H.D. Living stand up [the right way] | summer in the narrows | rescued friends
July | August 2011
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m a g a z i n e
spend the summer in the mojave narrows page 34
DOG DAYS of
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Âť table of contents
July/August 2011
departments
features
10 PUBLISHERS LETTER 13 up front Great pet products; harmful pet toys
26 rescued is the best breed
Adopting a cat or dog is a great responsibility, but with it come great rewards. By Susan Landers
By Katie Chavez
30 day at the zoo Take a walk on the wild at the Hesperia Zoo.
By Katie Chavez
36 summer in the narrows Experience the perfect HD daycation.
By Stephanie Morris
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16 animal house The staff of HD Living and their pets. 22 Health matters Stand Up (The Right Way) By Dr. Brad Hannon 38 wine trends Local wine events By Stephanie Morris 40 restaurant spotlight Catering by Eva By Tere Kidd 42 entertainment calendar Upcoming entertainment & events. 44 a sheltered life Dogs and cats that are available at local shelters 46 susan’s corner Love is color blind
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(Provider for most commercial and senior dental plans)
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FIND OUT HOW THIS WOMAN LOST INCHES AND UP TO LBS “WITHOUT SURGERY”
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H.D. Living H.D. Living Magazine Volume 4, Issue 4, July/August 2011 PUBLISHER / CEO Frank A. Castillo MARKETING/CIRCULATION DIRECTOR James Piar CFO Tiffany Santee copy editor Susan Landers DESIGN and LAYOUT Everard Strong | www.Big-E-Productions.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tere Darnell, Katie Chavez, Krystal Carrillo, Stephanie Morris, Dr. Brad Hannon PHOTOGRAPHERS George Sillas | GeorgeSillas.com Susan Whitney | SusanWhitney.com ADVERTISING DESIGN Kari Martinez ADVERTISING sales Frank Castillo frankc@hdlivingmagazine.com Kari Martinez karim@hdlivingmagazine.com Lindy Bains lindyb@hdlivingmagazine.com
Editorial/Advertising Inquiries H.D. LIVING MAGAZINE INC. 6630 SVL Box Victorville, CA 92395 (760) 241-8475 HD Living Magazine is a bi-monthly magazine published by HD Living Magazine, Inc.
2011 HD Living Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of HD Living magazine. HD Living magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers contained herein. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine or its owners. HD Living is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions. SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION Subscriptions are $9.95 per year domestically only. To subscribe, please mail payment to address above, or subscribe online at HDlivingmagazine.com.
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» publisher’s letter
this summer, woof it up!
W
e thought we would dedicate this issue to all the pet lovers in the H.D. As a proud owner of two very smart, very cute, and very loving border terriers, I must say this was an enjoyable issue to work on, in particular. Since most members of our staff are pet owners, we decided to spotlight some of them and share the joy our pets bring to our lives on a daily basis. We also wanted to feature the local shelters; our terriers were rescued from the shelter, and I think that if you are looking for a great family pet, companion or guard dog, that one of these facilities should be the first place you look. I also found a small jewel in the H.D.: to my surprise, there is a zoo in our very own backyard that consists of animals you wouldn’t think you would find in the Victor Valley. In our feature “a day at the zoo,” Katie Chavez gives us a tour that you will not want to miss. So as the summer temperatures heat up, remember to take good care of the dogs and cats in your life, give them love and treat them like a part of your family, as they promise to do the same! Frank Castillo Publisher/CEO FrankC@hdlivingmagazine.com
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UpFront MARTHA STEWART PET TOTE What a great way to keep all of your pets’ grooming items organized! Available at PetsMart for only $19.99.
Fun Pet Products Even Martha Stewart knows that “it’s a good thing” to take care of our companions animals and have fun at the same time. The following nifty items can be found at your H.D. PetsMart or at http://www.PetsMart.com.
drinkwell ceramic lotus pet fountain No one likes stale water that’s just been sitting in a bowl, even your pets. Keep their water fresh and tasty with this fountain, available at PetsMart for $79.99.
PET NOTE CUBES Pet lovers will adore these cute note pads from LittleGifts at PetsMart, available in several styles and breeds, for only $9.99.
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» upfront
Harmful Pet Toys By Katie Chavez
S
ome pet toys are elaborate and some are simple, but all are intended to keep our best friends happy. But before you buy the cutest toy on the shelf, keep in mind that not all are made equally. In recent years, there have been reports of pet toys (those primarily made in China) containing unacceptable amounts of lead and other toxins. This is not only a problem for your pet, but anyone, especially young children, who come in contact with the toy. The non-profit environmental research organization, HealthyStuff.org, tested pet products for a number of toxins. 45% of the toys tested had high levels of harmful chemicals. This includes lead levels higher than the Consumer Product Safety Commission standard for children’s toys. As Consumer Affairs notes, over time exposure to contaminated pet toys can be harmful to your pet’s health, and it is certainly not something humans should be exposed to. One of the best ways to safeguard your family and your pets is to check the label before purchasing. Be cautious of toys made in China. The pet product company, West Paw Design, is a top pick for environmentally friendly and non-toxic pet products—all made in the U.S.A. But there is one dog toy that rarely fails: a tennis ball. Out of more than 25 different tennis balls tested for toxins—some made for pets and some made for tennis—standard tennis balls intended for humans typically reported less toxins than the ones intended for dogs. A tennis ball is perfectly simple: light weight, manageable size, easy to transport, inexpensive and bouncy. All pet products—toys, collars, beds, etc.—should be scrutinized before given to your pets. If you are unsure, do your research on the company and their production standards; also visit HealthyStuff.org where toxin levels on hundreds of individual pet products can be viewed. Currently, there are no government standards regulating hazardous chemicals in pet products. This makes each pet owner more responsible for the pet products that their animals and family come in contact with.
