HD Living, Issue 4

H.D. Living

January|February 2009

Y O U R

P R E M I E R

H I G H

D E S E R T

L I F E S T Y L E

M A G A Z I N E

THE GREAT DATE OUR FAVORITE PLACES TO TAKE A DATE

HEALTH & BEAUTY

SPA TRENDS • LOCAL HEALTHCARE

VICTORVILLE | 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 | OAK HILLS

Contributors

Good Taste Begins Here!

Donald Tatera, Allied ASID CA Contractor’s License # 917857

Studio: 760 240 8605

Your Kitchen & Bath Specialist in Apple Valley!

http://decdens.com/teamtatera

Custom Window Treatments | Furniture | Lighting Floor Coverings | Accessories

w w w. D e c o r a t i n g D e n . c o m Each franchise independently owned and operated

Show up In Style at Your Next Special Event!

Hometown Dental and Coco Bella Beauty Salon have teamed up to offer a health and beauty experience like no other.

A dental office and salon in one, you can take care of veneers, teeth whitening, hair, makeup, nails, waxing, and more…all in one convenient location.

Patients and clients alike receive the royal treatment including one-on-one consultations, private television viewing, and complimentary gifts including Coco Bella’s signature chocolate.

If you are looking for a comfortable and relaxing professional atmosphere where you can get ready for that special event, this is the place for you!

Special event packages for weddings, prom, graduation, reunions,

16385 Walnut St. Hesperia, Ca 92345

Hometown Dental & Coco Bella Beauty Salon Located in Hesperia One block south of the Spring House Restaurant Monday-Friday 10am-7pm

Kara & Samantha Sweeney, Dental Salon Entrepreneurs

Can You Re-define Your Idea of Dentistry?

When you think of the dentist, what comes to mind? Whirling drills, white knuckles grasping an uncomfortable waiting room chair, an impersonal masked face climbing into your mouth? The H.D.’s very own Hometown Dental is trying to change all of that. What if, instead of fearful thoughts, feelings of confidence and comfort came to mind?

At Hometown Dental, there is only one dentist in the office, so you will always be working with the same doctor. They offer the latest technology including shot-free laser dentistry. No more sitting forever in the waiting room, either. James A. Sweeney, DDS sees one patient at a time, and will be with you from the start to the end of your appointment – no jumping around. For patient comfort, the waiting room has real living room chairs and offers educational children’s toys and satellite T.V. While in the dental chair, patients are able to select a movie, watch T.V., or play video games. Too cold during your appointment? One patient at a time means the office is open just for you; Hometown Staff will be more than happy to adjust the thermostat.

And when you are done with your appointment, how about finishing your errands by getting that much needed hair cut at the same location? Hometown Dental recently introduced Coco Bella Beauty Salon, a full service salon offering haircuts, color, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and more. With the addition of the salon, Hometown Dental has become an ideal location for special event preparation: beauty makeovers that include teeth whitening in one convenient location.

Kara and Samantha Sweeney (pictured above) have worked hard to make health and beauty seamlessly come together. If you are interested in re-defining your idea of dentistry, give them a call!

For more information, visit www.ourhometowndental.com or call (760) 947-6905.

15

Table of Contents

[ FEATURES ] 30 HD Spa and Salon trends With a new year comes the chance for a new you. Our Spa Trends story features some of the H.D.’s best to make you better. By Stephanie Keyes 38 health care options in the HD We bring you your local health care options. By Susan Landers 44 planning a date in the hd Looking for something to do or some place to go for a date on Valentine’s or an Anniversary? Here are some fun date ideas.

By Katie Chavez

[ DEPARTMENTS ] 10 PUBLISHERS LETTER

30

15 up front UPFRONT: From the H.D. to Hollywood and back, Local Book Sailing down a dream, Children’s Orchard, Auto Park.By Susan Landers and Krystal Carrillo 18 business spotlight

Children’s Orchard. By Krystal Carrillo 20 local entertainment

Tee up for a good time. By Tere Kidd 24 business spotlight

Dr. Fanous: A matter of sole. By Tere Kidd 26 local spotlight

Yogalates with Lynn. By Krystal Carrillo 28 healthy lifestyle

A New Year, A New You. By Dr. Brad Hannon

44

48 wine trends

Wine for the New Year; A Wine Affair; Editor’s Pick, Wine

Quotes. By Stephanie Keyes 50 local dining

Restaurant Spotlight: La Casita, a recipe for greatness

By Stephanie Keyes 52 dining out

Local restaurant listing 54 Arts and Culture

Guide to upcoming entertainment and events 58 susan’s corner

Looking forward, looking back

6 High Desert Living magazine

January | February 2009

From Ordinary to Extraordinary

Interior Designers on Site.

Quartz & Granite Countertops, Showers, Wood & Vinyl Floors, Carpeting

Polishing & Restoration of all Natural Stone, Cleaning & Sealing of all Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles Residential & Commercial, Remodeling & New Construction

(760) 240-8000 22051 Outer Hwy 18 Apple Valley, California Family Owned & Operated Since 1998

Lic. #770379 Bonded & Insured

Contributors Kari martineZ is an Advertising Account executive with H.D. Living Magazine along with contributing in graphic design. Formerly the Operations Manager of Signature Signs, Kari’s ten years of experience in management, sales and graphic design have provided a wealth of knowledge in all areas of business. Additionally, Kari is a member of the Victorville young Professionals and Leadership Victor Valley alumni.

A devoted wife and mother, Kari enjoys spending her free time with her husband Scott and twin boys Nicolas & Jaden, and step children Coryn and Aaron at their Victorville home. Kari’s hobbies include painting, graphic design and reading as well as self improvement. As a Victor Valley resident of 27 years, Kari has an intimate knowledge of the community she and her family call home.

H.D. Living H.D. living Magazine Volume 1, Issue 4 Jan/Feb 2009 PUbliSHer / CeO Frank A. Castillo MarKetinG/CirCUlatiOn DireCtOr James Piar aCCOUntinG/CFO Tiffany Santee COPy eDitOr Susan Landers DeSiGn and layOUt Everard Strong | Big-E-Productions.com COntribUtinG writerS & eDitOrS Tere Darnell, Katie Chavez, Krystal Carrillo, Stephanie Keyes, Dr. Brad Hannon

everarD strong serves as the design and layout

specialist for High Desert Living magazine.

Contributing a genuine passion for magazines and their importance to our communities, everard has been involved in publication layout for over fifteen years, even going so far as to publish his own magazine (TALL magazine) for several years: Standing 6’9”, everard might be the tallest layout specialist out there.

Now focused on running his own design firm that focuses on publication design and layout, Big e Productions (www.big-e-productions.com), everard looks forward to bringing the H.D. experience to life inside each issue of this magazine.

His design secret? “it all starts with the grid.”

PHOtOGraPHerS George Sillas | GeorgeSillas.com aDVertiSinG DeSiGn Joe King Kari Martinez aDVertiSinG inQUirieS Kari Martinez (760) 963-1505 karim@hdlivingmagazine.com All inquiries, mail to: H.D. LIVING MAGAZINE INC. 6630 SVL Box Victorville, CA 92395 (760) 241-8475 PrintinG RDS Printing and Digital Graphics Center ( 909 ) 923-8831 HD Living Magazine is a bi-monthly magazine published by HD Living Magazine, Inc. 2009 HD Living Magazine Inc.

We specialize in: Residential, Vacant Land, Short Sales, Bank Forclosures, Personalized Market Analysis

The Dearing Team Sue Dearing & Dondi Hale 760.951.0577

The Dearings@MSN.com www.dearingteam.com

our corecommunication valuesteamwork trust success

12209 Hesperia Rd. #G Victorville, Ca 92395

win-win integrity commitment

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.

WIN-WIN, INTEGRITY, COMMUNICATION, TEAMWORK, TRUST, SUCCESS

8 High Desert Living magazine

January | February 2009

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Across from Victor Valley College - No Interest Financing Available! www.hdlivingmagazine.com

The Permanent, Pleasant, & Painless Way to Reshape & Whiten Your Smile!

High Desert Living magazine 9

Publisher’s Letter

My OH My, is it me or did the year seem to go by in a flash this time around? Of course, we say that every year, but this year seemed to go by a little faster than the others. As i approach my 35th year (Jan 5th), i realize that the New year seems to give most folks a new and refreshing outlook, along with resolutions and promises to themselves, which will hopefully continue far beyond a few months. That’s why this issue brings some fun and informative insight on your health and wellness. in this edition, Dr. Brad Hannon gives us some great advice on making this a healthy New year in our new health column.

Pampered yourself lately? What better way to celebrate a New year than with a massage, facial, or a new hairstyle? Stephanie Keyes takes us on a relaxing journey through some of the best spas and salons the H.D. has to offer in “Spa Trends.” in this issue’s special feature, “Health Care Options in the H.D.” copy editor Susan Landers brings you our local healthcare options along with some exciting news regarding expansion, new technologies and awards received by our local healthcare institutions.

Lastly, Katie Chavez brings us some great places to take a date here in the H.D.. With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, Katie gives you some ideas for a “Great Date.”

And don’t forget to check out our regular features including our Upfront section with a great story on Miko Hughes, a local movie and television star who tells us what he’s been up too these days. We also have wine picks for the New year and a new Susan’s corner. With time flying, economic hardships, and a change in the White House, it appears that this New year will be unique, to say the least. Keeping business local and dollars flowing through our cities, towns and local services is more important than ever. i am told that with our current population, the Victor Valley actually lacks in services needed and will only continue to grow.

This includes shopping venues, restaurants, and entertainment.

One more reason H.D. Living magazine is becoming a local favorite, as we spotlight the services we do have by bringing you the best places to go, things to do and local events here in your own backyard. i hope you have enjoyed our publication so far; as we move into 2009, we anticipate continued growth and look forward to bringing you all that the H.D. has to offer. enjoy.

Frank Castillo Frank Castillo Publisher/CeO FrankC@hdlivingmagazine.com 10 High Desert Living magazine

Experience our Difference Pixel Skin Resurfacing Laser Hair Removal Foto Facial Botox Juvederm Hydrafacials Microdermabrasion Chemical Peels

Custom Facials Waxing Treatments Massages Manicures & Pedicures Steam Rooms Permanent Make-up tatooing and much more!

Rejuvenate for the new year!

760.242.4682

Spirit River Center 16000 Apple Valley Rd., Ste C1 Apple Valley, Ca 92307

www.extreme-spa.com January | February 2009

“We Care About Our Community” The Auto Park at Valley Center is a major contributor to the High Desert’s way of life. We contribute to the community because we believe that this is a great place to live, work and play. We’re your neighbors and we want this area to thrive both economically and culturally. More importantly, when you buy at the Auto Park at Valley Center, your tax dollars stay local. Why is that important?

Because those tax dollars go to support our local schools, fire fighters and police force as well as a host of other good causes.

TOTAL EMPLOYEES - 524 TOTAL SALES TAX PAID - $24,269,391 TOTAL CHARITABLE/COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS - $229,000 Estimates based on 2007 calendar year.

Valley-Hi Toyota/Scion

Valley-Hi Honda

Victorville Motors - Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge

Valley-Hi Nissan

Victorville Mitsubishi

Hi Desert Kia Greiner - Buick/Pontiac/GMC

15 Freeway at the Roy Rodgers Drive Exit in Victorville www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 11

Contributors

12 High Desert Living magazine

January | February 2009

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 13

WHO’S WHO AND WHAt’S WHAt

Up Front From the H.D. to Hollywood and Back Again: Miko Hughes ON THe BiG SCReeN, he was the terrifying toddler in Pet Cemetery, played Tom Hanks’ son in Apollo 13, and side-kicked Bruce Willis in Mercury Rising. On the small screen, he had recurring roles on such shows as Full House, Roswell, and Boston Public. He continues to work in film, is building his rep as a club/party DJ, and lives right here in the H.D. His name is Miko Hughes.

