founder & publisher fernando de haro
copy editor
C I T Y M A G A Z I N E
jacqueline santos
NO 41
design & production
february • march 2017 Hello Creamsters, we are happy to bring you yet another issue of Cream! In awe, we excitedly see our city growing more and more each day, and with new businesses opening daily, people from all over the world are now calling Laredo home! Cream is thrilled to be part of this huge transformation, and in our February edition, we feature an article on a new Italian restaurant we loved! Trattoria Mia is definitely a place to visit soon. You will be delighted with the atmosphere and will want to savor every single dish. Congratulations to the Mims Family! With February comes Valentine’s Day, and with this special day comes a whole lotta love! A huge occasion in which most of the world gifts tons of flowers, and a ridiculous amount of chocolate is consumed all in the name of love! Because of this, we visited Pedro Diaz Santana, a local cardiologist, but most importantly an all around nice individual who talked to us about matters of the heart and love. This was definitely a great interview and now we know a little bit more about why the heart is the most iconic symbol when it comes to love. Something that we always encourage is to help spread the word about great causes, and for this issue we met Cindy, Amber and Yazmin, the founders of Down Moms of Laredo. We invite you to read the piece in which we highlight them because it is a huge inspiration for everyone, and the way they are helping others is really admirable. Congratulations on a great mission!
lead designer gabriela lozano
photographer ferch
high end retouching paola denyce badouin fashion coordinator amely garza
interns cynthia vallejo daniela rodríguez guajardo alicia gómez katya peña
writers
rubén bazán iii, joe arciniega, michelle cook, victor hugo garcía, melva lavín, and doris gonzález .
sales
cynthia vallejo and veronica garza
ADVERTISING sales@creamcitymagazine.com + 956.753.6755
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From the bottom of our hearts, we sincerely thank you for reading Cream! We are working on many exciting new things that will be featured on the upcoming issues! We work really hard to present topics of high interest to our readers every single issue and want to thank all the people that help us in order to achieve this and much more!
Sincerely yours,
Copyright © 2016 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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Interviewwith a 28
Alcoholic and Drug Addict
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NeverSay
Never
Meet two dynamic achievers who contribute to the development of both Laredos. They are flying high on Cream’s radar.
TONY BONDOC
XOCHITL RAE KLADIS
Theatre Director / Mary Help of Christians School
School Counselor / Judith Zaffirini Elementary
I am passionate about two things: theatre and teaching others. As a son of educators, I found the field very gratifying. At the time, I did not know exactly how theatre would play a role in my life, but I knew it was something I wanted to do for a very long time. I learned from people who worked various ends of the theater, and I am constantly trying to find new tricks of the trade.
My school counseling career began when I was given the opportunity to apply all my knowledge and learning experience as an intern with United ISD. Upon receiving my masters in school counseling from TAMIU, I taught at United Middle School for two years. Immediately after, I was hired as a school counselor. Working for The Texas Department of Child Protective Services as a caseworker shed some light, insight, frustration, and guidance in the need for counseling in our community.
In the search for opportunity, sometimes you have to make your own. In 2015, I started my own theater company: Break a Leg Productions. That summer, we produced “Into The Woods Jr.” at the Lake Casa Blanca Amphitheater. The catch was that I only wanted students involved, no professionals. This moment in my life constantly reminds me how important the arts are to a community, to children, to our culture, and to ourselves.
I am a very passionate person. No matter what I do in my life, I commit everything I can offer to it. I always put my best foot forward and apply everything I know. If I’m involved in a production, every second goes into making it better. I think life is too short to not believe in ourselves one hundred percent. As far as personal achievements, I don’t think I will ever be satisfied. There will always be another goal that sparks my interest, and soon enough it will be all I can think about. I believe dreams are important; I have accomplished many and I am very thankful for that, but I do not plan on stopping anytime soon. If you want something bad enough, nothing stands in your way. And of course, through that journey, teach. The next generation deserves to grow beyond us. We owe it to ourselves to teach and leave the world in a better place than when we found it. 6
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During my counseling internship, I worked with students from the Cherish Center, a facility held at the United 9th campus that serves special needs children. While walking through the hallway, I bumped into one of my students and he asked me, “Mrs. Kladis can I pray for you so that you can get hired with the district?” I felt a warmth in my heart, I smiled, nodded my head and allowed him to do so. Walking through the hallway reminded me of how blessed I was to have worked with these students.
I have a genuine interest in helping individuals grow while guiding them to self-awareness of their potential strengths and capabilities for self-improvement. At the end of the day, it’s not the validation of an outstanding job, but the priceless smile and joy in students’ faces for providing an educational learning experience.
As counselors, we are always evolving and learning in order to better serve our students academically, socially, and personally. Our job goes beyond the realm of counseling. We are a combo package: teachers, nurses, lawyers, mothers, and event planners. The goal is to be an amazing listener, while being passionate for the common well-being of every individual.
creamout&about
getting ready for wbc The Washington Birthday Celebration Association kicked off this year’s WBCA festivities on Jan. 19th, at the LEA. Webb county officials, WBCA dignitaries, and sponsors were among the present. We are thrilled to experience 28 events in 33 days!!
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y l i m a F s m o o l r i He
Treasures, Trinkets, or Trash
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t was a wedding gift. my wife and i were days from renewing our vows previously taken years before in a civil ceremony at a resort on orcas island off the coast of northern washington. This time we were traveling from our home in Seattle to Laredo, Texas for a formal Catholic ceremony and reception before family. My Executive Assistant at the time invited herself to our house “just for a moment” before a dinner party we were giving for those friends who would not be making the trip.
She arrived with it pressed under her arm, loosely covered in gift-wrap tissue. Demurring to sit when asked, “You can’t possibly have time, so I’ll just open it and go,” she carefully peeled its wrap and laid it on the coffee table. It was a substantial, ornately detailed, tooled leather bible. With an infectious enthusiasm, she said that she found it while in an antique store downtown and just knew it was for us. The lavish, if fading, gold leaf embellishments and a missing strap that once connected the large tarnished brass buckles still gripping the worn covers revealed that though clearly not new, this was nonetheless a most unique and special gift. In fact it was a special edition by the American Bible Publishing Company copyrighted from 1872 through 1880, which was recognized with a Medal of Merit by the United States Centennial Commission. My wife and I were overcome with surprise and gratitude. Before she left, our benefactress assured us that the inside pages were even more beautiful and better preserved, mysteriously adding that we would particularly enjoy the “special treats” left within them. Beginning immediately after the party, we spent most of the weekend doing so.
