H.D. Living
reopening o f the victor valley m u se u m | m a m a carpino ’ s resta u rant March|April 2011
yo u r
pre m ier
high
d esert
li f estyle
m aga z ine
get your
burger on!
The Best Burger Joints in the HD
egg-citing easter traditions page 46
V I C T O R V I L L E | S P R I N G VA L L E Y L A K E | A P P L E VA L L E Y | H E S P E R I A | O A K H I L L S
Come See us at the Home Show! You NEED my twice monthly decorating e-newsletter! Call to get signed up!
We’ll come to your home and do it all from concept to completion Call for a complimentary consultation
760.247.5393
13455 Malaki Road, Suite 2B Apple Valley, CA 92308 Donald M. Tatera
Follow me on
Allied ASID, DDCD Contractor’s Lic. Number: 917857
What can our Academy do for the finest heart care specialists in the region? Help them raise the bar.
Every day, the Academy of Heart Care Excellence strives to elevate the quality of cardiac care in the High Desert.
By bringing together dedicated heart care specialists to develop higher benchmarks and refine protocols, the result is better outcomes for patients today and tomorrow. The Academy is incorporated into the Heart Care Program at St.Mary Medical Center—home to the only comprehensive heart care program in the High Desert. With the formation of the Academy, St. Mary is raising the bar for cardiac care in the region.
To choose a St. Mary Medical Center Heart Care Specialist, call Physician Select at 1-877-242-4200, or visit www.stmaryapplevalley.com
2011 Camero Convertible
In Stock Now!
15 425 Dos Palmas Road • V ictor ville , Calif orn ia C o nvenientl y Loc a ted O f f t he 15 Fw y at t he Palm dale Exit
866-618-7670 • www.RanchoMotorCo.com
Âť table of contents
March/April 2011
{ features } 24 return of an original
Reopening of the Victor Valley Museum By Tere Kidd
By Stephanie Morris
32 a home full of memories A house is more than just a house.
By Katie Chavez
28
24
10 PUBLISHERS LETTER 13 up front Return of the Mavericks, County Fair time, and Spring-time car reviews By Krystal Carrillo
18 local destination Apple Valley Country Club
28 get your burger on! Best burger joints in the HD.
{ departments }
20
By Katie Chavez
19 health matters Magnesium: One Important Mineral By Dr. Brad Hannon 20 HD personality Casey Armstrong By Katie Chavez 21 local business Diamond Collision By Katie Chavez 38 wine trends For the love of wine By Stephanie Morris 40 restaurant spotlight Mama Carpino By Susan Landers 42 entertainment calendar Upcoming entertainment & events. 42 hd Happenings Photos from local happenings 46 susan’s corner Egg-citing Easter Traditions
32
6 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
(Provider for most commercial and senior dental plans)
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 7
22
FIND OUT HOW THIS WOMAN LOST INCHES AND UP TO LBS “WITHOUT SURGERY”
50
H.D. Living H.D. Living Magazine Volume 4, Issue 2, March/April 2011 PUBLISHER / CEO Frank A. Castillo MARKETING/CIRCULATION DIRECTOR James Piar CFO Tiffany Santee copy editor Susan Landers DESIGN and LAYOUT Everard Strong | www.Big-E-Productions.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tere Darnell, Katie Chavez, Krystal Carrillo, Stephanie Morris, Dr. Brad Hannon PHOTOGRAPHERS George Sillas | GeorgeSillas.com Susan Whitney | SusanWhitney.com ADVERTISING DESIGN Kari Martinez ADVERTISING sales Frank Castillo frankc@hdlivingmagazine.com Kari Martinez karim@hdlivingmagazine.com Lindy Bains lindyb@hdlivingmagazine.com
Editorial/Advertising Inquiries H.D. LIVING MAGAZINE INC. 6630 SVL Box Victorville, CA 92395 (760) 241-8475 HD Living Magazine is a bi-monthly magazine published by HD Living Magazine, Inc.
2010 HD Living Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of HD Living magazine. HD Living magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers contained herein. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine or its owners. HD Living is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions. SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION Subscriptions are $9.95 per year domestically only. To subscribe, please mail payment to address above, or subscribe online at HDlivingmagazine.com.
8 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
Changing the look of healthcare in the High Desert. One specialist at a time. Introducing the St. Mary Specialty Clinic. We are an expanding group of diverse physicians with one focus—providing the best specialty care for you and your family. Dr. Moses Mukai brings with him 30 years of expertise in women’s healthcare. Dr. Sunny Cheung is an orthopedic specialist focused on sports injuries as well as knee and shoulder replacement surgery. General Surgeon, Dr. Bryan Rivera specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic and colorectal surgeries. Each is committed to providing a level of care that goes beyond the everyday and is customized to your specific circumstances. The St. Mary Specialty Clinic is an exceptional team of specialty physicians dedicated to providing the highest standards of care and compassion. Our exclusive affiliation with St. Mary Medical Center, part of the prestigious St. Joseph Health System, assures you have access to an even wider range of comprehensive resources, including the latest medical technologies and treatments. To schedule an appointment with a
St. Mary Specialty Clinic physician, call us today at 760.240.5505
StMarySpecialtyClinic.com www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 9
» publisher’s letter
sizzlin’ spring issue
A Call today for our Summer Specials
s the spring season approaches and the weather here in the H.D. starts to get a little better we explore some of the “fun things to do” this season! For example, if you don’t already know the Victor Valley Museum has recently taken on a major facelift. Tere Kidd talks of the re-grand opening which is this month and let me tell you, it’s a great place to take the kids to get some insight on local history. You can’t talk about the spring without talking about baseball, and of course, our High Desert Mavericks are back! Under new ownership, the team looks to bring the level of family entertainment up a notch and I for one (along with my sons) are excited to take in some ball games this season. As you can tell by the cover, we had food on our minds when we decided to do our burgers feature as Stephanie Morris takes us to a few of the best places to get a burger in the H.D.! A good hamburger is one of my all-time favorites, and believe me when I say these are definitely some of the best in the area! We also are excited to bring you another beautiful H.D. home feature as Katie Chavez tells of the inspiration behind this one of a kind estate! So after you enjoy this issue of H.D. Living, head out and try one of the burgers we suggest, take in a ball game and check out some local history! All here in your own backyard.
