H.D. Living
March|April 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
WINE TRENDS GREAT PICKS FOR THE SPRING! PG 44
HOME & GARDEN OUR
BATHROOM RENOVATIONS • GARDENING ADVICE • MORE!
ISSUE
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
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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.
32
Table of Contents
March/April 2009 [ FEATURES ] 32 create a spa in your own home Time for an upgrade? Here we bring you some tips on creating a spa like environment right in your own home. By Tere Kidd 34
34 how does your garden grow? Bringing you some insight to what works best in the challenging climates the high desert has to offer. By Katie Chavez 38 victorville city spotlight As the Victor Valley’s largest city, there are big plans
for the future of this ever growing community. By Susan Landers
38
6 High Desert Living magazine
March | April 2009
15
[ DEPARTMENTS ] 12 PUBLISHERS LETTER 15 up front The Theme is Green, Fair Entertainment, Perfect Timing, Keeping Time, Coming of Age, Energy Savings. By Susan Landers and Krystal Carrillo 24 event spotlight 25th Annual Home and Garden Show. By Susan Landers 26 local culture The High Desert Center for the Arts. By Katie Chavez 28 business spotlight Joe Glover; Victor Valley’s Flooring Aficionado. By Stephanie Keyes 30 healthy lifestyle Vitamin Supplements. By Dr. Brad Hannon
28
44 wine trends Spring-time wines; Casa de Vino news, wine picks. By Stephanie Keyes 46 local dining D’vine Wine Bar-Indeed. By Stephanie Keyes 48 dining out Local restaurant listing 52 Arts and Culture Guide to upcoming entertainment and events 54 hd Happenings Local happenings 58 susan’s corner A Bit O’ Irish Luck be with Ye!
46
CORRECTION: In the last issue we incorrectly stated that annual memberships for Green Tree and Westwinds Golf Courses is $175 per year. That rate is the permonth membership rate. However family annual memberships are available for $235 per year. We apologize for the oversight. 8 High Desert Living magazine
March | April 2009
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 9
Contributors
Le Chateau De Soul rejuvenation clinique Located in the Historic Apple Valley Inn 20601 Hwy. 18 Apple Valley, Ca 92307 760.240.7773
H.D. Living H.D. Living Magazine Volume 2, Issue 2 March/April 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
Gift Certificates Available
PHOTOGRAPHERS George Sillas | GeorgeSillas.com
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tere Darnell, Katie Chavez, Krystal Carrillo, Stephanie Keyes, Dr. Brad Hannon
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. 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.
relax
visit us tuesday through saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm mondays and evenings by appointment only 10 High Desert Living magazine
ADVERTISING DESIGN Joe King Kari Martinez
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.
March | April 2009
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High Desert Living magazine 11
Publisher’s Letter
H.D. Living march|april 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
wine trends great picks for the spring! pg 44
HOMe & g a rd en our
issue
ing advice • more! bathro om renovations • garden
A | OAK HILLS LAKE | APPLE VALLEY | HESPERI VICTORV ILLE | SPRING VALLEY
NOT SUrE AbOUT YOU, but this is my favorite time of the year. The smell of the grass, kids playing at the ballpark, and the blooming of trees means it’s springtime. As spring approaches, we all have that list of things we would like to have done around the house: a new kitchen, remodeled bathroom or new paint. With our Home & Garden issue we explore some of these “to do’s” as Tere Kidd brings you our feature on remodeling your bathroom into a cozy spa-like retreat. We also bring you some insightful information on keeping up your Garden here in the H.D., not all climates are the same, as Katie Chavez gives us advice on some of the better options for your H.D. garden. Continuing our city spotlights, we go inside the City of Victorville; with a new Mayor and City Council in place there are lots of plans for this ever changing city. Susan Landers tells us what’s ahead for the H.D.’s anchor. With spring comes some great events right here in the H.D.: our local Home & Garden show, High Desert Mavericks baseball, and the San Bernardino County Fair. As a father of two boys myself, these local venues provide fun and budget friendly entertainment for the whole family, and our Upfront section has it all. And, as always, don’t forget to catch this issue’s Wine Trends by Stephanie Keyes with wine picks from Casa Devino’s Jason Naranjo along with H.D. Happenings and a new Susan’s Corner as she brings us the history behind Saint Patty’s day. Once again, we strive to bring you the best our High Desert has to offer and enjoy the positive feedback we receive about our growing publication. We hope you enjoy this issue of H.D. Living magazine as much as I enjoy this time of the year.
Frank Castillo Frank Castillo Publisher/CEO FrankC@hdlivingmagazine.com
12 High Desert Living magazine
March | April 2009
County Fair o n i d r a n r e B San Green aCreS the place to be
Photography by Mitchell Parsons
Bret Michaels May 12th
Gretchen Wilson May 13th
May 9th-17th Saturday & Sunday 12:00pm to 11:00pm Monday-Friday, 4:00pm to 11:00pm www.sbcfair.com
(760)951-2200
CarnivaL rideS - Food- enTerTainmenT For The whoLe FamiLy www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 13
who’s who and what’s what
Up Front The Theme is Green This year’s San Bernardino County Fair goes green Get ready for a fun time for the whole family as the San Bernardino County Fair returns to the fairgrounds in Victorville May 9th through May 17th! In addition to thrilling rides and great exhibits, there will be numerous concerts and shows to please everyone. Check out livestock competitions and homemade crafts. Sample fun foods and neat treats! Demonstrations on how to live ‘green’ will be all around as this year’s San Bernardino County Fair is boasting an environmental theme, and ‘Green Acres’ is the place YOU want to be. For fair information, go to SBCFair.com—Susan Landers
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 15
Upfront Who’s Who
Let Us Entertain You The live entertainment performing at this year’s San Bernadino County Fair is a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll
Bret Michaels
As the lead singer of Poison in the 80s and 90s, he scored big hits such as “Talk Dirty to Me,” “Nothing but a Good Time,” and “Every Rose has its Thorn”; now, Bret Michaels will be performing those hits and more as he takes the stage at the San Bernardino County Fair May 12, at 7:30 P.M. Bret Michaels brings his Rock of Love Bus Show to the Victor Valley, and you won’t want to miss out on the excitement. In a career spanning more than twenty years, Bret Michaels has rocked the music world and now in his third season of Rock of Love, the hit reality show Sunday nights on VH1, he is as popular as ever. For more information on Bret Michaels, visit: www.bretmichaels.com, and be sure to get your tickets to see this energetic rocker live and in person. Tickets are limited, and this show will certainly sell out— don’t miss Bret Michaels at the San Bernardino County Fair! Buy your tickets online at www.sbcfair.com. photo by Michell Parsons
Gretchen Wilson
Don’t miss out as Gretchen Wilson takes the stage at the San Bernardino County Fair on May 13, at 7:30 P.M.. The award-winning singer of such hits as “Redneck Woman” and “Here for the Party” will be performing at the San Bernardino County Fair as part of her nationwide tour. A seemingly overnight success, Gretchen Wilson’s debut single “Redneck Woman” spent six weeks atop the Billboard chart, and her debut CD took music fans by storm selling more than five million copies. That’s not all; her autobiography, Redneck Woman: Stories from My Life, landed her as a New York Times bestselling author. Now with her third hit album, One of the Boys, and a nationwide tour in full swing, Gretchen Wilson proves she is not only “here for the party,” but plans on staying for quite some time. For more information on Gretchen Wilson, visit: www.gretchenwilson.com. A rollicking good time for all will be had when Gretchen Wilson comes to the San Bernardino County Fair! Get your tickets online at www.sbcfair.com. 16 High Desert Living magazine
March | April 2009
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Upfront Profiles
Perfect Timing
Sue Dearing and Dondi Hale of Keller Williams Realty
“Now is the time to establish the real estate aspect of your financial
The conditions are perfect for firsttime home buyers, due to low pricing, low interest, and tax benefits.
