feb / mar 2012 no 11 free
Unfold your creativity...
BLACK CROWN DIAMOND
A new collection of watches from PANDORA personally styled perfectly by you
Experience at: 5601 San Dario, Ste 2B Laredo, Texas 78041 956.729.7444
founder & publisher fernando de haro production director analee g. paz C I T Y M A G A Z I N E
NO 11
feb • mar 2012 C I T Y M A G A Z I N E
publisher i am pleased to welcome you to our 11th edition that includes a diversity of concepts. In our constant quest to bring you new and fresh ideas, our creative team worked hard in a Hollywood-inspired, detective-style feature, which turned out to be challenging, exhilarating, and fun. Also, our pages are infused with art thanks to Armando Hinojosa. The talented artist opened his studio doors to share a bit of his history and accomplishments with us. I am sure he will captivate you. In addition, we had been looking forward to a photo shoot where bridal gowns would take center stage. We are finally able to do so. Once again, I am deeply grateful to all the people who collaborate in the making of our magazine. I am most appreciative of our advertisers; they entrust us with the task of highlighting their products, with the Cream touch.
copy editor graciela garcía
interns
selene cuevas, amber garcía, anna carolina gonzález, lexy garcía, daniela párraga
design & production photographer graphic designer design production assistant illustration collaborator
ferch analee g. paz mariana ortega olivia cotton
writers rubén bazán, moon jamaluddin, bobby turner special thanks lisa longoria, familia paz + serna, brenda ibarra, celina díaz, laura reynoso, memo huerta, embassy suites, joe arciniega, cristóbal rodríguez iii, diana carlo, stingray alley, mafalda, apple, and flaming hot cheetos
ADVERTISING sales@creamcitymagazine.com + 956.753.6755
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NO 11 TEAM 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Anna Carolina González Analee G. Paz Lexy García Mariana Ortega Fernando de Haro Graciela García Daniela Párraga
Copyright © 2012 Cream City Magazine is a bi-monthly publication. All rights reserved. Points of view expressed do not necessarily represent those of Cream City Magazine. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement we believe is incompatible with our mission. We also reserve the right to refuse any advertisement we deem competitive or contrary to the best interests of the magazine. Advertisers are legally responsible for the content, accuracy, and images in their ads. Printed in Mexico.
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LOVE AS FICTION
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this is my place
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"If I can see it, I can paint it" THE
19
25
INDEX
unveiled
33
35
ESCAPE 11
GERARDO VILLARREAL A devout entrepreneur whose accomplishments are imbued with faith and gratefulness.
BLASITA J. LÓPEZ She works tirelessly to roll out the welcome mat for visitors to our city.
CRISTÓBAL RODRÍGUEZ III His financial expertise gives him the chance to help prospective home buyers.
Cream presents three exceptional individuals who contribute to the development of both Laredos with their effort, hard work, and dedication.
GERARDO VILLARREAL
Owner of Posh Sushi Restaurant and Fonda Don Martín
The restaurant field requires preparation and training. It is not enough to have an inclination; you need to do the research. When I first came to Laredo, I realized its potential in many areas, the restaurant business being one of them. I knew this would become my career once I started. Personally, I like to be at the forefront of things; I am fearless in that regard. The mistakes have served me as lessons to move forward, even into uncharted territory. In 2006, to promote Posh, we entered the event Taste of Laredo. We served, among other things, our tomato soup, empanadas argentinas, and Villarreal roll. It was our first time in such a grand event and we were competing with major chain restaurants. So imagine our surprise when we were awarded 1st Prize by the judges, 2nd Place People Choice Award, and 3rd Place for Best Booth; we couldn’t believe it. It was not easy; the public was not so familiar with sushi back then. Subsequently, we won in 2007 and 2008.
It is very rewarding to see entire families marking their special celebrations in our restaurants. Of all the eating establishments in town, they choose us. Thank you, Laredo. My inspirations in life are God, my wife, and my children. I am ever so grateful to my excellent “work team.” I am satisfied with our accomplishments up to now and hope that we may continue to grow with the help of God. BLASITA J. LÓPEZ
Director of the Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau
I got my start in the real world as a reporter at KGNS after graduating with a broadcast journalism degree from UT Austin. I then entered the realm of public service as the public information officer at city hall for the City of Laredo in 2000. I was eventually hired as the assistant director at the Convention and Visitors Bureau and became director in 2007. The communication field fits so well with what I do now. I thoroughly enjoy being in the tourism industry and my career skills have been elevated to new levels.