What keeps this twenty-something actor living in Apple Valley instead of pursuing the fast life of young Hollywood? Personal connections and location. Many of Miko’s friends and family live in the H.D., and because it’s “two hours from Los Angeles and two hours from Vegas,” it is very convenient for him.

Born in Apple Valley, Miko’s acting career began when he was a twenty-two month old baby appearing in a public service announcement. Growing up on the big and small screen kept Miko and his family heading up and down the hill regularly. Miko still enjoys going to L.A. to visit clubs but would like to see the H.D. develop its own night scene.

From the age of sixteen, Miko began to develop a passion for and a desire to develop his talent as a DJ entertaining people with music and mixes to get and keep them moving on the dance floor. Hoping to get a club scene happening in the H.D., Miko is working with other DJs to produce events that are non-venue specific in order to present themes that will appeal to a variety of party-goers. His myspace (myspace.com/woeismiko) promotes his DJ business and upcoming events.

Miko shares his home with a long haired chihuahua named Gizmo and about 30,000 honey

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 15

Upfront Who’s Who

bees. Yep, you read that right; Miko has an active beehive in his backyard. A few years ago, he became fascinated with the selfsufficient way bees went about their bee business, and he told his parents he wanted to be a beekeeper. He has never been stung by his own bees, but he thinks that is because he “lets them do their own thing;” after all if he wants honey, he says he can go to the grocery store to “buy all the honey I want.” Though the bees pull their own weight by pollinating his orchard, Miko still calls all 30,000 bees his “pets.” His backyard (shown) contains the original playground equipment used for Wes Craven’s New Nightmare, when Freddie Kruger comes through the screen to terrorize the director and actors in our world, a film Miko starred in at age seven. This makes for an interesting conversation starter as well as a very large film memento.

As for his near future activities, Miko is set to act in a new movie titled City of Shoulders and Noses, about the life of an Italian sculptor. The movie, a mix of drama and comedy, is currently in pre-production, and while he waits for his cue to perform, Miko hopes to get new gigs as a DJ here in the H.D. that he calls home.—Susan Landers Miko Hughes in Mercury Rising (Fox)

16 High Desert Living magazine

Sailing Down a Dream H.D. residents Carrie and Bryan Bershee detail their adventures asea

The legendary writer Joseph Campbell once said, “If you follow your bliss, you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while, waiting for you, and the life that you ought to be living is the one you are living.” In October of 2005, local H.D. resident Carrie Bershee heeded the call to “follow her bliss” when she and her husband, Bryan, decided to live out one of their greatest dreams and spent a year aboard their 1979 Pearson 365 ketch, sailing along the Mexican coast.

Natives of the High Desert, Carrie and Bryan first met in 1998, while working at Cobalt Middle School in Victorville. Both had grown up “sailing the waters of Southern California with [their] respective families,” and Carrie points to their love of sailing and the ocean as one of the main things that drew them together. Their dream of cruising began once they were married, but Carrie recalls how they thought they would have to wait until they were much older to fulfill such a dream. One day, however, Carrie says, “We realized that we didn’t have to wait, nor did we want to wait, so we set our plans in motion. We sold our house, our cars, our furniture and took off.” Such a decision was not without its careful planning or deliberation, Carrie points out, but she adds: “Once we made the decision, we were so excited and so committed that we did whatever it took to make our dream a reality.”

After a year long sailing adventure with their two dogs, the Bershees decided it was time to return to the “real world and go back to making a living.” In her reflection of the trip, Carrie expresses warm gratitude for the year they were able to live out their dream, as well as for all “the friends that [they] made” along the way. She also says, “Our trip strengthened our marriage and our sense of what is important to us. And we’re truly glad we did it when we could, because you just never know how life can change.”

Carrie captures the journey and her insights in her book, Trading Ordinary... For Extraordinary: Cruising Stories and Advice from a Mexico Sailing Adventure. During the trip, Carrie had been chronicling her adventures in an extensive travel journal and website and Bryan kept a ship’s log. Though she had not initially planned on publishing a book, Carrie says that with an innate love for writing, turning the material into a book seemed like a natural thing to do. She also says, “Our friends and family back home kept telling us how much they enjoyed following our journey through the website, so that encouraged us to make it as interesting as we could for our readers. Now that the book is done, I’m really glad I have the written account of the trip; we hope to do it again someday, but in the event that doesn’t happen, we have a nice accounting to pass on to our children.”

To get your copy of Carrie’s work and read more about the Bershees’ inspirational experience, visit their website www.saltydogadventures.com or visit the publisher’s website at www.authorhouse.com. The work is also available from any online bookseller.–Krystal Carillo January | February 2009

The Sky’s the Limit...

Desert Valley Hospital is living up to its reputation as a Top 100 Hospital in the Nation as it meets the growing healthcare needs of the High Desert.

We’re taking healthcare to a higher level with our newly expanded hospital, featuring a Heart Center, Cardiac Surgery, and state-of-the-art technology.

The new, expanded Desert Valley Hospital will feature: Total Medical/Surgical Beds ............... 53 Total Intensive Care Unit Beds ........... 12 Total Bed Count After Expansion ....... 148 New Catheterization Labs .................. 2 New Operating Rooms/Suites ........... 2 Open Heart Surgery Suite .................. 1 • New dedicated Cardiac Nuclear Camera.

• New Digital Radiology system.

Expected completion of this expansion is in the Summer of 2010.

www

.dvmc.com

Upfront For the Kids

For H.D. families interested in

Children’s Orchard Bringing environmental consciousness to the HD

18 High Desert Living magazine

joining the “Going Green” movement, as well as saving (and earning) themselves a few greenbacks in the process, a visit to Apple Valley’s Children’s Orchard at the corner of Highway 18 and Bass Hill Road is a must. Years before “Going Green” manifested itself as a national trend, the Children’s Orchard franchise was already committed to the cause of environmental consciousness. The idea behind the Children’s Orchard resale store is to buy from the community those quality children’s items that might have otherwise been thrown away. Rather than discarding these like-new products, Children’s Orchard will pay you cash or offer you store credit for them and then put them up for sale to new families at a fraction of the retail price.

The quality of these resale items is assured absolutely, as Children’s Orchard only purchases those like-new items:

nothing worn-out, missing buttons, or with broken zippers. Visitors will find a wide-range of brands and items at the Children’s Orchard; alongside purchases from Target and other major discount retailers, customers can expect to find brand name items from higher end stores, like Gymboree, Baby Gap and Nordstrom, all at a portion of the original retail price.

Children’s Orchard carries children’s clothing, from preemie sizes to 10/12, and everything else your child needs, from furniture and toys to books and the Orchard’s new line of dancewear.

As the store’s owner, Patty Rifkin, explains, shopping at Children’s Orchard is a win-win situation for consumers in the H.D. community. In addition to providing quality, affordable items to local families, Children’s Orchard also pays cash for your no-longer-needed children’s items when you bring them in. Rifkin also points out that customers January | February 2009

Advertisement

have the option of “taking a store credit and receiving a 40% bonus over the cash offer.” Since the Orchard can only accept items in good condition, those items you’d like to get rid of but that are not available for purchase can still be used for a good cause, as Children’s Orchard donates weekly to the Samaritan’s Helping Hand charity. Rifkin cites the store’s dedication to the community as one reason families return to the Orchard time and time again. She understands that parents have many shopping options in the H.D., and feels nothing but sincere appreciation for those who choose to shop at Children’s Orchard: “We know that without our customers, we could not keep our doors open. Here at the Children’s Orchard, customer service is our main priority and we like getting to know our customers on a first-name basis.”

“Here at the Children’s Orchard … we like to know our customers on a first-name basis.”

Rifkin’s goal with Apple Valley’s Children Orchard is to establish a friendly “boutique atmosphere with resale prices.”

For Rifkin, the store’s greatest compliment comes “when people walk into the store and do not even realize that it is a resale store, because the items are so high-quality.”

Her pride in the store is clear when she describes a recent experience with a customer who was able to buy a $40-$50 dress from Gymboree for only $6.99. The customer was thrilled that these prices allowed her to buy not just one holiday dress for her daughter, but a different dress for Christmas eve, Christmas Day, New years eve, and New years Day. Do your part to help both the environment and your local economy by making your appointment with Children’s Orchard to sell those outgrown children’s items today! Children’s Orchard will hold its “Big Brand event” on January 17th, when their floor will be stocked with the latest brand name merchandise.

February will see the store preparing for the season change, as they get in their stock of spring outfits. For more information about Children’s Orchard, call (760) 946-5544.–Krystal Carillo www.hdlivingmagazine.com

Retention, Homework, Report Cards.

If those three phrases are painful for you to hear, read on for a glimmer of hope. If a teacher has ever said to you, “I’m afraid your son is at risk of retention,” you know that ‘kick in the gut’ feeling that a loving parent gets when their child is hurting. Have you ever said, “Get in and get started on your homework,” dreading the hours of crying and fighting that lay ahead of you? Has your daughter ever uttered the words, “I’m so stupid! I’ll never get this!”?

If you have experienced any or all of the above, you know the helpless and hopeless feeling of not knowing how to help the child you love. If you are a teacher, you know how you long to help, but with 30 other students, you just don’t have time. What is the solution? Should you punish, reward, or hire a tutor? Is it laziness, or is there some underlying problem? If your car broke down, you wouldn’t simply change the tire, would you? Of course not! You would have a knowledgeable repair person analyze the problem and then devise a plan to fix the car.

Your child is much more valuable than your car. Shouldn’t you try to find out what might be causing the problems before trying solutions? At LearningRx, that is our first step. We administer a low-stress assessment to determine if there are any underlying cognitive weaknesses. If there are not, we will recommend other services. If there are weak cognitive skills, however, we will put together a plan to strengthen those weak skills. At LearningRx we know that it is essential to find out why a student is struggling before seeking help. Our assessment and consultation will give you the information you need to make decisions affecting your most precious possession – your child.

Whether or not you enroll in one of our programs, you will leave our office with tools you can use immediately to help your child. We can help your son prepare to face the classroom with confidence. We can take the tears out of homework. We can restore your daughter’s selfconfidence and put a smile back on her face. Nothing will change unless you call. Nothing will change until you call.

Call us today.

760.242.9893 www.learningrx.com/victorvalley 16192 Siskiyou Rd. Suite #1 Apple Valley, California (Behind St. Mary Hospital)

High Desert Living magazine 19

Upfront Entertainment Beat

Tee Up for a Good Time with their new clubhouse, victorville offers a new place to play

The city of Victorville has made a hole-inone with its new clubhouse. Not only does it have a beautiful new clubhouse and restaurant, but it is going green in the process by using “gray” water to grow the surrounding plants.

The heating and cooling units are also employing energysaving technology called HVAC—heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. The facility is equipped with the best, most up to date audio/visual equipment around, making it the perfect place for conferences and business meetings.

Arizona architect Douglas Fredrickson designed the eloquently appointed clubhouse. The most notable aspect of the building’s design is the fireplace adjacent to the golf course. Embellished with copper, it is accessible from inside the building and outside on the patio overlooking the golf course. The structure’s style is reminiscent of the Arts and Crafts movement popular in the early 20th century.

Another exceptional feature is the all glass walls on either side of the fireplace inside the restaurant. The walls open four panels on each side - by sliding into each other to leave no barrier between the diner and the golf course. It almost seems like magic. However, it is one architectural feature of the 20 High Desert Living magazine

building that makes the clubhouse very contemporary. You feel like you are in a very special place that gives you the best of the outside—fresh air—and the comfy, cozy seating available inside.

The interior design was overseen by project manager Jerry Young. He worked with another Arizona firm called Envisions that is based in Phoenix. He chose fabrics and colors he thought best complimented the desert and the golf course, and it appears that he got it right.

