Cream No.34 by Cream City Magazine

founder & publisher fernando de haro C I T Y M A G A Z I N E

N 34 O

december • january 2016

copy editor

joana santillana

design & production

lead designer gabriela lozano

design production assistant alejandra garza Hello to all our dear readers! I greet you with great affection from the Cream studios, where the month of December has arrived. We are ready publisher to send off 2015 with a very special issue that is filled with interesting tips to keep our New Year’s resolutions, and not let them pass us by! I invite you to read this feature article and follow our guests’ recommendations! I thank all the people that in one way or another collaborated with our magazine this year. We are already working on multiple new and refreshing proposals to bring to you in 2016, which will help us improve upon every new issue that we put out, and to stay current and ahead of the game with the personality and style that we are known for.

One thing that is very characteristic of Cream is to give you all a taste of the fashion trends that we love, and in the pages of this very edition, you will be able to find a photosesh inspired by a day of camping with hip and modern outfits over a fantastic setting outdoors. I hope you’ll enjoy it, and that it’ll give you ideas for your next date with mother nature! I hope you have an excellent end of the year, and that humanity will find peace in order to avoid events such as the ones that shook Paris and other cities recently. Let’s try to keep those events from ever happening again, and turn them into distant memories. Here’s to a new year and to global peace in our world. With love,

photographer ferch

high end retouching paola denyce badouin fashion coordinator amely garza

interns doris gonzález dinorah villarreal alicia gómez

writers

rubén bazán iii, joe arciniega tina gómez, julia kowalsky special thanks armando and david hinojosa, fernando gaytan, angel de haro, apple music, and rocio galván.

ADVERTISING sales@creamcitymagazine.com + 956.753.6755 Cream City Magazine on Twitter for daily updates, tidbits, behind the TWEET US! Follow scenes pics+videos+links, and pointless babble at twitter.com/creamcitymag

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creamcitymagazine.com Copyright © 2016 Cream City Magazine is a bi-monthly publication. All rights reserved. Points of view expressed do not necessarily represent those of Cream City Magazine. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement we believe is incompatible with our mission. We also reserve the right to refuse any advertisement we deem competitive or contrary to the best interests of the magazine. Advertisers are legally responsible for the content, accuracy, and images of their ads. Printed in Mexico.

CREAM TEAM No.34: ALE, ALICIA, GABY, DINoRAH, AMELY, AND DoRIS.

in k a e p S c ubli or

DIANA SALDAÑA

IRMA GERALDINA ORTEGON

CLAUDIA CRISTINA TOVAR MARTÍNEZ

Meet three dynamic achievers who contribute to the development of both Laredos. They are flying high on Cream’s radar.

DIANA SALDAÑA

United States District Judge

My legal career began in Laredo as a law clerk to the Honorable George P. Kazen, United States District Judge, in 1997. After that, I worked at the Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, in the Employment Litigation Section, in Washington, D.C. I then moved to Houston and worked in private practice in a civil litigation firm and eventually returned to Laredo as a federal prosecutor. In 2006, I was selected to become a federal magistrate judge after the retirement of U.S. Magistrate Judge Marcel Notzon. Finally, in 2012, I was nominated by President Obama and confirmed by the Senate to become a federal district judge. I succeeded Judge Kazen when he took senior status. I grew up as a farmworker and saw a lot of people struggling because of their economic condition and lack of educational opportunities. I knew that I wanted to help people, which is what eventually led me to law school. I believe that every life experience brings an opportunity for growth. My faith and belief in God is my foundation. It has shaped me, inspires me to be a life-long learner, and strengthens me every day of my life. I am also inspired by working women. As a mother, I am amazed at how women who work full-time, either at home or away from home, are able to fulfill their responsibilities at home with a smile on their face, joy in their heart, and a commitment to service. I enjoy meeting and learning from them.

I hope and pray that I make a difference in people’s lives; whether it be by speaking to a classroom of students, offering internship opportunities, mentoring our youth, or spending extra time speaking with a particular defendant about his or her situation. I strive to make a difference and that gives me a certain level of satisfaction. IRMA GERALDINA ORTEGÓN

Vice President at Falcon International Bank

I started working at a bank in 1983. A good friend of mine, who was working there, told me that there was an opening and encouraged me to apply. Little did I know when filling out that application that the start of a great career had begun. At the time, I was simply a college student and a math tutor trying to understand the world and my place in it. But one thing I did know, that feeling of satisfaction I got by helping fellow customers grew and incremented daily, and turned into a feeling of desire. I realized I was exactly where I needed to be. People might think that a banker’s career only derives to a 9-5 job at a bank with quotas to meet, but it’s far from that. I perceive it

differently. I see each and every one of my customers as people who need guidance and help not only with their finances, but with their personal matters as well. I have accomplished many goals that I actually never thought I would. The funny thing is that once one goal is accomplished another one will always rise, keeping the excitement continuous. My advice is to always be a step ahead of your boss, it does not matter what position you have or where you work, it is all about being efficient and effective. This way you become better at your job giving yourself a good position to climb up the ladder.

