of his surrender and peace treaty with General Edward Burleson. He and Jose Antonio Navarro were elected deputies to the State Congress of Coahuila y Tejas, a constituent state of the United Mexican States, for which he was a Legislator and Secretary, writing over 300 laws, including those regarding Texas colonization. These applied when he served as Land Commissioner to colonize Texas with Stephen F. Austin, during which he signed a four-league grant for the town that he platted and named Bastrop, in honor of their mutual friend Felipe Neri, the Baron de Bastrop. Jose Miguel also served as Alcalde (Mayor) for the City of San Antonio in 1830 and in 1833, additionally holding other offices such as political chief, judge, County Commissioner, public treasurer, and City Councilman, during his dutiful service to the State of Texas. At his untimely death in May 1849, still only 55 years old, he left his widow Alejandra Losoya and children, including his eldest, my greatgreat-great grandfather Jose Miguel Cristoval. Performing as Jose Miguel de Arciniega at historical, ancestral, and educational events allows me to share the story and continuing legacy of this great Texan. His name, alongside others like Navarro, Ruiz, Seguin, and Losoya, should stand to mean as much to every Texan as those of Crockett, Bowie, Houston, Travis, and Austin. They don’t yet, but we’re working on it. Being him gives me that chance; and it gives him that chance too. “Adelante.” BY JOE ARCINIEGA | arciniegajoe@gmail.com
Alamo de Parras regiment uniform replica on special loan from the Jose Miguel Arciniega Descendants Society (JMADS).
Editorial | Cream City Magazine
The Meet two dynamic achievers who contribute to the development of both Laredos. They are flying high on Cream’s radar.
Celestino Marina
Saul Gutierrez
Restaurant Owner
Production Manager/ Mortgage Loan Officer
My career began when I chose to get my Bachelor’s Degree in hotel and restaurant management. While studying for my degree in Houston, I began to work with the Hyatt Regency Corporation. During my time working with them, I discovered the area that I liked the most was the food and beverage department. When my parents would have events at our house at a young age, I was always more interested in seeing how staff would operate rather than the people attending the party. However, my interest continued to grow, and I was elected to organize my high school graduation. After that one event, I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. My inspiration comes from my loving wife, my wonderful family, and my amazing friends. I have been blessed to have three wonderful children who have grown up to be three strong-minded men and a wife that has always walked next to me. Seeing someone come in for the first time and experiencing our establishment is a joy to watch. However, what is more rewarding to me is seeing individuals that came to my establishment as children now bringing their own families.
The most important advice that I can give to anyone embarking on a journey like mine is to make sure that you love what you will be doing. Because to be successful in this business you have to put in a lot of long hours, a lot of attention to detail and service. 20 CREAM
When I graduated from Texas A&M International University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, I worked opening accounts and supervising daily activities for a local bank. Then God allowed me to redirect my career to mortgage lending as a loan originator in 2006, and that is when my story as a lender began. When the opportunity to work as a teller came, I took the position because I knew in my heart that it was just the beginning of something amazing. I only worked for nine months as a teller and then got promoted as a sales associate. Then, as I finished my formal education, I had the opportunity to start my career in mortgage lending. By 2014 I was blessed with the opportunity to open a fantastic company as PrimeLending is. My inspiration comes from God and my family, who help me continue this rewarding but challenging job. At the beginning of each day, I remember the scriptures: ”Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” Colossians 3:23 NIV. I strongly abide by this bible verse and apply it to my life daily, and that helps me provide the best service that all my clients deserve.
The most satisfying part about this job is knowing that you are making a family happy. Therefore you always strive to achieve the American dream for your clients.
Editorial | Cream City Magazine
At Laredo’s only Catholic high school, St. Augustine gives students the tools they need to succeed after their studies. The students create strong bonds with each other that last for decades after graduation. Together, they walk the same hallways and follow the same faithbased college prep curriculum that shapes their lives forever.
Success Starts at St. Augustine
Luis Emmanuel Guajardo Financial advisor at Cresta Advisors Class of 2011 BBS, MBA: University of the Incarnate Word How has your education at St. Augustine influenced the person you are today? St. Augustine showed me the value of a strong education and engagement with my community. The education I received prepared me for college and all the professional education that followed. St. Augustine also taught me the importance of serving my community. Participating in the many clubs and service projects offered at St. Augustine inspired me to continue serving my community through participation on non-profit boards.
Describe your favorite St. Augustine tradition. My favorite tradition was Field Day. It would bring classes together to compete against each other. It was always fun to have a little friendly competition and bragging rights around campus. What high school moment at St. Augustine stands out to you? The memories that come to mind are the many games where the gym would be full of not only students but alumni, parents, and faculty. The school’s wide enthusiasm opened my eyes to the fact that St. Augustine is much more than just a school, it’s a community.