Rose Rayney’s upscale Victor’s restaurant features glazed Atlantic salmon served with a combination of sweet and whipped potatoes, Chicken Oscar, and seasoned rack of lamb with duchess potatoes for dinner. Baked brie, Maryland-style crab cakes, Rose’s four onion French soup, and sweet corn chowder are featured on the lunch menu.

For those more interested in golf than food there is a fullystocked pro shop in the building. The clubhouse is open to the public, and its fees are payable monthly or yearly at $175 a year. This includes a golf cart. They offer senior, military, and junior discounts. Weekly fees are $35 with a cart or $40 with a cart on the weekend.

January | February 2009

For the younger set, golf is about more than the game.

A national organization called First Tee America U.S.A. is a group that promotes the First Tee’s Nine Core Values: honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy, and judgment. The Green Tree Golf Club teaches these values through the game of golf, but the ultimate goal is to teach youth the importance of these core values.

According to Bob Conrad, Assistant Director of Community Services for Victorville, a party of 300 hundred can be easily accommodated in the convention center. The Marine Corps recently celebrated the Corps’ birthday at the facility with a military ball.

Victor’s is open daily for breakfast, 6:30 a.m. to11:00 a.m., and from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for lunch. Dinner is served Thursday through Saturday from 5:00 to 9:00.

Anyone who is interested in booking a wedding, seminar, business meeting, or convention can contact Joe Rock, manager of the restaurant or Rose Rayney, owner, at (760) 955-6017. The clubhouse is located on the corner of Green Tree Boulevard and Seventh Street, next to I- 15. —Tere Kidd www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 21

Upfront Deals on Wheels Imagine a place where buying

Driving Up the Economy Now is the best time to buy that new car

22 High Desert Living magazine

your dream car contributes to not only your own sense of pride and well-being, but also that of your local community and economy. Now, stop imagining and head over to the Auto Park at Valley Center in Victorville for the purchase of your next vehicle! With 7 dealerships conveniently coalesced into one location, including Griener Buick/Pontiac/GMC, Hi Desert KIA, Valley Hi Toyota-Scion, Valley Hi Nissan, Valley Hi Honda, Victorville Mitsubishi, and Victorville Motors Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge, the Auto Park at Valley Center is your onestop, all-access destination for your next automotive investment. Unless the painful drive down-the-hill and its inherent gas expense is something you look forward to, you can plan for a pleasant and efficient car shopping experience at the Auto Park.

Shopping at the Auto Park proves to be much more than just a matter of convenience,

especially in light of current financial conditions.

As one of the major economic cornerstones of the High Desert, your local dealerships eagerly await your business and offer great incentives to attract it. H.D. residents can feel good about where their money is going when they shop locally, since it is the accumulation of these local tax dollars that ultimately supports both the infrastructure and community services of our local cities.

In her experience working with the dealerships in the Auto Park, Angelique Johnson has observed how the community as a whole is impacted when people travel down-the-hill for their purchases and the desert suffers the loss of these local dollars. Johnson also points to the significant role the Auto Park plays in supporting the community, whether it is through their sponsorship of local sports teams or their financial contributions to community events, like last October’s “A Better Way” Domestic Shelter and Outreach Program benefit concert.

To find out more about the Auto Park at Valley Center, log onto www.victorvilleautopark.com or contact Angelique Johnson at 760.241.6484 x6508. –Krystal Carillo

January | February 2009

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 23

Health Local Doctor

A Matter of Sole

DR. Michael fanous practices true heeling Dr. Michael Fanous, vice president of the Academy of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Surgery says, “Feet are the last thing people consider when thinking about their health. When it comes to just about any other part of the body, patients will seek medical help more quickly than they will for their feet.” What about those stiletto heels? Dr. Fanous says those are more likely to cause back problems than feet problems.

For most people, sensible shoes and good hygiene are pretty much all that is needed to maintain good foot health which should make Dr. Fanous’ job a breeze.

However, beyond bunions and hammer toes, and a whole host of other podiatry problems, the health of the feet can be important to the point of saving a life. Type 2 diabetes has become a major health issue for people 24 High Desert Living magazine

over forty. If you are over forty, over-weight, and lead a sedentary life style, you are part of a growing group of people who are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Something that is completely avoidable if you exercise, eat right, and maintain a healthy weight. Also, type 2 diabetes can be reversed if you take good care of your health. Oh, and no drinking or smoking. Type 1 diabetes is different. It is inherited and cannot be reversed. Once a patient is insulin dependent, there is no going back. That patient will be on insulin the rest of her/his life. It is a condition that causes the slightest skin abrasion to become a gaping open wound that will not heal. Open sores which are common on the lower limbs of diabetic patients, can become infected and cause loss of limb or life.

Other foot problems such as heel spur syndrome can be treated using an endoscopic technique that allows patients to return to normal activity within days. Fungal nails, ankle sprains, ingrown toe nails, calluses, and all other ailments of the feet can be treated at Dr. Fanous’ facility which includes diagnostic testing such as CT scans and bone scans. If you think podiatry is a dull subject, you don’t know Dr. Fanous.

He finds it exceedingly rewarding. “People like to see progress. A wound that has been open for years, I love that. I like to resolve the problem. Patients come to me with an open ulcer that has been there for years, and we get that person back on his feet. That’s rewarding.”

His specialty is reconstructive surgery. Dr. Fanous, father of two young boys, is a man full of energy and enthusiasm. He enjoys speaking frequently at conventions and seminars.

Dr. Fanous, who did his residency at the University of Southern California Medical Center, frequently lectures at seminars, and conventions. Aside from his love affair with podiatry, Dr. Fanous enjoys riding his Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic motorcycle and spending time with his family. He has practiced in the H.D. for about five years. A very busy man, the doctor has two Masters degrees, one in health administration and one in the science of gerontology. He is a renowned endoscopic surgeon and national speaker on the subject. He has received numerous achievement awards, one from California Speaker of the Assembly Willie L. Brown, one from the mayor of the City of Commerce, and one from the United States House of Representatives’ Edward Roybal, who represents the 25th district.

The doctor is the founder and former director of the Podiatric Surgical Residency Training Program at Anaheim General Hospital. His work as director earned the program the honor of being of the highest rated educational residency teaching program in the country.

Dr. Fanous’ practice is located at 15366 11th street in Victorville. You can make an appointment by calling 951-1238. ~~Tere Kidd January | February 2009

Foot or Ankle Pain?

Dr. Foot Michael Fanous & Ankle Surgeon

Bunions Bunionettes (Tailors Bunions) Hammer Toes Plantar Warts Neuroma/Neuritis Diabetic Care & Management Neuropathy Ulcer & Wound Care Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain) Flat Feet (Fallen Arches) Common Nail Problems Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Surgery Ankle Sprains & Injuries

Reconstructive, Fracture, & Laser Surgery

Medicare & Most Insurances Accepted

760.951.1238

Two Locations to Serve You:

15366 11th St., Ste. D, Victorville, CA 705 E. Virginia Way, Suite C Barstow, CA www.drmichaelfanous.com

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 25

Health Get Fit

Mixing it up lynn guardado combines yoga and pilates to bring a new level of fitness to the HD With lynn guardado’s Yogalates exercise program, keeping your New Year’s resolution to get in shape has never been easier to do in the H.D. Lynn, creator of the “Get Fit with Lynn Total Fitness System,” describes her Yogalates program as a “special combination of Yoga and Pilates, [which takes] the best from both exercise philosophies to create a new and exciting low-impact, high-result fat burning workout.” The Yogalates with Lynn program is designed to help you achieve and maintain fitness through physical workouts and healthy eating habits. As Lynn explains, “I created 8 Yogalates with Lynn DVDs and packaged them into 4 different DVD sets. I wanted my clients to have a variety of exercise classes to take with each purchase. I also gradually increase the intensity and level of workout in the 8 DVDs. I also created my 30 Day Meal Plan and Get Fit With Lynn Food Journal, so that my students can track their eating habits. By tracking your eating, you can create healthier eating habits.”

26 High Desert Living magazine

H.D. residents have depended on Lynn’s fitness expertise for over a decade. After graduating from San Diego State University with a B.A. in Dance in 1994, she moved up to San Bernardino and “immediately fell in love with the desert.”

She went on to receive an interdisciplinary Master’s degree in Dance and Kinesiology from CSUSB in 1997. Lynn began teaching at VVC 11 years ago and is currently the full-time Dance Director. She first developed her Yogalates program at the college 9 years ago. Watching the tremendous success of the class, Lynn was inspired to bring her workout regimen to a wider audience and created her set of the Get Fit with Lynn Total Fitness System DVDs, as well as her 30 Day Meal Plan and Food Journal.

Describing her inspiration to reach out to others, Lynn states: “I had a greater calling which brought me to help improve the quality of people’s lives. I love helping others get in shape, feel better because they are eating healthier [and] working out more. I noticed that many of my students were struggling with or could not do the high impact aerobic type workout that burns fat. So I created Yogalates with Lynn, a low impact fat burning workout, with them in mind.” With this motivation, Lynn created the 8 Yogalates with Lynn DVDs, so that her students could workout with her all year long. “I teach at the college in the fall, spring and summer, but not the winter or weekends or holidays. My DVD sets can be used everyday and for those who cannot fit my class into their busy schedules. I also do private lessons for those who want to really jump start their workout[s] and have me create a program just for [them].”

Lynn cites the story of Susan Christensen, a former student, as a testimony to the enormous success of her Yogalates program: “I met Lynn around 2000 when I took her step aerobics class as a required course at Victor Valley College.

I was a size 24 and weighed 275 pounds when I walked into the gym. I was too embarrassed to have Lynn measure me.

The next semester I added Yogalates to my schedule. Within a year of ‘eating less and moving more,’ I was at my target size- a 12 and 125 pounds lighter. The yogalates and the nutritional education I received from Lynn has truly changed my life. Having effectively conquered the weight gain without appetite reducers or surgery has given me confidence to face any challenge life presents. I am currently a size 10.”

Make 2009 the year that you keep your resolution of health and fitness by joining in the success of the Yogalates with Lynn program. As Lynn observes, “Exercise, changing your eating habits and creating new better healthier habits make for an exciting new you for the New Year. With the Yogalates with Lynn online promotions, you can get healthy and prepare yourself for the New Year to come.” During the New Year season, these promotions include: with the purchase of 2 DVD sets, you will receive for free the 7 Day Meal Plan; if you purchase 3 DVD sets, you will receive for free the 14 Day Meal Plan; if you purchase the whole set (all 4 DVD sets), you will receive the 30 Day Meal Plan, Get fit with Lynn Food Journal plus you will also get a 15 minute fitness audit for free. All items can be purchased online at www.getfitwithlynn.com. –Krystal Carrillo January | February 2009

Health New Year, New You Well, it’s that time of year

Jump into a

Healthy New Year, and a Healthy New You

by Dr. Brad Hannon 28 High Desert Living magazine

again, when many Americans are going to make that New Year pledge to get healthy.

This concern is not unjustified. It is estimated that 62% of adult Americans are overweight and obese. However, adults are not the only ones who need to be concerned with their health; the number of overweight and obese kids is on the rise and is estimated at about 32% of American youth. Being overweight increases the risk of many diseases and health conditions including: high blood pressure, arthritis, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea, respiratory problems, and some cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon). These risks translate into economic impact through higher insurance premiums, medications, and doctor visits. The estimated impact of overweight and obese Americans is well into the billions and is expected to rise from about $100 billion to about $956.9 billion by 2030 according to the CDC. Approximately half of these healthcare costs are paid by Medicare and Medicaid, which receives its funding from taxpayers.