She was right about the inside. It was magnificent, ornamented with numerous engravings on steel and wood depicting impressive biblical scenes laid upon heavy stock pages framed in more gold leaf. And this was a family bible. Names and dates, written in ornate script by fountain pen, listing births, marriages and deaths from the mid-1800s were entered into a Family Registry tucked between the Old and New Testaments. The last entry, less florid cursive in red ballpoint, was a death in 1962. We were already dazzled when, compressed deep within its pages toward the spine like bookmarkers, we suddenly came upon those “special treats” promised. First there were the flowers, wildflowers, bits and pieces of the same bunch. Long squeezed of life, they were now beige husks of their former glory. Some crumbled at our touch; others mustered themselves to brittle attention as we held them up to the light. Then, there were pieces of fabric, a triangle of ivory silk, a strip of satin, and a yellowed web of sheer netting. Shards of a wedding dress from one of those penned into the registry perhaps? We like to think so, evidence of lives, of family, and of love.
Things we may inherit or acquire ourselves build familiarity and value over time. Sometimes the importance and meaning dims, or gets forgotten altogether. Too much time or distance, too many changed hands failing to ensure that "the story" about it is passed along with the heirloom itself. This is how heirlooms move from treasure that had significant meaning once, to trinket that takes up space, then perhaps to trash for disposal. Sometimes, someone's “trash" might through an estate auction, a garage sale, eBay, or an antique store, become someone else's "treasure," a newly crowned heirloom, with a new story for a new family. But there always remains the mystery of the original. Years ago I was bidding for a painting at auction and a collection of unmatched antique sterling silver serving pieces caught my attention. I have always found it sensible to buy something for my wife while doing so for myself, so I successfully bid on it. Some of these pieces were monogrammed. But one in particular, a large sterling silver sauce ladle was hand engraved "Dec. 25, 1905" on the back of the handle, “Annie” on the front, and “Sunshine” on the back of the ladle bowl. Who was Annie who it seems received this (along with an entire set perhaps?) on Christmas day 111 years ago? What was the "Sunshine" reference? Why did her family "dispose" of this? We'll never know. What we do know is that I bought these decades ago, and my children have literally grown up seeing these dressing our table at Thanksgiving and Christmas every year, and in time hopefully, so will theirs.
Like our big old bible that has rested on my writing desk in our houses since joining our family the year of our wedding, like the chocolate colored ceramic spaniel that my greatgrandmother used as a doorstop which now sits in our entry hall, like every lovingly collected and displayed ornament on our Christmas tree, like my wife’s great-grandmother’s diamond and pearl earrings, worn by generations of brides in our family through to our daughter-in-law this past summer, “Sunshine Annie’s” silver is now our family heirloom. So are heirlooms treasures, trinkets or trash? Well, yes.
BY JOE ARCINIEGA arciniegajoe@gmail.com
creamtrending
Con una vibra fresca, joven y llena de vitalidad, la ciudad de Nuevo Laredo nos invita a redescubrir su escencia! Cream City Magazine, en esta edición te presenta estos dos luagres que seleccionamos por ser de lo mas cool, ya que ofrecen una propuesta muy única e interesante! Estamos seguros que te van a encantar!
The Foodfather
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e van a preparar una hamburguesa que no podrás decirle, “NO!” Así es The Foodfather… un food truck bastante excepcional, ya que debido a su sabor y estilo único puedes consentirte con una Pretzel Burguer: una hamburguesa de sirloin recién molido en un pan de masa de pretzel... nosotros nunca habíamos probado algo así! También puedes pedir la Dona Burguer, que como su nombre lo indica, en lugar de un pan normal lo reemplazan con una dona ligeramente glaseada… que loco verdad? Definitivamente tienes que ponerlos en tu lista de cosas para hacer el fin de semana! Encuentralos en la calle Baja California #2803 a espaldas del Taco Tote! En Cream te lo recomendamos ampliamente. Así que ya sabes, consume local… The Foodfather te espera!
La Marquesita
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n el radar de Cream brilla una joyería muy especial con el interés de apoyar el talento de diseñadores y artesanos de distintas partes de México, por lo que cuentan con piezas únicas de joyería, bisutería llena de color, texturas y materiales inspiradas en nuestra cultura! Los invitamos a conocer La Marquesita Joyería, para que ustedes tambien se dejen cautivar y descubran las nuevas colecciones y diseños exclusivos que solo allí pueden encontar! No dejes de darte la vuelta y visitarles en Reforma #5601, local No. 27 (dentro de HEB) y tambien puedes encontar las últimas colecciones de accesorios en su página de Facebook: La Marquesita Joyería (@lamarquesita.heb)
T R A T T O R I A
M I A
I TA LI A NFlavor s AT WINFIELD
CHEF DAVID MEDINA AND CHEF RICHARD MIMS
From the family that brought you the acclaimed Border Foundry Restaurant, a new concept of casual Italian Cuisine opens in our city. Cream City Magazine talked one on one with Richard Mims and David Medina, the star chefs behind the exquisite dishes at
Trattoria Mia. BY FERNANDO DE HARO
What sparked the inspiration to open an Italian Restaurant? Richard: My love for Italian food came at a young age as I recall eating pasta my father used to make. It has always been a favorite food memory of mine. Also, given the way Border Foundry has been accepted, we ventured out to provide more diversity to the food scene here in Laredo while maintaining the standards we established at BOFO.
Define the Trattoria Mia concept for our readers David: The concept of Trattoria Mia is simple. We want to provide our community with a casual dining experience. From the thoughtful interior, to the bocce ball court on our spacious patio, we want our patrons to feel comfortable and enjoy themselves as they experience homemade Italian dishes made with care and passion.
How would you describe your cuisine? David: I believe the best dishes are those that allow mother nature to shine through while highlighting the craftsmanship it takes to make a plate of food. Italians share in a rich tradition of taking simple, quality ingredients and preparing them simply and humbly. The goal here is to execute with precision. Every dish should be presented neatly and simply. Good food doesn’t have to be convoluted; rather it should be easy and inviting while simultaneously creating a memory that will always be enjoyable.
Recently, Del Mar Boulevard is becoming Laredo's place to be, how did that influence your decision to open at this location? Richard: My cousin and I had a conversation a few years ago to open an Italian place. He said he wanted to develop a shopping center where neighborhood families can visit. Del Mar, being this close to several neighborhoods seemed a logically appropriate location. Once the Shoppes at Winfield came under design, placing Trattoria Mia here was just a natural occurrence of careful planning.
What can we expect to find on the menu? David: To begin with, you will find most menu items recognizable. We will have classics such as lasagna Bolognese, shrimp scampi, and pasta dishes, in addition to some more regional specialties such as artichoke cannelloni, veal marsala, and branzino. Everything on our menu will be homemade; even down to our tiramisu and cannolis.
Where do you source your ingredients? David: The idea is to take as much local as we can, finding fresh ingredients and applying the Italian approach to them, so it carries authenticity while supporting local suppliers. However, some of our ingredients will be imported from Italy. There are just some things that are irreplaceable, like our San Marzano tomatoes, which there is no substitute for.