What advice would you give to prospective high school students considering St. Augustine? I would tell a prospective student that the tight-knit community that you experience at St. Augustine may not seem very important today but looking back, it is one of the many things I appreciate about the school. The unity isn’t just within individual classes but encompasses classes that graduated before and after you. Many of my close friends today were in my graduating class and the graduating classes within a few years of mine.
CreamBiz | Cream City Magazine
55�
Reasons for Success
Your next night out has just been upgraded! Meet Janet V. Duran, a Laredoan entrepreneur whose passion for pizza captivated us. In the cookie-cutter world of pizzas, she is rewriting the rules by making everything fresh daily at 55� Pizzeria. No premade frozen dough here, just goodness all-around at the new go-to pizza in town! 22 CREAM
Would you please tell our readers more about yourself? I’m from Laredo. Texasborn and raised, I am 34 years old. I have a 15-year-old daughter named Jesika, and she is my everything! Can you please share with us how did 550 Pizzeria came to life? Was it hard in the beginning to start a pizzeria business? 550 Pizzeria has always been a dream. I started working at a pizza shop about ten years ago, and since pizza is my all-time favorite food, I decided I wanted to learn how to make it. My former boss Jeff Treviño took me under his wing and taught me everything I know. It’s easier said than done, but I put a lot of hard work and many hours into making 550. Starting 550 Pizzeria was a long process that took me about three years. I saved money, made pizza from home, worked in the morning at our local TV station KGNS. I went through so many obstacles, but they all have been worth it. What inspired the name of your pizzeria? The name “550 (five-fifty) Pizzeria” came to be because I always remember everything my former boss taught me. He taught me to be patient, to go for more, and never to give up. Plus, every new employee that would come in would ask me, “Janet, what’s the oven supposed to be at?” and I’d shout 550! What makes 550 Pizzeria so unique? What makes 550 Pizzeria so unique is that I believe in making everything fresh daily. A lot of people ask us why do we sell out so much, can’t you just make more? I always say, “Quality over quantity.” What are the atmosphere and vibe your clients will experience at 550 Pizzeria? Our clients will experience the 550 chill vibe. We are just a small local pizzeria, where we want anyone that comes in to feel like they already know us and not to be afraid or shy to ask for a box to go or more ranch dressing. Janet, what inspires you every day? What inspires me every day is my daughter Jesika. I love her so much! I feel like she has seen me go through it all. From closing a pizzeria I worked so hard for, getting a major operation and still making pizza at home, to working at KGNS, to now opening my own pizzeria. I hope that when she feels like giving up like I once did, she says to herself, “No, I’m resilient, and I will not give up.” As a pizza connoisseur, what is your favorite from 550 Pizzeria? Pepperoni mushroom is my all-time favorite! Congratulations! We found out you recently participated in the International Pizza Expo & Conference in Las Vegas. Would you please tell us more about this important event? It was an amazing experience! I met a lot of people from all over the world. I learned so much, and I was able to speak about my city #LareDough! They hadn’t heard of us, but I made sure to speak well about us because, at the end of the day, I did this to put our name out there and make my city proud! Plus, I placed #34 out of 83 competitors from around the globe.
What is your most valuable personality trait, and what does it bring to the 550 Pizzeria table? My most valuable trait is knowing how to market and sell my product, especially because I believe in it. What has been one of your most rewarding moments so far as an entrepreneur? There are so many rewarding things I’ve had come out of 550, but to me, being able to pay it forward has been the best yet! We’ve noticed you are a super fan of Ellen DeGeneres. Would you please tell us more about this? Ellen! It’s been 14 years, and still no word from her. So sad, right? But I’m not giving up. I aired her show daily at KGNS. I laughed and cried with her while doing that. She taught me to pay it forward and be honest. I was going through some tough times in my life, and airing her show at 3 pm was the highlight of my day. So if you ever read this, Ellen, a girl from Laredo, Texas, is still hopefully and patiently waiting for you to reach out. Plus, I have a pizza named after you! Janet, any words of wisdom you would like to share with our readers? It takes hard work, heart, and lots of dedication. Don’t give up because some people don’t believe in you. It’s ok, believe in yourself anyway. Remember to look to God because without him, we have nothing.
www.550pizzeria.com @550Pizzeria
@550pizzeria
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María Bonita María Del Carmen Desde una dama elegante hasta una peligrosa pandillera, María del Carmen Félix, puede meterse bajo la piel de cualquier personaje. Hoy por hoy es una de las actrices más versátiles y talentosas del medio artístico. Con trayectoria a nivel internacional, esta “Yaquesita” como se hace llamar en su cuenta de Instagram, lleva en su sangre la clase de talento que solamente se podría heredar—la sangre Félix. María del Carmen ha luchado a pulso para abrirse su propio camino a pesar de su legendario apellido y su asombroso parecido con su tía abuela. Para esta edición de Cream, María del Carmen nos abrió su corazón y su alma, permitiéndonos ver más allá de su ceja alzada y su piel de puma.