Why get healthy? People often say they want to get healthy to have that great looking body, lose weight, or tone up. But, there are other reasons to make this lifestyle change. How about more energy, or lower insurance premiums, lower blood pressure, feeling better about yourself, or being able to play with your kids or grandkids?

In my practice, I often ask people what they would like to do when they retire. The top response is travel and visit with friends and family. Then I ask: what are you currently doing to ensure that when you retire you will be able to carry on this active life style?

The common answer here is: nothing, no exercise, no healthy diet, no supplements.

Sure they are saving money, buying stocks, buying real estate, putting money into a 401k or IRAs. But, having the money to retire is only half the picture.

How do I get healthy, you ask? First, get a baseline and know where you stand. Get a notebook and write down your height, weight, BMI (body mass index), waist measurement, hip measurement, waist to hip ratio, arm circumference measurement, thigh circumference measurement, and (if you have access to the right equipment) find out your percentage of body fat. These January | February 2009

measurements will be referred to later in order to monitor progress; I suggest remeasuring at 3 month intervals. The next step is to get educated on what it means to be healthy e.g., what foods to eat, how to cook healthy, how to read and understand food labels, how to start an exercise program, what supplements to take, as well as how to make this a lifestyle change and not just start a diet and exercise program that you hate. As always, it is a good idea to consult with your health care practitioner about making this lifestyle change.

What is BMI? BMI is one of the standards used to find out the appropriate weight for an individual of a specific height. To calculate your BMI, refer to a BMI calculator on the internet. This is one tool your healthcare practitioner will use to determine if you’re at a healthy weight.

One thing to remember is that BMI does not directly measure body fat, and for that reason some people, such as athletes or body builders, may have a higher BMI that correlates to being overweight even though they are not. Now, let’s calculate your hip to waist ratio. First, measure the circumference of your hips at the widest part of your buttocks and then measure your waist at the smaller circumference of your natural waist (normally above the belly button). Now, divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. Research shows that people who carry more weight around the hips, i.e. “pear-shaped”, are at less of a health risk than those people who carry more weight around the waist, i.e. “apple-shaped”.

Now that you have your base line lets talk about healthy eating. Healthy eating is usually associated with higher prices, longer preparation or cooking time, and inconvenience. What I hope to achieve here is that, once you understand what is healthy and what is not, you will make better choices about what you order while eating out and what you purchase while grocery shopping. The rule of thumb here is that if it is colorful, near its original grown state (not processed), and doesn’t last for much longer than a week, it’s probably good for you. So, what are we talking about here? We are talking about organic, whole foods, whole grains, no steroids, no chemicals, and no preservatives. These foods contain more nutrients www.hdlivingmagazine.com

when consumed in their raw state; for example when you steam or boil vegetables, some of the nutritional value is lost in the steam and water.

For a product to be certified organic, it must be grown and processed from the farm to the store following certain guidelines. These guidelines include a list of prohibited synthetic and non-synthetic substances such as pesticides, fertilizers, and steroids. Therefore organic foods are produced without the use of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, genetic engineering, sewage sludge, irradiation, or cloning of animals. In the U.S., the use of recombinant bovine growth hormone (rbGH) is allowed, but its use has been banned in the European Union and Canada. In fact, the European Union has banned the import of some U.S. beef due the hormones used. Organic foods are minimally processed without artificial ingredients or preservatives. Purchasers need to look for the “USDA Organic” and “100% Organic” labels. However, just because something is organic doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Take organic fruit juice, for example; you need to read the label and make sure you’re getting whole food and not just organic sugar water. If it’s whole food, it will add fiber to the juice and slow down the rate the sugar hits the blood stream (for more information on this look up Glycemic index and Glycemic load).

Organic farmers maintain a system of farming that replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic chemicals. This is very important to consumers, in that the crops get their vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from the soil. In other words, due to the push for higher yields per acre, and therefore cheaper food, the soil is being depleted of nutrients, and the vegetables grown in that field will be of little nutritional value. Organic fruit and vegetables have been shown to have more vitamin C, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and antioxidants than conventional produce. As for conventional produce grown in now depleted fields, they are less nutritious than the produce eaten by our mothers and fathers. When preparing produce remember how many people are handling your produce prior to you eating it: the people who may be picking it, waxing it, packaging it, shipping it, those at the local store setting up the dis-

play, and other shoppers picking through the produce. Any one of these people can spread germs through contact with the produce, so the bottom line here is to wash your food before you eat it.

What about the issue of carbohydrates?

A simple answer is yes, our body needs carbohydrates. But, there are unhealthy sources of carbohydrates, such as cookies, doughnuts (refined sugars and artificial sweeteners), and white bread (refined flour), and healthy sources of carbohydrates, such as vegetables, whole foods, and whole grains. Another positive to healthy sources of carbohydrates is that they typically make you feel fuller longer than the alternative unhealthy carbohydrates.

The short version is we need to get educated and make better decisions about what foods we eat. We need to eat more nutritious foods and reduce the amount of calorie intake from beverages such as sodas and lattés. We need to make better food choices such as: cottage cheese or salad with light dressing instead of French fries, the fruit or vegetables instead of the baked potato with butter and sour cream, water instead of soda. Remember, calories in has to equal to or be less than calories out. The rule of thumb here is that 30 min of exercise a day will maintain your weight, and 50 minutes a day is needed to burn those excess calories and lose weight. To quote Henry Ford: “whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t, you’re right” Look for the next issue when we dive into how you can maximize your health with alternative sources for good produce locally, the addition of proper supplementation, and the difference between organic whole food supplementation and synthetic supplementation.

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 29

Day Spa Jolie 15833 Bear Valley Rd.,Hesperia.

(760) 948-6700 www.dayspajolie.com

Tranquility Base H.D. Spa and Salon Trends for

a new you in the new year

By Stephanie Keyes

With the holidays in our wake and New Year resolutions to conquer, it’s important that we remember to take the time to rejuvenate and pamper ourselves here and there. Most of us find ourselves caught up in the pressure and stress of our daily routines as we try to fit into the mold of the perfect parent or the faultless employee, all the while fighting to attain the always, just out of reach, ideal body. Face it; the majority of us beat ourselves up on a daily basis. Well, this year, make the time to take care of the one, and only, you. Take a break from reality now and again, and escape to a place where you can renew your body, mind, and spirit. And, no worries; you won’t have to drive two hours away to find such a spot. Right here, in our H.D., we have a number of exquisite spas and salons looking forward to pampering you. » 30 High Desert Living magazine

If you’ve been wondering what a true spa experience is all about but feel a little intimidated or guilty about indulging, do yourself a huge favor. Simply walk through the doors of Day Spa Jolie and feel those misconceptions subside. Owner Kim Ammerman and her experienced staff go a step above and beyond to ensure that from the moment their guests make their entrance, they’re put at ease. The soft music, low lighting, and exquisite, yet gentle, décor make for a calming effect that is inviting and homey yet so surreal that it takes you away.

In between treatments or while awaiting service, guests are offered wine, coffee and/or tea and can be found lounging around fireplaces in luxuriously comfy robes and slippers.

“I want guests to feel that they’re in my home,” Kim explains. And, the effect of such doting care puts many in a dreamlike state as they move about the spa—a refuge so deliberately designed that every aspect conveys a positive and healing message or aura, as does the inspirational prose artfully decorating the walls.

Numerous curative massage treatments are offered at Day Spa Jolie, including their Aromatherapy Massage, Deep Tissue, and the ever popular Jolie Stone Massage. Pregnant woman can greatly benefit from the Pregnancy Massage which focuses on the unique needs of an expectant mother. Can’t decide? Go for the Jolie Massage Medley and experience the works. Their four body treatments, designed to relieve aching muscles and stimulate circulation, are performed in the “wet room” on a table specifically designed for ultimate comfort. They include the Jolie Body Wrap, which is a calming treatment, their moisturizing seaweed based Ultimate Body Wrap, the Earth Essence Clay Wrap and/or the Nourishing Salt Glow.

Express Facials are available as well as several Jolie Signature Treatments, such as the Bio-Hydrating Facial or the anti-aging Ultimate Jolie Facial, for those January | February 2009

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 31

DAY SPA JOLIE

who want a more intense treatment.

Microdermabrasion and the GlykoPeel Treatments are also quite popular. Other services include a wide variety of spa manicures and pedicures, hair removal/ waxing treatments, and mineral based makeup applications.

And, if you’re looking to please your Valentine, whether a lover, friend, or family member, ask about Day Spa Jolie’s spa packages, and give your loved one a gift that goes beyond the physical.

Better yet, schedule a private couples’ massage and indulge in chocolate covered strawberries and champagne or maybe a picnic lunch. Express your desired cuisine or special requests, and Day Spa Jolie will try their best gratify your wishes so that your day is absolutely perfect. It’s the little touches, the constant and unique consideration that sets Day Spa Jolie apart and expresses the staff ’s genuine gratitude to their guest.

ESR Medical Spa 16000 Apple Valley Rd., Suite C1, Apple Valley (760) 242-4682 www.extreme-spa.com

“Our goal is to exceed client expectations with results and customer service,” states 32 High Desert Living magazine

Renae Petelski, a Licenced Vocational Nurse and Nationally Certified Permanent Makeup Specialist. She and partner, Medical Director Kelly Amed, have been “exceeding expectations” for 5 ½ years now, and ESR’s reputation and good standing in the H.D. definitely validates Renae’s statement.

A full service medical spa with a breathtaking resort spa ambiance, ESR provides services and treatments that are beneficial and healing on multiple levels. Their Board Certified staff not only pampers guests, soothing aches and pains and amplifying beauty, but they also care. Using only medical grade skin products, nurses, therapists, and technicians strive to ensure that their patrons are comfortable and enjoy their rejuvenating treatments as they nurture the skin and spirit.

The first in the H.D. to offer Pixel Skin Resurfacing and Soprano Laser Hair Removal, the ESR staff makes every effort to stay up to date on current technologies. Foto Facials, Velasmooth Cellulite Treatments, and Juvéderm wrinkle correction treatments are just a few of many medical aesthetic procedures offered. If you’re tired of reapplying that eyeliner over and over, ask Renae for a permanent makeup consultation and enhance the beauty that is you.

If you’re seeking relaxation, ESR offers Swedish and Custom Therapeutic massage therapy. Follow that with a visit to the steam room, then kick back unwind in a lush robe in their luxurious lounge and enjoy tasty refreshments.

With separate steam rooms, body massage shower facilities, and lavish toiletries for both men and women, ESR provides a wonderful respite from the stress of the fast paced world.

Share the joy and reserve the time for a spa party. Spa Days include a one hour custom facial, a one hour Swedish massage, and a spa manicure and pedicure. A signature Spa Lunch is provided, including chocolate covered strawberries, and the glorious experience concludes with a magnificent Vichy shower. What a fabulous gift to give a loved one! Be sure to visit ESR’s website as they display seasonal packages and specials, updated regularly.

Le Chateau De Soul 20601 Hwy 18, Suite 152, Apple Valley.

(760) 240-7773 www.lechateaudesoul.com

Tucked away in the scenic splendor that surrounds the Historic Apple Valley Inn, Le Chateau De Soul Rejuvenation Clinic is a true gem. Owner Rebecca (Becky) Goss has not only created a top notch salon and spa but a charming retreat, right here in the H.D. As Becky puts it, “I want to give my guests a break—a mini vacation in their own backyard.” While clients are being pampered, they can enjoy a little nature therapy as they watch squirrels and birds at play amid the picturesque backdrop that is Apple Valley.