Our community is both blessed and cursed with its location between two very powerful countries. And because it is a major inland port, we see the good, the bad, and the ugly
come through here. It is a tremendous job to clean up our image and help people see us in a more positive light. This career opportunity is unparalleled for me, but I am dedicated to seeing it through and enhancing my community in my own small way. I still have more to accomplish; so I look forward to the future and try to maintain a positive attitude in everything that I do. I did not foresee this path for myself, but I am tremendously blessed and I thank God for giving me all that I have, both in my professional and personal life. I find my inspiration in His profound wisdom. CRISTÓBAL RODRÍGUEZ III
Owner/Realtor of Unico Real Estate and Investments LLC
Sales have always been a passion of mine. My uncle Evaled L. Lofgren, a very successful sales director for a Swiss watch company, would take me to important meetings to show me what he did for a living. When I was younger, I used to travel with him to meet his clients. That’s when I knew what I wanted to do.
After fourteen years in the car industry as director of finance, I opted for real estate because I felt I could make a difference. With my finance background, I am able to further help people when purchasing a home. When life presents an opportunity, you take it and run with it. Laredo is a unique market because usually the entire extended family wants to be involved in the buying process, not something you see in other cities. I enjoy meeting the grandmothers, aunts, cousins, friends, and even some neighbors. That’s how I usually get most of my referrals. People think that being a realtor is easy; they say, “Well, you go and show a house, contract it, and get paid.” There is so much more. It can be a tedious and long process, but it fulfills my giving personality. For me is very satisfying, once we close the contract, to present the family with the keys to their new home; their reactions are priceless. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. I love my job.
cream feb / mar 2012
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The date movie. The chick flick. The tearjerker. Today’s euphemisms are quite
LOVE AS FICTION
unflattering when describing romantic films. What is rooted in the origins of drama and classic tragedy long ago took a commercial and formulaic turn that has left us with the romantic comedies or “rom-coms” that we know today. Boy meets girl…boy gets girl… boy loses girl…boy gets girl. Countless present-day romantic comedies can be described using similar
when considering some of history’s more enduring love stories, central themes begin to emerge. Romeo and Juliet was set amongst a bitter blood-feud between families, Gone with the Wind was set during the American Civil War, and Casablanca took place in the midst of Nazi occupied Europe. Not only are the settings of the classics we know so well rife with dire conflict, but along with the protagonists’ passion came the direst of consequences. The central characters always had to consider more than just their love for one another. And their considerations were usually of urgent and fatal proportions. Either their love or their cause had to be sacrificed in the end. The stakes could have been no higher. It seems that this quality has been lost somewhere along the evolutionary road of Hollywood’s love story. As is the case with most films that fail to create a spark, the absence of true human emotion on some identifiable scale results in a disconnection with the material. The reality that all we all know from countless life experiences is not mirrored in any way, shape, or form. The fairy tale effect takes over, and, if we are lucky, we are left with an amusing yet ultra-unrealistic take on modern day relationships. Most of today’s romantic comedies seem to barely skim the surface of the real, everyday conflicts between man and woman and rarely ever involve anything that is bigger than the characters’ desires. I am not saying that all romantic comedies are bad; just that it seems that there is often something lacking, usually realism. I believe what makes the love stories of old so great, and what makes our ability to relate so simply, is the fact that the central themes of the classics almost always involve great loss and great tragedy. It is a sad fact of life to realize, but a fact nonetheless. Life is not a bowl of cherries and any portrayal as such is unacceptable. I used to wonder what would have happened if Friar John reached Romeo before Balthasar, or if Juliet would have awoken before Romeo drank the poison that killed him. Although the thoughts were sometimes entertaining to engage, the answer was always quite simple. The young couple would have escaped their families and lived happily ever after. The star-crossed lovers would have never been and the name of William Shakespeare might not be so well known today. It was the tragedy that immortalized the tale.
summarizations. Although lighthearted and at times very enjoyable, most of today’s rom-coms, which flood the theaters at this time of year, lack the truly lasting impression that a proper love story should leave upon the audience. What seems to be a proven and successful formula fails to really connect with the viewers. Why? And then another thought occurred to me. If the best stories of today mirror the realities of life, then wouldn’t the dramatic tragedies of the past echo the realities of their respective period as well? Is this what is occurring today? Do we prefer to look at the humorous side of life rather than personal loss and tragedy, selflessness, and sacrifice? Are our Hollywood fictions a reflection of reality or merely an escape? At times it seems that there is a tendency to blend the lines of drama in cinema and combine traits of different genres in the same film. Instead of focusing on one aspect, we experience a slew of storylines, subplots, and love interests. Does this variety offer a more accurate representation of our lives in this day and age? I offer no answers, only questions. The world today is filled with great stories. And it is not my intention to bash romantic comedies. There are plenty of films, in genres of all shapes and sizes, just waiting to be found that have the ability to speak to us in their own individual ways. This is merely a comparison of generational trends in cinema. Fiction imitates life, but often the most honest of sentiments are oversensationalized, distorted, and, therefore, result in falsehood. A slight return from the departed ways of reality will always bring the story back to earth. A film is more impactful when the message is realized rather than preached, fact rather than fantasy. And human experience will always drive human realization. BY BOBBY TURNER + ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA COTTON
cream feb / mar 2012
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this is my place
THE INTERIOR Intimate seating areas, a chimney, and a bar create an inviting atmosphere for any occasion.