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Fotografía Ferch @helloferch
Maria del Carmen Félix @mariadelcarmen_felix
Vestido Juan Worley @juanworleymx
Actríz
Blanca Cabrera Ramírez @blancacabreraramirez
Lorena Pérez para The Makeup Center @lorenzapc @tmc_mexico
Peinado
Maquillaje
Manuel Delgado @manueldelgado.moda
Coordinador de moda
a Locación The Booker management
Miguel Angel Reyes
Producción
María del Carmen dio sus primeros pasos en el ambiente artístico al ganar el concurso Nuestra Belleza Sonora en 2002. Sin embargo, su destino le deparaba algo más grande que certámenes de belleza. Después de algún tiempo de sentirse abrumada por las comparaciones con su tía abuela, se armó de valor y decidió demostrar que su talento histriónico es especial. Desempeñó papeles tan diversos como “La Coty” la narcoejecutiva en la serie El Desconocido, interpretando a su tía en Drunk History y rompió todos los esquemas con su inolvidable interpretación de “La Puma” en la serie Enemigo Íntimo. No cabe duda de que solamente una Félix como María del Carmen podría tener la fuerza interior para interpretar a “La Puma”―una líder pandillera con un enorme número �3 tatuado sobre su hermoso rostro. También ha participado en proyectos como ZeroZeroZero y Su Nombre era Dolores, la Jenn que yo conocí. Próximamente la podremos ver en la primera gran serie de época de Telemundo llamada Malverde: El Santo Patrón y será la protagonista de la película Antes que lleguen los Zopilotes del director Jónas Nudi. Traje PÊCHE DESIGNS @peche_designs Calzado Patey Woman @pateywomanofficial
Vestido Ibraina @ibraina.atelier
Vestido Niza by Jasive Fernandez @niza_mexico @jasive.fernadez Joyería Caro Castelan @carocastelanmx Calzado Patey Woman @pateywomanofficial
Platícanos, ¿quién es realmente María del Carmen Félix? Soy una mujer sonorense con sangre yaquí por parte de mi madre. Me considero leal, valiente, resiliente y persistente sobre todo cuando algo me mueve el alma. María, ¿qué te motiva a levantarte cada mañana? El deseo de lograr hacer de mí un mejor ser humano y contribuir a generar una sociedad más empática e incluyente. Mi familia, mis seres amados, los que caminan la vida conmigo. La emoción de lo que me falta por vivir y la complejidad que conlleva la vida misma. Tu libro favorito es… Uy, tengo varios.Rayuela de Julio Cortázar, Niebla de Miguel de Unamuno, Delirio de Laura Restrepo, Tokyo Blues de Haruki Murakami. Y así podría seguir con muchos más. Tu talento secreto es… Pues no sé si es tanto como un talento, pero creo que pudiera haberme dedicado a la psicología. Según mis amigos y familia tengo una capacidad de escuchar y desmenuzar ciertas situaciones emocionales complejas. También la cocina me gusta y se me da. ¿Diamantes o perlas? Diamantes. Aunque soy más de la plata. Si pudieras ser un personaje de ficción durante un día, ¿quién te gustaría ser? A nivel literario admiro profundamente las vidas y obras de Virginia Woolf, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz y Rosario Castellanos. Por la ciencia pienso en Marie Curie y por lograr avances en cuanto a derechos de la mujer pienso en Hermila Galindo. ¿Cómo sería el clóset de tus sueños? ¡Grande, muy grande! ¡Ja! Con un tocador de época en el centro y espejos de media luna. Algo que evoque a esa sensualidad suspendida de los años 40's ó 50's. ¿Qué es algo de ti que casi nadie sabe? Quizás que me ponen muy mal las cosquillas en los pies, jajaja y también que escribo diarios, reflexiones, algo parecido a poesía o pequeños cuentos desde los 13 años y tengo una fascinación por hacerlo en libretas de diseños que me gusten mucho. ¿En qué época histórica te gustaría vivir si volvieras a nacer? Tengo una fascinación por la corriente artística que se vivió en los años 40’s y 50’s. A pesar de haber sido unos tiempos muy complejos para la expresión de la mujer; me encanta la estética, la moda, la elegancia y ese erotismo que se asomaba por pequeñas grietas.