portfolio,” advise Sue Dearing and Dondi Hale of Keller Williams Realty in Victorville. Instead of wallowing in the current economic climate, the team at Keller Williams Realty encourages H.D. residents to help rebuild the economic confidence so desperately needed at this time. Dearing and Hale both point to the silver lining in the current housing market and explain that now is the perfect opportunity for first-time buyers to “purchase that dream home that was out of reach a few years ago.” They also suggest H.D. residents take advantage of the market, because it is “excellent … for purchasing investment properties for future tax benefits and future appreciation.” According to Dearing and Hale, “In the month of December, 87 percent of the resale homes were bank-owned properties, making the conditions perfect for first-time home buyers, due to low pricing, low interest, and tax benefits.” The Dearing team at Keller Williams is committed to ensuring that firsttime home buyers are able to afford their investments. “We take working with buyers very seriously and work very closely with first-time home buyers to provide solid financing programs that will work within their budget and will not jeopardize their future.” Dearing and Hale are proud to be part of a team that has the “ability to work with and facilitate many facets of the market—REO bankowned, short sales, new home builders, lenders, banks, credit unions and accredited loan modification specialists, as well as buying and selling investment properties, comprehensive property analysis, and current market reporting.” As Dearing and Hale reminds us, “For all the High Desert homeowners, the real estate market continues to cycle, and will come back!” Contact the Dearing Team at Keller Williams Realty for your H.D. real estate investments: (760) 951-0577.—Krystal Carrillo
18 High Desert Living magazine
Keeping Time
Bunny Lynn and Paul Mariano of Carriage house antiques
December 11, 2008 marks
the day the Desert was first able to admire its latest testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, as Carriage House Antiques opened its doors to the H.D. Owners Bunny Lynn and Paul Mariano have lived in the High Desert for 28 years, and have spent much of that time pursuing their passion for antiques. After both collecting and dealing for several years, the Marianos realized the need for a one-stop, quality antique destination in the local area, and so began the threeyear long building process of their dream antiques mall. The Carriage House Antiques mall spans nearly 8,000 feet and boasts over thirty different antique and collectible dealers. With its expansive setting and daily-changing inventory, Paul laughs, “I would be shocked if someone was actually able to leave here without finding something they loved.” Come in to the Carriage House, appropriately named for the antique carriage in its front window, and you are sure to find something unique, invaluable, and perfectly suited to your tastes. Bunny Lynn, as her husband points out, likes to describe their vast selection as including everything from “rustic to refined.” At Carriage House Antiques, guests should expect to find unexpected treasures; the merchandise ranges from custom-made items and glassware, including Depression Era and Carnival Glass, to vintage furniture and vintage and hand-made jewelry. Visitors can also expect to find everything from local artwork to classic Coca-Cola and NASCAR collectibles. The mall’s diverse collections, spanning the 1800s to the present, come from both hometown and international sources, as their merchants extend from regional artists to European dealers. Although the majority of the mall’s inventory is made up of the vintage, antique, and collectible, guests can also expect to find a wide selection of modern gift items, such as greeting cards, CDs, March | April 2009
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McCall’s candles, and Howard’s restoring products. Carriage House Antiques mall even has a section called “MANtiques,” where you can find, as Paul describes, “all those very manly things,” like vintage fishing equipment, nostalgic automotive items, assorted signs, antique tools, and masculine gift ideas. The good-natured ambiance of Carriage House Antiques becomes apparent as soon as guests enter the building. The antique carriage in its front window designates just one of the mall’s many welcoming trademarks: its bistro tables invite visitors to sip complimentary coffee and tea served in vintage tea cups. Snacks are also provided for guests to enjoy as they browse between the mall’s expansive collections. Customers can also feel great about their purchases at Carriage House because antique shopping is a magnificent way to recycle—Paul points out that because much of the merchandise in Carriage House is antique and collectible, resources are not being wasted in new manufacturing. Because the H.D. is committed to living green this spring, we are sure to see the continued blossoming of the Marianos’ entrepreneurial dream. residents can also look forward to Carriage House’s Spring Sale, when the mall will host an open-air market where vendors from all over can come and sell their goods. As you make spring a time of renewal in your home, skip the monotony and expense of mass-produced chain-stores; stop by Carriage House Antiques instead, have a cup of tea, and enjoy their everchanging collections of unique and hand-crafted treasures. Carriage House Antiques is open 7 days a week: Monday - Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Visit the mall, located at 11370 Hesperia rd., off of Bear Valley. For more information, call (760) 948-5577.—Krystal Carrillo www.hdlivingmagazine.com
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Upfront Entertainment Beat
Coming of Age The HD Mavericks celebrate eighteen years What’s the easiest way to cut costs without sacrificing quality and entertainment in the wake of our current economic climate? Enjoy all that is offered to you in the convenience of your own community. Save the money you’d spend on a tank of gas for that tedious trip down-the-hill, and spend a fraction of it on popcorn and quality time with your kids at a good ol’ ball game, right here in the High Desert! You can get all the excitement of the major league, at a quarter of the expense, when you stop by a High Desert Mavericks game. Fully-stocked snack bars, firework spectacles, and crowds filled with familiar neighborhood faces are just side-note benefits to the excitement a Mavericks game 20 High Desert Living magazine
ensures. Over their eighteen-year history, the Mavericks have achieved enormous success. As Tim Altier, General Manager of the High Desert Mavericks Baseball Club, points out: “The Mavericks have won three California League Championships since moving to the High Desert in 1991, with the most recent being in 1997.” Altier also shared his expectations for the team this season: “We’re certainly due for another playoff run this year, and with the pitching talent that the Seattle Mariners (our Major League affiliate) are planning on sending here, that might not be too far-fetched.” The talent and guaranteed excitement of a Mavericks game are among the primary reasons H.D. residents should spend their spring evenings in Maverick Stadium, enjoying America’s favorite pastime in the convenience of their own community. As Altier observes, however, these are not the only reasons: “Besides the exciting Minor League Baseball action on the field, the Mavericks and the front office are quite proud of the inexpensive and wholesome family fun that we provide every night. We gear most of our promotions and events towards families and, especially, children, to give our youngest fans the opportunity to experience the fun up-close and firsthand.” The benefits of supporting our local team are also manifold: audiences get a great night of priceless entertainment, the team receives the encouragement and support of their community, and the community is then able to receive the benefits of a successful and generous organization, as the Mavericks support numerous community events and programs throughout the High Desert. Don’t miss Opening Day 2009, April 9 at Maverick Stadium in Adelanto. Altier and the Mavericks are looking forward to another season of “bringing ‘a big league experience right in our own backyard,’” and 2009 is sure to see another exciting year for the Mavericks, especially as their community continues to fill the seats up to support them! For ticket information, call (760) 246-MAVS, or email cloper@ hdmavs.com to order. Learn more about our High Desert Mavericks at www. hdmavs.com.—Krystal Carrillo March | April 2009
Upfront Energy Savings
Energy Conservation in the H.D. Californians can be proud that our state has long been a national leader in raising
environmental consciousness, and High Desert residents can be doubly proud that our local cities are doing their part to contribute. With every effort towards energy conservation and environmental protection, our local governments are also helping H.D. residents conserve and protect what’s green in their pocketbooks. Find out what your local city is doing to preserve all that is green in your life, from the trees in your backyard to the dollars in your bank account.
