Cream No 33 by Cream City Magazine

founder & publisher fernando de haro

copy editor

C I T Y M A G A Z I N E

joana santillana

NO 33

october • november 2015

publisher

Hello! Welcome to our 33rd edition of Cream! I’m sure it’ll be to your liking since, like always, we keep striving for perfection to bring you a publication of the highest quality.

This issue features a cover with Pamela De La Cruz in a breathtaking photosesh in the beautiful town of Breckenridge, Colorado. The landscapes left us enchanted, and amongst snow, fashion, and beautiful photographs, we welcome the fall/winter season in style!

Here at Cream, we find it extremely important to support nonprofit organizations that promote good causes, and this time around, we’re sharing with you all a very important message that urges our readers to pay attention behind the wheel by putting their phones away while driving. It’s no easy task, but we know that slowly but surely, we can create awareness about this issue and try to eradicate this pervasive habit that has robbed us of many lives already. Don’t text and drive! In November, we pay tribute to our veterans and we did not want to let this important date slide without properly honoring it. We share with you images of these local heroes that were part of the armed forces. It’s an honor to commemorate and recognize those who are willing to give it all for our country.

I am immensely grateful to all those people that read every issue of Cream. I am proud to be part of this publication and above all else, to have such a great and special team of collaborators. Thank you all and we will see you in our December edition! The year is slowly biding adieu, but there’s still plenty to do!

Copyright © 2015 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.

design & production lead designer design production assistant social events photographer photographer

gabriela lozano alejandra garza paola denyce badouin ferch

interns doris gonzález dinorah villarreal alicia gómez

writers

rubén bazán iii, joe arciniega, tina gómez, doris gonzález, and julia kowalsky special thanks

lupita del bosque and hugo martínez for their assistance on our veterans piece

ADVERTISING sales@creamcitymagazine.com + 956.753.6755

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#33: TEAM IS DOR

JOAN

GABY

ALE

S impler times Good Guys Mattered

Simpler Times Good Guys Mattered

Snow place like this! Faces of

Courage Please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

RICARDO AHUMADA GUZMÁN A perseverant and brilliant businessman

BILL & DEEDEE HRNCIR A strong duo fighting for better opportunities for stroke survivors

RAÚL S. CANTÚ A dedicated physician with his patients’ best interests at heart

Honoring friendships, we bring you these dynamic achievers who collaboratively contribute to the development of both Laredos. They are flying high on Cream’s radar.

RICARDO AHUMADA GUZMÁN Licensed Mexican Customs Broker

It all began almost by accident. In 1994, I had a brick factory, and a friend of mine came and invited me to form a new partnership. The business was a customs brokerage firm. I hadn’t had any experience in international trade, but my participation would be administration, therefore I accepted. That’s how it all started. After getting involved in the business, I realized it was a great opportunity, but I also learned that it demanded all my efforts and attention to be a competitive firm. I envisioned a world class company. As I got more involved, I wanted the firm to become one of the best, and to do so, we needed certifications, procedures, and a professional team. I started to only think about this company. My career has granted me the opportunity of working with my sons. Our partnership has enabled us to grow together and our synergy gets the most out of everyone. This is a tough business, and only the thick skinned survive. Prepare yourselves, you have to constantly train and study to be updated.

I’m the kind of person that is always creating new goals in my life. That’s what keeps me moving. I am perseverant; I don’t like giving up. In my life, I have had many ups and downs, but neither have stopped me from doing future projects. BILL & DEEDEE HRNCIR

Co-founders of Laredo Stroke Support Group, Inc.

We began Laredo Stroke Support Group in 2013 with f ive members and a dream to turn stroke “victims” into stroke “survivors.” Our goal is to help survivors become functioning members of society again. In our free monthly meetings we provide informative speakers, healthy eating ideas, and opportunities to stay healthy through our adaptive yoga and tennis, provided by Casa Yoga and Laredo Tennis Association. When I (Bill) had a stroke in 2006, there was no support group in our community. We had so many questions and did not know where to begin to find answers. In these past 8 years, we’ve continued to seek and find willing partners in the community to come and speak to our group and answer questions that the stroke survivors and their caregivers have. We strive to help the members understand that they are not alone in their journey to recovery.

We never imagined that we would turn our group into a full-time nonprof it. We now make hospital visits to deliver care packages and let them know that we are here for them, even if that means just holding their hand and praying with them. The hospitals and rehabilitation centers in Laredo have really welcomed our partnership and guide us whenever we need it. We have been blessed to have their continued support.

The volunteers that have come to our group have made a tremendous impact in the lives of the survivors, and that has made all the difference. If you’ve ever met a stroke survivor, you might be hesitant to approach them. Muster up your courage and allow them to tell you their story. They are truly in need of your friendship, compassion, and your time. RAÚL S. CANTÚ M.D.

Physician and Cosmetic Surgeon, Cosmetic Center Laredo

Ever since I was a little boy, I wanted to become a doctor. I was always inclined towards medicine. When I started medical school, I was attracted to the surgical procedures. Beauty is the most precious thing there is in this world. Trying to make someone more beautiful is always my goal; that’s what drove me to cosmetic surgery. People’s transformation after a surgery is life changing. After people have these procedures done, their self-esteem improves tremendously. As they say, “if you look good, you feel good.” It’s important to look at ourselves in the mirror and be happy, so we can go on being well for the rest of the day.