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¿Qué es lo que más te emociona en estos momentos de tu vida? El cambio de conciencia colectivo ante el que estamos parados como humanidad. Creo que si somos capaces de potenciar las enseñanzas que nos han dejado, podríamos estar realmente ante un cambio de paradigmas en muchos espacios de la vida humana. ¿Tú encontraste tu actriz interior o ella te encontró a ti? Todo empezó desde niña en mi natal Sonora, jugaba a las telenovelas de la época, repetía los diálogos que escuchaba y hasta lloraba y mi madre se asustaba por eso, jajaja. Cuando estudiaba la carrera de teatro, comprendí que esa voz de mi artista me llamaba desde niña a pesar de que no estaba rodeada de un ambiente artístico, la vena actoral ya venía en mí. ¿Cuál es el personaje más complejo e intenso que has hecho hasta ahora? En teatro tuve la oportunidad de hacer un monólogo bajo la dirección de Aracelia Guerrero que se llamó “¿Cuál es la mejor droga para mí?”, un texto complejo y maravilloso. Y en el medio audiovisual “La Puma” en la serie “Enemigo Íntimo” es un personaje que me ha puesto enfrente la oportunidad de ensancharme como actriz. ¿En qué proyectos estás trabajando actualmente y qué tienes en puerta? Me encuentro en las grabaciones de la primer gran serie de época de Telemundo, “Malverde: El Santo Patrón” y hago un personaje maravilloso de un coronel que apoya la lucha villista llamado Amalio Sáman. También viene mi primer protagónico en una ópera prima de Jonás Nudi que se llama “Antes que lleguen los Zopilotes”y me hace mucha ilusión mi personaje de La Tuza. ¿Qué fue lo que más te gustó de esta sesión de fotos con Cream City Magazine? El equipo talentoso, generoso y divertido; bueno es que con esa combinación es seguro que el resultado será muy favorable. Además de la locación que está bellísima y las atenciones que nos brindaron. La revista me gusta el tono fresco, relajado y a la vez glamoroso que maneja.
Camisa y Pantalón VesselCollection @vesselcollection Accesorios Powo Kani @powokani Calzado Patey Woman @pateywomanofficial (index picture)
Mommin’ Made Chic Editorial
A Piece for the Uninspired A
s a writer, there are a few things worse than writer’s block. I’ve lost count of the number of times that life got in the way or simply lacked inspiration. The upside is that inspiration always manages to unveil itself almost anywhere. Maybe not deliberately, but one of the things I like most about being a creative is just that…I will always come back to creating. Like clockwork comes this inherent pressure to write the most magical piece you’ve ever read! LOL! Mental gymnastics turns into writer’s block, and bam, I’m stuck! So today, I have decided to free write. My editor is going into cardiac arrest somewhere in the world, but I’ll blog-gish write if I want to! Freewriting, the definition is in the word itself. The idea is to write and keep writing without stopping to edit, revise, or correct anything. Mind you, freedom in this has the Aries in me exhilarated, but my obsessive-compulsive disorder has already failed miserably. Nevertheless, as my thoughts unconsciously take on physical shape, my end goal is to remind you/me/us that there are no set rules when it comes to self-expression. Some often debate the difference between “Art” as one thing and “an Art” as another? I find the root of both to stem from the freedom to create, and I love that. Even if I had selected a less than perfect title, topic, or wrote the shit out of this piece, who would be the judge? From tiny seeds… grow fields of agave! I had no idea where this would lead. All I knew is that I wanted all the effing feels… enter Tequila, Jalisco! Shooting amidst the agave fields was just to feed into my bratty girl desires for this particular piece. Feeling tiny amongst thousands of agave plants, I remember how inspired I was at the moment. The idea that someone had created the process in which we now enjoy Tequila is one of the countless reasons to believe that even the smallest ideas can grow into something much bigger. Generally speaking, we all have our methods. I often save words on my phone and tend to reference them for inspiration; it is my writing process, one of which I’ve created some of my best articles. Most recently, I’ve realized that I’m also a creative problem solver. Who knew my clean freak ways could lead to smart domestic solutions. I’m a creative and that is my superpower. I own it!
“The most genius thing about the way I create is to create with other geniuses.” Quite essentially, one of Kanye’s best quotes that just hit differently. Some of us find inspiration independently or in the spaces around us. The beauty of today’s social norms is the ability to tap, click, download into anything/ anywhere our curiosity sparks an interest in us. I get it; sometimes, the monotony of everyday life can get mundane. We fall into ruts or hit roadblocks. I’m always going to try to inspire you because real talk, you all inspire me! My wish/hope/prayer is that we all become real bad bitches, not the Instagram kind. Real ones who are inspired and, in turn, inspire the rest of us. BY ELYSSA CANALES VILLARREAL
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CreamBiz | Cream City Magazine
A Giant in Transportation As one of the largest cross-border transportation companies in the US, Super Transport International Ltd. has become a legend of its own. They have moved freight across the country— specializing in oversize and overweight loads, stepping up the transportation game to the next level, and captivating Cream’s eye for successful companies transforming the world.