Frank Castillo Publisher/CEO FrankC@hdlivingmagazine.com
10 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 11
12 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
UpFront
The Boys are Back in Town Springtime marks the beginning of one of the most cherished traditions in the H.D.—the start of the Mavericks baseball season! The 2011 season promises to be an exciting one, as the team announces big changes to offer the best for Mavs fans. Ticket prices are now the lowest in the California league, only $7.50 for lower box seats, and the team has introduced a convenient flex-ticket plan for the season. Fans can also now return any unused ticket right up until the game
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
starts and exchange it for a similar ticket (subject to availability) for any future Mavericks game. In addition to the thrilling baseball action on the field, the Mavericks are also improving concession offerings, more in-game entertainment, including dazzling fireworks displays, and more giveaways. Bring the entire family and enjoy. The fun begins Thursday, April 14th when the Mavericks host their first home game of the season. Call the Mavs office for tickets at (760) 246- 6287. — Krystal Carrillo
High Desert Living magazine 13
» upfront
Springtime Rides Spring is the season of the fresh start. Perfect for this time of rebirth, Chevy has reinvented the way we think of automobiles, producing innovative vehicles that don’t make us choose between fuel economy and a quality ride.
» The Chevy Volt The Chevy Volt marks a revolution in car design, setting a “new standard for the comfort, performance, and efficiency of an electricdrive car.” Running entirely as an electric car for its first 40 miles after a full charge and burning no gasoline during those miles, the Volt is also equipped with a 1.4-liter engine, which seamlessly kicks in to power a generator that sustains the battery charge enough to give the car another 300 miles of range once the battery charge is exhausted. Described as “leapfrogging” hybrid competition like the Toyota Prius and Nissan LEAF, the Chevy Volt is unique in the sophistication of its acceleration and handling, distinguishing the Chevy Volt with the extraordinary athleticism and power in its drive. Matching this sophistication is the interior design of the Volt, which “matches the quality of many luxury vehicles.”
14 High Desert Living magazine
» The Chevy Cruze Eco With an EPA-estimated 42 miles per gallon on the highway, the all new Chevy Cruze Eco beats all other non-hybrid competition. Designed to be “an efficient car that’s fun to drive,” what sets the all new Chevy Cruze Eco apart from other fuel efficient cars is its unique engine. The “small, but powerful,” state-of-the-art Ecotec 1.4-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is built to be environmentally responsible without sacrificing performance. Also unique from other fuel efficient models, the 2011 Chevy Cruze Eco has 138 horsepower, and “the little sedanlette is estimated to scoot to 60 mph from a standstill in 10 seconds with the manual transmission, and nine seconds with the six-speed automatic.” Performance and efficiency aren’t the only things garnering attention for the Cruze Eco—its sleek exterior and interior design render the Eco matchless in its class. A compact that feels more like a midsize, Motor Trend reports that the Eco model is “one of the nicest-looking Cruze models we’ve yet seen.” — Krystal Carrillo
march | april 2011
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 15
» upfront This Little Piggy Went to the Fair The San Bernardino County Fair returns May 14th-22nd, and in 2011, everyone gets in for the kids’ admission price of only $5! Presale begins March 21st. This year’s musical entertainment includes Skillet, Gerado Ortiz, Tribute to Motown, Bucky Covington with special guest Bomshel, Creedence Clearwater Revisted, and Clay Walker. Entertainment will also be provided by Extreme Moto, Monster Trucks, and a Demolition Derby, May 20th-22nd. Text FAIR to 88202 for fair updates and deals. The San Bernardino County Fairground is located off the 15 freeway, along historic route 66.— Krystal Carrillo
16 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 17
Âť local destination
Apple Valley Country Club For over 60 years, the Apple Valley Country Club has been a mainstay in High Desert golf and recreation. In addition to the famed 18-hole golf course that has played host to people like Bob Hope, Lawrence Welk, Desi Arnaz and Arnold Palmer, the Apple Valley Country Club has also seen its share of weddings and gatherings for H.D. residents. Since December 2008, AVCC has been open to the public, ready for daily use. Two tennis courts are available for use every day from dawn to 9 p.m. It is also a great place to dine with friends and enjoy lunch in the dining room or outside on the glass enclosed patio with a view of the course every day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. From 3 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, you can engage in happy hour. Breakfast is offered Saturday and Sunday starting at 7 a.m.
18 High Desert Living magazine
With amenities like a bar and lounge, dining room, pro-shop and meeting room, it is the perfect place to hold meetings and banquets. From breakfast to a five-course dinner, many dining options are available. Local groups like the Apple Valley Rotary Club and Kiwanis Club hold weekly meetings at the AVCC. If you are an avid golfer, you can sign up for monthly passes and have unlimited golf for you or your family. On the AVCC website, there is an area to scout out every hole by getting photographs and descriptions of the course. The Apple Valley Country Club is a landmark in the H.D. and offers many ways to enjoy the desert as spring rolls around. For more information about times, rates, everyday dining menus, planning your next gathering and more please visit www. applevalleycountryclub.com. — Katie Chavez
january | february 2011
» health
Magnesium One Important Mineral Magnesium: while it may sound like a Greek god, or a Swedish world’s strongest man competitor, magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in our body. Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in our body. It helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeps heart rhythm steady, supports a healthy immune system, and keeps bones and teeth strong. Magnesium also helps regulate blood sugar levels, calcium/zinc/ potassium/vitamin D levels, promotes normal blood pressure, and is known to be involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. If this is the first time you are hearing about how important magnesium is to our body, it is not surprising. Magnesium is not popular to research for two reasons: one, it is difficult to isolate magnesium to test one thing at a time, and two, magnesium does not have the potential for large profits and therefore does not get much attention from large research/medical/pharmaceutical companies. Signs of low magnesium True, 100%, magnesium deficiency is uncommon. However, there are certain health conditions that may contribute to a deficiency. These health problems include: intestinal virus that causes vomiting or diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, diabetes, pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, diuretic medications, excess coffee/soda/salt/alcohol intake, excessive sweating, prolonged stress, or heavy menstrual periods to name a few. Some studies indicated that Americans are about 80% magnesium deficient; this means that the average American gets 80% of what their body needs per day. One difficulty facing our understanding of magnesium is that only about 1% of our body’s magnesium is contained in our blood, making blood tests for magnesium levels not very valuable. Therefore, one of the best ways, at this time, to know if you are low on magnesium is to look for the following signs and symptoms: loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness, numbness, tingling, muscle contractions/spasms/cramps, seizures, personality changes, abnormal heart rhythms, anxiety, asthma, restless leg syndrome, sleep disorders, irritability, poor nail growth, bowel disease, migraine, osteoporosis, tooth decay, premenstrual syndrome, to name a few. How much magnesium should you take? Supplementation with magnesium can be a little tricky. Some experts talk about the calcium to magnesium ratio, which should be about two calcium to one magnesium, while they estimate that the average American is about five calcium to one magnesium and current research on the “caveman diet” shows a ratio closer to a one to one ratio. Also keep in mind that your body’s demand for magnesium changes with activity because of the large amounts used in muscle tissue. Magnesium is available in different forms; most absorbable forms are magnesium citrate, magnesium gluconate, and magnesium lactate. Magnesium hydroxide and magnesium sulfate are often used as a laxative, while magnesium malate is being promoted for people with fibromyalgia. Some forms of magnesium can also be absorbed