THE A.J. GUTIÉRREZ EDITION Attorney at Falcon Bank when he isn’t representing falcon bank, a.j. gutiérrez likes to entertain and unwind in his rustic, nature inspired cabana. The design of this at-home-escape is inspired by the Texas Hill Country; earth-toned walls combine with stone and granite and large comfortable furniture in various shades of brown. A.J. loves to gather with his friends on weekends here, a large yet intimate space that is perfect for entertaining. While he likes to socialize and hang out with friends, he also loves spending time on the patio with just a beer and his golden retriever, Stella. A.J. feels happy when at home because it allows him to escape the pressures of the outside world and interact with the people he loves. BY SELENE CUEVAS
POOLSIDE The cabana is found following the pathway of an organic pool and Jacuzzi.
SUNSHINE Eight large window and door panels bring in light and integrate the cabana and outdoor pool areas.
CHATTING WITH A.J. YOUR FAVORITE PLACE IS...the cabana. It’s where my friends and I like to gather on the weekends. IN THE CABANA, I USUALLY... entertain or unwind. THE MOST SPECIAL FEATURE OF MY CABANA WOULD HAVE TO BE...how even a simple gathering can turn into a special event.
cream feb / mar 2012
11
"If I can see it, I can paint it" A true artist is
always evolving, maturing and perfecting his
God-given talents and
skills. Armando Hinojosa
is such an artist, always forging
ahead with as much inspiration
as determination, dedication, and hard work. His average
workday is nearly ten hours
including weekends. In the past
ten years he has probably taken about six half days off from
painting or sculpting.
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cream feb / mar 2012
IN HIS DOWNTOWN LAREDO STUDIO Hinojosa tells us, "I get my inspiration from all of God's creations. I know that I am able to work because of Him."
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A direct descendant of Don Tomás Sánchez, he inherited his talent from his father, Gerónimo Hinojosa, also a brilliant painter and sculptor. “I always knew that my life would revolve around the creation and appreciation of the arts. I feel that the artistic energy is in my blood.” Now an accomplished artist of more than four decades, he has fond memories from the outset of his career, “For more than a decade, my family and I did over 45 art shows a year. On weekends most people thought that we were on vacation when my family and I were working at different shows throughout the U.S. and Mexico.” Then he adds, “My three children attended their first art show at approximately 3 weeks old. I call them all, ‘Hinojosa Originals.’” Although he prefers painting, currently he is completing a group of sculptures for the Texas State Capitol grounds in Austin and has been working on them for the last ten years. Hinojosa’s vision for the Tejano Monument was chosen from among different proposals entered by other well-known Texas artists. His work will honor the indomitable spirit of the early Tejanos, the real pioneers of our land. It will be unveiled on March 29, 2012. We visited him in his downtown Laredo studio where he graciously posed for our camera before answering our questions. I get my inspiration from all of God's creations. I know that I am able to work because of Him. WHAT IS YOUR DREAM ASSIGNMENT? All of my projects have been special to me; they all have required focus, passion, and intense research. They have been rewarding because they give me the opportunity to learn something that I can apply to my next work. Every piece of art is different. Some of my work is finished in just a few months while others can take years. My dream project is always whatever I do next because I am always thankful for work. COULD YOU DESCRIBE FOR US YOUR WORKING PROCESS? An idea turns into a working sketch. Next, I make design modifications on this. Then, I start researching what I am doing. Flexibility and changes are the name of the game. Realize that everything is an original piece; I have no blueprints. In sculpture, a maquette or model follows in clay. Next, I build an armature to start creating the larger piece of sculpture. Finally, I start with a lump of clay in my hand, and I start molding my artwork. Simply put: just get some play dough and create something for the whole world to see. That’s my job! Lastly, I take the clay model to the foundry where I sign the piece so that it can be cast in bronze. This is the short version WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR INSPIRATION?