Who are the stars behind the kitchen? My name is David Medina, the chef de cuisine here at Mia. Culinary Arts isn't just my profession, it is my passion. I am blessed enough to journey through life doing what I love. I am grateful to have found a career that I truly enjoy. I pride myself knowing that the educational path I chose to pursue at Le Cordon Bleu School of Culinary Arts has proven beneficial by allowing me to learn proper French technique in an environment that was scholastically engaging and physically demanding. I want to accomplish the best that I can while challenging others to meet me at a common goal. Throughout my years of experience, I have come to learn that a successful kitchen is a sum of it parts. That is why we have nothing but the best of Laredo in our kitchen. These talented rock stars have the passion to learn and the commitment to work hard. They are the heart of the restaurant and pride themselves in satisfying every palate.
Trattoria Mia at lunch will be... David: Buzzing with excitement as the smell of our creations filter through the dining room. Our lunches will be focused on quick, but delicious dishes like pasta and pizza. Trattoria Mia at night is like going to... Richard: a getaway inside our dining room, or fun and excitement on the patio, where guests can play bocce while enjoying a glass of Italian wine.
Any final thoughts you'd like to add? David: We are very grateful for the response we are getting from the community. We look forward to providing simple, good food, executed properly. We want to highlight the rich tradition of a country as diverse as Italy and bring some of those gems home to Laredo. I am humbled by this opportunity to give back to Laredo something that is warming and delicious. We hope to see you for lunch or dinner soon (or both), Thank you!!
• 3402 E. Del Mar Blvd., Ste. 100 • Open Tuesday - Sunday from 11:30 am to 10 pm • 956.568.3536 •
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asi todos los recuerdos de mi infancia están llenos de alguna actividad creativa. Una de ellas era explorar el jardín de mi casa con tijera en mano, desde la corta edad de 7 años o quizás desde antes, y regresar a mi mamá con un bouquet de flores silvestres hecho por mi y obsequiárselo, diciéndole en cada ocasión que tal arreglo floral acababa de llegar de la florería. Y cada vez con una gran sonrisa de sorpresa, mi mamá decía que eran las flores más bellas que había recibido.
Y así fue que nació mi pasión por las flores, y aprendí del efecto tan encantador que tienen las mismas en las demás personas. Mi gusto y habilidad por y con las flores fue nato, pero en determinado momento decidí tomarlas como cosa seria y empecé a capacitarme de técnicas e inspiración en talleres, congresos y conferencias con grandes diseñadores florales en cada ocasión que podría en ciudades como Miami, NY, Monterrey y Cancún, entre otras.
Mi experiencia con las flores me llevó a expresar sentimientos propios y los de mis clientes en eventos tan significativos como un nacimiento, una boda, tributos funerales, demostraciones de amor y cariño en distintas fechas festivas como el día de San Valentín o algún cumpleaños, y hasta una instalación conceptual orgánica y floral en una galería de arte de la ciudad de Laredo, Texas. Tener esa capacidad de expresar una gran variedad de sentimientos y efectos con mis creaciones florales ha sido para mi la mas grande satisfacción en ese aspecto de mi carrera profesional de ya más de 25 años.
En la actualidad, teniendo como residencia la Cd. de San Miguel de Allende Gto.,y siendo destino nacional e internacional favorito para grandes o íntimas bodas y distintas celebraciones, tengo la fortuna de seguir cultivando esta pasión, encontrar renovada inspiración en los jardines, la naturaleza y en cada novia o cliente que me da la oportunidad de servirles.
Mi estilo personal se puede decir que está en constante evolución, siempre buscando la innovación y marcando una tendencia única. Mis flores favoritas también han ido evolucionando, desde mis siempre favoritas orquídeas, las peonías, los ranúnculos y nuevas variedades cada vez más disponibles en la industria de las flores. Siempre mantendré como mi mas grande inspiración el recuerdo de la sonrisa plena y bella de mi madre al recibir esos arreglos florales de mi parte, de siempre, en cualquier día sin un motivo especial o en días festivos.
Y esa es la magia de las flores, que pueden transformar un momento en algo sublime e inexplicable. POR VICTOR HUGO GARCÍA SIGUELO EN INSTAGRAM @victorhugo956
Girl Town About
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PHOTOGRAPHY FERCH HIGH END RETOUCHING PAOLA DENYCE BADOUIN MODEL ANGELINA RODRIGUEZ HAIR & MAKEUP STEPHANIE CAZARES APPAREL PRAGUE BOUTIQUE AND BRILLIANCE SPECIAL THANKS TO ORGANIC MAN COFFEE TRIKE AND JORGE SANTANA
APPAREL BRILLIANCE
APPAREL PRAGUE BOUTIQUE
APPAREL BRILLIANCE
APPAREL PRAGUE BOUTIQUE
APPAREL BRILLIANCE
ANA AND ALYNA OSUNA
Ana and Alyna Osuna, Bofo and Duke
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HAT’S THE NAME OF YOUR PET? Bofo (Blue Heeler) is 14 yrs old & Duke (Australian Shepard) is 1 year old. WHEN
AND HOW DID YOUR INTEREST IN THIS SPECIES AND
Mainly because Bofo was always a calm dog and we never had any problems with him. On the other hand, the reason Duke is not trained is because we are still in the process of training him. He has plenty to learn. TELL US YOUR FAVORITE ANECDOTE WITH YOUR PET. Our Australian Shepherd is very mischievous, and as previously mentioned, he has not been trained. One day, we walked out to the backyard and saw that he had destroyed our mom's rose garden: the entire garden! He then proceeded to ruin the rest of the backyard by digging holes everywhere. CAN YOU
Our interest in dogs began at a really young age. Our dad brought home our oldest dog, Bofo. We had been begging him to get us a dog for the longest time and one day he came home with him. We instantly fell in love with him. We got our youngest dog, Duke, mainly because we felt that Bofo needed a friend to be with. WHAT DOES YOUR PET MEAN TO YOU? They mean the world to us. They are part of our "They mean the world to us. They are part of family. If we could take our family. If we could take them everywhere them everywhere with us, with us, we would. Unfortunately, not all we would. Unfortunately, places are pet friendly." not all places are pet friendly. WHAT TYPE OF
BREED SPARK YOUR INTEREST?
SPECIAL
CARE
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We like to bathe and groom them every chance we get and we try to make them as comfortable as possible. Duke has long straight hair, therefore, we have to brush his hair from 2 to 3 times a week. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY WITH YOUR PET? We like to take the dogs to the ranch; they both get so excited to run around in a different place. Our backyard is not very big, so they enjoy being there with us. IS YOUR PET TRAINED? HOW DIFFICULT WAS IT TO TRAIN THEM? No, they are not trained. HAVE FOR YOUR PET?
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GIVE US SOME TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN CHOOSING A
Be absolutely sure you want a pet, because it is very sad when animals are not cared for and usually end up on the streets because their owners do not want them. Any type of pet requires a lot of attention. You should consider the kind of pet you want and research breeds that may suit your lifestyle. WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT PEOPLE WHO MISTREAT ANIMALS? These people are heartless, and they should face the consequences of their behaviors. IF YOU WERE AN ANIMAL, WHICH WOULD YOU BE AND WHY? "A dog, because they are adorable, so I would be considered adorable too." -Alyna PET?