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
through your skin in a soak or bath. It is also recommended to take a B vitamin complex, or a multivitamin that contains B vitamins, while supplementing magnesium; this is to further help absorption. The following list gives a guideline for magnesium supplementation: 1-3 years old male and female 80mg/day 4-8 years old male and female 130mg/day 9-13 years old male and female 240mg/day 14-18 years old males 410mg/day females 360mg/day 19-30 years old males 400mg/day female 310mg/day 31+ years old males 420mg/day and females 360mg/day Foods that provide Magnesium As we have discussed in the past, it is always best to try to get our nutrients from food sources. However, food is only as good as the soil the food is grown in. Typically, organic food tends to contain more magnesium, but only if farmers replenish the soil with magnesium containing fertilizers; often fertilizers contain only nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Here is a short list of some foods that contain magnesium: almonds, cashews, peanuts, halibut, soybeans, spinach, potato with skin, peas, beans, banana, lentils, oatmeal, cereal, wheat bread, and rice. Interactions with medications Due to the involvement of magnesium in so many bodily functions, it is recommended to speak to your health care provider prior to supplementation. This is particularly important if you are taking diuretics, antibiotics, anti-neoplastic, blood pressure medications, calcium channel blockers, diabetic medications, and hormone replacement therapy medications; with these medicines, you are at higher risk for interactions between magnesium and your medication. Our bodies and their numerous chemical reactions and processes are complex beyond our full understanding. However, we continue to discover more nutrients/vitamins/minerals that are very important to our daily functions. Magnesium is one of these minerals that we are finding to be necessary in over 300 processes. As we have discussed in the past, it is not the idea that one mineral/vitamin/ nutrient can provide miracle health; it is that we need certain amounts of all nutrients every day in order to live to the best potential of our environment and DNA. Look for the next HD Living magazine, where we will continue our quest for good health.
Dr. Hannon graduated from the Southern California University of Health Sciences’ Doctor of Chiropractic program. Now, in private practice Dr. Hannon dedicates his time to his passion of health, exercise, and nutrition. High Desert Living magazine 19
» personality profile
Casey Armstrong Armstrong Fairway Insurance The High Desert is full of lifelong residents who devote their time and efforts to the community they love so much. One of those people is Casey Armstrong of Armstrong Fairway Insurance Center. Casey has worked in the insurance business for 14 years, and currently devotes herself to the many H.D. residents who put their trust into Armstrong Fairway Insurance. Casey was born and raised in the H.D. and is a graduate of Apple Valley High School. She started out in the insurance business working for her father when she was just 17. She focused on the personal lines & commercial lines for a couple of years, but when she was 21 she suffered a stroke. During her time of recovery, she became conscious how complicated it is to sift through the difficulties of health insurance. This helped her realize that the insurance business is something she can devote herself to by helping others who encounter the same kinds of personal trials. Her experience has not only made her good at her job, but it has also made her good at
20 High Desert Living magazine
understanding her clients’ concerns. She says that for people who need her help “it is a critical time for them and they need reassurance and direction. I make sure they have the best.” The best is provided by a friendly and knowledgeable staff who guide clients through home, auto, commercial, health and life insurance, among others. As an independent insurance agency, Armstrong Fairway is confident they can provide unparalleled service. Great service to customers extends from the office to the community as Casey is involved in numerous local foundations and events. She is the co-chair of the 9th Annual Golf Invitational on May 9, 2011 and part of the committee for the 20th Annual St. Mary Medical Center Gala set for this summer. Sunset Hill’s Children’s Foundation is another charity that she works closely with, serving on the committee for Dancing with the Stars coming up on June 11, 2010 and co-chairing the increasingly popular Mud Run. The entire Armstrong Fairway staff is gearing up for Rockin’ the Desert Mud Run on August 27, 2011. She believes in keeping business, money and events in the H.D. For more information, visit www.armstrong-fairway.com or call (760) 245-2561. — Katie Chavez
march | april 2011
» local business diamond collision For any artist, it is important to give each work of art complete dedication and care. For Armen Hovannesian of Diamond Collision, this is especially true. His canvas is the body of a car, and he takes great pride in turning every paint job into a one of a kind work of art. This labor of love began when he was young and working at his father’s side. “He is my inspiration,” Armen says of his father. “The way he could turn wrecked cars into beautiful cars was great.” Armen, a 23 year resident of the H.D. and 1993 Victor Valley High School graduate, has been refining his craft of auto body work and paint for many years and knows that perfection takes time. His professional interest is rooted in customer satisfaction and personalized service. Not only does he own the business, but he is involved in every aspect of its daily operation. From answering the phones to working with customers, he feels his direct connection is part of what has made him successful and what makes his shop thrive. But overall, he lets the final product speak for itself, “I don’t have a wow shop, but I do a wow job.” Paying attention to what the customer wants and delivering outstanding quality is what he accomplishes every day with every client. Since Diamond Collision’s December 2003 opening in Hesperia, word of mouth has spread to countless High Desert residents. Because of his deep ties to the community, he feels he can relate to the people who entrust their cars with him: “Times are tough with this economy and I am here to help my customers.” That is what makes his auto body business stand out among the rest. One of his most impressive projects had nothing to do with an automobile: he was commissioned to paint a 100 full scale model replica of an Airbus-380. It is displayed at Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom for thousands of tourists to see daily. “There are
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
thousands of people who could have done this,” he says, “they could have picked anyone, but they picked me.” Armen and his crew spent about three weeks in 2008 painting the massive airplane to perfection. Work like that is a testament to his skill and the skill of everyone at his shop. Armen’s love for his work is only trumped by his love for his family and community. He spends his spare time with his wife and three kids and confesses that he will never move out of the H.D. “It’s a tight community and I’ve seen this place through its ups and downs; I love it here.” It is in the H.D. where Armen and his wife, Audrey, started the Hovannesian Feeding Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides supplies, education and support to families who have children with feeding difficulties. This began when their daughter, Vivian, was born with Kabuki Syndrome. This caused Vivian to have feeding issues and required a feeding tube. Through their ordeal, the Hovannesian family was inspired to share their knowledge and help others who are dealing with similar struggles. The foundation collects and redistributes donated feeding supplies to countless children and families who need it most. The Hovannesian Feeding Foundation reaches all corners of the world by “helping families one meal at a time.” Last year, Audrey was named one of the Most Inspiring Women by the Daily Press for her work with the foundation. To learn more about the Hovannesian Feeding Foundation, please visit feedingfoundation.org. And don’t forget, California law guarantees your rights to choose any body shop you want for the repair of your vehicle (or Airbus), so look to Diamond Collision first. For more information, please call 760947-0077 (Armen will probably answer the phone himself).