I feel very excited when a patient comes back, and is happy with the results and refers other people. I feel glad that this person has trusted me with this very important decision in their life and recommends my services to others. My parents are my primary inspiration; they have always been hard working people, and they instilled in me the same work ethic. My advice to anyone who wants to embark on this career is the same as the one I got when I first started out: It’s a lot of sacrifice, effort, and dedication. Your career affects your entire family and can sometimes take a toll on family life due to its demanding nature. The medical field requires a lot of sacrifice in your personal life. cream october / september 2015

THE

INDE

y mother doesn’t like spicy foods. while we were growing up, the only salsa on the dining room table was somewhat reserved for dad since our mom never “taught” us to eat salsa. What I mean by “taught” is that, due to my mother staying at home and raising us while our father was working, it was easier for her to unwillingly impose on us her personal tastes and opinions towards certain things, and a desire for spicy food was never one of them. In turn, we had a penchant for eating things she personally liked, listening to music she personally enjoyed, and watching movies she personally found worthwhile. About a month ago, I told her about a meal I had recently devoured and how it was just the right amount of spicy. She said to me, “It’s strange that you like it since I never fed you guys spicy food.” I realized that, at some point in my life, I had drifted from my mother’s ingrained opinions on the matter to my own. All hail habanero!

The first authoritative figure in most people’s lives is the parent. Their word is final and their opinions are the first ones we know. We see them as caretakers and opinion leaders and, in an attempt to turn out the only way we’ve known to be right, we mimic their actions and adopt their own personal t a s t e s . H o w e v e r, something happens in our lives that begins building our own BY RUBÉN BAZÁN III THERUBENINDEX@GMAIL.COM 8

cream october / september 2015

character - the embodiment of tastes and choices that no longer resembles those of whom raised us. Parent and child begin to differ and it got me wondering: do parents and children feel a disconnection when they don’t share the same opinions anymore?

Choosing to add salsa on tacos is way less shocking than, say, choosing to live a different life. I’ve known of cases where people change religions, sexual orientations, political parties, and financial paths to better suit their own desires regardless of what their caretakers believe in. Is it wrong? No. Is it sad? Potentially. It depends on who you ask. What we know to have been the norm for a number of years isn’t the case anymore and it may sadden many parents who worked day and night to instill what they think is right in their child. It can also be sad for the child. Kids choosing to abandon what their parents taught them can strain a relationship because views aren’t similar anymore.

Furthermore, too many are the people who made choices out of fear of disappointing their parents and, possibly, abandonment. Which relationships sustain? The ones with respect and a mutual, sincere desire for one another’s happiness. This is a fact. I don’t have children yet. I don’t know what it’s like to raise a child. However, I can’t blame my parents for drilling into my head what they thought was the best way to be. They struggled raising children, and when my personal tastes became apparent, not once did they shun me or steer me in another way. Do they like mixed martial arts, George Strait, and having an occasional cigarette? The answer to this is a resounding “NO.” I know - how can anyone NOT like The King? Yet, they respect it - and this is why our relationship works.

I still have a lot to learn in terms of raising someone. I do know, however, that it doesn’t matter how much I want my children to enjoy playing chess or writing or God, it may not turn out that way. Their tastes and hobbies and desires are likely to differ from my own. I’ll only be able to have a close relationship with them if I support their differences.

We spend a lot of time proving to our parents or caretakers that their opinions and choices will live on by embodying them long after they’re six feet under ground. If those choices are inherently identical, then there is no problem. How often is this the case? Not very. Yet we are so afraid of openly saying that our parents were “wrong” that the likelihood of doing things we don’t agree with is very high since they are the first authoritative figures we deal with. Both parents and children shouldn’t be afraid of those inevitable differences. While there is a sense of security in knowing that we resemble the ones we love, there is also so much beauty in variety. Above all, there is maturity on both parties. Go ahead. Mix it up. It’s OK to reach for the salsa.

To mom and dad, who, regardless of the path I took, were always on the shoulders of the highway, making noise and waking me up when I was veering off the road.

¡México lindo y querido! This year, the Mexican Consulate and the people of Laredo celebrated the 205th anniversary of Mexico’s independence at La Posada Hotel! Guests enjoyed folkloric ballet performances while feasting on traditional and tasty Mexican food. The event highlighted the beauty of Mexico and its fascinating culture.

disco bowl-a-rama The Cream team and other local businesses came together for a night of friendly competition and pizza! The proceeds of the Disco Bowl-a-Rama tournament went to the EAT’s annual Thanksgiving Food Box event which provides Thanksgiving meals for those in need. Needless to say, the Creamstars had a lot of fun unleashing their bowling and disco moves for a good cause!

mixing it up Falcon Bank treated their valued customers to a special mixer at the bank’s lake house! Guests spent the elegant evening sipping on cocktails and savoring scrumptious snacks. Thanks to Falcon Bank’s dedication to its clients, this night was one to remember!

S impler times Good Guys Mattered

eyes

Simpler Times Good Guys Mattered

I am a worrier. I always have been. As far back as I can remember I was worrying about something.

remember standing on the porch of my house on 816 Market Street one Wednesday in September 1967 watching the rain propelled horizontally by 150 mph winds against the Texas coastline as Hurricane Beulah assured her place among the third largest of the century. The street was double its width in muddy water rushing westward to reclaim ancient beds long invaded by homes and roads. I had to cover my ears to blunt the dissonant wail as wind and water competed for dominance.

It was so noisy that I didn’t hear my mother calling me until I felt her hand on my shoulder. “What are you doing out here?” she said. “I’m worried, mom.” They were words she had heard from me many times before, but she never gave up trying to help me with perspective, “You are just nine years old, what can you be worried about?” “I’m worried about my future; I’m worried about the world; I’m worried about all of us.” For years since, I have teased my mother with this anecdote by embellishing that her response was “Why can’t you be like the rest of your siblings and not think?” In truth, I don’t remember what she said, if anything at all. I just remember the worrying.