"I believe that the role of public art space is to celebrate the freedom of creativity, and to honor the things that are really important to our world." Armando Hinojosa
of the process.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE THE
VIEWERS WILL TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR
WORK? I hope that they will feel a sense of connection with my work; I also hope that their lives may be enriched by my art. HOW
DO YOU PERCEIVE THE ROLE OF ART IN
I believe that the role of public art space is to celebrate the freedom of creativity, and to honor the things that are really important to our world. WHERE HAS YOUR WORK BEEN SEEN? Private collections, art shows, public buildings, churches, Sea World, different locations for the Boy Scouts of America, universities, cemeteries and memorials, to name a few. WHOM YOU ADMIRE? I admire those who do whatever job they are doing to the best of their ability. If it’s your best effort, then you can walk away with a sense of pride in your work; I hate lazy people and sloppy work! DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR BUDDING ARTISTS? Remember, there is a difference between a hobby and a career. Don't get into this type of work if you don't plan on devoting your life to it. This is very hard work; however, it is very spiritually uplifting. IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD? I feel very blessed to be able to work in the field of art every day. My first love is painting and then sculpture. This might seem odd to people, but that’s the way it is. I want to thank everyone that has believed in me and my art for over forty years. Without God and you, people like me could not exist. Thank you. God Bless.
PUBLIC SPACES?
Los 40 principales, “Laredo’s Top 40 Station” is the House of:
cream
ADELE RIHANNA KELLY CLARKSON BRUNO MARS DAVID GUETTA GYM CLASS HEROES LMFAO PITBULL SHAKIRA ENRIQUE IGLESIAS MANA GLORIA TREVI PAULINA RUBIO ZOE
99.3 FM PLAYLIST
FRESH BEAUTIFUL and
EDIBLE EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS 1605 E. Del Mar Suite 109 Laredo, Texas 78041 956 . 718 . 2218
M-F 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. The Delicious Daisy® is the freshest idea for corporate or business gifting. It includes strawberries, pineapples, honeydew, cantaloupe and grapes. Send this sweet fruit bouquet for birthdays, new babies or even just because.
Sat. 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Sun. 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE THE MENU OFFERED BY EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS?
Our menu is healthy, yet fun and unique. We offer all natural ingredients. Even our fruZees and fruithies are made with only fruit and sweetened with agave. At the same time, we also offer chocolate for those who want to indulge. WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND?
My favorite is the banana cream frusundae. WHICH ITEM ON THE
MENU ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
claudia villarreal is co-owner of the Edible Arrangements store in Laredo. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1999 and is also a self-published author of a children’s book, The Alphabet Thief Who Stole the Vowels. After working as a special education teacher in Texas, she moved to L.A. in 2003 where she was first introduced to Edible Arrangements. In late 2010, just as she and mother Rosalva Guerra and sister Odyssa V. were opening their the first Edible Arrangements store in Corpus Christi, Claudia was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Claudia’s illness made it impossible for her to participate with the first store. Now in full remission, Claudia is taking advantage of this second chance at life by taking charge of their second Edible Arrangements store in Laredo.
Our arrangements are what I’m most proud of. They are fresh, beautiful, and unique. WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR ITEM ON THE MENU? The chocolate covered strawberries. WHAT IS THE KEY TO OWNING A SUCCESSFUL
Customer service—treating each customer with respect. WHAT CAN WE FIND AT EDIBLE
EATING ESTABLISHMENT?
ARRANGEMENTS THAT WE CANNOT
FIND IN OTHER ESTABLISHMENTS IN TOWN?
Our unique arrangements.
ribbon cutting! Leading the way for new generations of readers, The Kids BoOkstore and the Laredo Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony.
want to feature your event? contact us at info@creamcitymagazine.com
THE
INDE
X
A NATION OF WUSSES
H
umans are biologically wired to whine about circumstances that make them tick. Simply looking at a random sample of Facebook statuses and tweets, you will conclude that people are experts at complaining. My teacher yelled at me. My parents bought me the black iPad instead of the white one. My coworker always stares me down. The barista spelled my name wrong and I’ve been coming here for years. The most recent Muppets movie is a communist plot. We hear it all the time.