THE
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Interviewwith a
G N I R E V O REC Alcoholic and Drug Addict Joseph Gorordo is a tall, heavily-tattooed, loving husband and father of two. A
Laredo, Texas native just like me, I had the privilege of attending grade school and high school with him. A pleasant and overall friendly guy, very present in my memory of him is his natural predilection towards intellectualism. He excelled in every subject and never struggled to get the grades that even the valedictorian and salutatorian were jealous of. More than the actual numerical grade, the smart kids were jealous of the fact that Joseph didn’t even have to try. While the rest of the class was barely appetizing on Hawthorne and Chaucer, he was already on the next course, happily feasting on Kerouac and Bukowski. His high scores on standardized tests in seventh grade granted him the opportunity to take the SAT – an exam on which he achieved an enviable score. His classmates and I foresaw a fantastic future full of success, vastly different from the unexpected heroin addiction that drove him to homelessness. Living out of his car for months due to his own mother no longer feeling safe with him in the house, I learned the ugly side of addiction. Not too long ago, he reached out to me in hopes of sharing the story of his recovery. This is it.
When was your first encounter with alcohol and drugs? I was ten the first time I drank. I was at an uncle’s house for New Year’s Eve and I had two drinks. I didn’t get drunk but being the cousin that was a little different, I didn’t feel so insecure anymore, so I chased that feeling. The first time I smoked weed I was about twelve or thirteen. I found a bag of weed in my father’s room and I taught myself how to smoke. It escalated in high school and by my senior year I had already tried mushrooms and ecstasy.
working hard to put food on the table. She paid for my private schooling, so it was a sacrifice for her. My dad was very unreliable. He drank a lot, so when my parents divorced when I was 8, sometimes he wouldn’t call for a month, sometimes a year. He and I don’t talk much anymore and I’ve made my peace with it.
We all go through some form of self-discovery in high school. You being so smart, did you maybe feel a little bored?
At 19, Joseph and his best friend took a break from heroin after two straight days of shooting up and decided to do Xanax instead to “take a break.” After calling it a night, Joseph went home and his friend decided she still wanted to do heroin. She died of an overdose that same night. Upon hearing the news the next morning, Joseph’s first impulse was not to stop, but to get high. Every day.
Oh yea. Absolutely. I needed something to challenge me, and since we knew all the same people since we were little kids, I wanted something else. The drugs were a form of escapism and self-medication for self-esteem issues since I was one of the poorer kids in a private high school and I wasn’t an athlete. Most of the kids had both of their parents and I also got bullied often by the older generations. How was the relationship with your parents? With my mom it was good. She was a typical single Mexican mom, always 28
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What happened after high school? I was working about 60 hours a week, allowing me to move out of my mom’s house and into my own apartment. And when you’re the first one in your group of friends to have an apartment, everybody comes to your house. That’s where I got introduced to cocaine for the first time. I was taking Xanax and I tried smoking crack. I had a friend working at a nursing home and he would steal painkillers from the elderly. There was a girl that showed up to one of my parties and she introduced heroin to me. She taught me how to shoot up. That’s also when I began selling cocaine to pay for my addiction.
How was it affecting your job? I began stealing from the cash register at the store where I worked. I also worked as a waiter in various restaurants and would not only steal from other waiters, but I would also run scams on customers and snatch purses and wallets. I got fired often or would end up in rehab again.
How bad did it get? I lived in my car for about 3 or 4 months. My mother kicked me out of the house and would only allow me to go shower or eat. The house I grew up in had a very short fence surrounding the house that you could easily hop over. During one stint in rehab, I came back to find that she had installed a tall iron fence around the house just so I couldn’t get in. It felt horrible. I realized that I was bringing negative consequences to everyone around me since I was likely to lie to, steal from, or manipulate them. When were you first approached by someone with a concern for your drug and alcohol usage? I was 18 and I realized that my good friends stopped hanging out with me. They went to my mother to let her know that I was doing heroin. They were able to see something that I could not, which was that my experimentation had crossed a line into addiction.
When was the first time you went to rehab? I was 19 and my best friend had just died. I had pawned everything. At one point I stole my cousin’s car to sell it at a chop shop. I stole my mother’s wedding ring. I was arrested a few times for theft and possession. I was asking my mom for money. I couldn’t afford my apartment anymore so I had to move back in with her. I was in a detox program for seven days and as soon as I got out, I scored some dope.
About three years after high school, Joseph resorted to panhandling at gas stations. He recalls running into one of our high school teachers and asking her for money. She recognized him, and after lying to her about his car having broken down, she looked at the 130-pound former student and politely, but firmly, said no. She knew what was up.
How did your recovery begin? My biggest motivator was not wanting to see my mother cry anymore. Drugs numb your emotions, so after a while, I stopped caring about how she felt. Yet something happened that made me want to stop her from crying. I went to rehab for the last time that lasted 28 days. I set out to do everything they asked me to, including the 12 Steps. I moved into a halfway house afterwards and went to the meetings. July 21, 2008 is my sober birthday, and I haven’t relapsed since.
Tell me about what you do now? I’ve been working in rehabs for the past six years. Currently, I work at a brand new program that opened in June of 2016 named Recovery Unplugged. They’re based out of Florida but we opened a chapter here in Austin. Many rehab centers revolve around the idea of breaking you down and making you feel guilty for what you did. Our thing is the idea that what’s in the past should stay there, and that you’re here today because you want to seek treatment, and we’re going to celebrate that and support you and get you better – whatever that means for you. There is no guilting and no shame. I talk to the mothers of addicts and I remember my mom being the one calling the rehab centers while I was using. Now I’m on the opposite end of the line, being the one offering hope. I now believe it’s God’s plan to use me to help other people. So you’re religious? I am now. I wasn’t when I was using. Yet now that I’m sober I found my way back to God. My faith got restored and now I’m active in my church. Who has been your biggest supporter? My wife. We got married five years ago, so I was already sober. She knows that even with what I went through for six years, that’s not who I am today. She knew I was smart, but she also knew that my intellect wasn’t enough. She pushed me to finish school and get my counselor’s license and go work in the rehabs.
What’s been the hardest aspect of being sober? The fear of missing out. Every once in a while I buy into the idea that I’m not experiencing something. My wife enjoys wine and seasonal beers, so sometimes I feel like I’m missing out. However, if I take a step back and look at all the blessings that have come into my life as a result of being sober, that feeling goes away pretty quickly. What message would you want to send to our readers? If you’re still alive, you’re not beyond help. It doesn’t matter how low or how bad you think you are, you can get better. Nobody is too far gone. Drugs are an attempt to fill a hole, and that hole will never get filled. The only thing that is going to quench it is God – whatever that being may be for you. Joseph Gorordo, LCDC, Director of Admissions (512) 213-9007 • josephg@recoveryunplugged.com
We live in a world of excess. We are all addicted to something. Be it food, work, sex, money, alcohol, drugs, exercise, gambling, or power, we always feel that we need more of something. Yet something I learned from talking to Joseph is that we also live in a culture where it’s not OK to be “not OK.” Meaning, being uncomfortable is frowned upon and therefore we look for something that will help us achieve a state of “perfection,” which we all should know is highly unattainable. Joseph now lives in Austin with his lovely wife and two children. He works as a counselor and has his phone on him 24 hours of the day, receiving phone calls from people who are seeking treatment and hope, and is readily available to share his story. His relationship with his mother has been restored and he couldn’t be happier with how things turned out in the end. Sending much love to those true, capeless heroes who use their negative experiences to help others out.