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Animal House The staff of HD Living introduce us to their furry companions
P
eople who love animals and have them in their lives will often say that they cannot imagine life without their companion animals, and in fact, refer to them as members of their families. This is very true of us here at H.D. Living magazine. When the theme of the issue was announced, everyone on the staff, from the writers to the publisher, couldn’t wait to share their pet tales. We hope you enjoy reading about our favorite animals as much as we enjoyed writing about them.
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Puppy (and Kitty) Love
A
nyone who has known the companionship of a loyal cat or dog knows that with a little food and affection, that critter will go to the ends of the Earth for you. I have always loved animals. While growing up, there was always at least one dog and one cat in our house. I cannot imagine life without companion animals; really, how do people who do not have animals in their lives do it? My two dogs are shelter pups and my kitties have all been rescues, and for me, there is no better kind of pet. For years, I lived the apartment dwelling, itinerate existence of a radio DJ. That line from the TV show WKRP in Cincinnati jingle is really true: “…packing and unpacking, town to town, up and down the dial” is really the way I lived for a long time. I enjoyed it, but it was no life for a dog. It was, however, just the life for my cat, Jazz. Jazz was the perfect radio cat: she never had a problem moving. Some animals get attached to places, some to their people. Jazz was attached to me and for twenty years, she was my one constant. She always came running to greet me when I came home and would nuzzle and kiss my face like any dog would. For twenty years, jobs came and went, boyfriends came and went, apartments came and went, but Jazz was always with me. Until one day when, after 20 years together, she had a stroke and this led to the inevitable. My longtime friend, roommate, and confidant was gone. By this point, I had given up my itinerate ways and settled in to live in the H.D. and take care of my elderly parents. My mom loved animals; my dad pretended not to, but when he thought everyone’s back was turned, he was petting them like crazy. My mom had taken in a stray cat, who happened to come with interest—she was pregnant and soon there were four little kittens to care for. I was attending UC Riverside at the time, studying literature. As the late Romantics were on my reading list, I named the one male of the litter, a handsome tuxedo kitty, Byron. My mom fell in love with the colorful calico, and we named her Chloe. We were able to find homes for the others, and Byron and Chloe are still in residence. Losing Jazz left an enormous hole, even with other kitties in the house. I was no longer apartment bound or on the road; on
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the contrary, I had a large backyard that really needed a dog, so a couple of months after losing Jazz, I stopped by a nearby shelter. A Black Lab mix at the shelter had given birth to a huge litter of puppies only two months before. I picked up one little girl and walked around with her head on my shoulder for about twenty minutes, while deciding if I should take her home, but really, I was a gonner the first time she kissed my face. Sophie, who was supposed to be a backyard dog, grew into an 85 pound big girl, who from day one decided that my bed was her bed. Hard to believe that Soph is now eight years old. She was with me when I lost my mom and dad, and what would I have done without her? She will patiently sit beside me for hours, never wanting to be far from me, whether I am sitting at the computer, on the couch or standing in the kitchen. She follows me from one place to another. It would be lonely without her. She recently developed cancer, had surgery to remove the tumors, and we are taking it one step at a time, but she seems back to her old self. With a dog and two cats, the last thing on my mind was getting another animal, but beware going to PetsMart on the weekends. When Sophie was about four years old, my friend and H.D. Living colleague Stephanie Morris and I decided to run in to PetsMart in Victorville to pick up a couple of things. Yep, you guessed it, that’s when Bonnie became part of my tribe. The Barstow Humane Society was there as we walked into the store, and a Black Lab mix puppy, the image of a little Sophie was looking right at me. They were calling her Bobo, a very unlikely name for this pretty little girl, but a long running joke between Steph and me, so when I heard what they were calling her, it seemed the Universe was screaming at me that I better take this one home! Bonnie, AKA, the Bonster Monster, is now four years old and loves rides in the car, going through the car wash, and is always ready to play when I come home from work. As I mentioned earlier, I have no idea how anyone can live without companion animals; it must be a lonely existence because the companionship of people, while enjoyable, is nothing compared to gentle grace, lack of ego, love that knows no bounds, and all around goofy pleasure of an animal. By Susan Landers
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» HD PERsonality My Pets don’t believe there has ever been a time when I didn’t have a pet. For that, I am grateful. My family has always had at least one dog, and over the years, goats, ducks, geese, desert tortoises, chickens, birds and even cats have shared our lives. These animals have come to us in a multitude of ways. Some, like the two cats and one of the three dogs we have now, came to us by simply waking into our yard and becoming part of our pack. For the most part, we did not seek out our animals, they found us. Jake is a beautiful mutt who was promised to be a small lap dog but turned out to be much bigger. His heart, in turn, is big as well. With his calm, wise demeanor, he has an uncanny ability to be adored by all of our animals. Imagine those cops in all the Charlie Chaplin films as they comically patrol, insuring no shenanigans are about to happen: this is Buster. He is a small dog who is the leader of everything and everyone. Like most of us, he gets aggravated on particularly windy days and frightened when I start to cook.