With the exclusion of first world problems (let’s admit it, we’ve spoiled ourselves), it has been noted that the unpokeable bubble we live in is expanding at an alarming rate. Kids growing up in the ‘70s and ‘80s had more fear towards authoritarian consequences. However, this discipline didn’t quite transcend. Those same kids now submit to the wishes of their own children, and it seems that these 30-somethings are now a population that obeys both their parents and their kids. When I was about nine years old, I remember throwing a fit because my father didn’t want to buy me a specific toy. I had almost never been neglected of fun stuff as a child, and perhaps this event peeved me because it was highly unexpected. Years later, I realized that my father was in his absolute right to deny my wish. He had no obligation to grant the spoiled desires of a nine- year-old brat. This is when I learned that I have to suck it up, and that things will not always go my way. There seems to be a shift in priorities when it comes to the upbringing of today’s youth. Parents and teachers coddle the
in students’ view of themselves. Today’s youth has an unabashed sense of entitlement that is bubble-wrapped with weakened emotions. According to Twenge, there was an increase in purple pen sales because red ink was deemed “too scary” for students when their papers were being graded. It makes terrifying sense that this was seen as a solution. The emotional demands of the students were being met, yet they went to college unprepared for harsh realities. Even scarier, I recently heard of a case in which a local high school teacher was discouraged from telling students they were wrong when answering math problems during class participation. If one student answered incorrectly, he was encouraged to say “You’re correct, but there is an even better answer,” when obviously a simple multiplication problem can only yield one product. Apparently, parents complained that their children felt humiliated or belittled in front of their peers whenever they answered erroneously. An emotionally narcissistic desire of benefits is quite prevalent in adults as well. Often, we hear about a new case of frivolous litigation such as ex-judge Roy Pearson suing the dry cleaners for $67 million for losing a pair of pants. We hear about lawsuits involving “intentional infliction of emotional distress,” and no matter how many times people explain what that is, I always end up thinking that people need to toughen up. The deciding point is now lost. It is very difficult to tell if spoiled children are simply the offspring of parents who were themselves spoiled, and therefore inherited that same characteristic, or if there are adults who simply praise and overprotect their children to an imminent fault. One of the most important lessons we should teach our children (and ourselves for that matter) is the vast difference between undeserved entitlement and actual merit. The good news is that it is never too late to learn. What happened to America? This country used to be populated by thick-skinned men and women. When we think of our grandparents and great-grandparents, we think of hard-working, independently strong and emotionally intelligent individuals who knew that respect from others and the luxuries of life were both earned. They were selfless, simple people who understood that no meant no, that father knew best, and that teachers, regardless of
WHAT HAPPENED TO AMERICA? This country used to be populated by thick-skinned men and women...They didn’t feel over-entitled to unwarranted praises and privileges. self-esteem of children and students to a point where their expectations of the real world no longer match what the real world can actually offer. The phrase “do what makes you happy” is heard in households and is taken to heart. Furthermore, children attend schools in which teachers bump up exam grades until the highest score reaches 100. Meaning, if the highest score is a 92, that student will get eight points added to his or her grade and, in an attempt to be fair, the teacher will grant the same privilege to a student who had earned a 62, essentially passing the student (yes, I have been witness to this). This does more harm than good because they add a dangerously foundationless confidence that may ultimately do nothing but betray the students in the future.
how stern they were, were meant to be respected because they were heroes in disguise. They didn’t feel over-entitled to unwarranted praises and privileges. It is no wonder that Tom Brokaw calls them the greatest generation. They made America seem like the toughest nation in the world.
In her book Generation Me, author Jean M. Twenge discusses this very issue by studying trends in the education system and changes
BY RUBÉN BAZÁN THERUBENINDEX@GMAIL.COM
I call on the nation to change our attitudes. There is a way of looking at things and a set of standards placed decades ago that actually worked. If it ain’t broke, why fix it? Successful we shall call ourselves if our children can deservedly take the phrase “the greatest generation,” strip their predecessors of the title, and proudly say, “Sorry, Gramps, but this title now belongs to us!”
cream feb / mar 2012
19
mac head
WINE 101 CREAM SPOKE WITH WINE ENTHUSIAST RODRIGO GUAJARDO,
from Ambassador Steak House at Embassy Suites, who shared his expertise, just in time to plan a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. Rodrigo recommended his favorite food and wine combinations that will pair as beautifully as you will with your Valentine.
Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, dry, and refreshing white varietal wine.
Chardonnay grapes are considered the queen of white wine grapes. Pinot Grigio grapes grow in small pine cone-shaped clusters.
FOR APPETIZERS
Enjoy a Sauvignon Blanc
FOR SALAD OR SOUP A Chardonnay goes well with either one, especially if it is a cream soup or the salad is served with a creamy dressing
FOR CHICKEN OR FISH Pinot Grigio would be perfect TRUE MEANING
Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are referred to as the king of red wine grapes. Sweet Champagne is usually served in a flute, which has a long stem with a tall, narrow bowl, thin sides and an etched bottom.
Tim Duncan’s 1999 finals STEAKS
game worn and autographed Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir pairNike wellFlightposites. with red meats
DESSERT Sweet Champagne is the perfect accompaniment for desserts
IF DONE PROPERLY, THE PERFECT WINE AND FOOD PAIRINGS CAN TANTALIZE YOUR TASTE BUDS. REMEMBER, REGARDLESS OF THE WINE AND FOOD, THE BEST PAIRING WILL ALWAYS BE THE COMPANY.