Apple Valley The town’s Public Relations Specialist, Sierra Webb, shares Apple Valley’s tireless efforts to promote its environmental agenda: “As of December, the town of Apple Valley became a member of the Green Valley Initiative, whose mission is to ‘Transform Riverside and San Bernardino counties into a region that integrates people and businesses with natural resources to create new jobs, greater opportunities and higher qualityof-life.’ The aim of the initiative is to bring green technologies and sustainable practices to the Inland Empire.” Webb details the town’s steadfast commitment to their “Green Apple Valley” vision, which includes new bike paths, equestrian trails, sidewalks, Habitat Gardening classes sponsored by the town’s Recreation Department, and the buses used by the Victor Valley Transit Authority, which already run on natural gas. Webb also points out that “Community Clean Up Day, Adopt- A-Street, and Adopt-A-Trail programs all involve volunteers cleaning up streets and fields, meaning less taxpayer dollars spent on cleaning up trash.” Apple Valley’s first Community Clean Up Day of 2009 is April 11, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. (For information on this event, call 760-240-7000 x7071). Mattress Drop-Off Day will take place March 14, and Tire Amnesty Day on April 25 (For information on these free drop-off days, call 760-240-7560). Every first and third Saturday of the month, the town also holds a Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off at its Public Works Yard. Webb observes the importance of such free drop-off days, saying: “Everything we recycle ultimately results in energy conservation, as the many items that can be refurbished or reused in another way mean that new items won’t need to be manufactured and transported. Any waste that can be diverted into our drop off days is waste that won’t end up in our fields and won’t have to be picked
22 High Desert Living magazine
up by our staff, which are paid for by taxpayers in the end.” The town also works closely with Edison and Mojave Water Agency to promote home energy efficiency. For more about the commitment to a Green Apple Valley, log on to www.applevalley.org, click on “Community,” and then “Green Apple Valley.” Hesperia While the city of Hesperia boasts an extensive environmental program, the city cites water conservation and recycling as its two major areas of emphasis. Kelly Malloy, Public Information Analyst of Hesperia’s City Manager’s office, observes how conserving water not only benefits the Hesperia community environmentally, but also financially on an individual level: “Often, people don’t realize how much they could be saving, just by using their water more efficiently.” Cut these frequently-overlooked expenses by contacting Hesperia’s Water Conservation Specialist at (760) 947-1412, who can perform a free water audit to help you reduce costs and discover water waste. In describing Hesperia’s commitment to recycling, Malloy points to the success of Hesperia’s E-Waste collection day, held three times a yearevery fall, winter, and springbehind the old City Hall building on Main St. Thanks to this free event, Hesperia residents can safely get rid unneeded cell phones, computers, printers, and other electronic products, without piling up the landfill. The city also works hand-in-hand with Advanced Disposal to promote recycling and environmentally-friendly disposal of waste. Advanced Disposal ensures that residents enjoy “unlimited trash pick-up, large item pick-up, and two free dump days each year.” The city also offers Household Hazardous Waste Collection every Tuesday and Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding holidays. Residents can stop by 17443
March | April 2009
Lemon Street for help with safely disposing of such items as auto fluids, cleaners, paint, batteries, pool chemicals, yard chemicals, and electronic/universal waste (for more information, call 760947-1589). Hesperia will hold its biannual Community Clean Up Day on April 11th. The city presents this city-wide event in conjunction with the county of San Bernardino. According to the Recycling page on Hesperia’s website, on this day, “residents are invited to dispose of boxed, bundled, or bagged, non-hazardous items for free from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Advance Disposal located at 17105 Mesa Street. Curbside pickup is available for seniors and the disabled residents by appointment only.” During this same event, residents can also take advantage of Tire Amnesty Day, when their unneeded tires can be recycled, rather than thrown away. For more information, contact the Hesperia Environmental Programs Coordinator: (760) 947-1589. Victorville The city of Victorville is also committed to promoting energy conservation in the High Desert. Yvonne Hester, Director of Victorville’s Public Information Department, shares with H.D. Living the city’s recent green advances: During the summer of 2006, the City of Victorville was the first city in America to install the Ice Bear 50 cooling system in all its municipal facilities. This technology is shown to decrease the energy consumption of a traditional air conditioner by up to 905. Hester also notes that in April of 2007, Victorville’s Utility Department began generating renewable Bio Bi-Fuel for its utility customers. In early 2007, the City Council approved a resolution requiring the city’s diesel fleet to use clean fuel—a blend called B20. It is made up of 20% biodiesel and 80% clean-burning, sulfur-free petroleum diesel in all diesel engines. In May 2007, the City of Victorville received the State of California’s 2007 Flex Your Power Award in the Demand Response/Conservation category. Victorville City Hall features numerous solar panels. The City’s municipal golf courses are irrigated with reclaimed water to reduce the demands on fresh water. The City utilizes the latest technology to control the irrigation for each park and Landscape Maintenance Assessment Districts (LMADs). The city system includes a stand alone weather station that compiles and analyzes weather conditions and Plant Evapotranspiration rates daily. Then the weather station automatically feeds information to each park and LMAD throughout the city and adjusts water applications accordingly each day prior to the start of the water cycle. At Southern California Logistics Airport, the City’s partner, Stirling, is developing the first project-wide “Green” commercial and industrial park. Approximately 60 million square feet of commercial and industrial warehouse and logistics facilities are under development and all will be constructed to meet LEED requirements. As LEED buildings, the energy-efficient, environmentally-conscious facilities will help reduce the impacts of natural resource consumption and increase occupant health and productivity.—Krystal Carrillo www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 23
Upfront Event Spotlight
Twenty Five Years and Counting The 25th annual High desert home and garden show brings it all together
The 25th Annual High Desert Home and Garden Show will once again grace the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds April 3, 4, and 5. Twice a year (April and November) for a quarter of a century, the Home and Garden Show has made the connections between homeowners and businesses to create great living spaces here in the H.D. In past years, many people simply moved seeking their dream homes, but in these uneasy economic times, many are opting to stay in their present homes and craft the perfect place. Turning your home and garden into a personal paradise may seem a daunting task, but at the Home and Garden Show, you can get great ideas for transforming your home and meet the people who can make it happen. With over two hundred of the H.D.’s top businesses in one convenient location, you’re sure to find just the right builder, decorator, landscaper, or contractor to make your dream home a reality all in your own backyard! Why travel “down the hill” when the people, services, and products you need are right here? With Green being the optimum word these days, you will find plenty of businesses ready to turn your ener24 High Desert Living magazine