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The things our animals do, like most, can be downright entertaining. When Buster barks at the door to let the other dogs in, when Charlie the Cat clears the refrigerator of magnets, when the chickens try to run into the house, when Betty the Dog gives herself a pedicure, we are reminded of how lucky we are to have such loyal and quirky companions. Dogs have dug into our yard and refused to leave, cats and cockatiels have made themselves at home and a desert tortoise dragging a chain walked into our lives. Original owners were found for some, others were given to good families and others have stayed with us. We are not sure why animals come to us so frequently, but we don’t complain. We think of it as a compliment. By Katie Chavez
july | august 2011
» LOCAL business spotlight Freckles
I
don’t like dogs. I know; some will gasp and others will think I am some kind of curmudgeon. Something like Andy Rooney, only female. Well, in my youth I liked dogs well enough. I even shared ice cream cones with Woofus - my male Chihuahua. And, yes I had other dogs over the years. Some great and some not so great, but one thing I learned was that they can be a pain in the anatomy - you, probably, know which part. Most of the dogs I’ve had or dogs my friends or relatives have had were the run-forit-when-you-get-a-chance kind of dogs. I decided some time back I was tired of chasing an animal that didn’t want to be my companion. Besides, dogs slobber all over you, shed hair on the carpet and on your black $100 pair of Coldwater Creek pants, and lick you….. on the face! Freckles caught me once in an awkward position and before I knew it he had Frenched me. I like to pretend that it didn’t happen so neither one of us ever speaks about it. Just one of those unexpected moments. I have seen dogs, though, that practically wash their owner’s entire face, and each time I wonder if the owner really knows what’s going on inside that mouth. Then there’s the whole issue of pretending everyone else’s dog is adorable and irresistible, and to prove it you must carry on some kind of conversation with the animal. It goes like this: Aren’t you adorable (this part requires hand to dog’s face contact - maybe a little rub under the chin.) Or, Hi big boy! (This one requires a lingering stroke on the top of the head.) However you approach it, it requires physical contact of some sort. If you make no physical contact, then the owner is quite sure you have no heart at all. Not a good thing. Now, puppies are a different case. I’ve never met a puppy I didn’t like. You can’t help wanting to take one home, but, they grow into dogs! So, beware. When Freckles found me, I was a recent widow. I had the prerequisite cat that all single ladies were supposed to have, but as cats go, he was a cat who mostly liked to be alone. We lived our separate lives side by side, and that was that… until one day when this large white Akita with freckles on his snout followed my grandson to my house. I have, always, been enchanted by any animal that chooses me. When I was eight, a pigeon came from out of nowhere and perched himself on my shoulder. It brought me a bit of celebrity in our neighborhood. I walked around with that bird on my shoulder for days and everywhere I went people were curious. But, then one day he was gone and my celebrity flew away with him. When Freckles came to my home, he moved in right away. He put himself in the back yard and settled in as though he had been there all his life. In the beginning I would leave the gate open expecting him to make use of it and leave. He simply refused. As he refused to leave, I took a bold step and bought him this extra large, super cushiony dog bed. He appreciated it greatly and slept there every night. One peculiar thing did happen, though; around midnight every night he disappeared into the desert. Each day he would be back in the wee hours of the morning nestled into his enormous dog bed. My mother and I were very curious about where he went and we often talked of following him one night. We never did, but over time it became apparent to me that, whatever the purpose of his nightly
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jaunts, one result was that he never once did his business in our yard. Oh, he watered a few plants but nothing more. Another strange thing about this dog was that he never barked. After over a year of never having heard him make a sound, my mother and I came to the logical conclusion that he had some sort of medical condition that prevented him from barking. When it became clear that Freckles intended to stay around for a while, I decided to take him to the veterinarian for shots. However, when it came time to put him into my car, he simply refused to get in. My father came over to try to help me, but in the end he had to pick up all 78 pounds of Freckles and kind of shove him into the back seat of the car the way you would any other heavy object… up in the air and push. He got his shots and a check up and was pronounced healthy and an excellent patient. Freckles and I have forged a strong relationship. He has been the answer to my ideal dog. He came to me when I needed a friend I could count on. Over time he has changed. He’s more of a dog now and less of a protector/companion for me. He still has a keen intellect and a certain sense of priorities, but when my husband, Hugh moved in with us, I knew things were bound to change. Hugh is a dog lover. He loves any and all dogs. That includes doggie ways, as well. His expectations of a dog are the usual ones. They bark, you do poop-scooping patrol, and all dogs love to go on car rides. I think Freckles lives up to your expectations - whatever they are. He now barks freely like any other dog, and when I told Hugh that Freckles won’t get into a car, he simply opened the car door and Freckles jumped right in. It doesn’t matter, though. You have to respect a dog that chooses you. Unfortunately, Hugh’s long time love, Kiska - a Siberian husky - died a couple of years after we were married. Now, he thinks Freckles is his dog. I know better, but I let him think that. Just as Freckles came to me when I needed him; he has been there for Hugh who needs him more than I do, now. By Tere Kidd
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Stephanie Morris’ Clan of Critters
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just can’t imagine what it’s like to be petless. I had the great fortune to grow up in a family of thirteen, and only eight of us were human. Currently, I share my home with my husband, Wayne, my daughter, Emily, my two cats, Meep and Pandora and my two dogs, Boo Boo Bear and Mufasa. I’ve had 11 year old Meep the longest, so it’s only fair to begin with him. Meep was rescued by my sister and her husband when they found the tiny mangled kitten in their yard, mutilated by a gardener’s weed-wacker. He wasn’t expected to live, but the vet did an excellent job putting the little Franken-kitty back together again. When my sister needed to find Meep a home, she knew that we would love him just as he was…and we do. Today he’s one handsome stubby tailed dude. Second in seniority is our princess, Pandora, A.K.A. Peeps, also a rescued stray. Quite the sociable gal, our sleek mini panther is approximately 10 years old and thinks she’s all that and then some. She loves hanging out with dogs, long walks in the lawn and tuna juice served in fancy bowls. A German Shepherd mix, Mr. Boo Boo Bear was found my daughter, Emily, at Petco. He was a dirty shelter dog, covered in paint and on the verge of becoming “Chancho the junkyard dog” when we stepped in and rescued him. Boo is a funny dog with a speckled tongue and a deformed leg that gives him character (and ballerina legs) as he struts his gangly stuff. Boos favorite things in life include car rides, beach trips and swimming in the lake at Mojave Narrows Regional Park. Oh, and hamburgers, of course. The newest member of our clan is Mufasa (the Lion King), A.K.A.