I wouldn’t change a single thing about my past. Is my life perfect? No, but every single thing that I have done has brought me to where I am right now. I am just anxious to know where everything will take me now. I truly believe that everything does happen for a reason and that there is a divine plan that God created. DR. CLAUDIA CRISTINA TOVAR MARTÍNEZ

Hematologist at Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social (IMSS)

My career began in 1993, as a general practitioner at Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL). I specialized in Pediatrics and later Hematology at the university hospital. I wanted to be a doctor since I was a kid. While I was in medical school, I became interested in Hematology, mainly because I wanted to treat patients that were battling leukemia. It’s something I feel very passionate about and I consider it my true vocation. I have been through so many things here, both happy and sad since it is dealing with cancer, but seeing a patient’s face after they f inish a treatment and they are in remission it’s the most rewarding. One fond memory that will forever stay with me was when I went to a wrestling match with a 4 year old patient, and he was wearing a wrestler’s costume. It was just symbolic how he was dressed up as a fighter while simultaneously courageously fighting cancer.

My patients inspire me to continue bringing the best care possible. I am serious about my commitment and responsibility to my career; I like justice and honesty. I feel very satisfied with my life goals, but I have many plans for the future. I want to pursue a specialty in bone marrow transplants in Barcelona. My career has given me some of the most unique experiences in my lifetime. Helping people, offering comfort to my patients, the satisfaction of seeing my patients cured and disease free, and being surrounded by children are just a few of the many things about my job that fill me with happiness. cream

december

/ january 2016

ith each passing day, we are gaining more and more weight. We are fatter than we have ever been and, unless you’ve been living under a rock your whole life, you know that this is dangerous to your health. I’m actually not talking about weight. I’m referring to the amount of information we are feeding our brains on a daily basis – digital junk food that is poisoning our minds and, possibly, our moral well-being. So don’t throw away that Krispy Kreme. It’s the holiday season anyway.

i once read that the amount of information found in one current issue of the wall street journal holds the equivalent to the amount of information obtained by somebody in the 1700s in their entire life. Furthermore, the advent of the internet has allowed us to produce a vast amount of information daily, and it is expanding at an alarming rate. To put this in perspective, according to analysts, our minds receive about 34 gigabytes of information a day – that’s about 100,000 words. Millennials everywhere praise that the availability and accessibility of so much data has made the human race smarter than ever before. Yet, we refuse to accept that too much of a supposed good thing is bad, and we blindly convince ourselves that the more information we get, the better off we will be. Is this the case? What are we actually doing with so much (possibly useless) information? One of the biggest mistakes we can make is believing that more information automatically equals more knowledge. We’re drowning in a digital flood, and sadly not many know where the lifesavers are.

THE

INDE

We have become a population that needs news that is both quick and alarming. News outlets, along with their journalists and editors, were quick to determine that, given the amount of information we receive on a daily basis, their headlines and stories must captivate the reader, and garner more clicks, which is what ultimately makes them money. Speed jeopardizes accuracy, meaning that the information we receive may at times be false. Furthermore, among the information we feed ourselves everyday are thirdparty opinions that are not well-grounded and viewpoints from people who have not yet reached high levels of credibility. The internet has given everybody a voice, and since we all have an inherent need to be heard, we are simultaneously spreading, and receiving, potentially false information. Our attention spans are now much shorter due to both the onslaught of information and the speed with which we expect it, and this can create confusion when trying to establish an informed opinion. We are now a culture drunk on information, unprepared for a hangover that is difficult to cure. On a social media level, our culture has also become hypersensitive to differing opinions, meaning that we will always make an enemy along the way. For example, people who hunt for sport can’t post a picture of their newest big game trophy without some PETA lover saying it’s inhumane and that hunters should go to hell. People who advocate for gay marriage can’t publish it without some bible thumper quoting Leviticus and saying that homosexuals should go to hell. People can’t change their profile picture supporting the people of France because there will always be someone out there who says “this is offensive because we should include all countries who are going through tough times.” What are we supposed to do? Well, a lot of things. For starters, we must develop media literacy. We need to question the credibility of news outlets, advocacy journalists, and bloggers who claim to be delivering worthwhile news. BY RUBÉN BAZÁN III THERUBENINDEX@GMAIL.COM

8 cream

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We must acknowledge that they all live off of clicks, and we must also ask ourselves “is this news?” Taking a page from fast food restaurant manuals, media conglomerates will also keep us fat by feeding us dollar menu journalism as long as we keep asking for it (and we do). We must also consciously manage the flow of information. We must decide how much news and social media we want infiltrating our minds and, to an extent, dictating how we live our lives and how we critically think about current events and social issues. Digital media cleanses have been gaining popularity, and there’s a reason for it. We must toughen up. The population is easily offended and many times it’s for the wrong reasons. Not everything is meant to harm your feelings, so don’t go digging for painful comments when they might not even be there. Lastly, we must go back to the idea of “live and let live.” We may not always agree with the opinions of others, and vice versa, but nothing helps me sleep better at night than knowing that I respect the way my loved ones live, and this being reciprocal.

g n i k a lic Spe

Pub

Death By Snakes At 10,000 Feet

n saturday, november 14, 2015, i gave a ted talk. ted,

and

design,

acronym is

stated mission is to

for

technology,

nonprofit

“spread

entertainment

organization

whose

ideas…a global community

welcoming people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world.