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BY RUBÉN BAZÁN III THERUBENINDEX@GMAIL.COM
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what i like most about him
she can’t leave the house without
our most memorable date was
MARIA F. MARTINEZ & CRISTOBAL LARRAIN PUNTI
LET’S TALK ABOUT...
P
utting your heart in what you do is something that a local cardiologist does on a daily basis… literally. You could say he’s in love with his career. Pedro Diaz Santana, M.D., a general and interventional cardiologist born in the Dominican Republic, truly believes that if people would take better care of themselves, “they would have more heart to love with.” According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. With the help of extensive research, fundamental findings have lead to the drop in death rates. “We’ve already seen the stroke death rate drop - from the No. 3 cause of death in the U.S. to No. 5 over just five years,” according to the AHA website. Diaz, a board certified doctor in internal medicine and cardiovascular diseases, didn’t choose an easy career. It took him 16 years to finish all his studies in the United States, and is now proud to provide personal care to his patients. He has been living in Laredo for the past 8 years after being recruited as a cardiologist by Doctors Hospital. “To tell you how I got here is also a matter of the heart, well, it was a divorce problem,” Diaz said, “and I was really attracted to this border town.” Beating heart As a cardiologist, Diaz takes every pulsation of the heart very seriously. “The heart beats faster when you are in love,” he stated. “To be in love is an emotion, and emotion stimulates the suprarenal glands, which secrete adrenaline, and the adrenaline has a direct impact on the heart.” Diaz explained how the brain produces small volts which stimulate the heart (a muscle), and produce a contraction. “An electric stimulation goes through a nerve directly to the heart and
stimulates it,” Diaz said. “Emotions can be manifested in the heart by beating faster or slower.” According to the AHA, the heart rate, or pulse, is the number of times the heart beats per minute, but normal heart rate varies from person to person. “Your heart rate is normally between 60 (beats per minute) and 100 (beats per minute),” states the AHA’s website. Diaz added that the difference also depends on the person because, for example, some people don’t give any importance to sadness; some even while seeing their true love don’t feel any emotion, which means their pulse doesn’t change no matter what the circumstances are.
PEDRO DIAZ SANTANA, M.D.
Loving yourself Sadly, cardiovascular diseases are more frequent in the United States. Fighting these diseases requires a doctor’s help, but even more crucial is the individual’s willingness to do whatever it takes to get better. “People are constantly being informed about cardiovascular diseases, but then you see them intake hypercaloric meals,” Diaz said. Cardiovascular diseases are correlated to smoking, blood pressure, bad eating habits, sugary drinks, diabetes, cholesterol, hypertension, glucose, obesity and sedentarism. “People need to try to avoid those bad habits, they need to try it everyday, even if it’s for the rest of their lives, they just need to keep trying to stop doing what is killing them,” he added. Career with a heart Diaz is so passionate about his career, that he doesn’t imagine himself in any other capacity than this. “What many doctors have lost is the contact with their patients. I dedicate a lot of time to them, from telling them about my career to running their tests,” he said. “Who can substitute me? I think if a patient comes to see the cardiologist, then it is me who he has to talk to.” This kind of relationship is the reason why Diaz thinks a lot of patients are very attached to him. “It’s about personal contact, not with a computer. This is the way I am,” he said. “I don’t have a cold relationship with my patients.” At the end of each day, Diaz is happy to be able to have a career that gives him great pleasure in return. “You can be in that certain moment of a patient’s life, where if it wasn’t for you, he/she could have died, and that brings a lot of satisfaction,” he concluded. No doubt that would make anybody’s heart beat with gratefulness. To read more about the American Heart Association please visit www.heart.org
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BY MELVA LAVÍN MLAVIN@MELVALAVIN.COM
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STYLED 7 in 10 gals may take a few minutes to premeditate a purchasing decision — well done, I praise those smart buyers (I lean more on impulse *cough). Chances are, the determining factor is the “occasion”. The “Where would I wear it?” Especially when it comes to statement pieces, the ones that are mistakenly categorized as not enough usage per cost. Set aside those thoughts and make most of those pieces you said you’d never find an occasion for. After all, most of them were purchased throughout the heavily party filled December, which makes them your non-conventional daily wear pieces. So let's put them to work!
NeverSayNever The midi length sheer bohemian inspired dress: full of whimsical and romantic feels but is now sitting in your closet because you used it for a party, and don’t know how to switch it up. I added a little clash with another floral popping print on my heels and a hat. A hat gives it an excuse to wear during the day.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIGUEL FLORES INSTAGRAM @soymaico 34
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A statement, head turning mermaid skirt: cocktail or no
cocktail party, this skirt made you fall in love. Paired with a golden foil crochet crop doesn’t make it less dressy, but with an added oversized denim jacket, the look turns a little playful and casual. You are now ready for a little date night with your guy.
The (essential) leopard print coat: AKA one of this season’s most
instagrammed look. I can assure you, this one was bought to wear over a dress but our fashion sense is insisting us to wear with everything and anything. We all know leopard is the new neutral. Rock it with pleather leggings and a vintage rock tee and white booties. Might as well throw on more stuff you thought you’d never wear while you’re at it.
Repurpose those pieces you thought you'd never wear again through layering, and never be afraid to let loose while creating the most enchanting, å la mode, combos.