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Fassie Bear, A.K.A. Arthur Fasserelli, A.K.A. Fassie Osborn. Mufasa was also discovered by Emily, but he was found in a field near a strip mall. The gentlemen working in the shop next to the field explained to us that he had been abandoned a month previously and would not leave his field to go with anyone. Emily began feeding him and working to gain his trust, and finally her persistence paid off. A very spoiled boy now, Fassie gets the attention of a rock star when we walk him down the street, and people stop us all the time to inquire about him and ask if he’s the same dog they saw in the field just months ago. All seem relieved to see him happy and safe. Fassie enjoys eating, going for walks, eating, playing tag with Wayne, eating and eating. Although we have our hands full and it’s a huge responsibility, our pets have brought so much joy, color and laughter to our family. Other than a few unwanted hairballs, I wouldn’t change a thing.
july | august 2011
“When they said I needed surgery, my mind was filled with questions.”
Q: Is there any way to get back to my family and work sooner? Q: Will I have a big scar? Q: Will I have pain afterwards? Q: How soon will I be able to go home? A: After I asked my doctor about robotic-assisted surgery, I knew I had the answers. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with a condition requiring surgery, you owe it to yourselves to learn about all of your medical options, including one of the most precise, least invasive surgical treatments available —robotic-assisted surgery at St.Mary Medical Center. View our website at StMaryAppleValley.com/robotics to see if robotic-assisted surgery is right for you, or please call Physician Select at 1-877-242-4200.
18300 Highway 18, Apple Valley, CA 92307 www.hdlivingmagazine.com
Robotic-assisted surgery is not available for all procedures.
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Âť health
I
t has been months since U.S. politicians passed a health care reform bill, yet a day does not go by that the media doesn’t show a heated debate about the subject and how it relates to our debt crisis and Medicare. In particular, experts have been having a lengthy discussion about our health care delivery system. Often it is said that our health care system is really more like disease management, meaning that disease management is a reactive type care where we wait for disease to happen and then treat it. The debate goes on further to discuss what is being coined as wellness care, which is already becoming a blurry term. This idea of wellness care is proactive with patients seeking to be proactive, not just against the signs of aging, but to feel healthier, have a higher quality of life, and to avoid, or prevent, disease. I often think of dentistry and how dentists have done a great job by educating the public about how to take better care of their mouth by using floss, brushing after every meal, using
Stand Up [The Right Way] mouthwash, and having check-ups every 6 months. This idea of wellness care, or maybe the better term would be a wellness lifestyle, will save not only money, but lives, pain, and disabilities. But for some reason, the public has not been educated about how to take care of their bodies through proper diet, stretching, exercise, ergonomics, and routine check ups. This is due, in part, by the constant changing information, and misinformation coming from the medical profession itself; I am sure if we had 5 posture and ergonomic specialists read this column they all will have something to add or disagree with, but the take home message is the same. Perfection does not exist, and these little differences are just that: little. After reading these columns, I want you, the reader, to know how to take better care of yourself. This brings me to this issue’s topic, the proper standing posture. It sounds simple enough, but have you ever really given it much thought? Have
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you ever asked a health care professional how to improve on your standing posture? Have you ever practiced good standing posture? Do you expect to be good at something without practice or professional input? Like most of our activities, when as young child, our parents are just happy to have us standing. The typical American parents will not start their young children off with proper ergonomic standing position, thusly we will often develop bad habits, which through the years get deeply imbedded into our unconscious memory and therefore are very difficult to correct. These poor standing habits will contribute to many different ailments including: tension headaches, difficulty breathing, tight muscles, overuse syndromes such as degenerative arthritis, fatigue, decreased sports performance, more injury prone, and decreased healing capacity after an injury. Posture is a combination of your structure, or bones and joints, your soft tissues, meaning your muscles, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and discs, and your brain’s input into how to appropriately use your structure and soft tissues. This is where most of our posture, and ergonomic, problems can arise. Maybe someone has a structural issue, maybe one leg is anatomically shorter than the other, or maybe someone has a hamstring that is tighter than the other, or their core is stronger on one side versus the other. But more often than not, it is our brain and our lack of effort that makes the greatest contribution to poor posture. Basic tips for good standing posture Visualize yourself from the front. Your eyes, ears, shoulders, and hips should be level. Try to not be standing while weight bearing one leg more than the other, and your feet should be about shoulder width apart. Visualize yourself from the side. Your head should be in a neutral position, with your ears in line with your shoulders, hips, and knees. Your head should be held high. Your shoulders should be relaxed/ down and back so that your shoulders are not rounded forward, and your chest should be out. Your pelvis should be near level, or in neutral position, and your knees should be in a straight, but not locked, position. Lower cross syndrome can play a part in your body’s side profile. Lower cross syndrome is when we have anterior pelvic tilt as a result of tight Iliopsoas, piriformis, Rectus femoris, TFL, hip adductor group, erector spinae, gastrocnemius, and soleus muscles and weak gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, hamstrings, oblique, and retus abdominis muscles. These imbalances would have to be corrected for long term postural corrections. Avoid standing in the same position for too long, move around, squat down, use a stool or box (in the kitchen open a cabinet and rest your foot inside) and rest a foot on it for a period of time then switch to the other foot. Wear good, supportive, comfortable, shoes and replace shoes often. This is extremely difficult with women’s dress shoes, so if you must wear them, wear walking shoes and when you get where you are going switch to the heels. Make sure your work station is an appropriate height for you that you are not bent over, for example do not fold laundry on your bed find a counter that is higher. A strong core that has endurance is very important; include bridge type exercises in your routine. Pilates is often a good source
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for these types of exercises. I often hear patients state that it is not the first hour of standing that hurts, it is the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th. This is often due to a lack of endurance in postural muscles. When you are standing with bad posture for a long time, your muscles will tire and relax. Keep in mind that our body is more efficient at standing when it is in a proper standing position. This is due to the fact that while in proper standing posture our structure will support our body weight, and when we are standing in poor posture our muscles will have to support our body weight. • • • •
Stretch your chest muscles. Strengthen your upper back with rowing type exercises. Work on your ability to balance. Have someone take a candid picture of you so you can see what your posture is normally.