[they]

believe

passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives

This lofty mission is propelled by presentations written and delivered by speakers of as wide a variety as their “Ideas Worth Sharing,” like Bill Gates, Anthony Robbins, and Monica Lewinsky, who present their TED Talks in public venues before a live audience, and are videotaped for online distribution.

and, ultimately, the world.”

When I asked my mother what I had to do, she continued with her perky enthusiasm, noticing that it was failing to similarly inflame me. She must have sensed where this could lead, because she rattled my expectations off like she was reading the side effects of the latest miracle drug at the end of a TV commercial. “I will take you downtown for a haircut and a new suit, new shoes too, you will wear a tie, and you’ll get an award certificate, and oh, you get to give a speech.” Frankly, convulsions, a rash, and possible breast enlargement started to look good.

I will spare recounting the debates and histrionics that followed. As much of a keen strategist and negotiator as I was throughout my career, I learned at the size 5 satin-heeled pumps of the master, herself. So on graduation day, just as Apollo 10 was returning to Earth, and John and Yoko were staging a “Bed-In” to give peace a chance, my hair was parted and pomaded to the left, I was wrapped in a hound’s-tooth suit, and wearing new black Beatle boots (ok, that was cool, mom was ruthless!)

Mine was presented for TEDx, independently organized TED events around the world which are licensed and follow the model of the TED Talks. Held at Texas A&M International University in Laredo, the stage was starkly set. A stool placed on a round red rug down center anchored our range of movement. Behind us, the TEDx At speech time, I had to swallow repeatedly to keep nausea at bay; I was Laredo sign branding the event with dripping in sweat, soaking the suit under my arms, around my neck, and down its iconic bold Helvetica font in my back. And as if water wasn’t escaping my body fast enough, I had to pee. lipstick red. I was the first speaker.

I actually did, though perhaps not at the most convenient time. Ok, I wet my

After decades of speeches that I have pants. Not a lot, but enough for me to know, and never forget. They say I did given around the world, the backstage well, though “they” were all related to me, so I will never know for sure. fuss with wardrobe, body mics, and endless well-meaning offers of water is familiar to me now. My pacing and tight smiles belie the From that point, I obsessively visited the library and read all serenity that my preparation and experience give me. However that I could about the fear of public speaking. I learned that it is anxious I still get in the days leading to any such appearance, called Glossophobia, known as the greatest of all fears, greater those final moments, whatever the chaos around me, are actually than Thanatophobia, the fear of death, Ophidiophobia, the fear comforting. By the time I hear my name called to the stage, I am of snakes, or Acrophobia, the fear of heights. I learned how to relieved, relaxed, and ready. It wasn’t always so, however. manage the physical manifestations of this fear, to trick my body into I am your classic introvert disguised as an extrovert. It is a cover thinking it isn’t afraid of what I am I had to learn and perfect, and I realized that most profoundly about to do. I tested these theories when I was ten years old. Before that, I was abjectly shy, awkward by volunteering for what I once and terrified of speaking in public. The witty dialogue running thought inconceivable, speaking and inside my head, honed by countless hours reading books beyond performing before live audiences. I my age and experience, did nothing for me when I was called can truly look back and know with upon to speak in class. My eyes would water, my voice would all certainty that more than any other, crack, and my bladder would suddenly demand instant relief. this ability has directly contributed to And if that happened to me in a classroom, you can imagine my my opportunities and successes. horror when I learned what was expected of me for my 6th grade graduation ceremony.

It was Spring of 1969, and my mother had “great news” for me. Of all the 6th grade graduates of Heights Elementary School, I was selected as a sort of Valedictorian for our graduation ceremony.