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CreamBiz | Cream City Magazine
W
ith over 40 years of experience, oversize freight transportation has become their most important business line, currently representing 30% of its movements. STI has achieved a high level of excellence in the transportation field due to its unique dimensions and multiaxial type equipment.
The company’s main asset is its workers. They care about their drivers like family, and safety always comes first. That is why they ensure that their operators are well trained and assigned the proper equipment before moving these oversize loads. As part of their safety standards, they have daily meetings between the driver, escort, and dispatcher before the load departs the facility. They also check all permits, stops, tide downs, routes, climate conditions, and any possible problem that may occur on a day-to-day basis. Besides safety, their main priority is keeping up with the laws and rules of Mexico, the US, and Canada. They are actively monitoring any road extensions and repairs to ensure the safety of their drivers. STI offers several different types of services like local, regional, over the road, expedited, and specialized over-sized and overweight transportation. They have been using excellent trucks like Volvo but will soon be upgrading to Kenworth by the end of this year.
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CreamBiz | Cream City Magazine
The company is an active participant of CANACAR (Cámara Nacional de Autotransporte de Carga) and CENSECAR (Central de Servicios de Carga Nuevo Laredo). In the US, they are active participants of LMCA (Laredo Motor Carriers Association), TXTA (Texas Trucking Association), ATA (American Trucking Association), and SC&RA (Specialized Carriers and Rigging Association). Being one of the most successful transportation companies in the country, they take great pride and care in cultivating long-term relationships with their drivers, suppliers, clients, friends, and family. Some of their core values are safety, responsibility, honesty, and excellence in everything they do. Plus, they also strongly believe in helping others grow. Times have been challenging for everyone since the pandemic. Nevertheless, STI keeps moving forward with a positive attitude in these uncertain times. Their approach as a company is to adapt as quickly as possible to the problems and situations that may arise, always being ready for the next task, challenge, or client.
13519 Mercury Dr., N.D. Hachar Industrial Park, Laredo, TX 70845 • (956) 791-9002 / (956) 753-8064
Toll Free 1-844-856-0544 / 1-844-856-0545 • www.sti-laredo.com CREAM 37
Editorial | Cream City Magazine
Sin Crisis no hay
Desafíos
Moises Alvarez Un líder empresarial como pocos. Conozcamos su historia de lucha y convicción y cómo su vida cambió radicalmente cuando decidió dejar su empleo para convertirse en un exitoso empresario y promotor. Egresado de Ingeniería en Gestión Empresarial del TEC; el Ingeniero Alvarez nos comparte en esta entrevista cómo logró sus objetivos y cómo las crisis lo llevaron al éxito empresarial.
¿Cómo inició tu carrera? Empecé en una compañía de empaque hace 20 años.
¿Qué detonó tu interés en ella? Más que interés ahí donde trabajaba se me dio la oportunidad de salir a vender y me di cuenta que vender es un arte y sin saber que contaba con ese talento lo exploté al máximo. ¿Alguna vez consideraste que sería parte de tu vida? Uno escoge y define su propio destino. Nunca pensé llegar a donde estoy pero me siento orgulloso y tranquilo que todo lo que me rodea día a día son pruebas para seguir adelante. ¿Qué te inspira todos los días? Mi hija Nicole es una parte fundamental en mi desarrollo integral como ser humano. ¿Cuál es tu rasgo de personalidad más valioso? Soy una persona muy noble, eso me ha traído muchas oportunidades y abusos, pero me quedo con esto “Quien supera una crisis, se supera a sí mismo”. ¿Cuáles han sido los momentos más gratificantes de tu carrera? Siento que toda mi vida ha sido gratificante y que cuando las cosas no se dan, son pruebas de sabiduría y fortaleza para continuar. ¿Admiras a alguien en particular? John Davidson Rockefeller y Albert Einstein.
¿Qué consejo profesional le darías a alguien que está considerando este tipo de trabajo? No son ganas, ni actitud lo que garantiza lograr el éxito. Primeramente debes autoevaluarte, podrás contar con una gama de habilidades pero si pierdes el piso y te gana la soberbia no llegarás muy lejos y eso estadísticamente es una realidad. Como dice la frase de Albert Einstein, “Lo más amenazante de una crisis es el temor
de no querer luchar por superarla”.