The news in 1967 was full of reports of war, police brutality, race riots, and conflict in the Middle East, as well as sexual rebellion, religious confusion, and natural disasters. Things sure haven’t changed much in 48 years. The world and my obsessive personality notwithstanding, life as a nine year old boy in 1967 was otherwise simple. And if one happened to live on our block, it was simple and fun.

Our block was a collection of tin roofed clapboard boxes in muted blues, greens, or grays, with elevated foundations and covered brick porches buffering us from the elements. The houses were situated on the perimeter behind blue mesh fencing, with one large entrance from an unpaved side street, creating a central communal courtyard of packed dirt and gravel that competed for space with Mesquite trees and giant Agaves. There seemed to be an assumption by the adults that this area was intended for their barbeques and parking, but we knew better. This was kids’ domain. My next door neighbor Johnny and I roamed this dusty terrain with our G.I Joes holstered in our pockets already weighed down with clacking “Steelies.” If we found a good spot, we would stop drop and play, effortlessly able to imagine a thatch of weeds as the jungles of Vietnam, as we deployed armaments and napalm with expert oral mimicry. If we happened upon a rare patch of workable crumbly dirt, we would use a stick to create a dugout,

watching for protesting red ants guarding their queen. Some of the best and loudest times were when Johnny and I were joined by my brothers Gaby and Billy, along with ten or more of the boys and girls in the neighborhood. We played games like “Red Rover, Red Rover” or “One, Two, Three Red Light” before we were whistled in for dinner and an hour of television on one of the three channels available, if you didn’t count the one in Spanish (and we didn’t).

Sometimes, we would return outside, just as the streetlights were beginning their nightly vigil, and launched into my favorite, “Good Guys, Bad Guys.” The concept was not complicated. One of us would assign sides and then just yell “Go,” and off we would break into two camps, with the scenarios evolving into “Police and Robbers” or “American Soldiers and Viet Cong,” sometimes “American Spies and Russian Spies” or the venerable “Cowboys and Indians.” Sometimes we stayed on one track until we were called in for the night, other times someone would just yell, “Ok, now we are…” and off we would follow with that one. Simple. Fun. As I think about those days, I realize that though the background noise of current events might indicate that nothing really changed, something feels different today. It isn’t clear that everyone realizes who the good guys and bad guys are anymore. Not when yet another good guy is murdered just because he was wearing a blue uniform. Not when a bad guy, captured on video assaulting and robbing a convenience store owner and moments later shot during his apprehension, prompts riots, national outrage, and White House representatives dispatched to his funeral to pay respects. Not when good guys have to wear armored gear to protect them from being pelted by rocks and chunks of concrete thrown by the very inhabitants of the neighborhood they are trying to keep from being looted and burned. In reality, outside of nostalgia’s sentimental cloud, life may not have been better, safer or simpler in 1967. But back then even a bunch of scruffy Laredo kids knew that whether someone were black, brown, white, pink, rainbow, or blue, if they were good guys, their lives mattered. They mattered a lot. I worry that we don’t know that now.

BY JOE ARCINIEGA arciniegajoe@gmail.com

cream october / september 2015

Snow place like this! Cream welcomes the fall/winter season with a very special photosesh at the Sky Resort in Breckenridge, Colorado. Pamela De La Cruzâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; beauty adds a chic touch of sophistication and youth to our adventure high up in the mountains.

PHOTOGRAPHY FERCH M O D E L PA M E L A D E L A C R U Z H A I R & M A K E U P J AV I E R M E N C H A C A LOCATION BRECKENRIDGE, CO

Pamela De La Cruz

• Age: 14 • School: J. B. Alexander High School • Favorite subject: Biology!

• Name five words that best describe you. Intelligent, strong, sincere, good friend, and funny. • What career do you want to pursue? Lawyer. • How did your love for winter/snow start? I really love skiing. • What do you enjoy the most about it? I love the rush of the wind when you’re skiing down the mountain and the scenery. • If you were president for one day, what would you do? Help provide for the poor. • Who are your three favorite solo artists or bands? Fall Out Boy, Adele, and Coldplay. • Favorite fashion designers? Jimmy Choo, Alice + Olivia, and Red Valentino.

creamdiy

DIY pumpkin carving! If you’ve spent the past couple of months trying to conjure up a project for Halloween, we have the perfect treat for you and your kiddos! Lucky for parents, this Pumpkin Carving DIY does not require any magical potions or spells, just some creativity and Halloween spirit. Cream invited Diana Casso and her daughter, Nicky Álvarez, to make this project come to life!

DIY pumpkin carving! BY DIANA CASSO

materials: •

1 x-acto knife (keep away from the little princesses and superheroes!)

• 1 pumpkin of any size and shape •

1 big, durable plastic spoon

•

1 pen

•

1 bottle of spray paint in the color of your choice

•

1 Halloween hat (witch hat, werewolf ears, etc.)

instructions 1. First, with an x-acto knife, carefully cut off the top of your pumpkin to begin cleaning the inside. 2. Use your durable plastic spoon to empty out the inside of your pumpkin until it’s hollow! 3. Once the inside is clean, take a pen and trace the eyes, nose, and mouth of your pumpkin. 4. Take your x-acto knife to cut the parts you traced. 5. Chose a bottle of spray paint in your favorite color to decorate your jack o’ lantern!