gy deficient home into an energy efficient one! Jeff Bygum, who produces the Home and Garden Show, says that you will find a “plethora of home improvement companies” at this year’s home show. Whether you are seeking solar electric, solar-thermal, geothermal, or wind turbines, Bygum says you’ll find the just the right method to lower your energy bills. There will be exhibits such as the Desert Communities Water Awareness Expo featuring demonstrations on how to reduce your water bills through the use of drought tolerant plants and low water use fixtures. This April, the Home and Garden Show has joined with the Victorville fire department to offer you an opportunity to recycle that E-Waste and get VIP admission into the show. Just bring your old cell phone, worn-out computer keyboard, or any other electronic waste you have lying around the house and the city of Victorville firefighters will recycle it for free and give you a VIP admission ticket into this year’s show. Come find all the ways to turn your home into your castle at this year’s Home and Garden Show. For more information on this year’s Home and Garden Show call (760) 949-0822 or go online at www.highdeserthomeshows.com—Susan Landers March | April 2009
HIGH DESERT
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Upfront Local Culture
Nurturing Creativity The high desert center for the arts Nestled in Old Town Victorville, the High Desert Center for the Arts (HDCA) is a welcoming home for local visual and performing artists wishing to showcase their talents. Built in 1943, this former USO building started off as a place to serve the local military. But after World War II, it was handed over to San Bernardino County and then the city of Victorville where it spent many years operating as a community center. About 9 years ago, the High Desert Cultural Arts Foundation Inc. struck a deal with Victorville allowing the building to be used as a center for the arts. The goal was to turn it into a place for training and performance in the visual and performing arts. Once they had the building, an overhaul was set into action. “It was a marvelous thing,” recalls Dick Dorwald, executive director of HDCA. The refurbishment was almost completely done by the hands of volunteers. A sloped floor and plush seating were installed along with a gallery for showcasing art. The addition of a Venetian curtain (a curtain that moves up and down rather than side to side) and the extension of the original stage completed the transformation from a community center into a functioning theater. This transformation was no small task. It took long hours and backbreaking labor, but as Dorwald remembers, “it was a labor of love. We were pleased with the way it came out.” All that hard work has paid off. Today, HDCA is being utilized by the community as dance, music, and theater groups house their shows on its stage. Shenanigans, the youth theater group, calls HDCA home, and any group needing a stage is welcomed to book performance dates. The HDCA also holds acting and art classes on its grounds for those wishing to test the waters of their artistic pursuits. 26 High Desert Living magazine
Not only is the HDCA a theater, it also doubles as an art gallery. Surrounding the theater seating is a gallery displaying artwork by a multitude of local artists. Everything in the gallery comes from people in the community, and anyone wishing to proudly exhibit their creative work is encouraged to submit their art for display. A perfect time to view the gallery is during the intermission of a performance; it makes intermission an enjoyable affair. And, if one piece of art is particularly appealing, many of the works in the collection are also for sale. “Part of our job,” says Dorwald, “is to get the community interested in the visual and performing arts.” With shows happening nearly every weekend, the community has ample opportunity to see their talented and dedicated neighbors in action. Some of the performers will even take time off of work just to be part of productions like the Theater Arts Guild (an organization that has been in the H.D. for 60 years) presentation of Burlesque ’09. Dorwald accurately describes the HDCA as “just a place where people can come and feel comfortable.” That comfort is evident in every corner of the building, from the theater’s humble size to the couches in the lobby. It is a place that nurtures our community’s creative ambitions. Within the sturdy walls of the building is a reminder that our community has a great deal of history lurking everywhere. The HDCA has over 65 years worth of history that shows no signs of stopping. From entertaining the military to giving artists a place to thrive, it has survived growth and change in the H.D. And as long as loyal patrons and enthusiastic artists continue to share a love for the arts, the High Desert Center for the Arts will easily prosper for another 65 years. For more information about the High Desert Center for the Arts, please call (760) 243-7493 or visit www.highdesertcenterforthearts.com.—Katie Chaves March | April 2009
Upfront Local Business
Joe Glover—Victor Valley’s Flooring Aficionado While studying to obtain a marketing degree, Joe
Glover made ends meet by working a part time job in a small and struggling carpet store. As sales were less than great, Joe decided to put his newly acquired marketing skills to work, and wouldn’t you know it, things began to improve. When the store was sold, Joe had the great opportunity to take a sales position at Carpeteria of Lancaster. Joe was elated to be hired by such a reputable company—one well known for their quality in service and merchandise. “It’s a salesman’s dream to work for a place that does stand behind its work and its products as Carpeteria has done since 1953.” Before he knew it, Joe was managing the store, and under his three year management, the store thrived. An impressive increase was seen, not only in sales, but also in service and referrals. This gave him the confidence to open his own flooring center in the Victor Valley. When asked why he chose the H.D., Joe explained, “I have a six year old daughter (Pixie Miss Victorville!), and I wanted to have my business in a thriving community with some small town values. The Victor Valley was a perfect fit for us.” Because Carpeteria is locally owned and operated, yet has the “buying power of the big box stores,” they can purchase the same
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quality material as their competitors but at a much lower price. “That’s how we save the consumer money!” Joe is also excited that Carpeteria has joined forces with Stainmaster, offering the finest products, services, and warranties, “without compromise.” They are also the only dealer of Ultra Life carpet in the H.D.. In addition to providing highly regarded goods and services, Joe Glover and Carpeteria also give back to the community. To show their appreciation, Carpeteria is donating one dollar per yard of Stainmaster carpet sold from February 1st through April 30th of 2009 to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Joe expands on this saying, “This is Carpeteria of Victorville’s 1st Annual Carpeteria Cares event, and with your continual support and referrals, this event will be a success.” Joe Glover has proven himself an admirable businessman with exceptional leadership skills. His dedication to his family, customers, staff, and the H.D. community is a gift and a testimony to his success, as is the success of Carpeteria of Victor Valley.—Stephanie Keyes Visit Carpeteria at their Victorville location, 17260 Bear Valley Rd., call them at (760) 955-9551, or online at www.carpeteria.com March | April 2009
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High Desert Living magazine 29
Health Supplements
Supplementation
What does supplementation mean?
Vitamins are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle by Dr. Brad Hannon
Cultivating a healthy lifestyle means paying attention to what
we put into our bodies. From food to supplements, we’ll talk about what’s desirable and what’s doable. Locally and organically grown produce is available here in the H.D. and helps our economy—a win-win situation—but what if your lifestyle won’t support homecooked meals? Eating a healthy diet full of fresh organic vegetables and fruits, whole grains, and lean meats is not achievable for everyone in today’s fast-paced society. For those of us who can’t eat healthily on a daily basis, we need to supplement.
Supplementation means to add something, to make complete, make up for a deficiency, or extend or strengthen the whole. Most nutritionists, chiropractors, and other health oriented practitioners agree that the typical American diet is lacking in basic nutrition and therefore requires the need for supplementation. Recently, a professor of epidemiology and public health nutrition, Gladys Block, at the University of California, Berkeley, published a report that notes the average American receives 30% of their calories from unhealthy sources. 25% came from sweets and desserts, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages, while salty snacks and fruit flavored drinks made up 5%. Research shows that the typical American diet is pro- inflammatory in content with a 20 omega 6 to 1 omega 3 ratio, while nutrition experts suggest a 4 to 1 or less ratio would be optimum.
What supplements should one take?