Massage therapy, chiropractic services, revitalizing facials (including non-surgical face lifts), and more, Le Chateau De Soul is a full service spa that also offers such services as Lymphobiology and Ion-Cleanse treatments. If your hair and nails could use a little assistance, allow the talented professionals at Le Chateau De Soul to work their magic on you while you sit back and unwind. You can also take home a little therapy as they carry a January | February 2009

21948 Hwy 18 Apple Valley, Ca

 

style  

color correction precision haircuts artistic acrylic nail design tanning 

The High Deserts Exclusive

email us: StudioB4@msn.com

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

Focus Salon

High Desert Living magazine 33

variety of professional hair products and the Epicuren Discovery line for the skin. And, for those special occasions, Chateau Packages and gift certificates are available upon request.

J. Michaels Salon & DAY SPA 12740 Hesperia Rd., Suite A, Victorville (760) 951-7110 www.jmichaelsvv.com

Step into J. Michaels Salon & Day Spa and simply exhale. The staff is as warm and welcoming as the salon is rich in inviting grandeur. Their “we’re here for you” attitude is genuine as they do their best to make every client feel special and at ease. As receptionist Ashley Voss explains, “We always put our customers first.” And, it’s apparent. One glance around at the serene expressions on their clients’ faces says much about calming effect of the various services and spa treatments that J. Michaels offers.

You name it; they do it. From their various hydrating facial treatments and more intense treatments, including Microdermabrasion, LED Light Therapy, and exfoliating peels, to services such as permanent makeup, threading, waxing, tooth whitening, and Botox Cosmetic treatments, J. Michaels’ dedicated staff works their magic to help their clients look their very best. Need to relax and unwind?

How about a Hot Stone Massage or maybe a Deep Tissue or Swedish massage? If your hands and feet could use a little pampering, experience a Reflexology massage or perhaps an Ionic Foot Bath before having your nails manicured to perfection. If your hair is need of some attention, J. Michaels is a full service hair salon as well.

For those who want it all, or for an exceptional gift, check out their spa packages, such as their J. Michaels Heaven on Earth package, which includes a customized facial, full body massage, body polish, and a spa manicure and pedicure. The VIP package consists of their Swedish massage, customized facial, spa manicure and pedicure, a full makeup application, and a shampoo and blow 34 High Desert Living magazine

out. And, for those of you who want a more romantic experience, ask about their couples’ massages, champagne and/or wine included upon request.

Studio B Salon & Tanning 21948 Hwy 18, Apple Valley C760) 247-6880

The High Desert’s exclusive Paul Mitchell focus salon with a fresh and contemporary look, Studio B Salon and Tanning is a full service salon that offers spa services in a fashionably hip, yet comfortable, setting. Owner Brisa Alfaro and her professional stylists and manicurists are not only accommodating and friendly, but they are also refreshingly up to date on the

from your body, and you’re good to go. And, if you’d like to share the bliss with someone you love, Studio B can put together packages and gift arrangements to suit your fancy. What’s your budget, and what’s your pleasure?

They’ll work with you to assemble a gift that’s just right.

The staff at Studio B will also take care of you on those special days, such as weddings proms, and parties, when you may need a little extra beautification.

Make an appointment, and they’ll doll you up with a professional makeup application and a current updo (or other style of choice) to perfection. Don’t forget Fido!

Along with a full line of Paul Mitchell hair products, Studio B also offers a line of John Paul Pet products so that Fido can now look, feel, and smell great too.

total effect hair studio

current trends and styles. You can enjoy having your hair and nails pampered in a salon decorated superbly in bold reds and black, or you can indulge in a relaxing massage, facial, or tan in a soothing and tropical atmosphere enhanced with palms and Tiki décor.

Stressed out? Studio B offers their Tea Tree Treatment, using Paul Mitchell products, which includes a tingling twenty minute scalp massage and a moisturizing neck and arm massage. Add to that an Egyptian Foot Massage, or an Aqua-Chi foot spa treatment to remove harmful toxins

Total Effect Hair Studio 14515 Mojave Dr., Suite A-3, Victorville, (760) 955-6360

“Comfortably elegant with a touch of Tuscan…” That’s how Anita McNeil describes her tour de force, and she’s dead on. She and co-owner Crystal Crivello have created an atmosphere of class and beauty with a warm, amiable air. With seven professional and experienced hair designers that specialize in hair, and only hair, they are experts in current styles and trends and are educated color correction authorities.

January | February 2009

Le Chateau De Soul rejuvenation clinique Located in the Historic Apple Valley Inn 20601 Hwy. 18 Apple Valley, Ca 92307 760.240.7773

Gift Certificates Available

unwind

waxing precision haircare manicures pedicures skin treatments micro-dermabrasion non-surgical facelifts enzyme facial crystalline mask ion foot cleanse lymphobiology anti-cellulite treatment

relax

visit us tuesday through saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm mondays and evenings by appointment only www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 35

“We do one thing, and we do it well,” Anita affirms, then adds, “Everybody here does edgy hair.” She, Crystal, and their staff keep things fresh by attending hair shows and staying informed on prevailing styles and procedures.

Along with innovative hair cutting, styling, perms, weaves, and color, the crew at Total Effect Hair Studio also creates works of art in their updos and styles, traditional, or modern and unique, for proms, homecoming, and wedding parties. They provide Trucco Makeup by Sebastian, and professional application is available upon request.

And, if you’re in need of quality professional hair products, Big Sexy Hair Concepts and Logics hair care products line their shelves.

Along with the great service they provide, Total Effect Hair Studio also gives back to the community and those in need. The generous staff has given complimentary makeovers to women residing in domestic abuse shelters, and they have raised funds for the Malawi Water Project by giving haircuts in exchange for donations to the cause.

As the economy fluctuates, Crystal and Anita run specials to give their clients a break and as a “thank you” for their patrons’ continual support and business, so be sure to call or stop by and see what magic they can work for you. And, remember—Total Effect Hair Studio gift certificates are always available and make for a perfect gift or Valentine for that special someone.

Styles Hair Salon 9594 “I” Ave., Suite D, Hesperia (760) 949-5211

Years of expertise in a comfortable environment—that’s what you’ll find at Styles Hair Salon. Maya Feldman, CMT (Certified Massage Therapist), NCTMB (Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) is the proud owner and fellow team member to a crew of stylists whose experience in the field ranges from two years to thirty years.

Three of the stylists have actually owned their own salons at one time or another, and the two manicurists have over fifteen 36 High Desert Living magazine

years of experience each. They know what they’re doing, and they do it well.

“The thing that makes our salon unique from the others is that we still love doing shampoo sets (wash and set) at a very reasonable price for our senior citizens. But, at the same time, we have stylists who do color, color weaves, color correction, and hair extensions,” Maya explains. Another thing that is special about Styles Hair Salon is the pleasant environment, not just in décor but in the camaraderie that the staff shares with their clients. As Maya relates, “There is a genuine concern for one another as well as each customer that comes through the door.”

And, it’s that sincerity that keeps people coming back—that and great service. As a massage therapist, Maya offers such treatments as Lypossage, which helps to rid the body of toxins and fluids, Thai Yoga Massage, Acupressure Massage, and Reiki—a massage in which pressure is applied to various nerve zones in the feet. She also offers the traditional Swedish and Deep Tissue massages, as well as other massage therapy alternatives. Signature facials and body scrubs and wraps are also available, or indulge in a relaxing pedicure in their AmeriSpa Footspa. According to Maya “it has a self-timer and runs a full ten minute cycle of disinfectant before it can be used for the next client, making your safety our priority.”

If you’re in the mood for the works, Maya offers packages in which a client can choose combinations of two or three therapies at a time at reasonable prices.

Also very reasonable is the discount that Styles Hair Salon awards their patrons on their line of Dermalogica skin care products. They really know how to care for and appreciate their clients.

Head to Toez Full Service Salon 15800 Main St., Suite 180 in Hesperia.

(760) 244-7767

“Because you deserve it…” is their catch phrase, and they’re right! A salon elegant and contemporary, yet warm and embracing, with an upbeat staff just

waiting to spoil you, Head to Toez adds flair to the H.D.. Owners Nancy and Roy Williams have created an atmosphere that’s classy, exceptionally clean, and fun!

As stylist Michelle Robinson explains, “Nothing here is half-done; there’s quality in everything.” And, clients take note. They also notice the camaraderie of the happy staff, which makes for a light and pleasurable atmosphere. “They [Nancy and Roy] really take good care of us,” Michelle adds, and that genuine care is passed on to their delighted guests. They also ensure that their staff stays educated and up to date on the latest trends, services and therapies.

Head to Toez is a full service salon that caters to men, women, and children, providing not only a wide range of professional hair and nail services but

STYLES HAIR SALON

also massage and skin care therapy, waxing, and permanent makeup.

Thinking about getting hair extensions and/or maybe eyelash extensions? Stop by and ask about a free consultation.

If you’re in the mood for a facial but a little short on time, ask about their Lunch Time Facial. However, if you’ve got some time to kick back and really relax, experience a City of Lights Facial or enjoy a heavenly one hour massage.

They also carry a wide range of products including MOP (Modern Organic Products), Matrix, American Crew, and Hempz. Whatever your pleasure might be, the experienced staff at Head to Toez is waiting to serve you. HDL January | February 2009

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 37

T

hough a cliché, the old saying is nonetheless true: when you have your health, you have everything! Here in the H.D., we are fortunate to have many options for improving our health. From hospitals to medical groups, HMOs to wellness centers, H.D. Living brings you a sampling of the best the H.D. has to offer so you can get and stay healthy. Health care is a concern for most of us whether we are young or old, and our busy lives often leave us little time to pay attention to our health, so local, convenient and high quality health care options are a must. The common assumption that we must venture “down the hill” for quality care is disproved by the high quality, innovative, and personalized healthcare offered here in the H.D. With a variety of selections from which to choose, H.D. residents will find the care they need available when they need it. And, that’s just what the doctor ordered!

38 High Desert Living magazine

January | February 2009

Feeling Better Every Day

Your Healthcare Options in the H.D.

by Susan Landers

Victor Valley Community Hospital

The only “community owned hospital” in the H.D., Victor Valley Community Hospital offers a host of services to patients and the greater community. With 115 beds, this non-profit hospital offers services in cardiology, including a diagnostic cardiac cath lab, orthopedics, including an orthopedics center recognized for excellence, and they’re one of the top in the nation for maternity care with a #1 for excellence rating from Health Grade®. Community is not just a part of their name; Victor Valley Community Hospital is involved in the community with events and services designed to serve a growing population. VVCH has a Women’s Health Center that offers diagnostic screenings for bone density and mammography, as well as maternity and childbirth preparation classes. They are a proud sponsor of the annual Today’s Woman event, which offers health care screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, and bone density to women in the community. VVCH also presents events for Men’s Health, bi-annual Senior fairs, and a Kids’ Fair that includes health screenings, vaccinations, free bike helmets for low income children, and because they believe in fun too, every kid left the most recent Kids’ Fair with a toy. VVCH Marketing Director Lovella Sullivan says that “everything we do, we put 110% into it.” VVCH’s core values of respect, integrity, quality and service assure H.D. residents that “their” community hospital will offer them the best possible healthcare experience. For more information about what services and events Victor Valley Community Hospital brings to the H.D., visit their website at: www.vvch.org.

Heritage Victor Valley Medical Group The mission statement that undergirds Heritage Victor Valley Medical Group (HVVMG) says it all: “Our mission is to continue to provide high quality, compassionate, wellcoordinated medical care to the high desert community, and to continue to earn the loyalty and respect of our patients.”

Caring for H.D. residents goes beyond their membership, for www.hdlivingmagazine.com

HVVMG plans to open a Health Education Center in early 2009 to serve all residents, whether they are HVVMG members or not. Education is power, and when it comes to healthcare, the more knowledge the better. Whether you need information about heart health, diabetes care, asthma or arthritis, you can see the professionals at HVVMG to learn strategies for healthy living. Vice President David Zembick says that HVVMG believes that they can “bring the facility to the community” by offering a building dedicated to community health education for both members and non-members. HVVMG is also involved in making sure that the H.D. has healthy kids. They’re involved in AYSO soccer; HVVMG has staff members and health educators attend games to hand out bottled water, granola bars, and other healthy snacks and to encourage kids and their parents to exercise and eat a nutritious diet. This is a part of HVVMG’s preventative care plan that hopes to curb childhood obesity and stem the shocking prevalence of early onset diabetes.