6. As soon as your pumpkin’s face is carved and the inside is thoroughly clean, place it in an open area and get ready to paint! On this occasion, we decided to use gold paint for our DIY. 7. Spray paint both the inside and outside of your Halloween creation at a distance of no more than 5 inches. 8. Wait for 10 minutes until your DIY project is entirely dry. 9. On the top part of your pumpkin, place a Halloween hat or any colorful decorations of your choice.

Ta-da! Your Halloween pumpkin is now ready to be displayed in your home! cream october / september 2015

hen fall rolls around, it is our primal instinct to reach for our mustard colored scarves and run to our nearest Starbucks for the elusive Pumpkin Spice Lattes we shamelessly crave all year! Besides lattes and dark yellow accessories, boots are also an essential part of any fall outfit. After all, boots are to fall what sandals are to summer! If you want to make your fall fantasies come true, here are some of the most stylish boots and booties for you to strut during the chilly weeks of autumn!

BY DORIS GONZÁLEZ

It’s Monday and you’re nostalgic for the weekend. Friday can’t come soon enough, but if you’re looking for a way to spice up your week and fastforward to the fun, pair a lively outfit with these classic, brown ankle booties! Whether you’re hustling at work or strutting to class, these boots are guaranteed to brighten up your week and turn heads wherever you go! Find them at the Agaci shoe section in Mall Del Norte!

There’s no doubt that fringe is taking over the fashion world. Sure, fringe skirts and vests are cute, but if you’re a bold babe who’s looking to make a serious style statement, these fringe boots are calling your name! Don’t ignore them, you know you want them. These babies are waiting for you at Agaci in Mall Del Norte!

Forget James Bond! Live out your super spy dreams in these long and lethal black boots. If you’re truly ready to save the world, pair the boots with a bright red lip and a black ensemble to complete your look. Be your own hero, and blow the bad guys away with your beauty! Buy these boots at Joe Brand in Mall Del Norte!

Who knew fusing summer and fall could be so delicious? You don’t

have to say goodbye to summer just yet! Enjoy the best of both seasons with this sweet and simple recipe for pumpkin s’mores cupcakes! Take a bite of these pastries and relive the all too familiar campfire scent while the leaves change color outside your kitchen window. This delicious dessert proves that two is definitely better than one! INGREDIENTS

Ganache topping (make before cupcakes) • 1 cup chocolate chips • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 teaspoon unsalted butter Pumpkin cupcake 1 can pumpkin purée (15 oz) • 4 eggs • 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, melted • 3 cups all purpose flour • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 2 teaspoons baking soda • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 tablespoon cinnamon • Marshmallow & crumbled Graham Crackers • Torch •

INSTRUCTIONS

Ganache is a sweet, creamy chocolate mixture. Our ganache has an extra hint of creamy since we add butter. Yum! Great as a topping for this cupcake. Have your chocolate chips ready in a heat proof bowl. In a sauce, pan bring your heavy cream and butter to a boil. Once cream has boiled, pour over chocolate chips. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then mix with a whisk until there are no more lumps. Your ganache is ready! Place in fridge to allow to cool. When you are ready to use over your cupcakes it must be at a “pudding-like” consistency. Note: if it’s chilled too much and gotten hard, microwave for a few seconds. If it’s too loose, refrigerate for more time.

Our pumpkin cupcake is the easiest cupcake to make. Even though it’s a cupcake, it’s created using the “muffin method.” Here is the process: Pre-heat oven at 350 degrees.

This mix creates 24 cupcakes, so before starting to mix your ingredients, prepare your baking pan. Place your favorite cupcake liners into the pans. Now we are ready to mix! In one bowl, combine wet ingredients (pumpkin purée, eggs, melted butter, and sugar). In a separate bowl, combine dry ingredients (all purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon). Now put together both wet and dry ingredients and mix with a spatula until just combined. Using a scoop or spoon, fill your pans 3/4 full with your batter. Place pan into the middle rack of your oven. Set an 11 minute timer. Once your timer rings rotate your pan for an even bake, set another 11 minute timer. Your timer has rang! Time to test your cupcake. Insert a toothpick, and if it’s still wet, bake for 2 more minutes. Once your final timer has rang, your cupcakes are done! Let sit for 20 minutes to cool.

Oven temp 350* / Bake time 22 mins downtown 1708 Victoria (956)568-4707 Mon-Fri | 11am-8pm Sat | Events Only north laredo 219 E. Del Mar (956) 516-7651 Mon-Fri | 11am-9pm Sat | 12pm-8pm 956.516.7651

Top with your ganache. Sprinkle crumbled graham crackers and place a marshmallow on top. Time to torch it! Have fun and be safe!

days, Enjoy these pumpkin s’mores cupcakes during birth holidays, or just anytime!

BY VALERIA VEGA & CHRIS CONTRERAS

cream october / september 2015

Faces of

Courage I

n todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world, we struggle to keep up with all the activities, people, and things that are worth our time. As our fast-paced days fly by, we sometimes forget to sit down and truly be thankful for what we have and for those that have made it possible for us to live in the land of the free and the home of the brave. Heroes are not made by what they give to others, but what they themselves have to give up. Our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s veterans defend our country every single day and sacrifice many things, at times even their lives. We live in a democratic society thanks to those that fight to keep it that way. For all those fallen heroes, those that are currently fighting overseas, as well as those that are back home and are struggling to reintegrate to society after years of duty, here at Cream City Magazine, we salute you. Your exemplary service teaches us that we must value every day, and to never forget those that have sacrificed everything for our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freedom.

God bless you and God bless America!