One important tip, that is often not mentioned, is the use of custom foot stabilizers to help with standing posture. First off, understand that our body is a kinetic chain, in which we are all connected; for example our ankle can have an effect on our knee, then our knee on our hip, our hip on our pelvis, our pelvis on our back. Some experts estimated that nearly 70% of Americans have fallen arches in their feet and would benefit from foot stabilizers, or orthotics. Foot Pronation is a common word that comes up with this topic. Foot Pronation describes a rotation downward and inward by the foot which can result in a decrease in arch height. A falling arch, and/or Pronation, will lead to inward rotation of the knee and hip; thusly disrupting standing posture and the optimal position for these joints to function, which some experts suggest can lead to early degeneration of these joints. By correcting structural problems with the feet, we can reduce abnormal biomechanics, forces, and stress to the kinetic chain and improve posture. Good posture makes you look younger, more attractive, and slimmer. Having good posture ensures your body is aligned for maximum efficiency and function; when you are not in good posture your body must work harder because it can not work the way it was designed to. The bottom line is we all need to live a wellness minded lifestyle, and having good standing posture is an important part of that. If this column sparked your interest, consult with a personal trainer, physical therapist, chiropractor, or other health care provider for further guidance. I will end with this: Will Rogers has been quoted as saying “Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.” So get motivated, educated, and most importantly proactive in your health. Check out the next issue’s column where we will discuss some basic knowledge for runners.
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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High Desert Living magazine 25
Rescued
is the Best Breed
By Susan Landers
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dopting a cat or dog is not too unlike adopting a human child, less paperwork and having to save for college notwithstanding. It is a great responsibility, and if you have never adopted before, it is one not to be undertaken without much thought and reflection. Like adoption of a human child, the adoptive parent becomes responsible for another life and must ensure the health and safety of the “four-legged child” for the rest of his/her life. As you may have read in the other main feature of this very special issue of H.D. Living, you can see that the writing staff believes in adopting from shelters and helping animals who cross their paths. With the abundance of animals in shelters, the need for foster and adoptive homes is great. Anyone who has adopted a cat or dog from a shelter or rescue group knows how truly life-changing the experience can be for both pet and adopter. Shelter/rescue pets really show their gratitude in myriad ways, from licks on the face to tail wags and purrs. Companion animals give us so much love, affection and protection and ask for little in return. Dogs, and often cats, offer us protection, everything from alerting us to danger, to providing pest control, and even to lowering our blood pressure. Dogs were bred throughout the millennia to want to be beside us, to love us and to provide us with protection, so when they are abused or abandoned, it is the worst kind of betrayal. The more we learn about animal intelligence and their ability to feel emotions, the more we must do to protect them and help stop pet-overpopulation and the needless deaths that go with it. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), “Approximately 5 million to 7 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year, and approximately 3 million to 4 million are euthanized (60 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats).” Those are staggering numbers nationally. Locally, too, the numbers are very high. Both major H.D. cities and the town of Apple Valley have Animal Control shelters and the County of San Bernardino Animal Control has shelters here, too. These shelters provide licensing, adoption, intake of abandoned or abused animals and some offer other services like low cost spaying/neutering and microchipping of pets to help recover them when they are lost. There are other private shelters and rescue groups working to end pet-overpopulation and animal abuse. What follows is a brief overview of city and town shelters and services offered to those who wish to change their lives for the better and adopt a shelter pet.
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Apple Valley Animal Control The town of Apple Valley has two animal shelters and offers an array of services to pet owners and those wishing to adopt. The town’s website has all the information a potential adopter could want. The services offered include everything from adoptions to pet behavior tips and even a great section called “Happy Tails,” which has pictures and stories of successful adoptions. Perhaps you cannot commit to permanently adopting a new pet, there are options such as fostering animals before they go to their “fur-ever” homes or you can volunteer at the shelter, assisting with the care of the animals preparing them for adoption. There are sponsorships of animals available, too, which gives you an opportunity to have a great impact on animal’s life without getting fur on the sofa. The Town of Apple Valley website is located at: http://www.applevalley.org/. Click on Departments and Services and look for the Animal Services link. Or, you can call (760) 240-7000, ext. 7555 or stop by or call The Victor Valley Animal Protective League, which is located at 21799 Zuni Road, cross street Navajo Road. Their number is: 760-247-2102. City of Victorville Animal Control The city of Victorville’s Animal Care and Control Division not only work to license pets and ensure that rabies vaccines are current but also investigate animal abuse and neglect cases. Last year
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alone, animal control officers with the city of Victorville made more than 8,000 calls and are only the third busiest division following fire and police. The city of Victorville offers education to pet owners, adoption information, licensing, shot clinics, and other services. Visit the website at http://ci.victorville.ca.us/animalcontrol.aspx, or call (760) 955-5089. The San Bernardino County Animal Shelter The county’s H.D. animal shelter is located next to Dogs’ Day Inn on Bear Valley Road in Apple Valley. The San Bernardino County Animal Control is part of the Department of Public Health and their services are many. The county offers spay/neuter and low cost rabies clinics, investigates cases of suspected animal neglect or cruelty, offers unclaimed or stray animals for adoption, offers classes in responsible pet ownership and even pet CPR, as well as pamphlets in disaster preparedness for pet owners, and much more. The county Animal Care and Control Department has a very useful and user-friendly website with a plethora of information for those wishing to adopt a pet or any pet owner looking for services for their animals. See the county’s website at http://sbcounty.gov/acc/ or call their 24-hour help line at 1-800-472-5609.