My TED Talk was titled “Leadership Lessons from the Broadway Stage.” And I stayed dry.

cream

BY JOE ARCINIEGA arciniegajoe@gmail.com

december

/ january 2016

creamout&about

Laredo Emergency Room With great success and in the company of friends and family, Laredo Emergency Room held a ribbon cutting ceremony with the support of Laredo Chamber of Commerce and local leaders. Cream was present to capture this great event and wishes our friends at Laredo Emergency Room nothing but the best.

want to feature your event? contact us for more info at info@creamcitymagazine.com

# s n o i t u l o res

s ’ r a e Y w Ne

LET’S TALK ABOUT

With all the hype about New Year’s resolutions, and the unsolicited input that we get from significant others, family, friends, co-workers, et. al., at times we forget to acknowledge our own personal goals/ resolutions for the upcoming year. Oftentimes, small improvements are preferred over flashy and short-lived expectations. This New Year’s Resolution special feature incorporates advice from professionals in the health, nutrition, and fitness fields, who share some thoughts and tips that are truly deserving of your consideration. Embrace the New Year and all the opportunities it’ll bring to reinvent and improve yourself. Give some thoughtful contemplation to what your resolutions will be and set realistic, time-appropriate goals. Remember, this New Year, if all else fails, make a single resolution: try your best to be better than you were the previous year. It’s the least you can do. You owe it to yourself.

PHOTOGRAPHY FERCH MOD EL IR LA N D A A LON S O /

LIC E N S E D MA S S A GE TH ER A P IS T

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Steven Olivares

Program Director of Parisi Speed School and Personal Trainer at Gold’s Gym of Laredo

As we draw closer to a new year, we begin to hear the most notable phrase “new year, new me.” The phrase itself has become something ironic when referring to a physical fitness change. The reason is because people gave up on the meaning behind the expression, just as people tend to give up on their new self-transformation. Setting goals for yourself is key, but much more significant is consistency; simply make a few changes to your lifestyle, such as getting 7-8 hours of sleep rather than 5-6, cooking more meals rather than dining out, or testing yourself by entering into Gold’s Gym’s 12 week challenge. Being consistent with your changes is what is going to progress you toward your goals. When it comes to exercise and fitness, it is important to remember to always keep an open mind. Just as a famous Chinese proverb explains, “learning is not a singular event, it is a process over time.” Fitness is a lifestyle that is continuously evolving. It is not something we learn in one day. It takes time to figure out what works best for you and what inspires exceptional changes in your lifestyle. When embarking on your new fitness lifestyle, it is important to let go of fear and not be intimidated. Do not be afraid to try out a new exercise class, fitness program, personal training, or even a complete diet change. Let go of the things holding you back and take the step to make the change. Find what you enjoy doing most and what is going to help you reach your personal goals. At one point, even the fittest fitness fanatics had a starting point, maybe similar to yours. Always remember that fitness should be fun. Above all, remain consistent with habits that will allow you to achieve your goals. Find something you enjoy and stick to what makes you happy.

Helpful tips...

t fi #

• Be consistent • Keep an open mind • Let go of fear

• Don’t be intimidated • Make it fun

Samuel Anaya, M.D.

Doctor / Emergency Medicine at Laredo Emergency Room

Each year, millions of Americans take part in a time honored tradition that stretches back more than 4,000 years. New Year’s resolutions are as exciting as they are ephemeral. However, more often than not, our resolutions are far loftier than practical and they lose steam shortly after inception. I have been asked what I believe our health resolutions for 2016 should be; I prefer to try tackle this question by challenging your readers to make initiatives that recognize our inherent desire for the ideal, but temper that desire with realistic goals and expectations.

Let’s begin this new year with a commitment to be more active. I challenge you to begin and end your day walking. Numerous studies have demonstrated that weight loss may not be as important as just the act of getting “out there” and exercising regularly. This is easy to do, and has great health benefits. Walking more might be as simple as just walking your dog a little further or taking a sunset stroll with your significant other and leaving the cell phone and watch at home. I challenge you to get more sleep. Aim for at least 8 hours a day, and sustained sleep is best, but take naps if you can’t achieve this. It is fairly well established that sleeping more may help stave off depression, curb anxiety, improve focus, and strengthen your ability to fight off infections. In fact, sleep deprivation can put you at risk for heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and lead to unexpected weight gain. This New Year let’s focus on moderation not deprivation; stop trying to starve yourself, work out seven times a week, and avoid all your favorite vices. For most people, an occasional chocolate, glass of wine, serving of cheese, or even french fry is not going to ruin your health or wreak havoc on your waistline. In fact, a little bit of “bad” may be quite good for you, and in the end may be an easier long term commitment. Cheers.

#healthy

Lilian Hernández De Lerma Holistic Nutritional Coach B.S. CNHP

Why don’t you make a lifestyle resolution instead of a failing New Year’s resolution? You’d be far better off making a decision to improve your overall way of living. Normalizing your weight and improving your health will come as natural outgrowths of this. I always say, “the smallest of changes counts the most and can add up to the biggest of transformations.” Here are my top tips for a not just losing weight but living a better healthier, happier life: 1. Slow down. When you eat fast it’s easy to overeat. Chew slowly and enjoy the flavor of your food!

2. Have variety. When you exercise, you must keep your

muscles guessing by trying different workouts or tweaking the routine, otherwise there is no challenge. The same rule applies for food. Keep a colorful plate. Eat plenty of raw foods.