BY JOANA SANTILLANA

Vicente DomĂnguez, Jr. Veteran of: The

Vietnam War - U.S. Army

What was the thing that inspired you to become a part of the armed forces? During my time, the draft was in full force. The conflict in Vietnam had just started, so I decided to join the army. What do you feel after having served your country? I feel great and very proud. I did two tours in Vietnam, and I came home in one piece. I feel sad because I lost a lot of my high school buddies, but If I needed to go again, I would do it.

What was the thing that inspired you to become a part of the armed forces? I had an uncle whom I admired a lot ( José Veliz); he was in the Navy and it was because of him that I decided to follow in his footsteps. What do you feel after having served your country? I’m very proud of being a veteran of war. They were very hard times, but at the same time, they were some of my best memories. It’s something which I instilled in my children. I have a son that’s in the Air Force, Veteran of the combat in Afghanistan, and a son that is about to graduate on October 9th from basic training in the Navy.

Reynaldo Veliz Veteran of:

Persian Gulf War - U.S. Navy

1808 Commerce Dr. Laredo, TX 78041

956.744.8588

Grand Palace Events A place for celebration.

In order to make your event a success, the location is key since it’s where all the other factors such as the ambience, customer service, client relationship, good taste, and style come together. We invite you to meet Grand Palace, the place that definitely has everything you need to make your event even extra special. We sat down with a very special guest, Grisel Luján, founder of Grand Palace, to talk about all the great features and amenities this wonderful venue has to offer! How was the Grand Palace concept born? Grand Palace was created upon the client’s needs. For us, no party is the same, and our entire concept was shaped around the fact that all of our clients deserve an unforgettable event. We have the best and most current setting, lighting, DJ, dessert tables, and candy tables. What are the characteristics that make Grand Palace different in its field? We differ from others in our field because we always think about our clients first and have a great team of people working for our clients who are 100% professionals in event planning. We create events according to our clients’ tastes and the kind of theme and atmosphere of their choosing while staying within their budget. Tell us about what kind of event can be held at Grand Palace. We hold many different types of events, from cincoañeras, quiceañeras, weddings, posadas, practically any kind of celebration; we even have equipment (conference tables and projector) for small conferences and business presentations. In our main venue, Grand Palace, we can host parties from 200-500 people, and in our adjoining lounge, Las Jaulas, we have smaller events such as bridal showers, baby showers, first communions, baptisms, or bachelorette parties for 40-60 people. 28 cream october /

september 2015

Tell us about your customer service. What can people expect when they have an event at your venue? Our customer service is superb! From the moment you walk through our doors to ask for information, our team of professionals will provide you with all the information about our party packs that fit all budgets. It’s very important to mention that once you decide to get one of our services, our Grand Palace team will follow up with you about your event until you are completely satisfied and everything is ready to go for the big day. We have a great service coordinator for our events, and this person will be there before and after your special day to make sure everything is perfect. Great taste and imagination play a big role in every event. How does the Grand palace staff keep current with the latest trends to impress their customers? In Grand Palace, we are always at the forefront to bring you all the latest amenities and entertainment options for your event. Our team of professionals presents our clients with a wide range of options in table linens, centerpieces, furniture, lighting, catering services, cakes, dessert tables, and candy tables. Grand Palace has everything you want and need to make your event an unforgettable experience!

Please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

We live in a world where connecting with each other is as easy as the tap of a finger. Technology is a huge part of our lives, and it enables us to do virtually anything. From talking to traveling, to sharing and shopping, our cellphones have the power to make our lives a whole lot easier. Even with all its perks, technology has a downside. When our cellphones become our world, we lose focus and focus is crucial, especially when weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the road. Every year, texting and driving is to blame for more and more accidents. Lives are on the line every time you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pay attention, and we at Cream want to start creating awareness about it and share with everyone that driving under the influence of technology is something that we must end now.

luis saito BY DORIS GONZÁLEZ

Since the age of 5, Luis Saito has been fearlessly practicing and perfecting discipline through the art of tae kwon do. His dedication has paid off, and now not only is he a fourth degree black belt, but he is also the owner of Saito Martial Arts, a local and loved martial arts academy. Family comes first for the Saito clan, and Luis credits his loved ones for his success. Behind the tough exterior, he is a passionate history buff with a knack for cracking jokes and a fondness for travel. Saito’s story demonstrates that with discipline in your mind and your family in your heart, anything can be accomplished.

TELL US THREE ADJECTIVES THAT BEST

DESCRIBE YOU. Competitive, passionate, and joker. YOU HAVE A STRONG PASSION FOR TAE KWON DO. WHEN DID YOUR LOVE

My father practiced martial arts for more than 20 years; he introduced me to it at the age of 5. WHEN DID YOU RECEIVE YOUR BLACK BELT? I received my black belt when I was 10. YOU HAVE AN IMPRESSIVE

FOR MARTIAL ARTS FIRST BEGIN?

MARTIAL ARTS CAREER. WHAT ARE SOME

ACCOLADES THAT YOU HAVE RECEIVED?

As a competitor, I was a state and national champion many times. TAE KWON DO IS A RIGOROUS EXERCISE! WHAT WOULD YOU

The hardest part of training was continuing even when I would get hurt. BESIDES

SAY IS THE HARDEST PART OF IT?

MARTIAL ARTS, IS THERE ANY OTHER

TYPE OF EXERCISE THAT YOU LIKE TO DO?

I love to play soccer. Las Chivas Rayadas de Guadalajara are the BEST! YOUR JOB

IS TO INSTRUCT OTHERS HOW TO MASTER THE ART OF TAE KWON DO, WHAT WOULD

YOU SAY IS THE BEST PART OF BEING AN INSTRUCTOR?