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Hesperia Animal Control Hesperia Animal Control’s mission statement reads: “The mission of the Animal Control Department is to balance the health, safety and welfare needs of the people and the animals within the City of Hesperia.” Hesperia’s Animal Control offers licensing, information for pet owners and “Tips for Responsible Pet Ownership” for those considering adoption. Their website also contains a blunt statement that reminds visitors, “The need for this agency is due mostly to irresponsible pet ownership and pet over-population. While the benefits of pet ownership are many, pets that are not properly cared for can become not only a nuisance, but also a threat to the health and safety of neighbors.” The goal for any agency concerned with animal welfare and public safety must be the reduction of pet population and an increase in pet adoptions. To assist the Hesperia Animal Control Department with their mission, visit their site to see pictures of animals ready for adoption. Go to: http://www.cityofhesperia.us/ and click on Departments. You will also find links to Frequently Asked Questions and the Humane Society, or stop by at 11011 Santa Fe Ave. Hesperia, call them, (760) 947-1700 or (760) 947-1700. Their hours are: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Wednesday from 9:00 am - 7:00 pm, and Friday from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm.
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PAL/Humane Society PAL’s mission statement reads: “Prevent cruelty to animals by any reasonable means. Reduce the severe pet overpopulation in our local communities through education and the spaying and neutering of companion animals. Provide love and health care to all animals entrusted to us until permanent, loving homes are found. Instill respect for and appreciation of all living things.” Located on Hwy. 18 in Apple Valley, PAL has unique and myriad ways of bringing its educational operation to the H.D. community. PAL offers animals for adoption; information for pet owners; runs a program utilizing young inmates who not only learn job skills and certifications as they train to be kennel attendants, dog trainers, etc., but also learn compassion and empathy through the grooming and training of dogs. One of PAL’s most important missions is to teach respect and empathy for all animals in order to prevent cruelty. PAL has low-cost shot clinics throughout the year and even offers social events for pet owners and their four-legged friends. For information on their next “Yappy Hour,” see PAL’s website at http://www.palhumanesociety.org/index.html, or call (760) 240-6848.
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day the A at
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Zoo Lions? Tigers? Bears? Oh yes! By Katie Chavez www.hdlivingmagazine.com
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hile driving down Willow Street in Hesperia, heading ever closer to the Mojave River, this residential area is the last place I would expect to find some of the most storied animals on the planet—lions and tigers and bears. A sign just off the side of the road—a sign I nearly missed despite looking for it—proclaims the entrance to the Hesperia Zoo. On a substantial chunk of desert land, the zoo sits nearly inconspicuously among a typical H.D. neighborhood. Before my visit, I had only heard that somewhere in Hesperia there was an actual zoo with actual wild animals, but I had no idea what to expect. As it turns out, I was not the only one curious about this place, so on a hot Saturday morning, Susan Landers of “Susan’s Corner” and I took a trip to find out more about the Hesperia Zoo and the animals in residence. Our first order of business was a guided tour. This is a tour that is offered to visitors on weekends. It allows guests to see a wide variety of animals from all parts of the world and supplies abundant information on each animal. Our knowledgeable tour guide, Chelsey Skeels, led us from sheep and reindeer to reptiles and vultures. Yes, they have lions and tigers and bears, along with two white Bengal tigers and many other animals. There were interesting bits of information on each stop of our tour, like porcupines do not shoot their quills, and all of Santa’s reindeer must be female (take the tour to find out why). Some of the animals at the zoo are used in commercials and film. The sheep, all of them named Fred, were in a commercial with Ellen DeGeneres. The African lion’s image was used to animate Aslan for the film The Chronicles of Narnia. The use of the animals in film production is what keeps the zoo in operation and what
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allows them to continue to take in rescued animals. Many of these animals were rescued from grave situations: The South American llama was rescued from a butcher shop; the North American alligator was from a gator farm; the North American bobcat was illegally owned as a house cat. After opening in 2001 by Stephanie Taunton, it is education that makes the Hesperia Zoo a notable place for people, especially young people to visit. “We’re small,” Taunton says, “but people bring their families here.” In August, families are welcomed to take part in Twilight Tour Tuesdays, where evening tours give visitors a chance to see the animals come alive. In October, they have an event called Boo At The Zoo, where kids are invited to dress up in costume for a flashlight guided tour as the sun goes down—treats and refreshments included. Not only that, but schools often bring classes here to take the tour and catch a glimpse of some of the world’s most beautiful creatures. They continue their educational outreach with a newly developed docent program that will have people in related fields of study and interest make visiting the zoo an even more educational experience. Visiting the zoo is only one way to get information and a firsthand look at these animals. The Hesperia Zoo has a variety of outreach programs that allow the animals to visit you. Throughout the year, they make visits to local schools and groups all over the H.D. Their primary goal is to educate the public about wild animals and the struggles they must endure to “survive in the everchanging environment that we all share.” They have a knowledgeable staff that creates shows that emphasize not only education but participation as well. It is the participation with the audience that make these wild animals less distant and a more tangible. Sometimes wild animals, especially the endangered and on the verge of extinction, can seem distant and forgettable. In having a better understanding and respectful connection with wildlife, we have a greater chance of protecting them and appreciating their existence. The Hesperia Zoo, if nothing else, gives local residents, especially children, the valuable opportunity to see firsthand the kind inhabitants who share our planet. We can only hope that the people who visit the zoo leave with a new understanding of these majestic animals. After our experience at the Hesperia Zoo, Susan said, “I am so glad to hear that the purpose of the zoo is primarily rescue and education. I look forward to returning.” This is a sentiment we both share. For more information, including hours of operation and current zoo events and volunteer programs, please visit www.thehesperiazoo.com or call 760-948-9430.