Seniors get the treatment too! With free flu shots available to seniors, physician talks on such topics as arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia and more by their board certified rheumatologist, as well as an arthritis support group, seniors and others in the community are served and educated. Speaking of education, Melanie Ajanwachuka, HVVMG’s registered dietitian, also offers talks to the community about ways to incorporate a healthy diet into busy schedules. In February, watch for the Valentine Social, a senior get together that offers refreshments and health screenings in a fun social setting. Knowing that community health is an important issue, HVVMG recently hosted a “health care summit” that included all of the area’s hospitals and major medical groups to seek ways to better serve the un- and under-insured because as Mr. Zembick points out, the health of H.D. residents “is not a group issue; it’s a community issue. We’re all in this together. HVVMG is leading the way to reach out and look for solutions to problems and seek ways to better serve the community.” Part of this commitment to serving the community is in the active recruitment of physicians to the H.D. HVVMG believes that everyone deserves access to good primary care practitioners. Heritage Victor High Desert Living magazine 39

Valley Medical Group’s website has information about their physicians, their community activities, health tips, and accepted health plans. Visit their website at www.hvvmg.com to learn more about them.

St. Mary’s Medical Center

Currently the largest hospital in the H.D., St. Mary’s Medical Center is a “comprehensive full service” facility. Noting the lack of sufficient hospital beds to serve the H.D., VP of Communications Randy Bevilacqua says that St. Mary’s has “fairly aggressive growth plans to keep up with the community,” and this includes building a new hospital off the 15 freeway in Victorville. Currently the only facility offering comprehensive heart care, St. Mary’s offers everything from open heart surgery to cardiac rehab. Keeping up with innovations in technology, St. Mary’s offers the latest in health care options from digital mammography to the da Vinci® robotic surgical system. The potential advantages of robotic surgery are numerous: less pain, less blood loss, less risk of infection, as well as a faster recovery leading to a quicker return to daily life. This new technology adds to St. Mary’s ability to “use every working resource for patient satisfaction,” according to Mr. Bevilacqua, and is part of the overall mission of St. Mary’s to serve their patients and the community.

As the only non-profit religious healthcare institution in the H.D., St. Mary’s strives to make every encounter a “sacred encounter,” by keeping to their five values: Dignity, Justice, Excellence, Hospitality, and Service. St. Mary’s staff lives by those five values and they “guide everything we do.” The World Health Organization recently named St. Mary’s to their “Baby-Friendly” list of institutions; St. Mary’s offers a prenatal clinic that serves the entire community. From prenatal and parenting classes to well woman clinics that serve the both insured and uninsured patients in stationary clinics and their new mobile van, St. Mary’s is actively offering community outreach services. Along with their women’s and maternity care classes, St. Mary’s offers health care education classes in diabetes care, health and wellness, health screenings, as well as flu shot clinics that are all open to the public. Their website offers a plethora of information and services. Their new innovative Care Pages allows inpatients and their families to keep in touch and assures that everyone is up to date on the latest test results and condition of their loved one through one easy to access webpage that the patients and their families set up and control. St. Mary’s 40 High Desert Living magazine

Medical Center prides itself on offering “more heart and soul” to the community by serving the whole community. See their website at: www.stmaryapplevalley.com.

Choice Medical Group

With forty primary care physicians and 140 specialists, Choice Medical Group has been serving the H.D. for nineteen years.

Admitting privileges at St. Mary’s, Victor Valley Community Hospital, and Barstow Regional Medical Center, allow Choice Medical Group’s physicians to offer you just that: choice. Choice Medical Group is proud of its community involvement as they offer health education classes and preventative care. Their Wellness Center offers classes for diabetes, cardiac care, the ABCs of Pregnancy, Nutrition and more, as well as a women’s health center and a senior center that offers well woman checks and offers various screenings such as bone density and pap exams. All new members receive a membership kit that includes lots of helpful information; there is a quarterly newsletter that keeps members up to date on healthcare options, healthy living tips, and Group news. One of Choice Medical Group’s goals is to keep their members healthy and out of the emergency room.

With Choice’s new Urgent Care Center and contracts with five others, Choice gives their members alternatives to emergency room visits after hours. Choice Medical Group believes in preventative care and has been on the forefront of offering their members classes in yoga, a Senior Kicks Club that offers dancing, and healthy cooking among other classes open to the public. Their Healthy Living seminars offer Q&A sessions with physicians over lunch. Choice Medical Group is a proud sponsor of Today’s Woman Foundation and has donated $40,000.00 to the American Cancer Association in the past eight years—all of which has stayed to be used here in the H.D. With a passion for preventative care, a proactive approach to healthy living, and outreach to the community, Choice Medical Group brings choice to the H.D. and so much more. Visit their website at www.choicemg.com

High Desert Primary Care/ Alliance Physicians/ Premier Healthcare/ Jones and Jones Medical Associates An abundance of options awaits at High Desert Primary Care, Alliance Physicians, Premier Healthcare, and Jones and Jones Medical Associates. Whether you prefer a traditional HMO/PPO in a large setting or would like to have a smaller office experience with a single doctor, these groups can accommodate your needs. At HDPC patient care and convenience are of highest priority, in Victorville since the

January | February 2009

the business of caring With an extensive patient care background, VVCH CEO Dr. Margret Peterson offers a unique perspective on administration. Dr. Peterson assumed responsibilities as Chief Executive Officer of Victor Valley Community Hospital (VVCH) in 2006 and is an active member in community groups such as the Victor Valley Rotary and serves as the 2008-09 Chairman of the Board of the Victorville Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Peterson currently serves on the Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) Board, the Victorville Chamber of Commerce Legislative Action Committee, and is Chairman of the Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC) Emergency Service Committee.

Earlier this year, Dr. Peterson received the President’s Award for Leadership from the African American Chamber of Commerce.

In 2005, Dr. Peterson was awarded the 38th Assembly District’s “Woman of the Year” award, as well as additional honors that year from the City Council of Simi Valley and Moorpark Community College.

Prior to serving as President of Simi Valley Hospital, Dr. Peterson held a wide range of administrative and executive hospital positions in myriad locations across the country. She holds her Bachelor’s of Science and Master’s of Science degrees in Nursing and her Ph.D. in Administration. In her few years with VVCH, Dr. Peterson has been a strong leader and inspirational challenger armed with new ideas and processes in healthcare. Assembling a team of leaders at the hospital and inspiring each one to fulfill his or her goals beyond expectation are just a few of the positive impacts that Dr. Peterson has had on VVCH and healthcare in our community.

Speaking for herself, Dr. Peterson has a clear sense of the future she would like to see at VVCH: My vision for our community hospital is to become the healthcare provider of choice in the High Desert. In order to accomplish this, we must provide more than just healthcare. We must continue to provide memorable experiences for our patients and their families. This vision ties into my goals for VVCH. We have several new lines www.hdlivingmagazine.com

of service that we will be developing in the next few years that include an enhanced Orthopedic program, the redevelopment of our outpatient imaging center, and a stateof-the-art, interventional cardiac cath lab.

Healthcare is no longer defined as clinical treatment of disease. At VVCH we define healthcare as caring for the individual, extending to the family, and therefore the community. Caring for the community, one person at a time.

With a keen awareness of how the hospital fits into the community, Dr. Peterson says: In an area that truly invokes the spirit of community pride, being the only community-owned hospital gives us a great advantage. We have a shared responsibility with our residents, a mutual obligation to support one another. Our hospital exists to support the community and with the partnerships and relationships we have built with community leaders and residents alike, the future looks bright indeed. Together, we will thrive.

Surpassing our goals and continuing our mission is within our reach.

As Dr. Peterson reflects upon her unique experiences and what that means for VVCH, she says: “I believe that beginning my career at the clinical level and experiencing healthcare from the ground floor has given me a different perspective on healthcare as a whole. I’ve been there and I know about obstacles and frustrations that nurses and administrators at different levels face. This also includes hands on knowledge and experience in patient care. Using this experience and knowledge, I am able to have an impact on functions and processes that directly affect patient outcomes. My experiences also give me the ability to see where healthcare can be when everyone works together in providing healthcare excellence. There have been many changes at VVCH, and the road ahead is paved with opportunities to improve healthcare in the High Desert.

Dr. Peterson enjoys many things about the H.D. Among them, she finds that: The serenity of the High Desert is an appealing virtue, but by far not the only

VVCH CEO Dr. Margret Peterson reason it is an ideal place to live. Our area is unique in its diversity and lifestyles. Yet with all this diversity, there is an underlying solidarity in our residents. A sense of pride in being a resident and ownership in our communities transcends our differences in activities and views. We manage to come together as residents united in the belief that together we can overcome any obstacle and achieve any goal. This is the place for entrepreneurs and dreamers who have the desire to make things happen and effect change.

Dr. Peterson’s expertise in patient care, her experience in administration, and her willingness to meet and exceed her goals bodes well for the future of Victor Valley Community Hospital and the future of healthcare in the H.D..

High Desert Living magazine 41

1980s and Hesperia since 1992, HDPC has just opened their Apple Valley office in 2008. Based on the 2007 Health Care Quality Report Card, HDPC ranks in the Top 4% of medical groups in SBCo in the testing and control of blood sugar and cholesterol in diabetic patients.

The overall rating remained the same 2006 vs. 2007 with 5 stars. See the OPA web site at www.opa/ca/gov for information on the rating.

HDPC employs 20 providers at three locations; they also offer Lab, X-Ray, and Physical Therapy services. Alliance Physicians has six individual offices offering physicians who practice Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Pediatrics. Premier Healthcare’s seventeen offices include services from Family Medicine, Internal Medicine and Pediatrics who work together with HDPC to bring you the convenient local Urgent Care facilities and educational services. Jones and Jones Medical Associates offers a hometown doctor feel with Dr. Richard Jones, D.O. and several Physician Assistants in their Apple Valley location. Dr. Jones strongly believes in treating his patients with the

desert sands

same care and consideration he would want his own family members to receive. The HDPC, Alliance, Premier and JJM websites offer a glimpse of the care and concern patients receive as members: “Their philosophy is to care for every patient as if they were members of our own family. By giving this consideration to those who enter the medical groups, our members are assured of the finest medical care possible. We pride ourselves on excellent providers, friendly staff, and convenience offered to our members.”

Along with this caring approach, HDPC is environmentally friendly. They are one of the first medical groups to go paperless with all electronic medical records. Electronic records aren’t just “green;” they also offer physicians and patients the convenience of accessibility 24 hours a day. Along with Saint Mary Medical Center, each of these groups are sensitive to patients’ needs and want to help maintain good health, therefore, they offer patient educational seminars to their members as well as a Senior Select Club, which offers perks like one stop admitting at St. Mary’s and discounts at local vendors. They conveniently offer two Urgent Care centers in Victorville and Hesperia. A new patient care location in the Apple Bear Center at Apple Valley and Bear Valley Roads has recently opened for HDPC. With all that these groups offer locally, CEO Niki Balginy says that, “with the possible exception of some tertiary care, there is no need to go down the hill.” All these groups utilize a Hospitalist who sees members while in the hospital. This new way of providing care of patients who are in the hospital frees up primary care doctors to spend more time in the office with patients, cutting back on wait times, and making patient care more convenient for both patients and physicians. High Desert Primary Care, Alliance Physicians, Premier Healthcare or Jones and Jones Medical Associates: no matter which route you take, the same superb care, patient first attitude, and convenience is assured. Contact Member Services 9564158 or visit their websites at www.hdpcmg.com, www. alliancephysicians.com , www.wearepremierhealthcare. com or www.jjma.org and they will help point you in the right direction.