High Desert Living magazine 21
EVENING. WHERE ? Dressed to impress and ready to go. Uptown to that new jazz club, then downtown to your favorite late-night bistro, arriving in the style and luxury of a world-class sedan, the all-new Buick Regal. With its powerful, 2.4-liter direct-injected ECOTEC engine, an available voice-activated 40GB NAV and entertainment system* and ice-blue ambient lighting, a turn of a key is all it takes to set the right mood for a night to remember. The sport-injected 2 011 Buick Regal. The New Class of World Class.
22 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
GREINER BUICK GMC 14555 CIVIC DRIVE VICTORVILLE, CA 92394
www.greinergm.com facebook.com/GreinerBuickGMC
*30GB navigation storage, 10GB music storage. Map coverage available in the United States, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Canada. ©2010 General Motors. All rights reserved. Buick® Buick emblem® ECOTEC® Regal®
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 23
[
Re-Discover Your Own Backyard
24 High Desert Living magazine
]
march | april 2011
Grand Reopening of the Victor Valley Museum By Tere Kidd
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 25
Y
ou’ll discover an all new museum in your very own backyard when you visit the newly opened Victor Valley Museum. Get ready for a whole new experience. Nothing looks the same; it is clean, sleek and modern with well-documented, easily accessible exhibits. A docent program is in the works. The docents will interpret the exhibits and give visitors an opportunity to have a hands-on experience. The museum’s theme, “Discover Your Own Backyard,” will cover history, anthropology, archaeology, geology, paleontology, and the biological sciences. The museum’s goal is to involve you in the discovery of your own backyard: the great Mojave Desert. The Mojave Desert is a treasure trove of geologic and paleontological discoveries. The Early Man Dig in Yermo is the only site in the Americas deemed important enough that Louis S. B. Leakey, world renowned paleontologist, visited. Dr. Leakey and his wife Mary are credited with discovering the earliest known fossils of human-like bipeds. Then, in a very controversial move, the Leakeys declared Kenya the birthplace of man. Dr. Richard Leakey, their son, worked the Calico site for a period of time. Today Victorville and Apple Valley are centered on the Mojave River because this is where the water flows. Without the Mojave River there probably would not be an Apple Valley, nor Victorville. Early inhabitants of this area lived here for the very same reason. You can find evidence of Native Americans in the petroglyphs in this area and throughout the Mojave Desert. Near the Victorville Memorial Park lies a large slab of rock used to grind acorns from live oak and black oak trees from the nearby mountains. There are many strange facts and wonderful discoveries to be made. A good place to start? Try our new, reconfigured, reformed, redesigned, quite
26 High Desert Living magazine
spectacular Victor Valley Museum, now part of the San Bernardino County Museum system. The museum is a great place to start discovering the many mysteries and wonders of your very own back yard. It may look like a barren desert, but there is a long history dating back thousands of years. The museum gives you a starting point and a destination after you’ve done some exploring on your own. The San Bernardino County Museum’s mission is to develop unique cultural and natural science collections related to our region and the greater Southwest. The museum has been closed for over a year for refurbishing and restructuring of exhibits by the county so that it is aligned with the American Association of Museums’ standards. This entailed upgrading exhibits and the building itself, so that the exhibits would be properly stored and viewed in a way that preserves them for the longest period of time. The goal is to support state educational standards and an outreach program to our school.
march | april 2011
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 27
e G
u B r r g u e r o Y O t n
!
A Mouthwatering Guide to the Best Burger Joints in the HD. So tuck in your napkins and come along! by Stephanie Morris 28 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
“There’s nothing in the world that can compare With a hamburger, juicy and rare. A hamburger lives for the pleasure it gives; It’s a thrill on the bill of fare. Such heavenly food deserves the best: A home and contentment beneath my vest. There’s nothing in the world that’s so divine As a hamburger, tender and fine – I adore you, hamburger mine!” Wimpy’s song from the Popeye episode “What—No Spinach?” 1939
T
he hamburger—mmm… Wimpy loves ‘em; Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Café Americans love ‘em! Well, really, who doesn’t? While getting your kicks on Route 66, make sure you Burger cravings can be fierce, and the multitude of stop at Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Café. Famous burger joints that have populated towns most everywhere for their Brian Burger, they’ve been featured on Food are more than willing to feed that juicy addiction. And, if Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and the movie, you order it right, the four food groups are covered in the Kill Bill 2. It was a great day back in1947, when Bob tastiest of ways, so it’s easy to justify indulging in such a and Emma Jean Holland opened their café, “serving perfect meal. homemade food from scratch,” and although Emma Jean The popularity of ground meat dates back to the days passed away in 1996, Bob, his son, Brian and daughterof the ancient Egyptians, but there are actually a few men in-law, Shawna, still carry on Emma Jean’s old fashioned who have claimed the credit for making the first American cooking traditions today. hamburger. Seymour, Wisconsin’s Hamburger Hall of While they offer a wide range of delicious menu Fame claims that local Charlie Nagreen was the first to selections, from chicken fried steak to home-style breakfast flatten meatballs and place them between two slices of dishes to unique and immense sandwiches, their burgers bread and call it a hamburger in 1885. The same year, two are what sets them apart from other diners in the area. You brothers, Frank and Charles Menches were said to invent have your choice of having Emma Jean’s mouthwatering the hamburger while working at a county fair in Hamburg, half-pound Holland Burger, Mushroom Burger, Bacon New York. Their creation was also a mixture of ground Burger, Ortega Burger, Patty Melt, or…the absolutely beef placed between slices of bread. However, the credit for awesome…Brian Burger. They’re all delicious, but the the first known hamburger on a bun goes to Oscar Weber Brian Burger is one of a kind. It’s made with a half-pound Bilby of Oklahoma. His 1891 invention became so popular of juicy ground beef, Swiss cheese, and Ortega chili, all that he opened a burger stand in 1933, which is still family skillfully placed between thick, toasty garlic and parmesan owned and in business to this day. cheese bread slices. Oh my! So, where in the H.D. can you find the best ham– burgers? There are too many to mention them all, Emma Jean’s Holland Grill but in a Facebook poll taken, there were four 17143 N. D St., (historic Rte 66), Victorville EMMA JEAN’S local restaurants that got the most mentions: (760) 243-9938 | www.hollandburgercafe. Emma Jean’s Holland Burger Café, Johnnie com D’s, Tom’s Famous Family Restaurant Hours: 5:00 a.m. – 2:45 p.m., M-F; 6:00 Number 16, and the Grumpy Golfer. As a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Sat. far as chain restaurants go, the favorites were Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, and the most popular—drum roll, please— In-N-Out. Yes, In-N-Out…because, after all, “that’s what a hamburger’s all about.”
