HDLIVING LOCAL DINING REVIEW | HD PERSONALITIES | LOCAL AUTHORS | HD HEALTH | WINE TRENDS
YOUR PREMIERE HIGH DESERT LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
FALL/WINTER 2015
THE BEST SPOTS IN THE HD
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H.D. Living H.D. Living Magazine Volume 7, Issue 2, Winter 2015 PUBLISHER/CEO Frank A. Castillo frankc@hdlivingmagazine.com AD COORDINATOR/CFO Tiffany Santee tiffanys@hdlivingmagazine.com MARKETING/CIRCULATION DIRECTOR James Piar : jamesp@hdlivingmagazine.com
Our Mission...
A Continuing Commitment to Our Patients Orthodontics is an evolving science with frequent developments in techniques, technology and treatment. At our office, we ensure that patients receive the most advanced orthodontic care. Our office regularly attends seminars and conferences devoted to orthodontic treatment, new technology and patient care. With Patient Care as our top priority, this is our commitment to you.
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2015 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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FALL/WINTER 2015
The Most Comprehensive Services in the High Desert.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS WINTER 2015
22
No Static at All
24
Best 5 Spots to Eat in the HD
DEPARTMENTS 8 PUBLISHER’S LETTER 13 UPFRONT
Get in Tha Game, High Desert Wildlife, Saving the Stars, Calendar of Events, Matt Valdez, Sunland Ford
18 HEALTH MATTERS Avoiding the Over-Analysis Paralysis
32 HD HAPPENINGS
34 LOCAL DESERT HANGOUT
28
Winter Trippin’ to Santa Monica
15
Munchie’s
36 LOCAL DINING SPOTLIGHT Desert Barn Brewery 38 HD DINING GUIDE 40 WINE TRENDS ‘Tis the Season … for Port? 42 SUSAN’S CORNER Mia’s Boxes of Love
FOLLOW US ONLINE
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FALL/WINTER 2015
Impeccable Care with an Artistic Eye
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High Desert Living magazine 7 www.mydentistapplevalley.com
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
Food in the HD THEY SAY THAT FOOD CAN BE THE WAY TO SOME PEOPLE’S HEART; if you’re one of those people, then we have a treat for you. We’ve put together a top 5 list of some great local spots in the HD to grab a bite to eat. All of our picks offer their own unique take on the genre of food they offer and one thing is for sure, they’re all must try spots. All locally owned and operated non-chain restaurants, these local places of interest have set the bar high and give the HD more options for great eats. Recently I was invited to be a guest on a local internet radio show; EPIC radio is run by local DJ Jay Jaime, a self-made “radiopreneur.” With a list of local shows and an in-home studio he built himself, Jay has a growing following with local content and sponsors. We also take you on a weekend getaway to Santa Monica, with its year round sunny weather and local culture & restaurants it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking to get out of the HD but not go too far away. We also bring you some great local business spotlights such as Get In Tha Game, Matt Valdez with State Farm Insurance, Menchies Yogurt and Desert Barn Brewery. So as the fall season settles in and the winter season approaches, we hope you enjoy this issue of HD LIVING as we continue to bring you the best our area has to offer. Frank Castillo, Publisher & CEO frankc@hdlivingmagazine.com
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High Desert Living magazine 9
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High Desert Living magazine 11
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UPFRONT
READY TO PLAY? THEN GET IN THE GAME!
GET IN THA GAME www.getinthagame.com (760) 240-8083 15850 Old Apple Valley Rd. W, Ste. 120 Apple Valley
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
THIS TIME OF YEAR IS A SPORTS LOVER’S DREAM. NFL football is in the middle of a competitive season; MLB just finished with the Kansas City Royals winning the pennant, and the NBA & NHL seasons just started a few weeks ago. So, what does every sports fan need? Sports gear and plenty of it! When Greg Williamson started his sports themed storefront Get In Tha Game a few years ago in Apple Valley, he envisioned a place where locals could not only get their jerseys and hats for their favorite team but a place where sports and gaming fans alike could gather for tournaments and virtual pick-up games. Originally located in the Jess Ranch Center, Get In Tha Game is now located on the southwest corner of Highway 18 and Apple Valley Road; offering everything from coffee mugs and ball caps to jerseys and memorabilia, they have what you are looking for. Williamson, who is a former professional football player himself and played college ball at Fresno State before getting his shot and making the roster with the then Los Angeles Rams, looks to bring a whole different sports experience to the HD. Offering tournaments for those into gaming has been one of the most popular aspects of the business drawing in people from all over the area looking for their shot at being the best E-sports player. Williamson is also looking to expand on the store’s presence with local sports teams as Get In The Game offers custom uniforms for Little League, Junior All-American, and any other organized sports teams. So, make your way down to this local sports shop and Get In Tha Game!