BY MICHELLE COOK FOLLOW HER LOOKS AND READ MORE AT www.shopchictique.com/blog
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, R A FE BY DORIS GONZÁLEZ
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lthough more bad news is the last thing you want to hear while you experience the loss of love, this next sentence is in your best interest to read: Ben and Jerry’s is not the solution, no matter what the romantic movies tell you. Getting over a breakup is not a five-step process; it’s more like a medley of emotions that make you feel like Beyoncé is the only person who understands you. When you’re finally over the heartbreaker, whoshall-not-be-named, you’ll look back on your strength; this time, however, the love you were once given will come from an even better suitor: yourself. I’ll spare you the details of my first heartbreak and fast-forward to the selflove I eventually encountered. My method of coping was self-improvement. For once in my life, I focused on myself and becoming a better individual by putting an end to my self-doubts. To do this, I joined a ballet class, hoping to fulfill my secret lifelong dream of being a graceful dancer in a beautiful pink tutu. Unfortunately, not only was I broken-hearted, but I was also too broke to purchase a tutu (you’ll figure out why soon enough). Instead, I stuck to wearing my yoga pants that do no favors to my figure and an old Beatles t-shirt. Unfortunately, my ballet “career” was cut short when I realized I couldn’t get past the demi-plié, a ballet move that only requires you to bend your knees. No, I never became the white swan, and my
ballet moves were way more appropriate for an interpretative dance class than anything else. Although at first I was embarrassed by my lack of coordination and a skirt, I stopped my self-critical thoughts and decided to love myself in all my goofy glory. I might not have progressed in my dance skills, but I managed to improve my perception of myself. Besides my stint in ballet class, I also confronted my fears by traveling without the presence of my parents. If I really wanted to put my anxieties to rest once and for all, I couldn’t stay close to home. I decided to go to the farthest and most eccentric place I could think of: New York City. Much like my first attempt at improving myself, my second was not the idealistic experience I initially imagined it would be. While in New York, I got lost without the help of my phone’s Maps App to guide me. How could I, a fearful girl who had always relied on the help of others to function, find my way through New York City at night? As soon as I noticed the self-doubt creeping in, I decided I would challenge it with a new defense mechanism: confidence in my own worth. I still remember walking through Times Square populated with people that night and recalling the buildings I had When I believed in my abilities, I found previously passed. When a foreign strength within myself that I believed in my abilities, from then on turned my fears into I found a foreign strength within myself that from cowards. Besides gaining a sense of my then on turned my fears into self-worth that night, I also gained a cowards. Besides gaining a much-needed sense of direction. sense of my self-worth that night, I also gained a muchneeded sense of direction. Although at first I thought I was trying to overcome the pain of a break up, in reality, all along I was fighting my fear of being unloved. Through my post-heartbreak experiences, I realized I needed the love of someone else to feel okay about myself; as soon as I started validating my own actions and choices, I recognized the impact of confidence. The result was a freedom to be myself without the fear of being rejected by others. Remind yourself, as many times as needed, to feel happy with who you are, that what people think of you is less important than the light in which you view yourself. This Valentine’s day, what I want for both you and I, is for us to take the time to appreciate ourselves. Let’s call it quits to our insecurities and instead be the fearless women and men who have the courage to challenge their self-doubts and love themselves regardless of whether or not others do. cream
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10
Steps to Getting a Home Loan
Don’t start viewing houses as your 1st Step. Many people fall in love with a house they don’t qualify for or don’t agree with mortgage payments, because they went to see houses BEFORE going with a Loan Officer. Follow these steps to avoid this: 1 - Call a Loan Officer (Alex Bernal) answer 7 key
Questions, have him pull up credit report and run Loan Approval (Debt vs Income Ratio)
2 - Gather
all documents, complete Loan Application and send to LO (Loan Officer) in order to get Pre-Approval Letter
3 - Contact a Real Estate Agent to find a house for you and make an offer
4 - Once contract is accepted, send to your LO to start working on your Loan Approval Submission
5 - Order a Property Inspection
6 - Sign all federal disclosure requirements and gather all documents required by LO
7 - Order Appraisal (requested by LO and this fee is part of your Closing Cost)
8 - Once you get a CLEAR TO CLOSE (Approx
33 days avg from Contract to Closing) you will need to sign Final Figures document called Closing Disclosure and you will have to wait 3 days to close after this document is signed
9 - Sign Closing documents at Title Company
10 - Funding is done by Lender; this means the house
is officially the homebuyers (keys are delivered to buyers at this time)
Finding a Real Estate Team (Loan Officer & Realtor) you trust is KEY, and following these steps can help you get into your dream home in 33 days. BY ALEJANDRO BERNAL abernal@southwestfunding.com
Alejandro Bernal is currently the Branch Manager at Southwest Funding and has been a loan officer for 10 years. The married father-of-two, enjoys spending time with family & friends, in addition to playing golf & tennis.
flip flop coffee shop Have you checked out the coolest new coffee shop in town? If you haven’t, you definitely should. Flip Flop Coffee Shop is an awesome concept that we loved and highly recommend due to the great atmosphere and perfect menu to enjoy with friends!!
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Cream City Magazine is proud to introduce our readers to Yazmin, Amber and Cindy, three inspiring mothers that share the common goal of creating awareness and support for families that have children with Down syndrome. Find out how Down Moms of Laredo is making a difference in our community and help us spread the word.
three Executive Board My nam e is Yazm in Char les. I am one of the to David Charles and ied marr Directors of Down Moms of Laredo. I am is DanyElla, whom has we have three beautiful daughters. The youngest eness for individuals inspired my family and I to advocate and raise awar with Down syndrome.
I am Cin dy J. Ru bi o, mother to three gir ls ages 15, 11, and 10. I have been mar ried to Samuel Rubio Jr for 16 years. I am “Megan’s mom” as I am called by ot hers. At age 21, my life gave a 180 de gree turn when I ha d Megan. As an active mother and Ex ecutive Board membe r of Down Moms of Laredo, Megan - m y inspiration has brou ght out the best in me. Some experienc es in the past exclude d my daughter from many opportunit ies, therefore, the vis ion and mission of Down Moms of Lare do will provide somethin g better than what I was offered. Our entire family and friends are the reason for Megan be ing who she is today. Our community plays an essential ro le in the high functio ning development of our children with Down syndrome. DML’s major goal is always to provide aw areness and inclusion with typical individuals their age. ctor. utive Board Dire ec Ex n a o ls a Rudy I am my husband, d ri g ue z and o e, R m r ro e d b n sy m A n only let go rn with Dow M y n a m e is r, we have not ild, Lila, was bo te la ch lf t a rs h fi a y d m an something When scared. A year aughter with d e a er w ve I a d h n a to d t Down Rodriguez, led and excite our world tha ril d th n a re y a it t un bu e m of our fear, show our com lebrate, and w ce to to t n g a in w h e et W m ”. red of but so a little “extra is goal. hing to be sca et m so ’t key to meet th n is re a e n io us cl syndrom in d n , awareness, a feel knowledge 40
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Cindy J. Rubio with DanyElla, les ar Ch in zm íguez with Lila. ht: Ya d Amber Rodr From left to rig with Megan, an
How did this organization begin? The non-profit organization, Down Moms of Laredo, was created and established September 16, 2016 by Cindy, J. Rubio, Yazmin Charles and Amber Rodriguez who are each mothers to a child with Down syndrome. They saw a need in the community for more Down syndrome awareness and support, and their love and passion for their children and for all of those with Down syndrome brought them together to start the organization. What are some goals the organization would like to achieve this year? One of our primary goals is to build a community where Down syndrome is celebrated and embraced. We hope to achieve this through various ways, including community events such as our upcoming 5k Run/walk, “Run Your Socks Off for Down Syndrome”. It will take place March 11, 2017 at North Central Park and will help raise awareness while celebrating World Down Syndrome Day, a day that is observed March 21st of every year. The significance of this date is to indicate the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome (3-21). Are there some common misconceptions about Down syndrome? There are many misconceptions about people with Down syndrome. A few of the most common misconceptions are: Misconception 1: Only older parents have children with Down syndrome. Reality: According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention research, about 80% of children who have Down syndrome are born to women younger than 35.