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 29
Johnnie D’s
Tom’s Famous Family Restaurant #16
“This is what America is all about. Hamburgers!” They’ve The first in the H.D., Tom’s Famous Family Restaurant got that right! With approximately twenty five (I lost #16 is renowned for their delicious charbroiled burgers. count) gourmet burgers to choose from, Johnnie D’s in Owner Gus Sillas ensures that their 100% lean beef Apple Valley is a true haven for burger lovers. Owner Val burgers are made to order, never frozen, and trims them Christensen named his diner after a girl he met in 1958, with garden fresh California produce. Unless otherwise a woman that later became his wife, and gave the H.D. specified, all burgers are donned with their some of the best burgers anywhere. Johnnie D’s special 1000 Island Dressing, made fresh menu is so broad and diverse that it seems daily. grumpy golfer limitless, but their list of burgers is amazing. Also prepared daily is the With many of their burgers, you can even awesome chili that tops Tom’s choose a size: regular (1/4 lb.) or large succulent 1/4 lb. Chili Burger; (1/2 lb.). however, if you prefer to go As declared on their menu, “You’ll big, you’ll probably want to try want to bring your camera, so you’ll their1/2 lb. Chili Size, which have a picture to show the folks at includes two charbroiled patties home.” No kidding! Where to begin? on a grilled bun, smothered in How about with their Wake Up Burger? chili, cheese, and onion. If you’re a Decked with a fried egg, bacon and, bacon lover, Tom’s Bacon Burger is “to wake up those taste buds,” chipotle loaded with the stuff, and if avocado mayonnaise. It’s a customer favorite, as is is your thing, they’ll pile a substantial their Lights Out Burger—loaded with onion amount of that on, too. They’re also straws, cheddar cheese, bacon and avocado. Another generous with the Ortega chili on their Ortega popular with customers is their Wyoming Burger, burger, and are very liberal with the mushrooms on their slathered in barbeque sauce, and piled with bacon, Mushroom and Swiss Burger…which is a bit messy, but cheddar cheese and onion straws. Johnnie D’s also has sooo good. a list of “Specialty Hamburgers.” These are all 1/2 lb. burgers and include items such as their Meatloaf Burger, Tom’s Famous Family Restaurant #16 their Burga-Dilla, their California Burger Dog (chili and 16727 Bear Valley Rd., Hesperia hotdog included) and their Brooklyn Burger Dog. (760) 949-1815 They also offer a variety of melts, such as the A La Rueben, Ranch Melt and the Philly Burger Melt—all 1/2 lb. of juicy, taste bud-blowing goodness. And, for The Grumpy Golfer The word on the street is that grumpy golfers, joyful those who are feeling really hungry (and tom’s golfers, and those who have never golfed in their lives love brave!), the Johnny Be Bad Burger (four the delicious hamburgers served at The Grumpy Golfer! 1/2 lb. burger patties with all the Located in the clubhouse in the Green Tree Golf Course in fixings) dares you to finish it…and Victorville, their flame broiled burgers are as tasty as they if you do, you’ll be awarded with are substantial, and may require more than one napkin! 20% off every meal you order If you’re in the mood for a burger, but pastrami is also for the next six months. The calling your name, try their Pastrami Burger, loaded list goes on and on. All of their with tomato, onions, pickles and 1000 Island dressing. burgers come with all of the Their Chili Size, Ortega Burger and Patty Melt may also usual toppings and unlimited tempt you, and if you want to go big, give their Double steak fries. Oh, and for dessert, Hamburger with all the works a try, and have them add check out their Cookie Burger: bacon and cheese to top it off. And, if you’re not a big Ice cream squeezed between 2 French fry person (but how can you not like their gourmet huge chocolate chip cookies and garlic and parmesan cheese fries?), they offer an extensive topped with hot fudge, caramel, variety of other delicious sides to choose from. whipped cream and a cherry. Johnnie D’s 19250 Bear Valley Rd., Apple Valley (760) 961-2133 Open seven days a week
30 High Desert Living magazine
The Grumpy Golfer 14144 Green Tree Blvd., Victorville thegrumpygolfer.com Hours: 8:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m. M–Th; 6:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. F; 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Sat/Sun
march | april 2011
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
In-N-Out Burger
There’s a very good reason Red Robin Gourmet Burgers was commended for having the Best Burger in the June 2010 ZAGAT Survey (full-service category) of Top Restaurant Chains. They’ve been serving the public succulent red robin gourmet burgers since 1969 and continue to spread their high quality deliciousness in more than 450 restaurants across America. And, even though Red Robin isn’t exclusive to the High Desert, they are still very much a favorite of H.D. burger aficionados and worth mentioning. While they offer a variety of menu choices, it’s their extensive burger menu that’s hard to veer away from. They have so many delicious gourmet burger variations that it’s difficult to settle on just one. If you enjoy a little kick, their Burnin’ Love Burger may be the one that lights your fire. Or, maybe you’d prefer their Guacamole Bacon Burger, that is if you can get past their Chili Chili Cheese Burger, their Pub Burger, their Whiskey River® BBQ Burger, and their Banzai Burger. Take a breath; we’re not even half-way through yet. How about a burger with a fried egg and bacon on it? That would be their Royal Red Robin Burger. Mushroom lovers will salivate for their Sautéed ’Shroom Burger, and bleu cheese cravers can die happy after feasting on their Bleu Ribbon Burger. But wait! There’s more! If an A.1.® Peppercorn Burger doesn’t ring your bell, maybe a good old fashioned Red Robin Gourmet Cheeseburger, their All-American Patty Melt or their scrumptious Bacon Cheeseburger will do it for you. And, if you’re not a red meat eater, they also offer turkey burgers, Gardenburger® and vegan Boca® Burgers.