The best part of being an

instructor is seeing any of my students overcome obstacles. DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY. Very relaxed in the morning and hectic in the afternoon. YOUR BUSINESS IS GROWING, WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS IN 10 YEARS? In 10 years, we are going to have the biggest and strongest TKD training facility in town. WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO? My mom, she’s a strong woman. SINCE YOUR FAMILY IS BOTH FROM JAPAN AND MEXICO, YOU HAVE THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS WHEN IT COMES TO CUISINE.

I love Mexican food. TELL US A LITTLE BIT MORE ABOUT We are seven in total; mom, dad, four boys, and one girl who is as crazy and funny as can be. ANY GUILTY PLEASURES (WHETHER THEY’RE FOOD OR TV SHOWS)? I DON’T watch novelas, don’t believe my wife! WHAT IS ONE SONG YOU KNOW ALL THE LYRICS TO? Te quiero tanto by OV7, but not the novela version. I don’t watch novelas! WHAT TYPE OF MOVIES ARE YOUR FAVORITE? CAN YOU GIVE US SOME EXAMPLES? I love movies based on true events, especially history, like Schindler’s List. WHAT DO YOU DO DURING YOUR FREE TIME? I leave out of town with my family so we can enjoy our time away from the business. IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS, WHAT IS ONE THING YOU’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO? I’m looking forward to the arrival of our twin girls. I’m very excited and nervous! WITH ALL THESE HOLIDAYS COMING UP, I HAVE TO ASK! WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY AND WHY? I love Christmas day because every year we go and deliver toys to kids in need. WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CAN ALWAYS PUT A SMILE ON YOUR FACE? Seeing my students succeed in life. YOU JUGGLE A LOT OF TASKS IN YOUR DAY-TODAY LIFE. HOW DO YOU STAY MOTIVATED? My beautiful children Mia and Brandon keep me motivated, and I do everything for them. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?

YOUR FAMILY.

cream october / september 2015

As I stared out the window of the plane, my stomach dropped. I felt queasy and unsure if I made the right decision to leave and whether or not I would be able to handle the adventure I was about to embark on. I was so excited to leave, so why was I feeling so homesick now? I sighed, put on my headphones, and longed for the comfort of Austin, the closeness of home, football games, and best friends.

BY JULIA MAEVE KOWALSKY

Dreams Come True

ast February, I applied for a program called The Archer Fellowship Program, which entails forty students from the University of Texas system moving to Washington, DC, to live, intern, and take classes. It sounded like such a dream, and when I received my acceptance email in March, I wanted to jump on the next plane out! As spring semester came to an end and the sweetness of summertime set in, I began applying for internships and preparing myself for what was to come in the next few months.

Although DC is our nation’s capital and political internships are prolific, I knew that I wanted to do marketing and incorporate fine arts, particularly theater. My parents were so puzzled—if I was studying political communication studies, they asked, why did I want to pursue a career involving marketing for theater? It’s kind of a long story that involves taking a fine arts class my freshman year that exposed me to an internship opportunity at an amazing Latino theater company in Austin, Teatro Vivo. Since working for Teatro Vivo, I have attended many performances and have realized the transformative power of attaching a single, personal story to a broader, more complex issue. And since I’m no actress, marketing for theater blends both my love for communication and fine arts. And what better fine arts institution to apply for than The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts? I was absolutely terrified to apply, but I knew I had to give it a shot. A week after I sent in my application, the marketing manager asked to interview me. In typical Julia fashion, I started hyperventilating and called my dad ecstatic. I had gotten this far,

and that was an accomplishment enough! My interview was in a week, which meant I had to psych myself out every day for what could possibly define the rest of my career, life, afterlife…you know, everything. To my relief, the interview went great! I didn’t stumble over my words, which tends to happen more often than not, or lose my train of thought. All good signs! Now what did I have to do? Wait. And waiting can feel like an eternity.

Twenty minutes later, I was bombarded by a second phone call— this time, with the marketing manager and assistant marketing manager on the line. When answering the next series of questions, I tried to sound like the most qualified candidate. The phone call ended well, but I still felt terrified, even I made it clear that this internship was my dream DC internship. Two hours later, I had a new email waiting for me. I slowly opened it and prepared myself for the worst. “Hi Julia, it was so nice talking to you today. We would like to offer you…” were the only words I read before I burst into tears and started jumping up and down. Everything felt incredibly surreal.

As I write this, I have been at The Kennedy Center for two weeks, and it has been amazing! I have learned so much about marketing and cannot wait to see what the rest of my internship holds. In this moment, I wish I knew on the plane what I know now— that my internship rocks, sharing a room with a best friend and a whole apartment with six boys is actually so fun, and that life can’t always be pre-planned. I don’t know what I’ll be doing next weekend or the weekend after, but I do know that whatever I do, it will be fun. And that’s the only thing I need to know. cream october / september 2015

mezcal tasting IGNC & CIBV hosted the first annual Noche Internacional Mezcal Tasting. The event featured a special Mezcal Tasting by Do単a Natalia, live music by Bucket of Six, and an exciting raffle with a grand prize of a Rolex watch! The money fundraised from this elegant event went to the local IGNC & CIBV chapter.

creamdiy

d i D y e Th The

r e t s Mon ! A

Mash

BY DOR

IS GONZ

ÁLEZ

s a kid, I remember going to shop for my Halloween costume during the first weeks of October. The stores were packed, and it was nearly impossible to find a costume that I wanted since most of them were already sold out. Unless I wanted to be a zombie bride, but naturally, my 8 year old heart was set on a princess costume for the third consecutive year. Eventually, I gave up on Halloween costumes and instead stuck to scary movie marathons (if you consider Hocus Pocus and Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet Frankenstein scary movies, of course) in my PJ’s with a plastic pumpkin filled with candy to keep me company. Needless to say, my child-like excitement for Halloween ironically resurfaced when I entered college. Instead of spending hours shopping for a Halloween costume, I decided to make my own using clothes and supplies I could easily find in my closet. With the help of my makeup guru best friend, my Halloween costume creation was born: no, not Frankenstein, Wednesday Addams! That Halloween, I channeled my inner angst and refrained from smiling just like the notorious Addams child. I wore braided pigtails, a 5 year old black dress I found in the deep, dark ends of my closet, and enough eyeliner to be confused for Marilyn Manson. My Halloween costume was a success, and I vowed to create more in the years to come.