Desert Valley Medical Center

A hospital and a medical group combined means that Desert Valley Medical Center and Desert Valley Medical Group can offer H.D. residents full health care services. The medical center has been designated a “Top 100 Hospital in the Nation” three times (2003, 2005, 2006), and in 2007 was one of only forty-nine hospitals given a premier award for quality. Because there is a significant shortage of hospital beds in 42 High Desert Living magazine

January | February 2009

the high desert, Desert Valley has a planned expansion that will add 65 beds (53 medical/surgical, 12 Intensive Care beds) bringing a total of 148 more beds to the region. Along with new beds, the expansion will add two new cardiac services to the hospital’s repertoire. Two new operating suites will be available with one dedicated to offering open heart surgery and to support their services in the Cardio Neuro Diagnostics lab. Keeping up with changing technology, Desert Valley now offers digital radiology. Desert Valley’s emergency room strives to keep its doors open no matter how great the “saturation level” by reducing wait times and seeing patients in a more timely manner. In addition, Desert Valley Medical Group offers numerous urgent care and walk in clinics. Desert Valley Medical Center and Desert Valley Medical Group offer much in the way of community services such as their Senior Membership Club, which offers health screenings, access to physicians, and more.

Within the last few months, Desert Valley Medical Center’s Foundation has given scholarships totaling over $100,000.00 to H.D. students who are pursuing careers in the medical field. By providing the funds needed for training new medical staff, Desert Valley Medical Center hopes to keep medical professionals in the H.D. to meet the growing demand for more health services. With a patient health resource center, open to the public, DVMC is offering a valuable public

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

service. Their Prime Cup coffee house and gift shop includes a medical library with computers and helpful support available to the public. Healthcare is as a national issue, and this is noted in the hospital’s vision statement: “Desert Valley Hospital is consistently at the forefront of evolving national healthcare reform. Our organization provides an innovative and integrated healthcare delivery system. We remain ever cognizant of our patients’ needs and desires for high quality affordable healthcare.” For both the hospital and the medical group, the growth of the H.D.s population continues to offers challenges and opportunities to grow as the planned expansion demonstrates. Administrator John Rossfeld says that while there is sometimes “an appearance of competition” between the area’s hospitals, “all three hospitals score very highly in offering quality care,” and no matter which hospital H.D. residents may be admitted to, they can be “assured that the quality of care is equal to or better than down the hill.” As the region’s largest multi-specialist group, Desert Valley Medical Group has been serving Victorville, Hesperia, Adelanto and other areas of the H.D. for 20 years, and the medical center has served the H.D. for nearly 15 years. Together, they hope to serve for many years to come. Visit the DVMC’s website at www.dvh.dvmc.com to see all they have to offer the H.D. HDL

High Desert Living magazine 43

Romance in the H.D.

Love in Your Own Backyard Planning a Date in the H.D.

by Katie Chavez

44 High Desert Living magazine

The New Year brings the opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to break from the usual routine. And, with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, this is a perfect time to leave the standard date night custom of dinner and a movie behind.

Show your date you put some thought into the outing by planning a night (or day) of events that are fun and nearby. From a.m. to p.m., the H.D. is full of places to turn when out on the town.

Let’s start with the morning sun. Most people need a pick-me-up in the morning in the form of liquid caffeine. Forget about dragging your date to foolishly overvalued coffee shops found in every shopping center. Instead, try a place like I Love Donuts in Victorville where quality coffee can be found and donuts can be devoured. The name alone shows you care.

Get some coffee to go and make your way to the Victor Valley Museum and Art Gallery on Apple Valley Rd. This is a real gem of the H.D., and chances are you have yet to experience it. A stroll hand-inJanuary | February 2009

Styles

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massages

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enjoy products manicures

pedicures and much more!

Start the new year with a new look! call today

(760) 949-5211

9594 I Ave. Suite D. Hesperia 92345

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 45

Romance in the H.D. hand through the museum is well worth your morning together.

During a midday meeting, take advantage of the fresh outdoor air by heading to Apple Valley’s Las Brisas restaurant for lunch on the open air patio. It feels as comfortable as dining at home without having to worry about cleaning the dishes afterwards. Next, the only logical thing to do is to get a couple’s room massage at Day Spa Jolie in Hesperia.

It is a soothing environment that will have you both feeling relaxed and pampered.

But if simplicity is more appealing, remember that the cities of the H.D. promote a wonderful parks system.

Heading to a park with a picnic basket full of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches may not seem elaborate enough, but with spring just around the corner, it may be the way to go. Bring the dogs along (don’t forget a tennis ball) and waste away the afternoon with a bottle of wine from Casa Devino.

For the classic evening date, start off with dinner at Paulina’s Mexican Grill in Victorville offering elegant dishes such as lamb chops, salmon and duck . Once you and your date are sufficiently fed, it’s time to head to Victor Valley College (VVC). It may not be the first place that comes to mind when on a date, but it should be high on the list. VVC has a beautiful performing arts center that is always alive with activity and entertainment. There are dance productions, concerts, and plays that are a wonderful alternative to going to the movies. After the show, take a walk around the glistening lake and find that the theater 46 High Desert Living magazine

is not all VVC has to offer, there is also a planetarium that gives shows for the stargazers in all of us.

No matter how beautiful the stars may be, your date may have a true love for jazz.

On Wednesdays, Divine Wine Bar features live jazz to cure the mid-week blues.

No longer do you have to go very far to create a memorable outing. When planning a date in the H.D., don’t worry about not having enough to do.

You really don’t have to look too hard before you will find that discovering the small treasures of the

desert can be the most fun in good company. So, let your date know that their company means a lot to you by conjuring up a day of adventure without a long drive “down the hill.” You may find that the best dates are found here in your own backyard. HDL January | February 2009

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 47

Food | Wine Cellar

Top Wines for the New Year “The word for the month of January is value, as the wines I have selected are not only inexpensive but good!” Jason Naranjo, Casa de Vino

The 2007 Kung Fu Girl Riesling ($14.95) hails from the Columbia Valley in the state of Washington.

Exploding with flavors of fresh peach and apricot and a touch of green apple, it’s light across the palate, with a lively minerality and a refreshing finish. Says Jason: “I would have to say this is quite nice and beautifully aromatic.”

Jason also affirms, “This one pairs nicely with all Thai dishes!”

The 2007 Layer Cake 100 percent Malbec ($16.95) from the Mendoza region in Argentina is a beauty deep and rich in color and vibrant in flavor. This Malbec is dense with ripe, dark berries, followed by hints of anise, making for an intense harmony delectable to the nose and in the mouth. As Jason describes: “It has flavors of nice, dark fruit, chocolate and hints of spice—definitely a mouthful!” Surprise your Valentine with this gem.

» Editor’s Pick Tremendous in value, all of the wines originating from the family owned and operated McManis Family Vineyards are quite flavorsome and can be found at Casa De Vino for under $15.00.

“Since I need to pick one for this issue, I am going to pick the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, ($13.95) since Cab is my favorite! The 2007 Cabernet is deep ruby purple in color. In the mouth, it will coat your palate with loads of dark berry fruit that is dense and rich.” With a delicious bouquet of blueberry, blackberry, toffee and oak that are supported by soft tannins, “it will be sure to beckon you back to filling your glass for a second sip of this inexpensive but good wine.”

48 High Desert Living magazine

Casa Devino’s Jason and Carol Naranjo

Wine Trends A Love affair with wine When the weather outside is frightful, a good glass of wine in a cozy setting can be so very delightful. What better way to unwind than to curl up with a good movie or book, stepped up a notch with a luxurious, hot bath, and topped off with a glass of fine wine? Oh, yeah! Or, if you’re in the mood to be sociable and get out and about, an evening of wine tasting with friends can be a blast and/or a marvelous way to start out a date.

Fortunately for us fine H.D. folks, there are several diverse wine bars/boutiques popping up in the H.D. to choose from, so, at last, we wine aficionados have some really great options.

If you’re in the mood to sample and learn about quality wine in excellent company and/or maybe do a little Valentine’s Day shopping, Casa De Vino Wine Boutique on Apple Valley Rd. is a marvelous choice. Not only do they provide a superior wine selection, but they also carry an array of Kama Sutra products, candles, pillows, music, and so much more—all of which can be arranged in a gift basket/crate of your choice. Just let Carol, Jason or Tara know what you’re envisioning, and they’ll create it. Now, that makes for a romantic gift (not so subliminal message: Valentine’s Day!) that could very well benefit both giver and receiver!

If you’re looking for a fun, yet warm, place to go to unwind with friends or a date, Divine Wine Bar on Monarch Blvd. in Victorville is another option for you. Enjoy a light snack of assorted cheeses and nuts, if you’d like, or perhaps a slice of their delicious New York cheesecake…or maybe their chocolate and fruit fondue, and pair it with a fine wine of your choice. They also offer coffee and tea—a nice option and a good choice at the end of the evening, especially for those making the drive home.

– Stephanie Keyes

Fine Wine Quotes “May our love be like good wine, grow stronger as it grows older.” ~Old English Toast “Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance.” ~Benjamin Franklin “What though youth gave love and roses, age still leaves us friends and wine.” ~Thomas Moore “A man cannot make him laugh—but that’s no marvel; he drinks no wine.” ~Shakespeare (Henry IV, Part 2)

January | February 2009

The High Deserts Biggest & Best Selection of wines in everyones price range! wine tasting - gift baskets - soaps - candles - chocolates - teas - and more!

Wine Tasting Fridays & Saturdays 10:00am-7:00pm It’s not just a tasting, but an expierence.

Learn while you taste, and meet great people.

13692 Apple Valley Rd Suite 250 Apple Valley, California www.casadevino.net 760.240.8877

Casa De Vino Wine Boutique

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 49

Food | Local Dining photo

“The Rosales family has created a delightful haven for those seeking a top-quality, mouthwatering, dining experience.”

A Recipe for Greatness La Casita Mexican Restaurant at the Lake

» La Casita Mexican Restaurant at the Lake 12170 Spring Valley Lake Pkwy, Victorville, (760) 843-0440, www.lacasitavictorville.com Mon-Fri 11:00 a.m.-9:00 pm Sat-Sun 8:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.

Take Out Orders and Catering Available

50 High Desert Living magazine

If you’ve been searching the H.D. for delicious and authentic Mexican food served in an atmosphere of style and fun, look no more. As most long time area residents know, La Casita Mexican Restaurant (located at the entrance of Spring Valley Lake) is definitely the place to go. Family owned and operated, with roots in the restaurant business that date back to 1966, the Rosales family has created a delightful haven for those seeking a top-quality, mouth-watering, dining experience. With three generations of Rosales’ in the business and at your service, and two other La Casita Mexican Restaurants in the H.D. (Palmdale Rd. in Victorville & Main St. in Hesperia), owner Freddie Rosales and his wife, Wendy, a Victorville Chamber of Commerce board member, take great care to ensure that their guests not only enjoy an exceptional meal but warm, personable service as well.

The elegant palms, grass graced umbrellas, and vibrant décor enhance the tropical and upbeat atmosphere and somehow make La Casita’s savory chips and oh-so-fresh salsa even more enjoyable. With an extensive menu that includes most classic Mexican favorites and such delights as Camarones Al Mojo De Ajo (shrimp simmered in butter & garlic) and Fried Tilapia, with sliced avocado and tortillas, La Casita offers something to please almost every palate. And, if someone in your party can’t live without a burger fix, no worries! La Casita’s Quarter Pound Hamburquesa may be just the remedy.

Whatever your choice, make sure to save some room for dessert as their Mucho Grande Buneulos and Deep Fried Ice Cream are heavenly.