It’s a no brainer that In-N-Out Burger serves some of the best burgers in the H.D., in California, and now in Arizona, Nevada, Utah and very soon, Texas. Yes, they’re multiplying and it’s clear why; their burgers are exceptionally good! When Harry and Esther Snyder opened their first In-N-Out Burger in 1948, their philosophy was to “give customers the freshest, highest quality foods you can buy and provide them with friendly service in a sparkling clean environment.” And, even though Harry and Esther have long since passed on, the Snyder family still employs those very principles. Now, most people know about the basic InN-Out Hamburger, Cheeseburger and their tasty, juicy, delectable Double-Double, but...did you know about their “not-so secret” secret menu? That’s right—they have a menu behind the menu. If you want a Double-Double without meat, you’ll need to ask for a Double Meat. If you want the cheese, but a Double-Double just isn’t enough for you, order a 3x3. And, if that’s not enough to satisfy your appetite, go for the 4x4. I think you can figure out what to order if you need something even larger. Cutting carbs? Ask for your burger Protein Style, and they’ll wrap your burger in lettuce instead of a bun. If you love grilled onions and prefer mustard to their traditional spread, ask for any one of these burgers Animal Style. For an added treat, order your fries Animal Style too. Mmmm… They’re so good. in-n-out burger
In-N-Out Burger 13704 Main St., Hesperia 17069 Bear Valley Rd., Hesperia 15290 Civic Dr., Victorville www.in-n-out.com
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers 12409 Mariposa, Victorville (760) 955-6555 18999 Bear Valley Rd., Apple Valley (760) 240-1157
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 31
32 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
A Home Full of Memories
by Katie Chavez
T
he personal value placed in a home is often determined by the memories it holds and the people who helped create them. This year, we found a desert home that was built on the principle of togetherness. This house has ample space for privacy, but at every turn and in every room, the home invites inhabitants and guests to spend time in good company. From the home theater to the backyard built for entertaining, the young home has already hosted its share of holidays and gatherings. Even before you enter the front door, it is clear that this is not just any house. The entry has a tranquil courtyard adorned by rock and a flagstone path that leads to the front door. Through the front door you are met by a great room that opens out to the backyard. “We definitely like the Tuscan style and the openness of it,” says Mrs. Homeowner. “We especially like having the one great room that flows into the kitchen.” The open great room is central in the home, and the rest of the house is anchored around it. What sparked the design of the home was the desire to bring everyone together even while in different parts of the house. This idea is continued above the great room in the library/hallway. Mr. Homeowner admits it is a favorite spot: “One of the things I really like is the walkthrough library area.” It is an open walkway on the second floor that connects the kids’ rooms and the master suite. This wide hallway overlooks the great www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 33
room and has unlimited natural light. Built into the walls are custom bookcases with an adjoining seating area. Many mornings are spent here. The home’s accessibility to the outdoors blurs lines between the outdoor and indoor living spaces. In fact, the back wall of windows, the ones looking from the great room to the backyard, can entirely disappear. The glass panels can be retraced to slide together and be stored in to the recesses of the wall. This creates an opening that is nearly the entire length of the great room wall. Beyond the windowed wall is a wide covered porch, and beyond that is a backyard complete with a pool and outdoor kitchen. In keeping with the Tuscan theme, summer grape vines grow along the hillside in the back of the property, creating a thick, green vineyard ambiance. In this setting, gatherings and wedding anniversaries have been held and quiet summer nights have been enjoyed. Not only was it important for the outdoor living spaces to be fun, but they
34 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
needed to be functional as well. Part of that functionality was accenting the property with synthetic grass, making it a water friendly solution to the desire of having the beauty of a sprawling lawn without the maintenance or water consumption. The best part is it looks perfect all the time. This only adds to the ability of having family and friends enjoy the home at any time of the year. But if the backyard is not being used, there is plenty of space inside as well. There is a beautiful home theater that is used all the time by all members of the family, and just off the theater is a game room with an ample amount of sports memorabilia. The entire house is anchored by the use of natural materials. Woods and stones interact throughout the house, from the floors to the pillars to the fireplace. The craftsmanship used on the fireplace is a limestone process that is used in historical places. It gives an organic feel to the fireplace, almost as if it has been there forever. In the kitchen, the island’s custommade granite countertop sports an unfinished edge that complements the natural element in the rest of the house. The pantry door was custom-made by a
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 35
local crafts man, and all the doors in the house were designed imported from Mexico. “We are blessed,” insist the homeowners. “Our goal is to make this home warm and inviting.” It is a place where friends will continue to gather and family will feast. It is a place where the kids will entertain their friends now and in the future. That is perhaps the homeowners’ favorite part of the house: the fact that others feel as comfortable here as they do. “This house is most alive when we have friends and family in it.”
36 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
“Our goal is to make this home warm and inviting … This house is most alive when we have friends and family in it.”
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 37
» wine cellar Wine Trends
“Quick, bring me a beaker of wine, so that I may wet my mind and say something clever.” — Aristophanes
for the love of wine by Stephanie Morris
Reader Recommendation Rodney Strong 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Mike Frethy, Warehouse Manager at TRL Systems and faithful Wine Trends reader, would like to recommend Rodney Strong 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon—a wine rich in red plum and boysenberry aromas and flavors. According to Mike, “Rodney is a great regular use wine. It’s easy to drink... It starts a little spicy and finishes dry and it has a great, deep purple color. It goes well with everything from pasta and red meat to pork and lamb. I love Rodney. It’s my daily drinker and a great lead-in for bigger cabs on special occasions.”
38 High Desert Living magazine
F
or so long, wine aficionados (those who don’t consume it from a brown paper bag) have always seemed to carry with them a certain air of class. For instance, if you should spy two men at a party—one holding an elegant glass of Cabernet and the other one gripping a can of light beer, you might assume that the wine drinker is the more refined, sophisticated of the two, right? Not necessarily. In my opinion, the wine drinker definitely has better taste, but that doesn’t mean he’s better off in any way than the beer drinker. It’s purely a matter of personal taste and the volume of exposure that a palate has had to a variety of tastes. And, it’s often presumed that if a person is a wine drinker, they’re likely to be anti-beer and vice versa. Yet, most wine drinkers that I know, and I know many, love a good beer. Let’s go back to the gentlemen at the party for a minute. What if the beer that “beer guy” was drinking happened to be in a bottle, instead, and labeled a ritzy designer microbrew? Well then, does that bring him up a notch socially? If it’s all about appearances, probably. Okay, let’s switch it up a bit. What if the Cabernet that the wine drinker was enjoying came from a bottle adorned with a silly, humorous label? In a wine snob’s eyes,
he may have just dropped below the beer drinker two notches! It gets a little trivial. Yes, most of the time, you do get what you pay for, and more often than not, expensive wines do wear swanky labeling. But honestly, there are some surprisingly decent wines with very fun, comical labels available right now. Small wineries just can’t compete with the bigwigs, so they’re opting for colorful, witty packaging, and it’s working for them! In fact, I just recently bought a Merlot dressed in a hilariously racy label for a fellow wine lover as a gag gift. Well, guess what… She loved it! Who would have thought? Maybe Mom was right; maybe it really is what’s inside that matters and not about the labels given to wine, beer and people for that matter. Okay, I’m stepping down from my wine box. Just enjoy the wine you love, whether you spend $100 a bottle (fancy label included, of course) or it’s nicknamed “Two Buck Chuck,” and do it with your head held high. After all, good wine lies in the palate of the wine holder, and what you choose to drink shouldn’t be what defines your level of sophistication. And, hey, lay off that beer guy! He might be my husband. Cheers!
march | april 2011
JAPANESE RESTAURANT
Fine Italian Dining in the heart of Apple Valley
22010 US Highway 18 . Apple Valley, CA, 92307 760-240-9664
~Catering Available ~Banquets and Events ~Outside Patio Bar Services Hours Mon: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm . Wed - Thurs: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Fri - Sat: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm . Sun: 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Daily
for Nice People Nice Wine
WINE TASTING Mon. through Sat. 10:00 am - 7:00pm Sunday 12:00pm - 5:00pm
GIFT S CARD
Come Relax and Enjoy our Large Seating area while you take your time and view our wine selection in all price ranges.