High Desert Living magazine 13
HD WILD LIFE
High Desert Wildlife IDENTIFYING OUR STRANGE AND WONDERFUL DESERT NEIGHBORS By Elisa Urmston DO YOU NEED HELP IDENTIFYING THE WILD THINGS that creep slither or otherwise meander around this desert? What is it? Is it dangerous? Who can tell me? A great source of wildlife info in this community is High Desert Wildlife, a Facebook page founded by Rachel Woll and Phil Clevinger. It all started when Woll and her friend Phil (the page cofounder) were out looking for snakes to photograph, and the conversation turned to how they were so tired of seeing dead harmless snakes on Facebook with false information. (Often it was a dead gopher snake being said to be a Mojave rattlesnake) and they decided to start a Facebook page to be a go-to source where people could come and ask questions and post pictures and get factual information. Rachel is passionate about the project and the animals she is asked about. “It’s quite amazing if you think about it- we have animals that live in one of the harshest climates-- able to control their water usage internally, able to survive hot and cold and they not only live, but they thrive in this desert.” If you look at the Facebook page, there is a fascinating array of photos and questions posted by locals, followed by thoughtful answers that oftentimes really put a reader’s mind at ease. It is surprising to note the diversity of flora and fauna that exists here. When asked, Woll stated “The best part for me is when I get to see a change in the community and individuals. It is truly rewarding to see someone have a positive encounter with a “creepy” desert dweller and leave with less fear and a new respect for that creature. We use different insects/arachnids, snakes and lizards that are safe for people to have hands on experiences with. If you are curious about snakes- we talk you through holding a harmless rosy boa. Scared of spiders? You can hold a tarantula with the assistance and patience of one of our representatives. We believe knowledge will beat out fear every time, and that everyone can learn to exist peacefully alongside the creatures we share our space with. And when they can’t, or don’t want to- we are there to educate, provide resources and in some instances safely relocate that animal.” Woll and Clevinger decided that the best place is Facebook.
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“Our community page is www.facebook.com/groups/ highdesertwildlife. In addition to me and Phil, we have three other admins (Jeff, Jill, and Jacob) who also volunteer time to help moderate the page (keeping content appropriate) and answer questions. One could post on the Facebook page and usually get answers in a short amount of time. Members will tag admins or the appropriate people to help us out as well. We do identification from photos, answer questions about snake safety, enjoy pictures from photographers, and we refer out to various organizations/agencies if we can’t help.” If she could snap her fingers and change one thing, it would be to stamp out all the untrue rumors and wives tales that people still believe, because usually they end in an animal being hurt or killed in a misguided attempt to defend oneself. Another frustration is this “kill it” mentality for the animals people don’t like. “We totally get that not everyone enjoys spiders, snakes or coyotes- but they play a role in our environment and that needs to be understood.” If you remove all the spiders, we will have an overgrowth of roaches and other insects. Remove the snakes, and we will have more mice than the other predators can handle. Remove coyotes, and the small animals like rabbits, and squirrels will be left unchecked, which is why they work so hard to educate people- if folks can at least understand why these creatures exist, they become more valuable to us all. Woll understands that people often fear what they don’t know, and they are correct in realizing we have some potentially dangerous animals. Knowledge of the animals in our desert and what to do if you cross paths with one is invaluable information to the people who live here. When asked what the most important message was for all of us regarding the wildlife in this desert, Woll replied, “My hope is that as people learn about the animals that live around us, they will be more eco- conscious overall. We impact the animals around us in everything we do, and a lot of animals are in trouble overall as a result of human kind.” www.facebook.com/groups/highdesertwildlife
FALL/WINTER 2015