On the other hand, now that my horror-enthusiast boyfriend is in the picture, it’s easy to get him into the Halloween spirit (pun intended)! Last year, my boyfriend and I dressed up as the wild “it couple” of the Roaring Twenties: F. Scott Fitzgerald, author of The Great Gatsby, and his flapper wife, Zelda! To complete our costumes, we scourged our parents’ closets and picked out the most vintage, oldfashioned pieces we could find. Both of my costume creations required minimal effort, and I had fun pretending to be as fearless as Wednesday and Zelda before the clock struck 12 and the disguises came off. With October just around the corner, it’s time to craft and create; don’t be afraid to let your inner-kid loose and use the materials you own to your advantage. Whether you have a Mr. Darcy for your Elizabeth Bennett or you’re a strong, independent Wonder Woman, Halloween is the ideal opportunity to break free from your everyday self and be someone happier, wilder, or even braver, even if it’s just for a day. cream october / september 2015

BY TINA GÓMEZ ILLUSTRATIONS RICARDO GUERRERO RAG3ARTIST@GMAIL.COM

crème brûlée

Andy Warhol said, “In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes,” and that isn’t far from the truth in today’s digital age. Periscope is one of the latest live streaming social media trends that is picking up like a wildfire. Don’t worry, this wildfire is contained to Twitter and does zero damage to the environment. Breathe, it’s ok. Twitter recently acquired Periscope back in January of 2015 after it was THE breakout app at Austin’s own SXSW event. This live streaming social media app is a great way to schedule a broadcast of a special announcement or a special event in your life. The best feature on Periscope is that it can bring you closer to your loved ones when you’re miles apart or just a room away. Did we mention that your streams can be made available to the public or can be set to private viewing? Currently Periscope is only available on iOS devices and there are no talks of it moving over to Android devices; we’ll keep our fingers crossed.

periscope

40 cream october /

september 2015

If Periscope isn’t for you, there are other options –one of the latest live-casting apps is called Meerkat, and it seems to be the new local favorite. Sketch artists, Crossfit members, makeup artists, bloggers, and stylists in town have all taken to this new social media platform. Meerkat, like Periscope, is for all Twitter users who need to reach an audience and deliver a message, right then and now. There are a few key differences that set these two platforms apart. Unlike Periscope, Meerkat’s live video streams expire shortly after the broadcast, which in some cases can be a good thing. If you flub up with your intro, or trip over your words during your stream, there’s no need to panic because the video is gone. Another great feature available only on Meerkat, is that during interactions, your audience’s responses are posted directly onto their Twitter timeline. One last important thing to remember is that all live broadcasts are open to the public and cannot be set to private. So when you’re ready, you’re live in 3…2…1…

meerkat

Shifting in a similar, but different direction, is Facebook Mentions. Mentions is the newest software exclusively for celebrities and verified accounts on Facebook. This platform is similar to both Periscope and Meerkat, in the sense that celebrities are now able to schedule and post live streaming events directly to their official FB pages. In case you miss a live streaming event, the video will be posted at the top of the celebrity’s timeline. Some of the first celebrities to preview Mentions are Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and tennis superstar Serena Williams. This is clearly the digital age, and we are here for it! Unfortunately, this app is not available to everyone...yet. As soon as it is made available for everyone, and we hope that it is, make sure you don’t forget to smile for the camera!

mentions

creamtips

YOGAposeof the month Wild Thing or Camatkarasana

Wild Thing (Camatkarasana) is all about letting go of your inhibitions! Approach this pose with a sense of playfulness and self-expression. Not only does it provide a deep backbend, it challenges balance, opens the hips, and strengthens the core and shoulders. To perform Wild Thing, begin in side plank. Step one foot back behind you and keep the knee bent. Keep the other leg extended and pressing downwards for support. Keep your supporting hand and arm externally rotated. Allow your chest to open and press your hips upwards. Extend your lifted arm away from your feet, in an oppositional stretch. Allow your head to gently fall back. After about five full breaths, when you are ready, step back into plank and repeat on the other side. Perform this pose when you need a boost of energy or want to combat fatigue and mild depression. Always practice with awareness, and be mindful to listen to the sensations in your body.