Seller
~ Rustic Sedona Decor ~ Custom Made Gift Baskets ~ Wine Assessories ~ Micro Brew Beers ~ Case Specials ~ Home Decor ~ California Micro Brew on Draft ~ Private Wine Parties ~ Warm Atmosphere ~ Live Entertainment ~ Special Orders ~ Holiday Parties
Customer Rewards Program
www.thewinesellerapplevalley.com www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 39
» restaurant spotlight
Mama Carpino’s Apple Valley’s Own Taste of Italy
mama carpino’s 22010 US Hwy 18 Apple Valley (760)-240-9665
Family and good food go together and never better than at Mama Carpino’s. A warm and intimate ambiance in a comfortable setting with plenty of tasty and satisfying food combine to make Mama Carpino’s one of the H.D.’s favorite Italian restaurants. Tom Carpino has been in the “pizza business since 1986” and opened Mama Carpino’s in 2003. From delicious appetizers to rich desserts, your dining experience will be one to remember. Mama Carpino’s freshly prepares a variety of traditional soups daily, and along with their salads, make a meal unto themselves. Time-honored favorites like Baked Rigatoni, Lasagna and Manicotti are only topped by Mama Carpino’s own Eggplant Parmesan, made with Mama’s special recipe. Specialty chicken, veal, and fish dishes along with an array of pizzas, pastas, and deli sandwiches make it a challenge to decide what to order! One sure bet is the Parmesan Crusted Halibut, and on Sundays, be sure to try the Pork Ossobuco with roasted garlic and asiago potatoes, served with Italian vegetables.
40 High Desert Living magazine
Late afternoons and evenings in the H.D. offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy alfresco dining on Mama Carpino’s lovely patio, which includes a fireplace. With such beautiful surroundings, you’ll feel as though you have been transported to a relaxing, exotic resort, and you won’t need to bring your passport. Mama Carpino’s has an in-house deli and offers take out on all their menu items. Have a special event coming up? Have Mama Carpino’s cater, and your guests will be treated to an extraordinary meal. Mama Carpino’s is located on Hwy. 18 in Apple Valley and is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm. They are closed on Tuesday. Be sure to go online and “Like” Mama Carpino’s on Facebook and look for their website coming soon at www.mamacarpinos.net. If you have never been to Mama Carpino’s, stop in and discover your new favorite Italian restaurant. — Susan Landers
march | april 2011
Dining Guide » Victorville The Grumpy Golfer 14144 Green Tree Blvd. (760) 955-6017 Yoshi Sushi 14177 Kentwood Blvd, (760) 241-1960 Chateau Chang 15425 Anacapa Rd, (760) 2413040 Divine Wine Bar 14845 Monarch Blvd. suite C, (760) 843-3888 La Casita 14977 Palmdale Rd, (760) 2410119
Original Roadhouse Grill 11940 Amargosa Rd, (760) 9492308 Karma Nightclub 12152 Cottonwood Rd, (760) 955-1600 El Tio Pepe 12100 Amargosa Rd, (760) 241-0811 Carino’s 11970 Amargosa Rd, (760) 949-2248 Kinari 12152 Cottonwood Rd, (760) 955-1500
Oggis Pizza & Brewing Co 19201 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 240-8977 Mama Carpino’s 22010 Highway 18, (760) 2409664 » Hesperia Juliano’s Italian Restaurant, 12052 Hesperia Rd., (760) 9490595 Los Domingos 15885 Main St, (760) 948-6161 Cancun Mexican & Seafood 15550 Main St, (760) 956-7720
La Casita at the Lake 12170 Spring Valley Pkwy,, (760) 843-0440
China Garden 13790 Bear Valley Rd # 10, (760) 245-9665
Italian Kitchen 16409 Yucca St, (760) 244-7757
Rinconsito Del Mar 14678 7th St, (760) 951-0344
Paulina’sl 14845 Monarch Blvd, (760) 955-2661
Thai-Lotus 12027 Hesperia Rd, (760) 9499362
Tokyo Sushi & BBQ 14741 7th St, (760) 955-7123
Daikoku Japanese Steak House 12174 Hesperia Rd, (760) 952-1300
Wood Grill Buffet 14135 Main St. (760) 981-4418
Johnny Rebs’ Southern 15051 7th St, (760) 955-3700 Golden Gate Restaurant 15208 Bear Valley Rd., # B, (760) 245-6189 MiMi’s Cafe 12032 Amargosa Rd., (760) 2446888 Steer ‘n Stein 12224 Mariposa Rd, (760) 2410775 Los Roberto’s 12670 Hesperia Rd, (760) 2439422 Maan Fu 14317 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 956-8787
» Apple Valley Angel’s Roadhouse 2 13685 John Glenn Rd, (760) 240-6923 Las Brisas 21919 US Highway 18, (760) 240-1051
Miyako Sushi 14073 Main St., Ste 109, (760) 956-7817
Nikki’s Cafe 19311 Bear Valley Rd. (760) 247-355 Di Napoli’s FireHouse 17856 US Highway 18, (760) 242-5802 Amy’s 18768 US Highway 18, Ste 170, (760) 242-7272 The Wine Seller Apple Bear Center, (760) 961-2500
Well Being Tofu House 15024 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 241-8888
Go Bangkok Thai 20783 Bear Valley Rd, Ste H, (760) 240-3888
Mimi’s Cafe 12032 Amargosa Rd, (760) 244-6888
Los Domingos 17790 US Highway 18, (760) 946-5344
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
Go Bangkok Thai 15800 Main St. Ste 200, (760) 947-9029
High Desert Living magazine 41
» HD CALENDAR
Entertainment Calendar March/April/May 2011
eric himy
March 27 Victor Valley Community Concert Association Present: Eric Himy The New York Times has described pianist Eric Himy’s playing as “flawlessly poised, elegant and brilliant.” His compelling artistry has intrigued audiences around the world, and his technique has been compared recently by the 2007 Revue Musicale de Suisse Romande to that of the legendary pianist, Vladimir Horowitz and called him “a sensual gourmand of sound.” His Ravel recitals in France prompted one critic to write: “His dazzling vision equaled and at times even surpassed some more famous interpretations.” (Argerich, François). VVC Main Stage Theatre. Call 760-961-0486 or visit www. vvcommunityconcerts.org April 1-3 High Desert Home Shows Presents the 27th Annual Home and Garden Show The 25th Annual High Desert Home and Garden Show will once again grace the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds April 1, 2, and 3. Twice a year (April and November) for over a quarter century, the Home and Garden Show has made the connections between homeowners and businesses to create great living spaces here in the H.D. San Bernardino County Fairgrounds, 14800 Seventh St. Victorville. For information on this year’s Home and Garden Show call (760) 949-0822 or go to www.highdeserthomeshows.com
42 High Desert Living magazine