Misconception 2: People who have Down syndrome die young. Reality: The average life expectancy for a person with Down syndrome is nearly 60 years old. Misconception 3: People with Down syndrome all look alike. Reality: Many, but not all people with Down syndrome share common features. However, like typical people who have similar features, they look more like their families than each other. Misconception 4: People who have Down syndrome are always happy. Reality: People with Down syndrome are more like typical people than they are different. Everyone has feelings and moods.
What’s the best way for people to get involved? The best way to get involved is by participating in our community events that take place throughout the year, especially in the month of October which is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and as we mentioned, March 21st of every year we will be celebrating World Down Syndrome Day. By participating, you are helping us celebrate the beauty of Down syndrome and raise awareness. Everyone can keep up with our events by visiting our Facebook page.
What advice do you have for parents with newly diagnosed children? First of all, congratulations, and welcome to the Down syndrome family! Remember, your baby is a baby first. He/she needs the same love and attention as any other “typical” baby. Also, it is normal to feel a roller coaster of emotions in the beginning, including doubt and uncertainty. Know that your feelings are normal, and that you are not alone. There are many sources of support available for new parents: including us! We would love to talk to you, and give you resources and information to help begin your journey. How can people reach out to you? People can reach out to us by phone (956) 337-8394, email downmomsoflaredo@gmail.com or our Facebook page @downmomsoflaredo.
We encourage you to visit our Facebook page as we share weekly info; birthdays, accomplishments and stories of individuals with Down syndrome within our community. Help us celebrate and embrace those that have a little “extra”.
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Dhanurasana or Bow Pose This intense spine strengthening pose improves your breathing, opens the shoulder joints, and helps to correct bad posture. It’s an excellent way to develop mental determination and increase circulation to the heart and lungs. To perform this pose, begin by lying on your belly. As you slowly bend both knees, reach back and try to grip your feet from the outside of your ankle joints. If you encounter resistance, try to set up one leg at a time, always remembering to cultivate deep breathing to allow the body to safely receive the pose. To fully experience the benefits offered by bow pose, activate and energize by kicking strongly and intensely into your hands to balance your pelvis on the mat. You can find this pose and other beneficial yoga poses in the all level classes offered at Casa Yoga. Call 956-307-YOGA to schedule your first free class. Model: Daniella Sada Paz
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t is the ultimate dream: to find our passion and live the rest of our lives fulfilling the purpose in each of our hearts. If you are lucky enough to find your calling, and are able to do that for life, we encourage you to do so. Such is the story of Yolanda Gutiérrez Garcia and her daughter, Erika Garcia Haynes. Both have found fascination and satisfaction in the art of dance. Different eras, different styles, but the fact remains: to dance is to love. At the tender age of 9, Yolanda recalls her first steps in dance, “a few blocks away from my house, Blanche Leyendecker had a dance studio which I attended. There came a point where my mother could no longer afford my dance classes and told me I could not attend. Mrs. Leyendecker told my mother that was not an issue and there was no way she was going to let me stop dancing.” And dance she did.
the years took their course and graduation, she moved back to her hometown yolanda was fully inspired to and began teaching classes alongside her mother. follow her devotion to dance. It was Later she made the move to New Mexico where during her trips to visit family members in she worked with the Encinias family, a very Mexico, that she was exposed to the art of well-known family in the realm of flamenco. Spanish dance. Regardless of geographic Pursuing a Master’s degree in Dance History location, she was fully immersed in dance and Criticism, even her thesis was focused on culture. Looking back at the inception dance. Erika researched flamenco families and of her own studio, Yolanda vividly how dance was transmitted through generations. reminisces teaching dance in a classroom Sharing the stage with her mom, Erika located in St. Peter’s School in addition acknowledges her mother’s experience and the to Mrs. Leyendecker’s studio. In a very effects it has on their students’ performance. personal recollection, Yolanda cites how Combining the old with the new, they her daughter, Erika, was born into the encourage their dancers to discover fine music. studio. “Since she was able to move in her Better said by Yolanda, “Students are exposed crib she was always active, but as soon as she began walking, that’s when she stepped out “Students are exposed to during a recital (tutu and all) dancing flamenco with live and executed a plié; the crowd music, as it should be. People went crazy for her. All she witnessed was dancing since don’t understand that you the day she was born.” follow music on tape, but with A daughter that follows in a guitarist, it’s the other way her mother’s footsteps…what around. The guitarist will more can a mother ask for? follow the dancer.” We know too well that things don’t always turn out as we may -Yolanda Gutiérrez Garcia wish, and while growing up in an array of dancing classes, Erika had other plans for her future. “My to dancing flamenco with live love for flamenco stemmed from going music, as it should be. People to workshops with my mom. I always don’t understand that you danced with her group. Nonetheless, I follow music on tape, but with decided I didn’t want to do anything a guitarist, it’s the other way dance related, and I focused my college around. The guitarist will follow the dancer.” studies on Psychology.” They say you Both mother and daughter lovingly express can’t outrun destiny, and such was the that the greatest gift comes from seeing growth case for Erika. One afternoon, Yolanda in every dancer. The progression is incredible made a suggestion that would change her to witness. “Their self-esteem improves daughter’s life forever. She recommended tremendously. Some dancers come in very shy her to attend a class with her dear friend and after a few lessons, we can see the change. Chiqui Linares, wife of her guitarist Jose Some may come to our studio even before “El Patriota” Linares. Yolanda set the actual schooling. We take children from age 2 stage to passionately lure Erika back to to adults. Oftentimes, our experienced dancers her love of dance. have their own careers, but they practice dance as a form of exercise. It is also wonderful for the “I didn’t like the idea at the time, but mind; it challenges your brain to physically do I attended that first flamenco class. things it’s not accustomed to,” says Erika. Immediately, it ignited the flame from childhood. I started from the bottom and worked my way up with a company located in San Antonio. It led me to work with an array of artists and instructors from Spain and various parts of the world,” recalls Erika. Undoubtedly, dance has infused every part of her life. Upon
And just like that, this pair danced into our hearts… and are now a huge inspiration to us and many others. We feel honored to feature their history and legacy, because it is people like these that make our city great. People with the heart and passion who share the love and serve as an example for future generations who will carry in their hearts that same love for the art of dance.
OlĂŠ,
o c n e m a l F
Yolanda GutiĂŠrrez Garcia and Erika Garcia Haynes
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Prague
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iajar es una actividad que nos hace ver la vida y el mundo desde otra perspectiva: nos hace crecer, conocer y vivir! Nuestras amigas Leslie y Larissa Franco compartieron con Cream sus aventuras en famosas ciudades de Europa con un énfasis especial en Praga, para conocer más a fondo la historia y cultura de ese mágico lugar el cual fue la inspiración para el nombre de su boutique, la cual por casi ya 2 años brinda a su clientela lo más chic en moda y tendencias.