Saving the Stars By Elisa Urmston HAVE YOU EVER PEERED INTO THE NIGHT SKY AND WONDERED WHAT WAS OUT THERE? These days, despite all the technology available to us, it seems those dark skies are more mysterious and elusive than ever. We have apps that tell us where the constellations are, and notices that pop up telling us that the International Space Station will fly over us tonight, but when we look up, what do we see? Astrophotographer Harun Mehmedinovic was enchanted by the stars as a child, but when he got older and lived in big cities, he didn’t see them. He later rediscovered the beauty of those stars while traveling through the desert Southwest. With the advent of revolutionary timelapse camera technology, and by joining forces with Gavin Heffernan, a friend from his grad school days, what began as a hobby has blossomed into a full-blown project--Project Skyglow-- whose scope is far more important than simple aesthetics. The definition of skyglow is the illumination of the night sky. The most common cause is artificial light, which accumulates into a vast glow that can be seen from miles away. While it may not seem that light pollution is one of the more pressing problems facing us, it impacts the health of humans and animals, disrupts ecosystems and avian migratory patterns, and costs us billions in wasted energy. With an estimated light pollution growth of 6%, it is likely that the developed world may lose all dark skies by the end of the 21st century. The whole idea behind Project Skyglow is to make us aware of those night skies and be moved by the experience, to encourage us to re-engage with nature, and to remind us that we are part of a much larger universe. Mehmedinovic observes that we may obscure the stars, but they are in us on a subatomic level--that we are all, as he poetically states, universes in miniature form. Project Skyglow caught the attention of none less than the Rolling Stones, who used some of the stunning photos as the backdrop for Jagger’s performance of Moonlight Mile. I witnessed the murmur of awe as the otherwise raucous, pumped up crowd experienced the truly sublime imagery on the jumbo screens during the Stones’ Zip Code Tour earlier this year. It is possible that the Milky Way might be one of the few phenomena out there that could upstage Jagger’s antics. When asked about how excited he was about his work being included in the concert, Mehmedinovic remained sanguine, stating he “swallowed the zen pill” during the war years in the Balkans, though he did later admit to having an emotional reaction to his images being shown during the song “Wild Horses,” because it is his favorite Rolling Stones song. By shooting photographs that are grounded--meaning the earth’s landscape has a presence in the shot, as do foreground objects that are human or nature made, the viewer gets a sense of perspective. All of the petty issues of mankind become very small in the scheme of things. Mehmedinovic points out that once you are really aware of the night skies, city skies truly feel dirty, and that light pollution is a slow-motion train wreck crushing the biosphere. The work can be grueling, often involving long nights in sub-freezing weather, but it is the hope of these artists that Project Skyglow will challenge us to find answers and make changes to preserve this important part of our collective imagination. Project Skyglow is due to be completed sometime in the middle of next year. You can follow their work at www. skyglowproject.com, or Skyglow Project on Facebook.
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 15
HD EVENTS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
November 20 – 22 JURASSIC QUEST
December 4 – 13 IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
December 11 – 20 ONCE UPON A WOLF
San Bernardino County Fairgrounds, Victorville www.jurassicquest.com Jurassic Quest brings you a Dinosaur Adventure for the whole family. The main dinosaur exhibit features ultrarealistic, life-size animatronic dinosaurs; Over 50 life-size dinosaurs in all. Visitors can interact with these huge creatures, learn about them and even ride a few. It features realistic scenes, enormous dinosaurs, cute baby dinosaurs and lots of fun activities for kids of all ages. There are huge T-Rex and Triceratops fossil digs where young paleontologists can uncover long hidden dinosaurs bones, the “Dino Bounce” area with several, towering, dinosaur theme inflatable mazes, face painting, Dino crafts and much more!
High Desert Center for the Arts, Victorville www.creativeartstheatre.com Make sure to bring the family and enjoy this Holiday Classic. After George Bailey wishes he had never been born, an angel is sent to earth to make George’s wish come true. George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be different if he was never there.