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Editorial | Cream City Magazine
Smiling from Within Conrad Smiles is a not-for-profit fund that helps children with Anoxic Brain Injury (ABI) who are cognitively aware after surviving a complete lack of oxygen to the brain. We had the chance to meet two outstanding human beings who support research to improve ABI treatments and who have fought to prove that these children are still in there. Read on to get to know Liz Tullis, Conrad’s mom and founder of the fund, and Ford Durbin, president of the Board Team.
Liz Tullis, Conrad Tullis, Garrett Tullis and Ford Durbin.
LIZ TULLIS
FORD DURBIN
Liz, your work is truly inspiring! Would you please tell us more about ABI? It is a brain injury related to a lack of oxygen. Research has proven this type of injury is isolated to the part of the brain that controls movement. Thus, the condition has been redescribed as “Locked-in Syndrome.” Our goal with Conrad Smiles is to promote and improve the quality of life of those who suffer from Locked-in Syndrome due to ABI.
Ford, what you are doing as the president of Conrad Smiles is nothing short of amazing! Would you please tell us what inspired your journey towards ABI awareness? The founder of Conrad Smiles, Liz Tullis, was my initial inspiration on this journey. Being a high school peer tutor for special needs students piqued my interest in the current and available research for understudied cognitive disorders and injuries.
Would you please share with us how your son’s story has shaped your unrelenting research towards fighting ABI? When Conrad was 17 months old, he fell into a swimming pool and drowned. But he survived. Even though he can’t talk or walk, he can communicate. Doctors told me there was nothing I could do. I realized that the doctors were saying that because the research hadn’t caught up. It’s almost as if the doctors thought the world is flat and then found out it’s actually round. My purpose is to build more research around this understudied condition. With everything you know regarding ABI, what advice would you give to parents who have recently gone through the same experience? I don’t like when people tell me to be patient. So I will never tell that to another parent, but I will tell parents to hold on because there will likely be an answer in the long run. What I do tell parents is that you need to take care of yourself. Don’t let your child’s condition identify you. I understand a child is your life, but you have to take care of yourself to continue showing positive care for your child. 40 CREAM
As president of Conrad Smiles, what has been your most rewarding experience? Personally, I would say the most significant achievement was when we confirmed our active science advisory board was moving forward with the current research study. Please tell our readers how they can donate to Conrad Smiles and help you achieve your goal! I want to credit our amazing team at the Conrad Smiles Board, currently working with leading national and international researchers to launch a new and exciting study. The doctors will direct a safe and painless stimulation therapy called tDCS to the damaged brain area and review its impact on the child’s ability to better interact with their environment. For donations, please visit the following link: https://www.conradsmiles.org/donate
CreamBiz | Cream City Magazine
MAG Group
Vanguardia en la frontera ¿Inspección de calidad? ¿Outsourcing? ¿Etiquetado? En MAG Group lo tienes todo en el mismo lugar. Te invitamos a conocer más de cerca a esta empresa innovadora que está pisando fuerte en la frontera. Su fundador y líder, el Ing. Moises Alvarez, es el impulso detrás de MAG Group y quien ha logrado posicionar su empresa a nivel local e internacional.
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CreamBiz | Cream City Magazine
Cuéntanos más acerca de Mag Group, ¿cómo comenzó? ¿Fue un reto al inicio? Además de Laredo, ¿ofrecen servicios en otras ciudades? Fue un gran desafío al que me enfrenté al principio ya que inicié desde mi casa. Trabajé de mensajero en una compañía llamada Unipack y después se me brindó la oportunidad de salir a ventas. Más que un reto fue una necesidad de querer salir adelante y no trabajar para alguien más. En estos momentos estamos presencialmente en Nuevo Laredo, Monterrey, McAllen y próximamente en El Paso, Texas. ¿Qué tipo de servicios de subcontratación de terceros ofrece MAG Group? Somos una alternativa de outsourcing con amplia experiencia en el mercado. Desde personal temporal en diversos rubros en la industria automotriz, agencias aduanales, maquiladoras, bancos y la ciudad de Laredo. ¿Podrías compartirnos cómo se lleva a cabo el proceso de subcontratación de terceros? Nuestro objetivo principal es evitar los trámites de contratación, ya que contamos con un bullpen disponible para llenar las vacantes necesarias. Primeramente según tus habilidades pasas por un proceso de selección y ya que cumplas con los requisitos necesarios, a continuación se imparte una capacitación de bienvenida con un manual de inducción. ¿Cómo ayudan a las compañías a encontrar personal calificado para laborar en bodegas y oficinas? La misión de MAG es certificar y auditar al personal correcto para evitar la rotación del personal. Contamos con varios programas de incentivos para lograr obtener el beneficio de integrarte a una compañía socialmente responsable. Con esta crisis sanitaria ajena a nosotros, la contratación y la bolsa de trabajo han reflejado un incremento exponencial. Cuéntanos más sobre los servicios de etiquetado que ofrece MAG Group, ¿cómo este servicio le brinda soporte a las compañías en sus operaciones diarias? Contamos con un laboratorio para el diseño de la etiqueta y con personal calificado para realizar la aplicación de las mismas. Dándole la facilidad a nuestros clientes de cumplir con todas las regulaciones que exige la aduana para cruzar su mercancía sin problema alguno. Iniciando este año la Secretaría de Salud obligó a incluir ciertos logos en forma de hexágonos en los productos. Este requisito marcó un antes y un después en la forma de hacer y aplicar la NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) a todas las mercancías.