I AM CREAM MY LOVE IS
FERCHPHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOGRAPHY FERCH MODELS BROOKE WARD + MILCA RODRÍGUEZ M A K E U P D I A N A P E Ñ A H A I R M AY R A D E L A T O R R E AT M I N T S PA GOWNS + ACCESORIES FOREVER AFTER
one plus one
On Brooke: Harper Gown by Pattis; Regis Sash by Adora Bridal, $800. On Milca: Elena Gown by Enzoani, Fish-net Clips by Giselle, $95.
unveiled
Wedding dresses are almost every woman’s obsession, whether you are months away from saying I do, already married, or still
looking for your groom. This season, romantic lace gowns took over
the runways. The traditional fabric makes a comeback in very modern but still classic cuts. Vintage-looking headpieces were also prevalent, adding a more dramatic look. With these subtle fashion twists, it’s time for brides to look more modern and sensual, yet timeless. BY DANIELA PÁRRAGA
in the daylight
Polka Dot Dress $45, Tribal Print Cardigan $50, Mustard Bow-Tie Top $40 from Dollz Boutique, Wooden Four-Cord Bracelet $10 from Regina
brooke
Regis Sash by Adora Bridal, $800.
milca
Diana Belt in Chocolate by Blue By Enzoani, $300.
in monotone
Flower Lace Gown by Casablanca Bridal; Fish-net and Flowers Headpiece by AA Bridal, $95; Alma Belt by Adora Bridal, $350.
center of attention
Opposite Page: Lace Sweetheart Gown by Anjolique; Detroit-Inner Dress by Blue by Enzoani, $935.
PRETTY IN BLUE
Lover Blue Button Blouse from Dollz Boutique $30, Nude Mesh $50 from Only Collection, Cool Color Geometric Necklace $40, Green Purse $45, Green Tone Pashmina $20, Colorstone Ring $10 from Regina
LINDA MARTÍNEZ & MILES TELL US ABOUT MILES. Miles is a domestic short-haired cat. He is
1 year and 3 months old, and I’ve been with him for exactly one year. WHY A CAT? I live in an apartment in Austin; so the thought of taking care of a dog by myself was overwhelming. I thought a cat might be easier to care for. Miles isn’t any race in particular. I think it doesn’t matter what race your pet is, as long as you both love each other. DO YOU OWN ANY OTHER PETS? This is my first pet ever. WHAT DOES MILES MEAN TO YOU? I adopted Miles from the Austin Humane Society last January when I was living alone during the spring semester. I like to think that I saved him and he saved me from being lonely. He’s my buddy. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY WITH MILES? Believe it or not, Miles plays fetch. I’ll fling one of his toy mice across the house, and he’ll go sprinting for it and bring it back to my feet. Sometimes I think he is secretly a dog disguised as a cat. We also like to hang out on the balcony at my apartment and watch people and birds. "I adopted Miles from the DID YOU TRAIN HIM? The Humane Society did me the favor of Austin Humane Society last litter training him before I took him home. It took me about a week to teach him not to climb on counters using a spray water January when I was living alone gun. Now, I’m in the process of training him to walk on a leash, during the spring semester. which is proving to be difficult. He’s so stubborn! SHARE WITH US I like to think that I saved him and YOUR FAVORITE ANECDOTE INVOLVING MILES. Once, I was having he saved me from being lonely. a really bad day at school, and when I got to my apartment, I sat in bed and started to cry out of frustration. Miles climbed onto He’s my buddy." the bed, stared confused at me, then, made room for himself on my lap, and LINDA MARTÍNEZ curled into a little ball. Miles is not the most affectionate of cats, but he always finds a way to make me feel better. COULD YOU GIVE US SOME TIPS as with a breeder. Also, take your time when choosing. No one says that if you enter a pet FOR CHOOSING A PET? Adopt. There shop you have to leave with an animal. WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT PEOPLE WHO MISTREAT are so many homeless creatures that ANIMALS? I think it’s a shame. The way animals live their lives is just as important as the need a loving family. You can find just way we humans live ours. IF YOU WERE AN ANIMAL, WHICH WOULD YOU BE AND WHY? I as cute and caring animals at a shelter would probably be a bird because they travel the longest distances, and I love to travel.
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even the most reasonable girl could find herself in the most unreasonable situation.