Like everything in life, there are different levels of commitment when it comes to optimum health. Most experts agree that a bare minimum is a multivitamin of some sort; this should be the first step in supplementation. For those who wish to take things a bit further, an example of the next level would be to include Omega 3 (Fish oils), Glucosamine sulfate, and Calcium and magnesium (or multi mineral). The third step would include CoQ10 (antioxidant and energy), occasional cycle of probiotic supplements and digestive enzymes (improve gut health and function), and vitamin D (research has shown many Americans are deficient in vitamin D). One issue underlining the more advanced levels of supplementation is specific supplements for specific health reasons (for example taking specific supplements to help with cholesterol, blood pressure, sleep, energy, etc); don’t self “prescribe.” All advanced levels, beyond a multivitamin, should be advised and supervised by a healthcare practitioner.
Can one overdose on Vitamins?
In a simple answer: yes. Water soluble vitamins are not easily stored in your body and are wasted out in your urine, 30 High Desert Living magazine
March | April 2009
which makes it difficult to overdose on. However, the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, are stored in your body and can cause significant health issues if over consumed, especially A and D. Also, iron can be over-consumed and cause health issues. It is important to read all your labels and then look up the recommended daily intake and allowance (RDI and RDA) and compare what you are taking with what is recommended. Just remember that your healthcare practitioner may recommend more than the RDI amount due to special circumstances.
Organic vs. Synthetic Supplementation
One topic that must be addressed when discussing supplementation is: the difference between synthetic supplements and whole food organic supplements. Currently, the food industry synthetically will coat/fortify things like breakfast cereals, add vitamin C to sweets, vitamin D to milk, and others. There are arguments both for, and against, this current
practice. One issue with synthetic supplementation, either in fortifying foods or in pill form, is where are they making the chemicals; China is a large producer, and they have had some recent trouble with quality. The other issue is that there is a difference between eating a carrot that contains Vitamin A and other nutrients and co-enzymes to aid in the digestion and use of Vitamin A in the body, and taking synthetic Vitamin A by itself. When vitamin A is ingested by itself, our bodies have to use the co-enzymes and other nutrients in our bodies’ storage to use the vitamin A. This is why many people will see benefits when taking a synthetic multivitamin for a few short months, but then later when the body’s storage is used up, the benefits are not there. For the majority of the time, whole food organic supplementation is best; however, there are scenarios when quality synthetic supplements are necessary. In summary, there are no nutritional magic bullets. We simply need to eat less high calorie, low nutrient foods and fo-
cus on low calorie foods (fruits and vegetables) that are rich in nutrients. The take home message in this issue is that to achieve a healthier lifestyle we need to buy locally raised and grown organic foods and supplement. Hippocrates is famous for saying the following applicable quote: “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” Look for the next issue, and we will discuss how to read labels to learn what you’re putting into your body.
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.
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Create a Spa in Your Own Home By Tere Kidd
There are three reasons to remodel or update a bathroom:
One is to pamper yourself - give yourself those precious few minutes of the day to indulge the senses. Literally take refuge in your home in the room that is the most private of places. A place where the children are not supposed to be banging on the door wanting P.B. and J.s, and if you’re lucky, even your spouse may leave you alone. In other words, as balladeer Eddy Arnold sang “make the world go away …..get it off my shoulders.” Donald Tatera of Decorating Den‘s Team Tatera, a national interior design company says, “The trend in bathroom design right now is toward creating a spa-like atmosphere in the home. The bathroom is the first place you see in the morning and the last at night.” Tatera says people are looking for a retreat in their own homes at the end of the day. The second reason is to increase marketability. The attractiveness of your home is a major player when trying to market it. If your bathroom looks dated because the materials or style of cabinets and fixtures is old, it may be time for an update to newer, more fashionable materials. Keep in mind that old and vintage are not necessarily the same thing: old is old, and vintage is not kitschy, but what represents the best of a past time. Example? The old style claw-footed bathtubs are classic. The plastic tub and shower enclosures in off-white are not.
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March | April 2009
The 50s and 60s are resurfacing big time in clothing design and paper products such as notebook design and gift wrap, but the geometrically dominated 50s and 60s home designs are not. At least, not here in the H.D. On a Sunday afternoon drive - that used to be an institution - you may come across the odd geometrically-designed doorway, but that is rare and for the most part looks quite out of place. Of course, there’s the asking price for your home should you decide to sell it. Pamela Suzanne Johnson of Pacific Gold Realty advises that if you are adding square footage to your bathroom, it is important to not ‘overbuild the neighborhood.’ If you are up to adding square footage, Johnson suggests consulting a contractor and realtor before and after the addition. She says it is important to make sure the money invested in the remodel does not cost you more than you can recover when selling your home due to the comparable listings in the neighborhood. Tatera observes that most bathroom remodels do not include adding square feet to the structure, but changing the character of the room and updating fixtures. He says some remodels may involve tearing out a closet to enlarge the bathroom, but most don’t involve adding square feet to the house. Of course, one easy way to create the appearance of enlarging the room is through the glass enclosure of the shower. That can make a bathroom seem much larger than it is, and it is a clean contemporary look. Jodie Campbell of C & C Designs says, “The most important step you take in a remodel is to find a licensed contractor who can supply you with recommendations.” She adds, “make sure the contractor has insurance and workman’s compensation insurance. Campbell who works here in the H.D. and other areas such as Lake Arrowhead says,“Urban rustic is popular, but colors remain neutral with the use of a lot of stone. Metals such as copper, bronze, and iron are being used, as well as glass. Tatera has noticed with some of his clients that the anticipation of ageing is becoming a factor in redoing a bathroom. As people age, most want to remain home as long as possible. They don’t want institutional looking accessories in their bathrooms. They foresee the necessity of grab-bars to aid in getting in and out of the bath or shower, but they want grab bars that are attractive and stylish in addition to being useful. In the end it comes down to what you can afford and how much you enjoy the process and results. In this housing market your safest bet is to keep your needs in mind and the resale value - sometime in the future - a variable to be carefully measured. Remodeling a bathroom when square footage is not being added, can be a really fun, messy, engrossing (which tile matches the color of the walls or sink?) crazy, fulfilling project. The stout of heart take heed. You’re in for an engaging ride. HDL www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 33
How Does Your Garden Grow? Living in the desert poses unique gardening challenges By Katie Chavez
34 High Desert Living magazine
No matter how long you’ve lived in the H.D., chances are you
have found that gardening around here is not an easy task. Our dry heat in the summer and freezing spells in the winter (and occasional snow) can be hard on our gardening ambitions. We may long for the lush green of places “down the hill” but should remember that this is a desert, and gardening in a desert is often a delicate process. So before you tear out all your plants and throw down your shovels in disgust, try focusing on a garden full of desert sense; you may find that you have a green thumb after all.