¿Qué tipo de inspección y control de calidad ofrece MAG Group a sus clientes? Nos encargamos de hacer visible y palpable la revisión e inspección de mano de obra ya elaborada. La calidad no se revisa, se hace. Ese es nuestro compromiso, sortear materiales tanto en el ramo automotriz, como en suministros eléctricos. Todo tipo de mercancía debe supervisarse y el cliente debe aprobarla antes de llegar a su destino final. Con equipo altamente sofisticado realizamos diariamente una gama variable de productos para su certificación. ¿Qué servicios de rentas ofrecen? Rentamos equipo para yarda (mulas) por hora, por semana y por mes. En el servicio incluye chofer, seguro, diesel, llantas y mantenimiento preventivo del equipo. Todo por una tarifa moderada. También contamos con renta de montacargas con un plan similar y equipo industrial. ¿Proveen otros servicios además de arrendamiento, subcontratación, etiquetado é inspección de calidad? Hacemos mantenimientos, construcción, pavimentación, aires acondicionados, limpieza de bodegas y yardas, soldadura, road services, servicio de grúa, movimientos locales (hot shots) y cruces. Contamos con almacenamiento disponible para transbordos y pensión de mercancías. CREAM 43
In The Spotlight | Cream City Magazine
Mia Leyendecker Rodriguez What career do you want to pursue and why? Science has always piqued my interest, particularly the study of scientific thought and behavior. At the age of 11, I began studying astrology, which is the study of celestial body movements that influence human affairs and the natural world. Through this, I discovered my passion for understanding the mind and its functions, mainly those affecting behavior in a given context. I determined that specializing in neuropsychology would be the best fit for me, primarily because it combines two of my favorite studies, neurology, psychology, and to my surprise, shares some common factors with astrology. This career will allow me to fulfill my purpose in helping others and making a difference in people’s lives.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be and why? I would change human selfishness. If we could achieve the act of sympathetic pity for the misfortunes of others, we would be well on our way to resolving the world’s most challenging problems because, when you think about it, our lack of compassion is at the root of the majority of our problems. It is said that a significant number of wars are initiated by the government’s desire for influence and power. Bullying is learned by those who don’t have any compassion. Gender inequality is just disregarding other people’s feelings. Environmental unsustainability is a problem caused by being insensitive and ignorant towards the environment. These are just a few of the world’s many significant issues, yet they all appear to be very different. They do, however, have one thing in common: they are all caused by acts of egotism, so instead of being selfish, we should learn to be more selfless.
In your opinion, where is the best place to live and why? States on the east coast, particularly Boston, Massachusetts, appear to be the most appealing. Boston has the best educational institutions and hospitals in the country. Also, the weather in Boston is ideal for me. These characteristics satisfy all my needs, so why not live there? What do you do for fun? Any hobbies? Writing, playing instruments, listening to music, reading, drawing, playing tennis, being active in the community, and traveling with my family. ·j·
Editorial | Cream City Magazine
Fashionable
Movies and TV Series to watch all Year Round
BY CITLALLI ESQUIVEL
What better way to inspire your style than watching this list of movies and TV shows with fantastic wardrobes and plots? Welcome to our top 18 movies that will make you feel like a fashionista living in New York.
1. THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA (2006)
Hey fashion lovers, ever been interested in working for the industry? This movie has your back! We follow Andy in her spontaneous life revolving around the fashion industry by being the assistant for the infamous magazine’s editor, Miranda, while struggling with designer outfits. Like who wouldn’t want to be them? Right. This movie is a hit! You can rent or buy this movie on Amazon!
2. DYNASTY (2017-2020)
In this show, we follow another set of rich young adults with lots of drama with their families and the outside world. Elizabeth Gillies makes her grand entrance with one-of-a-kind outfits that we all wish were in our closet. The series is available on Hulu!
3. CRASH LANDING ON YOU (2019-2020)
Set in South Korea, we follow an independent and fashionable CEO who crash-lands in North Korea after a horrible storm. We follow her as she tries to escape while falling in love with a soldier. This show has it all, from action to romance to great outfits in Dior. You can find this series on Netflix.