When she least expects it, her perfect
night can turn into a predicament. The
man she thinks she knows is disguised as an alluring and sexy secret agent. Now, it is up to her to follow him along his
treacherous missions. She must remember not to get carried away and be caught in a crime of passion, or she will be
forced to make the perfect getaway. BY DANIELA PĂ RRAGA
the elevator
On her: Wrap Dress by DVF, $120, at Joe Brand; Turquoise Cross Necklace by Rodeo, $54, at Regina’s Boutique; Clear Stone Silver Earrings, $58, at Regina’s Boutique. On him: Blue Striped, Button-Up by Bugatchi, $145; Navy Sport Suit, both at Joe Brand.
the dinner part y
On her: One-Shoulder Long Red Dress at Joe Brand; Silver White Teardrop Earring, $24, at Regina’s Boutique. On him: Black Tuxedo by Jack Victor, $795; Bow-Tie by Perry Ellis, $25; White Collar Shirt by Enzo, $80, all at Joe Brand.
the getaway
On her: Sunglasses by Bvlgari, $390; Silk White Blouse with Silver Details by Sachin+Babi,$152; Black High Waist, Belted Flare Pants by Tracy Reese, $197; Black Leather Jacket with Diamond Stitch by My Tribe; Small Baby Blue Purse by Moschino, $895, all at Joe Brand. Redhead Wig at Border Beauty Supply. On him: Leather Aviator Jacket by Hugo Boss; Sunglasses by Tom Ford, $475; Watch by Luminox, $750; Khakis by Haspel, $75; Black Shoes by Magnanni, $295, all at Joe Brand.
valentine’s day
checklist
BY RUBÉN BAZÁN + ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA COTTON
Have some additional fun on February 14 by seeing how many of these items you are exposed to during this Hallmark holiday! People who incorrectly say “Valentimes” instead of “Valentines” The song “Amazed” by Lonestar on the radio
A co-worker who gets an oversized bear
ruben list
A co-worker who gets more than one flower
arrangement
That one couple that actually breaks up Valentine’s Day cards that play music
Candy hearts that don’t taste good…at ALL!
People who refuse to celebrate it because it is a made-up holiday
Packed restaurants Hearing about someone that proposed Hearing an “I was born on November 14 because of Valentine’s Day” story
Reruns of sitcoms’ Valentine’s Day episodes on TBS Your boss letting you come in to work wearing a
red or pink shirt
Metallic balloons that never deflate Someone declaring their love towards their significant other through a Facebook status
Single girls who get together to drink rosé wine
retirement Blas Castañeda bid farewell to LCC after a rewarding and dedicated career. Good luck in all his future endeavors.
Guys who scramble at the last minute to buy a gift That one girl who sends herself flowers A heart-shaped cookie cake from the Great American Cookie Company A mass text message saying “Happy Valentine’s Day!” That one acquaintance that shares too many
intimate details of their Valentine’s Day plans
WANT TO FEATURE YOUR EVENT? CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO AT INFO@CREAMCITYMAGAZINE.COM
GIVE PEACE & LOVE A CHANCE acoustic guitar, gesso, acrylics, and varnish
activity challenge:
the gallery
featured artist // ilian hernĂĄndez
ONE LOCAL ARTIST COMPLETES ISSUE’S ACTIVITY CHALLENGE
a longing for peace and love has always been present in the world, and John Lennon was the perfect embodiment of both. He was and always will be an individual known worldwide for his concern and actions against war. Lennon left an indelible mark. To me, he is someone I look up to as an inspiration in my two favorite fields, art and music. Thinking about Lennon and listening to his music inspired me to use a guitar as canvas. Musicians use their instruments to express their feelings in amazing ways that we can only imagine. I believe that peace and love deserve a chance, today and every day.
activity challenge: paint a portrait on an unusual object with the theme of peace & love
LAREDO THEATER GUILD INTERNATIONAL is a nonprofit community-based theater organization presenting quality theatrical productions at Texas A&M International University and Laredo Community College, further enriching the community by engaging members of all ages to provide a rewarding experience for them and for Laredo theatergoers. LTGI productions have included musical hits such as Man of La Mancha, The Sound of Music and Annie, contemporary dramas like Doubt, classic comedies as The Importance of being Earnest and period costume showpieces such as The Lion in Winter. LTGI’s primary goal is to provide relevant theatrical entertainment of the highest caliber while growing and developing the local performer, production, audience, and patron communities. For eligible youth participating in their shows, LTGI has also funded scholarships toward college credit in theater, music, and dance studies, as well as for acting workshops in New York, Los Angeles, and London. In February 2012, with its production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, LTGI will launch its “Class on Stage Series,” an annual presentation of literary works conceived in participation with school district officials to present productions applicable to the academic objectives of Laredo’s educational institutions. Joe Arciniega is the artistic director of Laredo Theater Guild International and Vernon Carroll is the current president of the board of directors which consists of twenty-three members and eight board advisors.
VERSUS: KATHRYN CARRAL
ONSTAGE VS BACKSTAGE
“ONSTAGE MEANS A MAGICAL ESCAPE FROM THE REAL WORLD AND TO TELL A STORY THAT IS BIGGER THAN LIFE.”