Plants That Thrive Choosing the correct type of plants for your yard is an important step in ensuring the success of the garden. And in the H.D., this is especially true. One plant for your consideration is the American Century Plant. It looks a bit like a cross between a flower and a cactus, though it is neither. It is a succulent that can resemble a flower in the way its blue-green leaves unfold from its base but can look like a cactus because of the rough hooked spine along its hardy leaves. It will do well in high heats with full sun exposure and infrequent watering. Also, it stands up fairly well to freezing conditions. Another plant to consider is the Desert Willow; it can be used as a large shrub or small tree. It is initially a fast growing tree with long leaves and a somewhat shaggy appearance. In spring, the Desert Willow blooms beautifully delicate trumpet shaped flowers in vibrant lavender. March | April 2009
To escape the summer heat, adding a Fruitless Mulberry to the garden is nice way to incorporate a tree that can withstand the desert and still provide great amounts of shade. They grow quickly and well in our area’s soil. instead of a lawn While having an expansive and lush green lawn is high on many homeowners’ list,—right after the white picket fence—it is not practical in the desert. To maintain a lawn can be quite expensive and wasteful when it comes to water. But if you can’t live without the turf, low water use grasses are a must. Grasses like the St. Augustine Grass that enjoys lots of sun or the Zoysiagrass that is extremely drought tolerant are more acceptable to use. The best thing, though, is to forget about the lawn. I know; it sounds scary. But if you don’t already have one, don’t put one in. You can easily cover your dusty yard with groundcovers or shrubs. Creeping rosemary is a shrub that can get to about 3 feet high and adds greenery to any setting. It does well with little water and dry heat. Keep in mind Shopping at nation-wide hardware stores for plants may not be a great idea. They do not necessarily cater to desert living and may not supply the kinds of plants that will survive our climate. Going to locally owned nurseries is a better bet for finding plants that will thrive in the area and experts to point you in the right direction. Also remember that not only in the H.D., but throughout Southern California, water management is a necessity. So when your desert friendly garden is in place, pay close attention to any water waste that may be avoidable. Not only will this be good for reducing water consumption, it will also help economically as well. Visiting your city’s water department, either online or in person, is a great way to learn more about water management. It is entirely possible to create small places of paradise by being smart about gardening in the H.D. With a little desert sense, we can reduce frustration and needless water consumption. Most importantly, though, have fun while gardening during those quintessential desert days when the clear blue of the sky and warmth of the still air is invitation enough to soak up the sun and enjoy being outside. hdl
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11th annual victor valley garden party On Saturday, March 28, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the city of Victorville will be hosting its annual garden party at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds. This free event will offer workshops and booths from local businesses and experts to help residents navigate through landscaping and gardening efforts. A main focus of this green carpet event will be on how to create low water use gardens and garden waste reduction. Remember, gardening is a family affair; at the Victor Valley Garden Party, kids can take part in activities like face painting and magic shows while learning the importance of efficient desert gardening. www.hdlivingmagazine.com
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High Desert Living magazine 37
victor The Foundation and Focus of the H.D. By Susan Landers
38 High Desert Living magazine
March | April 2009
ville
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High Desert Living magazine 39
Would it surprise you to know that the
city of Victorville was named by the post office? Originally merely called Victor, it was around the turn of the 20th century when the small town was re-christened Victorville by the United States Postal Service to avoid confusion with the town of Victor, Colorado. Victor began, as many American towns, with the railroad. Railroad employee Jacob Nash Victor provided inspiration for the name, and in about 1885, the town was originally set up on a 200 acre grid originating about a mile northwest of the Mojave River narrows. Incorporated in 1962, the city of Victorville has changed mightily in the last 124 years. Though other towns such as Apple Valley and cities such as Hesperia, both incorporated in 1988, trace their population histories back as far as Victorville does, the incorporation of Victorville in 1962 puts it decades ahead of the others in its progressive growth. Dubbed the Victor Valley, the central focus of the H.D. has long been the city of Victorville. Victor Valley Community College, established at about the same time that the city incorporated, remains a center for local academics with satellite university campuses. The county superior court is located in Victorville, and The Mall of Victor Valley, for many years the cultural and entertainment center of the High Desert, is at the forefront of the growth surge experienced by the H.D. over the last 30 years. Though not without growing pains, the economic and population gains experienced by Victorville and the entire H.D. have been welcomed by residents and business owners alike. Thirty years ago, Bear Valley Road was a two lane street that ended at the 15 freeway where there was a gas station and a coffee shop. Today, the place where Bear Valley Road intersects the 15 bears little resemblance to its earlier counterpart, and while traffic can be a nightmare, the economic, entertainment,
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March | April 2009
and dining opportunities are a boon for both tourists and locals. Victorville’s new mayor, Rudy Cabriales, shares his view of why the Victor Valley continues to grow despite a slowing economy. “As a longtime High Desert resident, I am not surprised the Victor Valley has experienced this phenomenal growth. We possess all the ingredients of success: a large labor pool, an excellent location, undeveloped land, clean air, and a business-friendly community. Our development was never a question of “if ”, but a matter of “when.” As the area has expanded outward, more businesses have come to the region benefitting all residents. An exciting new venture, scheduled to open in 2010, is the new plant being www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 41
“The Military Banner celebrates the dedication and commitment of Victorville’s finest citizens—our military men and women who don’t just talk about freedom but defend it.”
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built by the Dr. Pepper Snapple Group. This new facility plans to employ 200 people and will provide the company’s product to 20 percent of the United States. Even during an economic downturn, Victorville remains a positive place to establish new business. Mayor Cabriales notes that “When a company of the stature of Dr Pepper-Snapple chooses Victorville it speaks loudly of the great opportunities Victorville offers businesses. As a city we welcome these businesses with open arms, because they bring much needed jobs to our residents.” Adapting to change has kept the high desert growing through good times and lean times. For instance, people worried in the 1980s when the federal government began closing military bases around the country. For many years, Victorville was home to a large military population as George Air Force Base, built in the 1940s, provided an economic boost to the region and served as home to those who served and protected the country. Closed in 1992, the site of the former base is now Southern California Logistics Airport and will be home to the new Dr. Pepper Snapple plant. With its military history, a proud new tradition has begun as the city is honoring its service men and women. While still a city council member, Mayor Cabriales proposed the Victorville Military Banner program, which honors Victorville residents who are on active duty and serving in a presidential decreed war zone by placing banners with their names and service branch on city light posts. The mayor says, “The Military Banner celebrates the dedication and commitment of Victorville’s finest citizens—our military men and women who don’t just talk about freedom but defend it. I am proud our city has initiated this program, and I know their families are proud too.” The city’s web site has information on the program and encourages Victorville residents to get involved by telling the families of active military members about the program and by supporting the program’s sponsors. Victorville continues to draw residents and businesses to the H.D. because of its mild climate, its growth potential, the positive people who live and play here, and the unique beauty of the Victor Valley. The city of Victorville’s web site offers much information about upcoming events, city council meetings, job listings, and so much more. Get to know Victorville by visiting http:// ci.victorville.ca.us. HDL March | April 2009
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High Desert Living magazine 43
Food | Wine Cellar
Casa DeVino’s Springtime Wine Picks “Wine is sunlight, held together by water.”— Galileo Gallilei (1564-1642)
The 2007 Martín Códax Albariño ($15.95) is refreshing yet so delightfully complex. As a $16 wine, it costs two or three dollars more than its rivals, but you are getting twice as much wine for that small sum. It’s elegant and rich, yet dry and crisp. The key aromatic notes that reveal fresh apple, white pear, peach, and apricot, blend perfectly together with a bright minerality on the finish. It’s one of Jason Naranjo’s springtime picks as “it complements a variety of dishes such as summer salads, pasta, and grilled fowl.”