3. Play music. It’s been scientifically proven that listening to upbeat music during exercise helps you work harder and enjoy both the workout and the music. 4. Follow a schedule. It’s very important to always use a day planner to keep you accountable and help you stick to the plan. 5. Choose love. Do things you love. If you don’t know what you love, start exploring.

13. Sleep more. YES! With a hectic lifestyle, it’s hard sometimes just to get some sleep. If you’re constantly sleeping less than 7 to 8 hours a night, your health — and waistline — will suffer. 14. Use essential oils to curve cravings. Take control of cravings naturally by using essential oils like peppermint, grapefruit, ginger, cinnamon or lemon. Instead of another coffee or snack, dab a drop on your wrists to boost energy or calm hunger. 15. Cheat meals. Allow yourself to enjoy a “cheat meal,” not a “cheat day.”

It is up to YOU to take control of your health, and do what is right for you to live a healthier, longer, drug and disease free life.

Be well. Here’s to your health and happiness!

6. Challenge yourself. Leave your comfort zone behind. Discomfort is a sign of growth. 7. Be grateful. Express gratitude for what you have. People who are thankful for what they have are better able to cope with stress, have more positive emotions, and are better able to reach their goals. 8. Drink plenty of water. Oftentimes we think we’re hungry when our bodies are actually just begging for water. It’s important to drink enough water throughout the day to keep fat toxins moving out of the body and keep your metabolism running optimally. And it’s calorie-free, too. 9. Eat breakfast. Start your day off with the right food, and do a hearty breakfast to fuel your body giving it the energy it needs. 10. Make small changes. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Decide to make one healthy change a week.

11. Treat yourself. If knowing that your body is thanking you for making healthier choices isn’t enough (and that’s ok!), treat yourself — but don’t tie these “rewards” to food. Instead, indulge in a massage or a shopping spree. 12. Track your progress. When the scale doesn’t seem to move or you feel like your body isn’t changing quickly enough, it’s hard not to get discouraged. Track your progress from the START to see how much you’ve accomplished and motivate yourself to keep going.

n o i t i r t u #n

PHOTOGRAPHY FERCH MODEL LORENA VIEJO HAIR & MAKEUP STEPHANIE CÁZARES APPAREL PRAGUE BOUTIQUE / DOLLZ BOUTIQUE PROPS STEIN MART

Baby, It’s Getting Cold

Outside

r he ot m joy en d an rs oo td ou e th to e yl st ur yo et G wn do es go n su e th ile wh c ni pic tle lit a e av H nature. and the stars come up. T he weather has finally changed, so it â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to cozy up by the bonfire!

APPAREL & ACCESSORIES PRAGUE BOUTIQUE

APPAREL & ACCESSORIES DOLLZ BOUTIQUE

creamout&about

fashion for charity Telet贸n USA hosted a fashion show at the Laredo Country Club to honor this noble cause. Laredoans showed their support through charitable donations, which made the night a resounding success!

creamout&about

EAT continues its mission Emergency Assistance Team (EAT) has done it again! This is the fourth year in which they have provided families with meals during the Thanksgiving season. Through generous donations from the community and volunteer work to prepare the boxes, they have been feeding more families each year. This time around, 400 families were serviced. Keep up the great work!

Do you want to mix things up? This holiday season, prepare a meal that includes a creamy carrot soup that no one will be able to forget. It has all the components that we could ask for in a holiday dish: it’s delicious, easy to make, and affordable! Also, this recipe is a great alternative to the not-so-healthy options out there. Make this side dish a new staple in your culinary repertoire.

recipe

ingredients •

2 lbs. carrots

•

6 garlic cloves

•

6 tbsp. butter

•

6-8 celery stalks

•

3 cups of chicken stock

•

Salt to taste

•

1 red onion

•

3/4 cup of heavy cream

downtown 1708 Victoria (956)568-4707 Mon-Fri | 11am-8pm Sat | Events Only

Start by peeling and rinsing your fresh carrots.

north laredo 219 E. Del Mar (956) 516-7651 Mon-Fri | 11am-9pm Sat | 12pm-8pm 956.516.7651

Rinse your celery stalks and your peeled onion as well. Dice up your carrots, celery, and red onions.

Next, finely chop up your garlic cloves. Once you have everything ready, reach for your stockpot and place on stove on high heat.

Add your butter. Once it melts, add chopped veggies. Sauté for a few minutes. Now, add stock and bring to a boil. Once a boil is achieved, reduce heat to medium low and let simmer for 30 minutes or until carrots are soft. Add heavy cream, salt, and blend in batches. Serve hot and top with your favorite cheese! Pair it with some delicious crusty bread as well. Enjoy!

This soup is definitely kid-friendly, and it’s a great way to have them eat their share of carrots. Serve this creamy soup to your guests over the holidays. It’s a great starter for your family dinners. Goes great with some red wine!