MODERN PLAYS VS CLASSIC PLAYS
ALEJANDRO DÍAZ
“CLASSIC PLAYS HANDS DOWN! THERE’S JUST THIS UNEXPLAINABLE QUALITY THAT COMES ALONG WITH THE CLASSICS.”
INDOOR STAGE WICKED VS VS OUTDOOR HAIRSPRAY STAGE MARCO VELA
“HAIRSPRAY BECAUSE IT HAS A LOT MORE SINGING AND DANCING.”
PLAYS VS MUSICALS ANDREA “ANDY” DÍAZ
NOAH ALFORD
MARTIN BECKELHYMER
“INDOORS SINCE YOU HAVE BETTER CONTROL OF MANY FACTORS LIKE LIGHTING, WEATHER, AND SOUND.”
“I WOULD RATHER BE AN ACTRESS. I FEEL A LOT MORE IMPORTANT BEING ONSTAGE THAN OFFSTAGE.” “I LOVE TO SING AND DANCE AND ACT. MUSICALS INCORPORATE ALL OF THESE, MY FAVORITE THINGS!”
LIGHTING DESIGNER VS COSTUME DESIGNER “I PREFER COSTUME DESIGNER BECAUSE GOOD COSTUMES CAN MAKE A SHOW MORE EXCITING AND FUN.”
DIRECTOR VS ACTOR OLIVIA GLASS
COMEDY VS TRAGEDY
KRISTELLE MARTIN
“COMEDY FOR I WOULD RATHER ENTERTAIN MYSELF WITH SOMETHING THAT WOULD MAKE ME FEEL GOOD INSIDE. THERE’S ALREADY ENOUGH NEGATIVITY IN THIS WORLD.”
DO YOU HAVE A CLUB OR ORGANIZATION THAT WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE IN CREAM’S “VERSUS”? CONTACT US AT INFO@CREAMCITYMAGAZINE.COM
Fancy flights, tastings, or just a cold one out of the cooler, beer had never made it to my top f ive beverage choices. Up until now, of course. As a result of my sister's disappointment in my lack of beerability, I am slowly learning the art of brewed goodness. Her hobby as a brewer sparked my interest in beers. She taught me that, much like cooking, there are hundreds of ingredients to play with and many complex flavors than f irst meet the palate. As to how this conveniently pint-sized sister of mine got involved in brewing, I'll let her share the story: "when moon asked me to contribute to her column with an article on brewing, I thought, ‘but I don't know enough about brewing!’ And it's true, just like with cooking, anyone can start brewing but even someone who has brewed for years could still not begin to play around with the hundreds of flavor combinations and techniques available to them. The idea of becoming a home brewer first struck my fancy when all that I had learned in the past three years. I came up with I was a freshman in college. Though I couldn't legally drink, the recipe, he provided the industrial kitchen, and together I had had my fair share of introductions to beer and we brewed "A Winter's T-ale" one Saturday morning. had become quite fond of it. One day my professor We decided to host what would become Manika assigned an informational speech. Fully expecting Brewery's first ever tasting, and I immediately I FOUND to get turned down, I submitted my proposal called the Mo-half of Momo Catering for advice MYSELF SLOWLY to teach the class how to brew beer. To my on how to throw a successful event. A month CONSUMING EACH surprise, it was approved! later on a chilly December evening, Jeremy DRINK, SOAKING IN and I welcomed guests to try our Winter Ale, THE SMELLS AND As I diligently crafted my speech, I was paired perfectly with some spicy calamari. One TEXTURES, TRYING TO surprised to find that brewing was actually beer quickly led to five and resulted not only in DISTINGUISH EACH pretty DIY friendly and thought I might want a hugely successful event but an evening full of INGREDIENT. to brew my own someday. It wasn't until after delicious food, laughter, and wonderful memories I spent a semester studying abroad in Austria and with great friends." traveling through the beer capitals of the world that I realized my passion for beer. It went well beyond beer pong. I From that first brew in college to Manika's first tasting event in found myself slowly consuming each drink, soaking in the smells NY, I've learned that every dream starts with the first step. and textures, trying to distinguish each ingredient. In short, I was in love. When I returned from abroad with dreams of opening BY MOON JAMALUDDIN + MONICA JAMALUDDIN ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA COTTON my own brewery, I made the jump and haven't looked back since! After moving to the big city, I met Jeremy Spector, the owner of The Brindle Room, a cozy and delicious little restaurant a block away from my even cozier NY apartment. He was eager to learn the brewing process and I was eager to teach my first student
Moon is a private chef and caterer in Houston, she was born in Bangladesh and brings a new light to the traditional flavors. Find more about Momo Catering on Twitter, Yelp, or Facebook.