La Casita Mexican Restaurant’s outstanding reputation and longevity in the community is an accolade to the Rosales family’s hard work and pride. Their authentic, delicious food draws their customers in, and their gracious attitudes and excellent service keep them coming back. – Stephanie Keyes January | February 2009

Fine Mexican dining, right here in the high desert at

Paulina’s Mexican Grill New menu items recently added!

Catering & Private events available.

760.955.2661 14845 Monarch Blvd Suite G Victorville, CA 92395 (Next to Victor Bowl)

www.paulinasmexicangrill.net

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 51

Food | Eating Out The following is a listing of select High Desert restaurants. These listings are a free service provided by H.D. Living Magazine and are subject to change. This guide also includes nightclubs and wine tasting. If you would like your dining establishment considered, send information to frankc@hdlivingmagazine.com, include your name, the name of the establishment, address, and contact information.

PAULINA’S

Golden Gate Restaurant 15208 Bear Valley Rd # B, (760) 245-6189

Kinari 12152 Cottonwood Rd, (760) 955-1500

Steer ‘n Stein Restaurant 12224 Mariposa Rd, (760) 241-0775

China Garden 13790 Bear Valley Rd # 10, (760) 245-9665

Marie Callenders 12180 Mariposa Rd, (760) 241-6973 Los Roberto’s 12670 Hesperia Rd, (760) 243-9422 Outback Steakhouse 12400 Amargosa Rd # B, (760) 962-1003 Maan Fu 14317 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 956-8787

Crown ‘n Sword 14173 Green Tree Blvd, (760) 245-3461 Yoshi Sushi 14177 Kentwood Blvd, (760) 241-1960 Alfredo’s 15509 Park Ave E, (760) 962-0195

La Casita Mexican Restaurant 14977 Palmdale Rd, (760) 241-0119 La Casita at the Lake 12170 Spring Valley Pkwy, (760) 843-0440 Rinconsito Del Mar 14678 7th St, (760) 951-0344

Chateau Chang Restaurant 15425 Anacapa Rd, (760) 241-3040

Tokyo Sushi & Bar BQ 14741 7th St, (760) 955-7123

Divine Wine Bar 14845 Monarch Blvd. Ste C, (760) 843-3888

Johnny Rebs’ Southern 15051 7th St, (760) 955-3700

52 High Desert Living magazine

La Fonda Restaurant 12353 Mariposa Rd Ste F1, (760) 243-1596 Ashoka Indian Cuisine 16180 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 241-2313 Paulina’s Mexican Grill 14845 Monarch Blvd, (760) 955-2661

The Wine Seller Apple Bear Center, (760) 961-2500 Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant 17790 Wika Rd, (760) 946-5344 Oggis Pizza & Brewing Co 19201 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 240-8977 Mama Carpino’s 22010 Highway 18 (760) 240-9664

» Hesperia

Daikoku Japanese Steak House 12174 Hesperia Rd, (760) 952-1300

Go Bangkok Thai Cuisine 15800 Main St Ste 200, (760) 947-9029

Well Being Tofu House 15024 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 241-8888

Lakeside Fusion Cuisine & Sushi Bar 13261 Spring Valley Pkwy, Suite 103 (760)962-6876

Los Domingos Restaurant 15885 Main St, (760) 948-6161

Mimi’s Cafe 12032 Amargosa Rd, (760) 244-6888

» Apple Valley

Los Toritos Mexican Restaurant 14962 Bear Valley Rd Ste A, (760) 245-1811

» Victorville

Mariscos Morrie 14845 Monarch Blvd, (760) 241-1115

Amy’s Mexican Restaurant 18768 US Highway 18 Ste 170, (760) 242-1474

Original Roadhouse Grill 11940 Amargosa Rd, (760) 949-2308 Karma Nightclub 12152 Cottonwood Rd, (760) 955-1600 El Tio Pepe Mexican Restaurant 12100 Amargosa Rd, (760) 241-0811 Carino’s 11970 Amargosa Rd, (760) 949-2248

Angel’s Roadhouse 2 13685 John Glenn Rd, (760) 240-6923 Casa De Vino 13692 Apple Valley Rd. #250, (760) 240-8877 Las Brisas Mexican Restaurant 21919 US Highway 18, (760) 240-1051 Nikki’s Cafe 19311 Bear Valley Rd (760) 247-355

Cancun Mexican & Seafood 15550 Main St, (760) 956-7720 Italian Kitchen 16409 Yucca St, (760) 244-7757 Molly Brown’s Country Cafe 16575 Smoketree St, (760) 949-1212 Thai-Lotus Restaurant 12027 Hesperia Rd, Hesperia, CA (760) 949-9362

Di Napoli’s Fire House 17856 US Highway 18, (760) 242-5802 January | February 2009

Las Brisas Restaurant

Simply...the best

Dine on our patio Chec

k ou

all n t our ew Sund a y Br

unch

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760.240.1051 21919 Hwy 18, Apple Valley www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 53

Entertainment | H.D. Calendar January 8 tracy morgan Spoonie luv from up above” is dropping into the Ie. Stand-up comedian, cast member on the hit series “30 rock”, past “Saturday night live” stalwart, and all-around funny man, Tracy Morgan is bringing his ‘hilarious’ act to San Manuel. He created and played such Snl memorable characters as astronaut Jones, Brian fellows, and reggie owens. Many also know him as the voice of the aforementioned smooth-talking Spoonie luv on Crank Yankers.

San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino, Highland Ca. For Tickets call: 1 (800) 359-2464 or go to sanmanuel.com neil DiamonD

January 4 neil DiamonD neil Diamond, one of pop music’s most enduring and successful singer-songwriters, comes to Citizens Business Bank arena in ontario on January 4. as a successful pop music performer, Diamond scored a number of hits worldwide in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. as of May 2005[update] Diamond had sold 120 million records worldwide, including 48 million records in the u.S. Citizens Business Bank Arena, Ontario Ca. For Tickets call: (909) 484-2020 or go to cbbankArena.com

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• NCR Forms • Custom Invitations • Labels • Posters • Banners

54 High Desert Living magazine

february 5 – 14 love letterS love letters centers on just two characters, Melissa gardner and andrew Makepiece ladd III as they sit side by side at tables and read the correspondence - in which they discuss their hopes and ambitions, dreams and disappointments, victories and defeats - that has passed between them throughout their separated lives. It is only at the ending that they realize they were really love letters all along. V.V.C. Theatre Arts Department—Black Box Theatre. For Tickets call (760) 245-4271 ext. TIX (849)

february 13-15 StanDing room only proDUctionS preSentS: “once Upon a time” Written and directed by Sro artistic Director, Karla J. franko, once upon a Time is a musical review designed to inspire K-8th graders to cultivate life-long reading skills. It incorporates classic children’s stories, fairy tales, and popular reading themes into its musical extravaganza, and serves as a catalyst to promote reading, cultural, and performing arts literacy.

The show is presented live with 10-18 year old cast members from the local High Desert performing community. The High Desert Center for the Arts, 8th and C Street, Victorville. For Tickets Call: (760) 243-7493 february 14 BoUlDer creeK rancH preSentS: “waS love tHe reaSon for mUrDer?” Come experience an evening of mystery, offering a chilling opportunity for ordinary people with a passion for cold blooded murder... slippery red herrings... diabolical clues... and ingenious detective work to indulge themselves in one of the most unusual, exhilarating, and spine tingling experiences they’ve ever had! a Murder Mystery Dinner by the lake, Valentine’s Day. Boulder Creek Ranch, Hesperia. Call (760) 987-3032 For More Details or go to bouldercreekranch.org

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January | February 2009

coming in march!

H.D. Living Home & Garden Edition want to reach

60,000

home owners and families across the high desert?

Then don’t miss out on the opportunity to GROW your business in our next issue...

Call For Advertising Information Today 760.963.1505 hdlivingmagazine.com

Happenings On Dec 2 the Victorville Young Professionals held it’s last mixer of 2008 with a Toys for Tots toy drive, the members of VYP look forward to a Happy, Healthy New Year.

Leslie Hearne, Christina Orellana, Cynthia Castro

Kimberly Tatera and Johan Graham

Rachel Bicondova and Laura Britten

Jennifer and Mike Nutter

Stephanie and Joe Lambert

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January | February 2009

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 57

Susan’s Corner A bright new year , a shiny new beginning, the start of new possibilities: if you’re like me, this is an exciting time of year for you. Though the weather is cool, optimism provides warmth that fills your spirit as we look ahead to new opportunities and fresh ideas to take us into the future. This is also the time of year when we look back at what has come before. According to the Don McLean classic American Pie, February 3, 1959 is “the day music died.” That day, fifty years ago, a plane crash claimed the lives of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and Bill “The Big Bopper” Richardson. It was a day that, for McLean, ended the idyll conformist 50s and ushered in an era of chaos and change, riots and reform. Because of that transformative era, we live in a fundamentally different world today than the one that bid adieu to those three Rock and Rollers. Motown and Liverpool ushered in a new musical era of fresh sounds; Acid Rock and Disco had their day before The New Wave, Pop Metal, Hip- Hop, Grunge, and Alternative kept us moving to the beat.

In fifty years’ time, we have witnessed civil rights movements of all kinds, men walking on the moon, as well as technological breakthroughs that once seemed the stuff of science fiction. Fifty years ago, so many items that we take for granted such as personal computers, cell phones, and even microwave ovens were many years in the future. The population of the H.D. was a fraction of its current number; the 15 freeway, Victor Valley College, and the California Aqueduct were not yet built. The very landscape of our high desert region has changed radically in the last half century, and we are now part of a global community linked through telecommunications. As we begin a new year, it is always fun to look back to see how far we have progressed and to look ahead at the wonderful things to come.

We at H.D. Living wish you all good things in the coming year!

We have received such great feedback about the holiday recipes we have included here at Susan’s Corner, so in honor of Valentine’s Day, our account rep Kari Martinez gives us a quick and easy recipe to share with your sweetheart: Strawberry Gelatin Pie

Looking forward, Looking Back

58 High Desert Living magazine

The Crust 2 cups crushed pretzels 2 tbls sugar 3 /4 cups melted butter.

Mix and press into a 9x13 baking dish (use a heart-shaped one for a festive Valentine’s Day treat). Bake at 400 0 for 8 minutes. Let cool completely before adding next layer.

Layer 1

8 oz cream cheese

8oz whipped topping 1 cup sugar Mix well then spread on cooled crust.

Layer 2 1 large pkg. gelatin 1 large bag frozen strawberries (sliced) Mix powdered gelatin with two cups boiling water, then add sliced frozen strawberries (make sure that the strawberries are still frozen at this point as they help the gelatin set instead of cold water.)

NOTE: do not add ice cubes or water as stated on the gelatin box; your frozen strawberries act as the cooling agent in this process. When gelatin and strawberries begin to thicken pour on top of the first layer and place in the refrigerator until gelatin sets. Enjoy!

January | February 2009

Let us help your family make 2009 a year of excellent health.

Offering... ...Two after hour urgent care locations ...Two Labs located inside our medical offices ...Digital X-Ray department at our Victorville Office ...Laser Institute of the High Desert ...Medical Assistant Hotline ...Electronic Patient Records ...Contracted with a majority of Health Plans Hesperia Medical Office 17095 Main Street Hesperia, Ca 92345 Hesperia Urgent Care 17073 Main Street Hesperia, Ca 92345 Monday-Friday 12pm-8pm

Victorville Medical Office 12550 Hesperia Rd #100 Victorville, Ca 92395 Victorville Urgent Care 12550 Hesperia Rd #100 Victorville, Ca 92395 Monday-Saturday 8am-8pm Sunday 9am-5pm

(760) 956-4158 New Apple Valley office & Urgent Care Coming Soon!

Physical Therapy inside our Hesperia Complex Coming Soon!

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