¿Cómo surge la idea de conocer Praga? La idea surgió al saber que Praga es altamente turística por ser la ciudad histórica más bella de Europa. El reloj astronómico, el famoso puente Carlo sobre el río Moldava y la plaza de la Ciudad Vieja fueron algunas atracciones por las que decidimos conocer, claro, sin dejar atrás sus extendidas calles llenas de boutiques exclusivas y únicas en la República Checa. Nos dejo encantadas. ¿Qué fue lo que mas les gusto de visitar el viejo continente? Lo que mas nos gusto de visitar el viejo continente fue su impresionante arquitectura. En Praga, su arquitectura románica y gótica nos impacto profundamente, ya que donde sea que voltearas te encontrabas con monumentos magníficos. Conocimos también la Catedral de Colonia, esta es considerada como una obra maestra de la arquitectura gótica mundial. Los impresionantes castillos y palacios de Alemania nos hacían creer que estábamos en un cuento de hadas por sus torreones y balcones, fue una experiencia inolvidable! En Ámsterdam, los canales, la casa de Anne Frank, los museos como el de Van Gogh, nos dejaron enamoradas de esta ciudad. Como es la moda en las ciudades que visitaron? Leslie: Entre las muchas ciudades que conocimos, Berlín es conocida como la capital mundial de “street style” que es una moda joven y urbana. La gente ahí viste cómodamente pero sin dejar el estilo, incluso en el invierno con bajas temperaturas, lucían prendas de pelo, chaquetas donde las mangas están repletas de pelo, abrigos largos y de lana. Amberes, Bélgica es una la ciudad donde se encuentra el Instituto de Artes finas, arquitectura y diseño, donde se localiza el departamento de moda. Nos llamó la atención sus tiendas locales y el talento de estas, ya que cada una tiene su estilo y concepto. Las personas aquí vestían de botas con plumas, algo totalmente diferente que no se ve aquí en Laredo. Lari: Praga tiene interesantes boutiques, con abrigos, trajes, chaquetas, suéteres, prendas tejidas, ya que fuimos en temporada de invierno esto fue lo que más vimos. En la calle Pařížská están las tiendas más lujosas, cafés de moda, restaurantes etc. Cada año Praga tiene su “Prague Fashion Week” donde las marcas de moda Checa se presentan en las pasarelas; es el evento más grande en la República Checa. En Amsterdam las prendas son muy únicas y vintage, en el centro, con muchas boutiques, donde estan las ultimas tendencias. Incluso también algunas tiendas por las que pasamos estaban los trajes típicos de los Holandeses. Lo más famoso de los trajes tradicionales son los zapatos de madera (zuecos). Este viaje nos influenció en cuanto a la boutique a... El haber tenido la oportunidad de hacer este viaje nos influenció en cuanto a la boutique a haber conocido las diferentes culturas y tendencias en la vestimenta. No solo vimos cómo vestía la gente sino también conocimos tiendas con lo mas nuevo en moda y lo que se verá esta primavera y verano 2017. Logramos coleccionar muchas ideas las cuales nos ayudaran a tener lo mas nuevo en Prague Boutique.
BY MELVA LAVÍN
What do you need to become a hero? It’s just a simple rule: be unselfish.
“It is never easy to go on after losing a loved one, but knowing that this work is helping spread organ donation awareness in our community and that Krizia’s legacy goes on because of her deed gives us pride,” Martha concluded.
Almost five years ago, Krizia Lauren Keiser became a hero when three lives were saved through the altruistic act of organ donation. Her parents, John and Martha, along with her brother, John Jr., have continued her legacy through different events.
Finally, she is thankful for all the community continued support.
On Saturday, February 25, the 4th annual “Krizia L. Keiser Memorial 5K Run & Walk”
will take place at Lake Casa Blanca State Park. On-site registration will start at 7:15 a.m. and the race will begin at 8 a.m. “Being able to continue doing this in Krizia’s name and memory gives me so much strength to continue,” Martha says.
Registration is $20 per person and $5 per child under 10 years of age. The first 100 registered participants will receive a free t-shirt. The Keisers hope to have at least 200 members. Their ultimate goal is to reach $10,000. 00
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All proceeds will go toward scholarships for local students, and the continuation of Krizia’s Memorial Garden at North Central Park.
Rick Nuñez (left), organ recipient of Krizia’s pancreas and kidney chats with John Keiser, during the 3rd annual 5K. This was the first time Krizia’s parents and family met one of Krizia’s organ recipients.
“I continue to receive messages from people I’ve never met who tell me how she has made a change in their lives and how her decision to be a donor has impacted their way of viewing life,” Martha added. “I wish I could hear her voice again; she does send many signs, but I wish I could hear her once more.” Martha is certain Krizia is looking down from heaven, saying, “I love you so much Mommy.”
Samantha Lee Gonzalez (right), signed up to be an organ donor in honor of her younger cousin Krizia (left).
This year’s event will be dedicated in memory of Samantha Lee Gonzalez, Krizia’s cousin. Sam, passed on this January. She was also an organ donor.
creamtips
When it comes to choosing the best source of protein, there are a few things to keep in mind. Consider the following choices for healthy, easy options to fill up your plate without a substantial hit to your waistline. GROUND TURKEY AND GROUND CHICKEN Be wary of the fat ratio here. Many varieties of ground turkey and ground chicken contain just as much fat and just as many calories as ground beef. Make sure to purchase the leanest variety available (typically extra lean or lean), and don’t overcook: lean meats dry out much easier than fatty cuts, overcooking very quickly. If you’re not a fan of the taste of ground poultry, purchase extra-lean ground beef (typically 93% lean) and sauté the two in separate pans, creating a 50-50 mixture when the two have finished cooking (do not cook in the same pan, as beef and poultry have different cooking times and temperatures). EGGS Eat the whole egg!! One large, whole egg contains 70 Calories and 5 grams of fat, while one large egg white contains 17 Calories and 0 grams of fat.
How to choose the
RIGHT protein?
FISH AND SEAFOOD Loaded with Omega-3 Fatty Acids, seafood is one area where it pays to go the fatty route. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and albacore tuna benefit the cardiovascular system and may reduce risk for dementia, alzheimer’s disease, and heart disease. Just be sure to steer clear of low quality mayonnaise, and other fatty or high-calorie sauces. If you’re not a fan of fatty fish, try white fish, which is milder in flavor and lower in calories: an advantage for calorie-conscious consumers. Shrimp, shellfish, tilapia, cod, and pollock are all good choices. Keep in mind that a balanced diet, in conjunction with a customized exercise routine, is key to achieving your personal fitness goals.
Alan Gutierrez, originally from Bayamon, PR. is certified by the International Sports of Science Association (ISSA) since 2007. His main goal is to help people become the best version of themselves. As of September 2013, Gutierrez opened his business named Dynamik Physiques and has been helping clients improve their overall health.
BY ALAN GUTIERREZ fit4lifelaredo@gmail.com