BY VALERIA VEGA & CHRIS CONTRERAS

cream

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/ january 2016

He’s an individual with natural talent and artistic skills that have been fine-tuned since childhood. Memo Jiménez talks to Cream about his voyage in the creative world, which has led him to take part in interesting projects while making New York City his playground. We invite you to meet Memo, one of our former contributors, in a feature brought to you directly from the Big Apple!

’ve always loved show business.

My mom enrolled me in piano lessons when I was very young, and I played my first recital when I was 6. After that, I learned how to play guitar and swore that one day I would become a rock star. A few years later, I decided to try acting. As soon as I landed my first lead role I just knew I wanted to live a life full of performance, storytelling, and creativity. I went to the University of Texas at Austin to study TV & Film Production because I really wanted to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Austin always seemed like the cool place to be. It just made perfect sense for me to go there to explore my interests and talents while staying close to my family. My time in Laredo was actually a lot of fun. I know most people say there’s nothing to do there, but somehow I was always really busy. If I wasn’t rehearsing for a play, I was probably out with my friends looking for ways to get ourselves into trouble. We made the best of it. 28 cream

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Writing for Cream was a lot of fun because I was able to express myself freely about things that genuinely caught my interest. As a storyteller, it was a great outlet for me to share short narratives and discover my voice. And as a pop culture enthusiast, it was the perfect excuse to rationalize the endless hours I spend reading celebrity news on the internet on a daily basis.

New York City represents the crème de la crème of the entertainment industry, so moving here seemed not only logical but also necessary. One

day I just decided to pick up and leave Texas. I stuffed my car with all my clothes and gadgets and drove for days. I don’t know exactly what I’m looking for yet, but I know I’ll find it here. I’m currently working for a music company that focuses on launching the careers of independent artists. I work in the branding department, so I spend the majority of my days designing websites, logos, and album art, among other things. That’s my 9-5. I spend the rest of my productive time working on my own music, which I’m hoping to release soon, and developing plans to launch my own media company.

Life in the city is really intense. I either feel extremely blessed and lucky to be here, or I feel completely basic and lame. Like one day I’ll be at a really exclusive nightclub watching one of my clients perform, and the next day I’m eating $1 pizza by myself because rent was due and I’m broke. All your emotions are intensified in the city.

It also always feels like anything could happen and you have to just be ready for it. I love it. It’s like a rollercoaster ride that never ends.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! How do you celebrate Christmas? We celebrate Christmas with our family, enjoy a meal, and exchange gifts while we wait for Santa Claus. Kids and adults both love the holidays! What are some fun activities you and your children do during Christmas? We have many activities we do on Christmas, but some of our favorites are decorating our tree, the Elf on the Shelf, and baking cookies. What are some of your children’s favorite Christmas movies? They love Elf on the Shelf and A Christmas Story. Are there any traditions you and your family preserve every holiday season? Every year we donate toys because the true meaning of the season is that it’s a time of giving. Food makes up a big part of the holidays. What is one food that must always be on your dinner table during the winter celebrations? One dish that must always be at our dinner table is the honey baked ham and, most importantly, cupcakes. How are you decorating your tree this year? Are you using any color combinations? This year we are doing Candy Land with traditional colors like red, white, and green. It’s not Christmas without family and presents! What is Santa bringing you and your kids this year? The kids have asked for ride on cars this year. For me, I’ll let it be a surprise.

Christen Priyanka

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Luis E. Valdez Jr. / Owner

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EmpLoymEnT sErvIcEs, LLc When it comes to looking for a career, there is an agency that will offer you a premium experience. We’re talking about Elite Employment Services, LLC, a company that has been at the cutting edge in the field and that is constantly expanding its reach. Cream talked to its founder and owner, Luis E. Valdez Jr., who shared his vision with us in an interview that focuses on his company and its purpose. What can your customers expect from Elite? All of our client relationships are considered lifelong. We partner with our clients to accomplish all of their business objectives. What are the added benefits and perks for those that choose the “Elite experience”? • No payroll processing or taxes

• No workers’ compensation claims • No unemployment claims • No advertising costs

What does the name of the company signify, and when did the company start? The definition of ELITE is a select part or group that is superior to the rest in terms of ability or qualities. We opened in March 2013. What would you like your customers to take away at the end of the day? Our main goal for our customers is to provide the highest quality service while eliminating all of their staffing needs at a competitive rate.

• Free drug screenings

When searching for inspiration, what are some quotes that have kept you going doing difficult times? Motivational quotes from Michael Jordan. I have a particular one placed on my computer: “Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.”

What is Elite’s slogan? “Finding great people for great companies.”

Besides Laredo, do you offer your services in other cities? Yes, we just recently opened an office in McAllen, and we offer services in Eagle Pass and in the near future will be opening in the San Antonio and Houston areas.