Model: Alejandra Ash

You can find this and other fun poses in CY 1 & 2 classes at Casa Yoga. Visit www.casayoga.com for full class schedule.

learn aw

e n Language BY DORIS GONZÁLEZ

Adriana Alonso Reséndez - Fash io and M n Busines s arket ing - Con dé of Fas Nast Coll e hion and D ge esign - Lon don, U K

ashionista extraordinaire Adriana Alonso Reséndez is a goal-oriented and driven young college student on her way to the top of the fashion industry’s competitive market. While furthering her education, she has been able to establish a networking base to lead her on the path to success. Find out all about her journey below! What is the most challenging part of having a college life? I think the biggest challenge is dealing with the reality of the greater implications your actions have over your life. Also, being able to balance and manage your new freedom wisely. Is attending college in a different country distressing or exciting? Definitely exciting. When exploring a new country and culture there’s barely any time to think about any afflictions. How do you feel about the changes that can happen during college? I’m open to all of them since I believe it’s all a part of growing up and beginning a new, fundamental stage of my life. Do you feel like these coming years will impact your life goals? In fashion, college is definitely the best place to make connections and learn from industry professionals who will get you on the right track and help you reach and excel in your objectives. How has your family life been affected now that you are in another country? It is definitely harder to communicate because of the different time zones (London is six hours ahead). But this is not my first time studying abroad, so we know the drill. Have you made any serious decisions already? Anything that made you feel like this was a different stage in your life? The hardest decision I’ve made has been choosing my major. It’s hard to choose something that will set you on a path you are meant to follow the rest of your life.

Here in Laredo, we are accustomed to hearing two distinct languages wherever we go: the smooth sounds of Spanish with its rolling “R” and Latin rhythm, and the clean and crisp tone of the English tongue. Although both those languages join together to create an inherently Laredoan fusion of speech referred to as “Spanglish,” it is important for us to broaden our horizons and learn more about the languages that make up our ethnically diverse world. In an effort to cultivate our knowledge, Cream presents ten words to learn in another language, and what better to place to start than with the language of love:

French! Yes = oui (ui)

No = non (non)

Please = s’il vous plaît (see-voo-pleh) Hello/good morning = bonjour (bonju) How are you? = comment allez-vous? (kommahng tahlay voo) Very well, thank you = très bien, merci (tres bian, mercee) Coffee = café (cafe) Car = voiture (vueh-tiur) Movie theater = cinema (cinemaa) I am = je suis (je sui) cream october / september 2015

BY ALEJANDRA GARZA

mong the customs of the world, Día de los Muertos definitely takes the cake for most unique tradition! The colorful celebration remembers and reveres the lives of lost loved ones. Participants build altars where they place the favorite foods of family members and friends that have passed on. Yet the most distinguished aspect of the festivity is “La Catrina,” a beautiful, multicolored skeleton crafted out of paper mache that embodies the richness of the Mexican culture. In Saltillo, Coahuila, two teachers decided to embrace the beauty of the tradition by establishing Museo de la Katrina. Thanks to this venue, the celebration will live on and so will the memories of those who are no longer with us. Museo de la Katrina was founded in Saltillo on November 2, 2009, by teachers Erick Morales and his wife, Cynthia Fuentes. Their intention was to preserve a special tradition that was slowly disappearing. With more than 15 years of studies in Mexican culture and its customs, the teachers decided to donate their house to create a museum dedicated to the character of “La Catrina.” The museum was created to revive the Día de los Muertos celebration, bring to life the hard work and effort of Catrina creators, elevate the concept of popular Mexican art, and feel proud of the vibrant culture. Their main goal is to foster and conserve the traditions of this festive day, leave a legacy of learning for future generations, promote a love for Mexican culture, and inspire creativity!

¡Viva México y sus tradiciones!

So...What Makes

“

You a Good Fit For this Position?”

BY JULIA MAEVE KOWALSKY

s i approach my senior year of college, no question puts me on the edge of my seat like, “so, what are your plans after graduation?” The truth is, I really don’t know at this point, and in a strange sense, I accept this. However, I have only accepted this fact as okay because I have had a lot of internship experience—unpaid experience, but experience in my eyes is invaluable. I am confident that I will land a job after graduation, but I had to start somewhere, as do all college students. Within the past year, my confidence has grown tenfold in searching for amazing internships, but not without learning a few things about the age of the digital resume. Below, I share a few of the most important things I’ve learned about the main tools for marketing myself—a resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile-- and hope that this short advice helps fellow college students in the search (#struggle, same thing) for their dream internship. Résumé: “So...what exactly is a resume?” You’ve heard the word before and have a base understanding of what it may be, but you’re still not too sure and want to learn more. You’ve come to the right place! In short, a resume is a one-page document that summarizes and showcases your work experience and awesome career-oriented skills! A resume is the first thing a potential employer will ask for, so the secret is to help yours stand out from the rest of the 594759 applicants. First, when writing your resume, make sure it’s written in a discernible order. Secondly, when describing your work experience, use past tense action verbs, such as “created” and “developed.” Also, don’t forget to quantify, quantify, quantify! Employers want to see what you have accomplished within the course of a previous internship or job, and it’s hard to exemplify this without numbers. Most importantly, make sure your resume is only one-page long! This length is considered the standard; be keen to what employers are looking for. If they specifically ask for a one-page resume, and you send in five pages, you could be automatically disqualified for failing to follow instructions. When you’re done creating your resume, have your best friend, your mom, your best friend’s older sister --literally anyone proofread it. Cover Letter: In addition to a resume, most employers will also ask for a cover letter. A cover letter is a one-page document that explains why your past experience makes you a good fit for a current job opening. When writing a cover letter, do your research! Make sure you address it to someone in the company and state which position you are applying for. Although writing cover letters can be tedious, take advantage of what they can do for you as an applicant! They further showcase and tie together the experience listed on your resume LinkedIn: LinkedIn may be the most important social network you sign up for this year, if you haven’t already. Essentially, LinkedIn is akin to Facebook, except instead of “friending” and posting pictures with your college classmates, you invite them to “connect” and post business-oriented accomplishments. LinkedIn is your digital resume, with the added ability of letting users network with other users, post publications, and basically stalk current employees at the company of your dreams. Let the networking ensue!