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summer
in the narrows Experience the perfect HD Daycation By Stephanie Morris
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icnic basket: Check! Lounge chairs: Check! Fishing poles: Check! A dog named Boo: Check! Load up your rig, or jump in the car and come as you are, Mojave Narrow Regional Park is the ideal spot for a beautiful day away that’s not far away. People come from miles to take advantage of the fishing, horseback riding, deluxe camping amenities, water play park, and to experience the over 1,500 species of wildlife sharing the glorious meadowlands, but we locals can take advantage of the opportunity to visit this H.D. haven whenever we so choose. What a great diversion from the real world! Come face to face with cows, horses, ducks, a donkey and a comical llama (is that you Lorenzo?) and a wide array
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of beautiful birds; who needs to drive miles down the hill for such encounters? There’s so much to do and experience, but if you’re not one for adventure, take a picnic lunch, relax by the lake and feed the ducks. It’s the ideal place to escape reality for a day; just take the rejuvenating grandeur of Mojave Narrows in and shut the real world out. Ah… If you have no clue where our H.D. oasis is located, just meander down Bear Valley Rd. and head north on Ridgecrest. You’ll find it at 18000 Yates Rd. If you have questions or would like information on campgrounds, fishing or horse rentals, give them a call at 760-245-2226. Their summer hours of operation are from 7:30am to 6pm. Enjoy!
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» wine cellar Tasting Notes
wine trends
“The discovery of wine is of greater moment than the discovery of a constellation. The universe is too full of stars.” — Benjamin Franklin
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Reader Recommendation 2009 california girl A South Coast Winery enthusiast, newlywed Jennifer Dineen loves a variety of reds and whites alike, but her new summertime favorite is without a doubt their fragrant and fruity 2009 California Girl. “It’s very light, crisp and refreshing. It has a sweet fruit taste that is very balanced.” A delicate white table wine infused with tropical aromas and flavors, California Girl is a delicious complement to seafood on a hot summer night, but Jen prefers to pair it with a diverse array of cheese and fruit.
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by Stephanie Morris eftover wine… What’s that, right? While most of us can’t imagine why there would ever be such a thing, occasionally, on those rare evenings when the moon is in the Seventh House and Jupiter aligns with Mars…um…okay, I don’t really know where I’m going with that, but every once in a very unusual while, leftover wine happens. And, unless it’s stored correctly (and even sometimes when it is), leftover wine doesn’t always taste up to par. You see, when we first uncork a bottle of wine, oxygen is our friend, as it helps the wine to breathe, opening up its various flavors and aromas. However, even after just a few hours, oxidation can ruin a wine, leaving it tasting flat and funky. Storing corked wine in a smaller bottle and in a cool place will slow the oxidation process down, and if you have a wine pump handy to suck that evil wine ruining air out first, even better. But…if you just can’t bring yourself to drink leftover wine, don’t throw it out. Pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze it for later use. If you like to cook, both red and white wine add zest to sauces and some definite zip to marinades and vinaigrettes. Or, even better yet, whip up some sangria! Just mix it with your favorite lemon-lime carbonated soda and add oranges, limes, cherries and pineapple for a refreshing summertime pick-me-up! Cheers!
Modenese Pork Chops * 4 tablespoons butter * 4 (1 inch thick) pork chops * 1/2 cup dry white wine * 1 teaspoon salt * 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper * 1/2 teaspoon crushed dried rosemary * 2 cloves garlic, minced In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté chops in butter, turning once to brown evenly. Add wine, and season with salt, pepper, rosemary and garlic. Simmer, uncovered for 20 minutes or until chops are tender. Transfer pork chops onto serving plates and spoon sauce over the chops. Recipe courtesy Allrecipes.com
july | august 2011
JAPANESE RESTAURANT
Fine Italian Dining in the heart of Apple Valley
22010 US Highway 18 . Apple Valley, CA, 92307 760-240-9664
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Come Relax and Enjoy our Large Seating area while you take your time and view our wine selection in all price ranges.
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Âť restaurant spotlight
Creative Catering by Eva
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creative catering by eva (760) 617-7228
ometimes planning a party or event is no party at all. Weddings, baby showers, birthday parties, corporate gatherings, and family events are just the kinds of things that High Desert residents should leave to the experts at Creative Catering by Eva. Owner Eva Baker founded her unique catering business in 2008 with the understanding that the H.D. was in need of a high quality service that would give residents the ability to customize an event without the stress. This family owned and operated business uses your favorite local restaurants to create a menu that is best suited for each individual client and event. The food is prepared by the individual restaurant and then the Creative Catering by Eva staff delivers and stages the cuisine. With the use of high quality linens, custom center
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pieces, floral arrangements, and expert design talent, there is no limit to your vision of the perfect gathering. Their artistic flare and creative sensibilities have allowed them to design elaborately themed parties and professional corporate events. They even have custom cakes ordered from famed New York cake maker Sylvia Weinstock. Creative Catering by Eva will stop at nothing to ensure astonishing results at an affordable price. Their friendly service and dedication to the people of the High Desert has made them a fast favorite for events all over the H.D. Creative Catering by Eva will create a million dollar look without the million dollar price tag. For more information, please contact Creative Catering by Eva at 760-617-7228.. — Tere Kidd
july | august 2011
Dining Guide » Victorville