• No recruiting costs

• Free national background checks • Free reference verifications

• Free social security verifications via E-Verify

6550 Springfield Ave. Unit #103, Providence Plaza, Laredo, Texas 78041 Ph. 956.568.5762 • Fax 956.568.5815 • lvaldez@eliteemployment.net cream

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With radiating talent, charisma, and likability, Laredo native Carolina Vela wakes up the “Alamo City” in her role as host of the popular morning show “Despierta San Antonio” from Univision. She walks us through the daily goings of her career on TV and the various activities that bring out her characteristic smile.

BY FERNANDO DE HARO

Tell us a little bit about how you started on TV. When I moved to San Antonio, I decided that I wanted to be a journalist. I studied Journalism, Public Relations, and Marketing in San Antonio College, and Texas A&M-San Antonio. During my college years I had the opportunity to work in newspaper, radio, and then make the move to TV. How do you prepare every day to be in front of the camera? First of all, I prepare myself by doing a research of the person I am going to interview and write relevant questions. Also, sit straight, take a deep breath, and smile. What has been your most memorable assignment? This one is tough because I’ve had more than one. The first one when I was in college and got the opportunity to be one of the few reporters to interview former Mexican President Felipe Calderón. The second interview was with Pablo Escobar’s son, Juan Pablo Escobar. How important is to have a professional degree? Very important! It’s a unique experience where you learn the skills necessary to succeed in this field.

What role does television play in our society? TV is significant because it keeps people informed about current situations, politics, entertainment, and helps people understand the world around them. Who do you admire? My parents; they have always taught me to be a hard worker. What were your favorite TV shows while growing up? Spanish language show “Hoy.” What does Laredo mean to you? It is very special to me because it’s the city I grew up in. It’s a unique place that blends the best of two cultures. When you were little, did you dream about being on TV? No, I always wanted to be a veterinarian because of my love for animals, but that changed when I found my true passion in journalism. How do you keep that smile on a daily basis? I am very thankful and I always try to find the bright side of every situation which helps me keep smiling. I recharge my energy by always staying active. What do you like the most about Cream City Magazine? Ferch! He’s such a talented and original person.

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crème brûlée BY TINA GÓMEZ / ILLUSTRATIONS ALEJANDRA GARZA

Millennials have it hard, and before you turn the page, hear me out. What is a millennial you ask? Anyone born between 1980-2000. So why do they have it hard? Think of it this way, you’re born in a time of corded home phones, snail mail, and VHS tapes, and then something miraculous happens, and that change is rapid! Suddenly, you’re sharing an Uber ride, texting your movie tickets to a friend, and hoping that you make your Airbnb check out by 11 a.m. the next day. Somewhere over those 20 years, the internet happened, electronics became more powerful than before, and our economy tanked more than a few times. Millennials are the next generation that our country depends on, and that’s a heavy crown to wear. Move over baby boomers, population 77 mil, and say hello to the generation of the future: millennials, population 92 mil!

millennials

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With the rise of the millennials who are coming of age and into power, we also see a rise in what is now known as the “sharing economy.” The new sharing, or mesh economy, allows for you and others to split costs on the basics, essentially saving you some cash. Basic needs should include: mobility, shelter, food, and safety. You better believe there is a sharing app for that. From Citibike NYC to Austin Bcycle, getting around has not been easier. Apps like Poshmark, a site that allows you to buy, sell, and trade clothing, make it easier to get the latest and greatest without all the credit card debt. So why the sudden shift? Economists have the millennials to thank. This newer generation is very reluctant to purchase homes, vehicles, and luxury items. Don’t believe me? According to Forbes, 60% of millennials as of 2013 are renting, which means buying is on a steady decline. Finally, financial relief is on the horizon.

sharing

Virtual Reality may not be mainstream yet, but it’s improving, and soon it will be the norm. Currently VR (virtual reality) headsets are bulky, heavy, and can be irritating to some; however, the technology behind it is vastly improving. Media giants like Google, Sony, Nokia, GoPro, Samsung, and now Oculus, are constantly improving on current models. The possibilities for VR are endless; from movies, to gaming, to space exploration, and even Facebook’s newest venture in “teleportation,” the horizon is limitless. Currently most VR headsets are either developer mode only or cost a pretty penny, but soon they’ll be the latest must have in technology. If you ever need an escape from reality, then step into a virtual reality. As Timothy Leary once said, “Turn on, tune in, drop out.”

virtual reality

Di norah A

lanis

de V illarre al

Christmas is a meani ng ful time of the year as we rejoice with the birth of Jesus. We celebrat e by spending time together as a fa mily, sharing, and creating mem ories together. D uring our delicio us dinner, we think about how bl essed we are and give thanks for this year that is about to end an d pray for the new year to come.