April 14 High Desert Mavericks Opening Night Don’t miss opening night, as your High Desert Mavericks take on the Lake Elsinore Storm on Thursday April 14th at 7:05 pm. The Mavericks, who are under new ownership, are looking to bring a lot of special promotions and ideas for the upcoming season as 2011 is sure to be another exciting year for the High Desert Mavericks. Maverick Stadium, 1200 Stadium Rd, Adelanto. For Tickets Call: (760) 246-MAVS (6287) or go to hdmavs.com. May 7-8 Mojave Narrows Pow Wow The pow wow, sponsored by Mother Earth’s People Inter-tribal Council, in collaboration with San Bernardino County Regional Parks, will begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at dusk each day Saturday & Sunday. The Native American pow wow features traditional Native American dancers dressed up in their colorful regalia dancing in a circular motion around the pow wow “dance arena,” accompanied by the pow wow drum. This year’s pow wow plans to be the only and largest pow wow planned for the High Desert in 2011, with over 100 dancers expected to perform. In addition, over 50 Native American vendors from throughout the United States will be displaying and selling authentic Native American crafts, jewelry, and wares to the general public. Mojave Narrows Regional Park 18000 Yates Road, Victorville. For more information please contact Moreena Rocha Chavez at 1-760-245-2398 or at e-mail moreenac@yahoo.com. May 7 Cinco de Mayo Family Festival Bring the family to celebrate a day of music, fun and food as the High Desert Hispanic Chamber and Victor Valley College host the 2011 Cinco de Mayo Family Festival on May 7th from 10am-6pm. V.V.C. by the Lake 18422 Bear Valley Rd, Victorville. Call (760) 2416661 for more details.
march | april 2011
www.magicsteele.com 213-928-5156
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 43
Âť HD HAppenings On February 26 the Victor Valley Community College Foundation held their annual Alumni Hall of Fame Distinguished Service Awards Celebration at the Hilton Garden Inn in Victorville. The event honors local heroes and helps the VVC Foundation give opportunities to people with dreams.
44 High Desert Living magazine
march | april 2011
Take Your Business to Another Level... Our readers eat, live, shop and play in the High Desert, with H.D. Living you will be sure to reach this highly desirable target audience.
get targeted results today 760.912.3794 www.hdlivingmagazine.com
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 45
» Susan’s corner
S
pring has traditionally been seen as a season of rebirth and regeneration. For centuries, people in the colder climes have celebrated the return of the sun and warmth by opening their windows and doors to enjoy the fresh air, going on a big cleaning spree, planting flower gardens, and yes, awaiting the Easter Bunny’s annual visit! If you’ve ever wondered how bunnies, chicks, and colored eggs became linked to the resurrection of Christ, you’re not alone. Early Church leaders knew they would have a difficult time while trying to convert pagan tribes in Britain and the Scandinavian countries to give up their rituals that were tied to nature and the changing seasons, so they effectively put Christian names on them; therefore, the bunny, pagan symbol of fertility, continued to be a part of Easter, which takes its name from the Scandinavian goddess Eostre. Giving eggs as springtime gifts is a centuries’ old tradition all over the world. Coloring or decorating those eggs to make them more valuable seems a natural extension of that tradition. Just like Santa Claus, whose roots date beyond Christmas, the Easter Bunny has become a holiday tradition that children look forward to. Whether looking for hidden eggs or awakening Easter morning to a basket brimming full of goodies, children are given something fun in which to take part, and like Christmas, has become a way for secular or non-Christians to partake in a holiday that extends all the way to the White House. Every year, the president and first lady host the traditional egg roll on the White House lawn. Last year, 30,000 people attended the egg roll, and children listened as President and Mrs. Obama each read Dr. Seuss books to encourage reading among families. No matter how you celebrate the return of spring, make sure to get outside to enjoy the beauty of the H.D.
Egg-citing Easter Traditions
If you would like to see something special featured in Susan’s Corner, or if you have a special recipe, drop me a line and let me know about it at: Susan Landers at H.D. Living Magazine 6630 SLV Box Victorville, Ca. 92395, or e-mail me at susanl@hdlivingmagazine.com.
46 High Desert Living magazine
deviled eggs Deviled eggs make a great treat for any springtime gettogether, and this recipe from Stephanie Morris offer a kick! Ingredients:
dozen eggs 1 1 jalapeno pepper, minced 1 habenero pepper, seeded and minced 1/4 C mayonnaise 1 tsp yellow mustard 1/8 tsp paprika
Bring eggs to a boil. Cover saucepan, and remove from the heat; let the eggs stand in the hot water for 15 minutes. Pour out the hot water then cool the eggs under cold running water in the sink. Peel. Cut the cooled eggs in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks, and place them into a mixing bowl along with the jalapeno, habanero, mayonnaise, and mustard; mash together until smooth. Transfer the yolk mixture to a pastry bag, and decoratively squeeze into the white halves. Sprinkle with paprika to garnish.
march | april 2011
Looking forward to a Healthy 2011
when you think of our emergency room. think fast.
NEW EXPANSION Opening this Summer Life can deal some bad blows. Traffic accidents, heart attacks, and traumatic illness can be devastating to victims and their families. We’re ready to treat you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Desert Valley Hospital has a dedicated team of emergency physicians and nurses who
save lives, mend broken bones and help diagnose illnesses. We even have a Fast Track for less emergent cases which can significantly decrease your wait time. It’s good to know we’re right here in the High Desert with round-the-clock quality care. (All insurances accepted)
Total Commitment. Total Care
16850 Bear Valley Road, Victorville, CA 92395 • 760-241-8000 www.dvmc.com