The Grumpy Golfer 14144 Green Tree Blvd. (760) 955-6017 Yoshi Sushi 14177 Kentwood Blvd, (760) 241-1960 Chateau Chang 15425 Anacapa Rd, (760) 241-3040 Divine Wine Bar 14845 Monarch Blvd. suite C, (760) 843-3888 La Casita 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 Johnny Rebs’ Southern 15051 7th St, (760) 955-3700 Golden Gate Restaurant 15208 Bear Valley Rd., # B, (760) 245-6189 MiMi’s Cafe 12032 Amargosa Rd., (760) 244-6888 Steer ‘n Stein 12224 Mariposa Rd, (760) 241-0775 Los Roberto’s 12670 Hesperia Rd, (760) 2439422 Maan Fu 14317 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 956-8787 Well Being Tofu House 15024 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 241-8888 Mimi’s Cafe 12032 Amargosa Rd, (760) 244-6888
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Original Roadhouse Grill 11940 Amargosa Rd, (760) 949-2308 Karma Nightclub 12152 Cottonwood Rd, (760) 955-1600 El Tio Pepe 12100 Amargosa Rd, (760) 241-0811 Carino’s 11970 Amargosa Rd, (760) 949-2248 Kinari 12152 Cottonwood Rd, (760) 955-1500
Oggis Pizza & Brewing Co 19201 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 240-8977 Mama Carpino’s 22010 Highway 18, (760) 240-9664 » Hesperia
Juliano’s Italian Restaurant, 12052 Hesperia Rd., (760) 949-0595 Los Domingos 15885 Main St, (760) 948-6161
China Garden 13790 Bear Valley Rd # 10, (760) 245-9665
Cancun Mexican & Seafood 15550 Main St, (760) 956-7720
Paulina’sl 14845 Monarch Blvd, (760) 955-2661
Italian Kitchen 16409 Yucca St, (760) 244-7757
Daikoku Japanese Steak House 12174 Hesperia Rd, (760) 952-1300
Thai-Lotus 12027 Hesperia Rd, (760) 949-9362
» Apple Valley Angel’s Roadhouse 2 13685 John Glenn Rd, (760) 240-6923 Las Brisas 21919 US Highway 18, (760) 240-1051 Nikki’s Cafe 19311 Bear Valley Rd. (760) 247-355
Wood Grill Buffet 14135 Main St. (760) 981-4418 Go Bangkok Thai 15800 Main St. Ste 200, (760) 947-9029 Miyako Sushi 14073 Main St., Ste 109, (760) 956-7817
Di Napoli’s FireHouse 17856 US Highway 18, (760) 242-5802 Amy’s 18768 US Highway 18, Ste 170, (760) 242-7272 The Wine Seller Apple Bear Center, (760) 961-2500 Go Bangkok Thai 20783 Bear Valley Rd, Ste H, (760) 240-3888 Los Domingos 17790 US Highway 18, (760) 946-5344
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» HD CALENDAR Entertainment Calendar July/August
July 7 - August 25 fifth ANNUAL SUNSET CONCERT SERIES PRESENTED BY TARGET Join friends, family and neighbors for free concerts featuring a mouth watering array of food, a beer garden and live music at the Civic Center Park Amphitheatre on Thursday nights from 6 - 9p.m. Parking and Admission are free! Apple Valley Civic Center Park Amphitheatre; ( 760 ) 240-7000 x 7071 or go to applevalley.org for more information
August 6 ACTIVE ADULT EXPO The Active Adult Expo is designed for adults over 40+. Lessons such as Zumba, Swing Dancing, Salsa Dancing and so much more. Over 80 booths with information on an active lifestyle for adults. Bingo for prizes all day. Join us from 9am to 4pm at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds. San Bernardino County Fairgrounds, Victorville; for more information call (760) 241-1313
July 22 – 31 A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM This summer, VVC’s Theater Arts Department will be presenting the hilarious and thought provoking play, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” This 75 minute production, set in the 60’s, will portray how Royalty is reflected in the world of the Fairy Kingdom. Characters come and go as if in a dream. Come and find out just how much of a dream William Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream really can be! V.V.C. Performing Arts Center; call (760) 245-4271 ext. TIX (849) for tickets and showtimes
August 19 MOVIES IN THE PARK Bring your blankets and popcorn and enjoy a movie under the stars. Featuring “Alice in Wonderland” starring Johnny Depp. Guests are encouraged to arrive one hour before dark. Horseman’s Center, Apple Valley; for more information call (760) 240-7880
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www.magicsteele.com 213-928-5156
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» HD HAppenings Adopt a pet - these dogs and cats — and many others — can be found at one of the local shelters we featured on page 26 in this issue. Won’t you give them a new home?
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» Susan’s corner
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Love is color blind
eople who see all of my animals wonder about my affinity for black animals. It has not been planned. I have never consciously gone looking for black animals, but when I heard that many people shy away from black or dark colored animals, it made me feel better about my choice to adopt them. My cat Jazz was brought to me by a friend whose friend’s cat had a litter, so she was chosen for me. Sophie was just too hard to resist and Bonnie looked just like a little Sophie, so when I had the opportunity to adopt them, their color was not even a consideration. All animals, regardless of breed or color, deserve a safe and loving home, and though I do not know when or from where my next companion animals will come, I will be happy to love them regardless of color or breed, though I do have a weakness for Labs in all their flavors: black, yellow, or chocolate! This makes me think about the thousands of cats and dogs who languish in shelters or are needlessly euthanized because they are deemed unadoptable. There is a glut of Black Lab mixes in H.D. shelters today precisely because people do not responsibly spay or neuter their animals or they support irresponsible breeders and puppy mills. As a personal choice, I will never buy a dog or cat from any store or breeder that sells pets. With all of the healthy, loving, and beautiful cats and dogs in shelters looking for someone to love and to love them, why are we needlessly bringing more animals into the world who will just suffer and die? It is time to stop the slaughter, stop supporting those who view animals as mere commodities, and make a stand for shelter pets as the best and only way to go when it is time to bring home a companion animal.
If you would like to see something special featured in Susan’s Corner, or if you have a special recipe, drop me a line and let me know about it at: Susan Landers at H.D. Living Magazine 6630 SLV Box Victorville, Ca. 92395, or e-mail me at susanl@hdlivingmagazine.com.
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Looking forward to a Healthy 2011
THE FUTURE OF HEALTHCARE IN THE HIGH DESERT IS IN
GOOD HANDS
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16850 Bear Valley Road, Victorville, CA 92395 • 760-241-8000 www.dvmc.com