This is a fun one. The Molly Dooker 2007 Two Left Feet (“Molly Dooker” is Aussie for left hander - $25.95) from husband and wife team Sarah and Sparky Marquis who, at this time, have been awarded the title of Australian Winemakers of the Year. As Jason explains, “This blend of 68 percent Shiraz, 17 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15 percent Merlot is deep, dense and chewy.” It’s not a heavy wine, yet the rich black cherry and plum flavors endure on the long impressive finish. Jason recommends it with grilled or roasted meats. “You better bring more than one bottle or you won’t get much for yourself! Enjoy!”
From the winery of Richard Sanford, the Alma Rosa 2007 Chardonnay ($17.95) is a refreshing one, with fine acidity and hints of tropical and citrus fruits that make this wine pleasantly balanced. According to Jason, “It’s not overdone with oak nor is this an over-extracted chardonnay. It pairs nicely with shellfish, fruit salsas, spicy chicken curry or any creamy-rich cheeses (baked brie). YUM! Just add good friends and sunshine for a perfect afternoon.” 44 High Desert Living magazine
Casa Devino’s Jason and Carol Naranjo
Wine Trends A Love affair with wine Springtime—the seasonal transition in which we start
lightening our attire, food choices, and even our wine selections, right? Well, while many tend to lean toward lighter wines as the weather warms, there’s no rule that says we have to kick the luscious reds to the curb. Not only is red wine pleasing to the palate, but enjoyed in moderation, it can also be beneficial to our health. By now, most of us have heard that a glass or two of red wine a day can actually be good for us. Why? Well, as an article written by nutrition authority Joy Bauer MS, RD, CDN for MSNBC.com illustrates, red wine contains high levels of resveratrol—a powerful antioxidant that can be beneficial in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, specific cancers, and has been shown to slow the development of certain neurological degenerative disorders. While white wine also contains resveratrol, the levels of it are far lower by comparison. Red wine grapes also contain higher levels of polyphenols, which interfere with the Streptococcus bacteria that induces plaque build up on our teeth. But don’t go crazy! Moderation is the key. One glass for women, or two glasses for men, is what is recommended; however, if you’re suffering from a medical condition, be smart, and check with your doctor before you choose to indulge. Otherwise, whether your choice is red or white, raise a glass, and toast to spring and new beginnings. Remember, if you need help with your wine choice, visit our friends at Casa De Vino Wine Boutique or D’vine Wine Bar for some friendly advice and quality wine. Cheers, to your good health! – Stephanie Keyes
News from
Casa De Vino Casa De Vino is now open the first Sunday of each month from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Also, be sure to check out their Book and a Bottle Club. They meet on the first Monday of every month. For you avid wine tasters, Casa De Vino is now doing private tastings—both off the premise and after hours. Carol Naranjo: “In keeping with the times, we are searching out tons of good, everyday, nicely priced wines. Remember: Life is too short for bad wine … not cheap wine! As always, we encourage folks to call us at (760) 2408877 with any questions”
March | April 2009
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High Desert Living magazine 45
Food | Restaurant Spotlight
D’vine Wine Bar … Indeed! by Stephanie Keyes In the fall of 2007, long time H.D. residents and avid
wine connoisseurs, Steve Sipe and Beatriz Potter established D’vine Wine Bar—combining great business sense with a desire to share their passion for wine and filling a great void in the H.D.. Elegant, yet embracing, contemporary, yet with a classic Old World air, at D’vine Wine Bar, no one is a stranger. Cross the threshold and embrace the warmth as guests sip and contemplate wine, play games of chess, backgammon or dominoes, and laugh over the latest tale. The staff is knowledgeable, yet accommodating, so there’s no intimidation factor to anticipate. “The wine is the vehicle that brings people here, but the camaraderie and atmosphere is what it’s really all about,” Steve explains. He loves to share his experience with those who show an enthusiastic interest in learning about wine, and as far as wine know-italls go, he says, “You’re very welcome to come join us, but please leave the snobbiness at the door.” For those who may be unsure about what to order, D’vine Wine Bar offers various Wine Flights, which are samples of select wines that complement each other. Served with the assorted Wine Flights are tasting mats, which list guests’ chosen selections and provide an area for comments—a great idea for those of us who
46 High Desert Living magazine
tend to forget what we fancied as soon as we hit the door. But, if you prefer a mixed drink or beer, sample one of their raspberry or plum saketinis, or ask about their beer selection. If you’re there to purchase a bottle or two, D’vine Wine Bar also lets you “try before you buy.” It’s only $1.50 a taste, which is deducted from the price of the wine upon purchase. To accompany their select wine, D’vine Wine Bar offers delectable appetizers, such as their delicious bruschetta, topped with virgin olive oil, tomatoes and mozzarella, or maybe you’d prefer the antipasto or ham and cheese plate. Stay awhile, and indulge in a cup of coffee and some New York cheesecake, chocolate fondue, or chocolate-chocolate cake, among other delights. To keep their guests entertained, Steve and Beatriz also offer live jazz every Wednesday night, and if you appreciate acoustic guitar talent, stop by Saturday evenings and enjoy. So, if you’re looking for the perfect place to take a date, or if you’re searching for a new spot to relax and unwind after work, you may want to pay D’vine Wine Bar a visit. The joyous atmosphere, scrumptious appetizers and desserts, the live music, great game selections, and, of course, the exceptional wine, make for an evening out that is unquestionably…D’vine. March | April 2009
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High Desert Living magazine 47
Food | Eating Out
Dining Guide to the HD The following is a listing of select High Desert restaurants. These listings are a free service provided by H.D. Living agazine 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.