4. CLUELESS (1995)
Set in the ‘90s, we follow Cher’s coming-of-age and her friends’ lives. With timeless, unique fashion, Cher goes through life facing her problems and, of course, debate class. Follow this romantic yet funny and fashionable movie on HBO Max.
5. CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC (2009)
This movie had us all kind of relating. Who isn’t addicted to shopping these days? Our main character has an obsession with shopping so intense that she goes into debt! Follow her through her fashionista journey on how she finds love and a passion for fashion. You can rent or buy this movie on Amazon!
6. CRAZY RICH ASIANS (2018)
Rachel Chu has been with her boyfriend for a long time, and it’s time to meet his parents! Revolving around a wealthy family is more chaos than she had thought, with jealous exes, beautiful oneof-a-kind dresses, and teary eye moments; you will enjoy this movie on HBO MAX. Message us once you get to the wedding scene!
46 CREAM
Editorial | Cream City Magazine
12. ELITE (2017-2020)
Murder, private schools, romance, and top-notch fashion would describe Elite. Following various characters, we encounter a murder. No one knows who did it, and while we are trying to figure out what is going on, they take us to the beginning of where everything started. Fashionable outfits and their love for looking on point are what make this series so great! Available on Netflix!
13. EUPHORIA (2019-present)
It follows the life of high schoolers, and each character is a coming-of-age story of their own. With problems involving addiction, school grades, and more sensitive topics, this one is a must. Fashion and makeup make their marks in these series and have inspired the new generation into new fashion trends and colorful makeup looks. You can watch this series on HBO Max!
14. JAWBREAKER (1999) 7. GOSSIP GIRL (2006-2010)
Welcome to the lives of Manhattan’s elite! Gossip Girl revolves around rich, privileged young kids trying to make their way in life. This series filled with drama and fabulous outfits, will have you on the edge of your seat! The show is available on Netflix, and don’t forget about the reboot coming out soon on HBO Max!
8. GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES (1953)
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, am I right? In this late fashionable movie, we follow Lorelie as she is getting married to a rich man. When his parents disapprove of her, they take a cruise. What happens when her best friend, a private investigator, and fashion are involved? Find out by watching it on Hulu!
9. PRETTY WOMAN (1990)
A classic movie! Following good makeovers and an amazing soundtrack, this movie takes us to see the most fashionable clothing from 1990, with our main actress getting some karma and love. A must-watch this summer with your gals! The movie is available on Hulu!
10. MARIE ANTOINETTE (2006)
Cake, cake, and more cake! The newest version of Marie Antoinette from 2006 is a fashionable and kind of historical movie to watch this summer. We all know how the story goes but with some twists and turns. You won’t want to miss this one! The movie is available on Hulu.
11. NEXT IN FASHION (2020)
Do you enjoy seeing the process behind how to make a clothing collection? Next in Fashion is the show for you! Revolving around the life of talented emerging designers, we get to meet them and their passions through a series of competitions and challenges that will get them the money they need for their future collections and store locations.
One of the most iconic movies from the ‘90s is Jawbreaker, with some mean girls as best friends. We see how their fashion style isn’t as nice as their personalities. Playing a cruel joke to their friend, they suddenly see themselves in an ugly situation where they can’t allow to be caught. Murder, makeovers, and fashion make this movie have us on edge. You can watch this on Amazon Prime!
15. THE CRAFT (1996)
Wicked! In the mood to watch a witches’ movie? The Craft is the perfect option, revolving more high schoolers with witchcraft magic while storming high school. This movie had us watching it more and more with incredible punk chic-inspired outfits from the late ‘90s. This film is available on HBO Max.
16. THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE (2009)
Editorials, photoshoots, and of course, Anna Wintour! In this movie, we learn what happens behind the most-awaited and successful issue of the year, the September issue. Not everything in the fashion industry is always glamorous, and we see the everyday problems of trying to make a magazine still stand in its place today. You can watch this for free on YouTube!
17. SCATTER MY ASHES AT BERGDORFS (2013)
5th Avenue, the store where every designer wants to be! This movie shows us the behind-the-scenes of the most famous retail store in New York and how they are renowned for their window displays! Fashionable people, magnificent clothes, and exclusive behind the scenes, how would we miss that? This movie is available on Amazon Prime.
18. THE FIRST MONDAY OF MAY (2016)
The Met Gala is one of the most influential events in the fashion industry set on the first Monday of May, where we see incredible one-of-a-kind outfits with a specific theme each year. This movie shows us the behind-the-scenes of how the exhibit is formed and planned out, what designers they will show, and many more amazing things. Ever wanted to work for fashion? Then this movie is a must! You can watch this on Amazon Prime.