Adriana Villa iento del es el nacim d a id v a N ente La tradicionalm r y s ú es J niño familia nvivencia es una co s la oportunidad mo donde tene disfrutar os para n ir n u re , las de fraternidad la , ía n o rm d, de la a idas de salu ib c re s e n io itos bendic abajo, y éx tr e d , d a d prosperi on de la a Dios el d o d n ie c e d ra de que ag arnos nunca dita id lv o o n y vida o. Ben ibimos tod do el por Él rec e une a to u q a h c fe sea la ación de una conspir n e o d n u m Navidad! amor! ¡Feliz

Lizette Larralde Para mi la Navidad es la fecha que todos esperamos para celebrar en familia el nacim iento de nuest ro SeĂąor. Es el me jor tiempo para expresar nuest ros mejores deseos y sentimien tos a las personas mĂĄs importa ntes en nuestra vida, y agradece r a Dios la bendiciĂłn de tenerl os.

Jessi

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La Navidad es el na cimiento del niño Jesús. Nosotros preparamos nuest ro corazón y nu est ro hogar para su llegada co n alegría, paz, armonía y m ucho amor, deseando que ca da familia inculque esto a sus hi jos para que nunca se pierda el sig nificado de esta fecha tan especia l.

gs 25 Tthyoin u in a to ge

Christmas Mood BY DINORAH VILLARREAL

Do Christmas the right way by delighting in all our faves during this merry season! Eat, watch, and listen to some holiday classics that make this holiday a magical one. Merry Christmas from your fiends at Cream City Magazine!

Why it’s the most wonderful time of the year… 1. Decorations! (lights, trees, inflatable Santas, and on and on…) 2. Seeing friends & fam that live/go to school OOT 3. Putting those expensive scarves, gloves, cardigans,

and other fashionable items to use for a good 10 days out of the year 4. Having a legitimate excuse to cuddle with bae (like you need one!) 5. Breaking your (sorry, McD’s)

diet for food that is actually worth it

Christmas playlist staples 6. The Killers – A Great Big Sled 7. Michael Bublé – Santa Claus is Coming to Town 8. Taylor Swift – Last Christmas 9. The Beach Boys – Santa’s Beard 10. Mariah Carey – All I Want for Christmas is You

Food

comma-worthy

items

Classic

Xmas Grinch List

Flicks

11. Caramel Brulée Latte 12. Buñuelos 13. Christmas cookies 14. Tamales 15. Champurrado s

r 16. Gremlins eate in th . 4!!! 17. The Santa Clause Dec 18. Christmas Eve 19. Star Wars: The Force Awakens in theaters 20. New Year’s Eve

Dec. 18!!!

21. Huge toy catalogs that give kids unrealistic expectations about what they’re getting this year 22. Trying to get a last minute gift and failing because there’s only an ugly sweater left 23. Going to the store to look for something and not ﬁnding it because everything is all over the place 24. The huge lines at the supermarket and the parking lot and the bridge and pretty much everywhere 25. Eating recalentado for a week…and a half after Christmas

Monumental Moments BY JULIA MAEVE KOWALSKY

ashington, d.c. is known for many things: its phenomenal food, performing arts industry, and beautiful federal buildings just to name a few. But D.C. is also home to some of our nation’s most iconic monuments such as the Washington Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial. Just as great events and great leaders led to the erection of these monuments, many great moments have also happened after they have been built. Martin Luther King gave his “I Have a Dream” speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, for one, and President Obama honored the MLK March 50 years later on those very same steps. As part of one of my classes in D.C. (“The Politics of National Memory”), my classmates and I get to attend class at some of the city’s greatest monuments and museums. The class has taught me so much and exposed me to a plethora of different ideas and viewpoints, the kind that no one could absorb from the pages of a mere textbook or internet article. “Reading” monuments and historical sites is a product of whom you visit the sites with and what subjective knowledge

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each individual provides. That being said, most of the monuments I’ve seen have been really cool. But sometimes, I’ve been a little disappointed by some of the places my class has visited; after some reflection, however, I’m not so disappointed anymore. On the weekend of November 7, all of my classmates and I loaded up on a bus to travel to historic Philadelphia, home of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Like all monumental places we visit, I psyched myself out and was even instructed by my mother to take pictures since she’s never been. As I waited in line for thirty minutes to see the Liberty Bell, I was so excited; I thought this rush of historical awe would overcome my body and I’d become speechless. Unfortunately, as I approached the bell, I was underwhelmed. I had waited all this time in the rain to see….this? I snapped a few photos and went to go find my group.

As I was walking back towards the bus, I began talking to my friend Addie about how underwhelmed I felt about the bell. She explained to me

that sometimes it is not the physical remains of history, but what they symbolize. Without the context, does the bell, or any other monument, mean anything? Not really. However, the symbolization of such a time period is much larger than what could ever be tangible in a museum, at a monument, or in a roped-off section of a hall. Once I began to think of the Liberty Bell, monuments, and all historical sites that I had visited that way, my appreciation for these places and the things individuals did to have a nation honor grew tremendously. History is a funny thing. It can be told, retold, and retold endlessly to fit any individual’s motives or sense of being in the United States. Regardless of whether what I know about history, based on previous knowledge and these experiences, is 100% accurate, trying to imagine our nation’s great history in the presence of such historic sites is pretty amazing.