Johnny Rebs’ Southern 15051 7th St, (760) 955-3700
Original Roadhouse Grill 11940 Amargosa Rd, (760) 949-2308
Nikki’s Cafe 19311 Bear Valley Rd (760) 247-355
Golden Gate Restaurant 15208 Bear Valley Rd # B, (760) 245-6189
Karma Nightclub 12152 Cottonwood Rd, (760) 955-1600
Di Napoli’s Fire House 17856 US Highway 18, (760) 242-5802
Steer ‘n Stein Restaurant 12224 Mariposa Rd, (760) 241-0775
El Tio Pepe Mexican Restaurant 12100 Amargosa Rd, (760) 241-0811
Amy’s Mexican Restaurant 18768 US Highway 18 Ste 170, (760) 242-1474
Carino’s 11970 Amargosa Rd, (760) 949-2248
The Wine Seller Apple Bear Center (760) 961-2500
Kinari 12152 Cottonwood Rd, (760) 955-1500 Mariscos Morrie 14845 Monarch Blvd, (760) 241-1115
Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant 17790 Us Highway 18 (760) 946-5344
Marie Callenders 12180 Mariposa Rd, (760) 241-6973 Los Roberto’s 12670 Hesperia Rd, (760) 243-9422
oggi’s
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 Daikoku Japanese Steak House 12174 Hesperia Rd, (760) 952-1300
» Victorville
Crown ‘n Sword 14173 Green Tree Blvd, (760) 245-3461 Yoshi Sushi 14177 Kentwood Blvd, (760) 241-1960 Taco Chon 15509 Park Ave E, (760) 962-0195 Chateau Chang Restaurant 15425 Anacapa Rd, (760) 241-3040 Cocky Bull Steak House and Opry Hall 14180 Us Highway 395 (760) 241-6592
Divine Wine Bar 14845 Monarch Blvd. suite C, (760) 843-3888 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 Tokyo Sushi & BBQ 14741 7th St, (760) 955-7123
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Outback Steakhouse 12400 Amargosa Rd # B, (760) 962-1003 Maan Fu 14317 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 956-8787
Lakeside Fusion Cuisine & Sushi Bar 13261 Spring Valley Pkwy, Suite 103 (760)962-6876 Victor’s 14144 Green Tree Blvd, (760) 955-6017
Los Toritos Mexican Restaurant 14962 Bear Valley Rd Ste A, (760) 245-1811
» Apple Valley
Well Being Tofu House 15024 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 241-8888
Casa De Vino 13692 Apple Valley Rd. #250, (760) 240-8877
Mimi’s Cafe 12032 Amargosa Rd, (760) 244-6888
Las Brisas Mexican Restaurant 21919 US Highway 18, (760) 240-1051
Angel’s Roadhouse 2 13685 John Glenn Rd, (760) 240-6923
Oggis Pizza & Brewing Co 19201 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 240-8977 Mama Carpino’s 22010 Highway 18 (760) 240-9664
» Hesperia
Juliano’s Italian Restaurant 12052 Hesperia Rd. Hesperia CA (760) 949-0595 Go Bangkok Thai Cuisine 15800 Main St Ste 200, (760) 947-9029 Los Domingos Restaurant 15885 Main St, (760) 948-6161 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, (760) 949-9362 Wood Grill Buffet 14135 Main St. (760) 981-4418
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Entertainment | H.D. Calendar
Entertainment Calendar March 7 360 Freestyle Gymnastics Recreational Meet On Saturday March 7, 360 Freestyle Gymnastics will hold its first recreational gymnastics meet in Apple Valley. The meet will feature competitions and events such as vaults, bars, beams and floor. 22355 Powhatan Rd. Unit C Apple Valley. For information call Jayme: (760) 9617549 or go to 360freestylegymnastics.com March 26 – 29 and April 2-5 Play It Again Sam Allan Felix has just been through a messy divorce. His two friends, Linda and Dick, attempt to convince him to go out with women again. He agrees, and he is seen receiving dating advice from a ghost who is visible and audible only to Allan. V.V.C. Theatre Arts Department - Black Box Theatre. For Tickets call (760) 2454271 ext. TIX (849)
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April 3-5 High Desert Home Shows Presents the 25th Annual Home & Garden Show The 25th Annual High Desert Home and Garden Show will once again grace the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds April 3, 4, and 5. Twice a year (April and November) for a quarter of a century, the Home and Garden Show has made the connections between homeowners and businesses to create great living spaces here in the H.D. San Bernardino County Fairgrounds 14800 Seventh St. Victorville. For information on this year’s Home and Garden Show call (760) 949-0822 or go to www.highdeserthomeshows.com April 9 High Desert Mavericks Opening Night Don’t miss opening night, as your High Desert Mavericks take on the Lancaster Jet Hawks on Thursday April 9 at 7:05 pm. The Mavericks are looking forward to another season of “bringing ‘a big league experience right in our own backyard,’”and 2009 is sure to see another exciting year for the Mavericks. Maverick Stadium 1200 Stadium Rd, Adelanto. For Tickets: (760) 246-MAVS or go to www.hdmavs.com
May 2 Cinco de Mayo Family Festival Bring the family to celebrate a day of music, fun and food as the High Desert Hispanic Chamber and Victor Valley College host the 2009 Cinco de Mayo Family Festival on May 2 from 10am-6pm. V.V.C.by the Lake,18422 BearValley Rd,Victorville. Call (760) 241-6661 for More Details. May 9 – 17 San Bernardino County Fair This year’s County Fair brings the theme of green and a whole lot more as the 2009 lineup is better than ever. In addition to thrilling rides and great exhibits, there will be numerous concerts and shows to please everyone. Check out livestock competitions and homemade crafts along with fun foods and neat treats, your family will be sure to have a green time! San Bernardino County Fairgrounds 14800 Seventh St. Victorville, CA 92395. For Ticket information call: 760.951.2200 or go to www. sbcfair.com
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Entertainment | H.D. Happenings
On the weekend of February 26 the annual Tux Ego and Bridal Connection High Desert Bridal Faire was held at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds. The event featured local vendors, entertainment and a Bridal fashion show.
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1 A model at the Bridal Fashion Show. 2 Teresa and Richard Porto, Mary Ann Walker 3 Kathrine Tharp, Lyndle Tharp, Julia DiOnne 4 David E. Presley 5 Trisha Doucis
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Susan’s Corner Ah, the beauty of springtime in the H.D. The weather is lovely, no longer too cold, not yet unbearably hot. Just the right time for a party! Prior to the official start of spring, we have the day when we are all, despite our diverse ethnic backgrounds, just a little bit Irish. March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day, is the celebration of all things Irish. Though begun as a religious holiday celebrating a fifth century Christian missionary, St. Pat’s Day has become, certainly in the U.S., synonymous with party! The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in New York in 1762 when the United States was still a British colony. Today, New York’s St. Patrick’s Day parade, begun in 1848, is the oldest civilian parade in the world and attracts nearly three million people to watch the event in person. Chicago, another big Irish town with a famous parade, dyes its river green for the occasion. From the 19th century onward, Irish immigrants and their descendants proved to be such a powerful political bloc that most St. Patrick’s Day parades are still attended by politicians looking to gather votes. As big as the celebration is here in the States, back in Ireland, the holiday was still mostly viewed as a religious observance, and until 1995 most pubs were closed on March 17th! Whether you celebrate by “wearin’ o’ the green,” eating your fill of corned beef and cabbage, or just enjoying a green beer and a bit of a jig at your favorite watering hole, be sure to have a wonderful Saint Paddy’s Day!
IRISH SODA BREAD WITH RAISINS
A Bit O’ Irish Luck Be With Ye! If you would like to see something special featured in Susan’s Corner, or if you have a special holiday recipe, drop me a line and let me know about it at: Susan Landers at H.D. Living Magazine 6630 SLV Box Victorville, Ca. 92395
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Nonstick vegetable oil spray 2 cups all purpose flour 5 tablespoons sugar, divided 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 teaspoon baking soda 3 tablespoons butter, chilled, cut into cubes 1 cup buttermilk 2/3 cup raisins Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray 8-inch-diameter cake pan with nonstick spray. Whisk flour, 4 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in large bowl to blend. Add butter. Using fingertips, rub in until coarse meal forms. Make well in center of flour mixture. Add buttermilk. Gradually stir dry ingredients into milk to blend. Mix in raisins. Using floured hands, shape dough into ball. Transfer to prepared pan and flatten slightly (dough will not come to edges of pan). Sprinkle dough with remaining 1 tablespoon sugar. Bake bread until brown and tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 40 minutes. Cool bread in pan 10 minutes. Transfer to rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Recipe and St. Pat’s facts from History,com
March | April 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
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 Visit our new Apple Valley office: Located in the Apple Bear Center 19333 Bear Valley Road, Suite 101 & 102
Hesperia Urgent Care 17073 Main Street Hesperia, Ca 92345 Monday-Friday 12pm-8pm
(760) 956-4158
Physical Therapy inside our Hesperia Complex Coming Soon!