VVC Performing Arts Center Go to www.vvc.edu/offices/ performing_arts/events Once Upon a Wolf is a delightful children’s show; this fast and furious fairy tale with a modern twist tells what happens when the Big Bad Wolf decides he doesn’t want to be big or bad anymore! Old Granny Stinkyfeet is just trying to tell the kiddies some stories but she’s having trouble with the Wolf. Written by Steph DeFerres, Directed by Allen Gildard
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December 5 APPLE VALLEY WINTER WONDERLAND TREE LIGHTING Civic Center Park 14955 Dale Evans Parkway, Apple Valley Free admission and parking. www.applevalleyca.gov Thanks to the Home Depot, the Town of Apple Valley is excited to have a NEW live Christmas tree located in Civic Center Park. Santa will “ ho ho ho” his way over and help the Town light the new tree. Winter Wonderland is a family friendly event featuring train rides, inflatable’s, crafts, information and giveaways, live entertainment and falling snow! Bring the kids along for a picture with Santa.
FALL/WINTER 2015
•OHV and RV camping• •3 Restaurants• •New Gift Shops• •Mine & Ghost Tours• •Family Attractions•
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 17
HD HEALTH MATTERS
Avoiding the OverAnalysis Paralysis
Dr. Hannon graduated from the Southern California University of Health Sciences’ Doctor of Chiropractic program. Dr. Hannon dedicates his time to his passion of health, exercise, and nutrition.
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I SEE THIS NEARLY EVERY DAY IN PRACTICE, the “over analysis paralysis” I call it. Never in recorded history has society had access to more information about health and wellness as we do today. At our finger tips in an instant, we have access to Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Blogs, books, magazines, multi level marketing products, internet gurus like Dr. Joseph Mercola and Dr. Josh Axe, television programs from Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Phil McGraw, and much more. Most of these resources offer sincere health information at no cost; but be warned not everyone gives true healthy information (I have had many patients tell me their dietitian/nutritionist suggested they drink soda!) and not everyone is sincere (some just want to sell books or gimmicks). Additionally, some of this health information is passed along from other sources, and much like the childhood game of telephone. The ideas and thoughts are passed along, and often in the end, there is little left of the original message and people are left confused. This is when the problems arise. I find many people will read something from one source which may be similar but yet different to the recommendations of another source, which in turn is similar but yet different from yet a third source and on and on; you get the idea. The more many Americans read, and learn, about health, the more confused most get. And this, my friends, results in the paralysis. First let’s define these terms for our discussion. Paralysis is defined as the loss of muscle function of one or more muscles. For our discussion let’s define paralysis as a “lack of action.” Analysis means to break a complex topic (like the health of the human body) into smaller parts to gain a better understanding. So what I find is that many Americans overstudy health and wellness so much that they do not know what is best for them, where to start, and how to implement a healthy lifestyle. The result is no action, no lifestyle modifications, and no increased level of health. I mean, lets face it, Americans have access to all these resources, and yet the obesity and
over weight population makes up nearly 70% of the US and has been steadily increasing over the recent years; and with increased weight comes decreased health, decreased quality of life, increased disability, and increased risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, arthritis, diabetes, and more. Enter what I predict as the solution. There is a growing profession of people passionate for health that are being labeled as “Health Coaches.” A health coach does for your health, what a personal trainer does for your workouts. A certified health coach is a wellness authority, and supportive mentor, to help you cultivate a healthier lifestyle through eating, exercise, and managing stress and other behavior barriers. It is necessary to learn how to implement wellness goals to live a sustainable healthy lifestyle without deprivation. That way these healthy habits will become a natural part of life rather than being forced. Like we have discussed multiple times through this column you don’t have to go this journey on your own, there is a “we” in “wellness.” Now I must admit my bias here. My wife and I decided to become certified health coaches because we saw the need to bridge the gap between health information and those who need it. At the end of the day many Americans would benefi t from someone who is passionate about health, who is proactive in gaining the latest health and wellness information through seminars/training/ education in order to simplify it, or boil it down, to achievable health goals and hold you accountable. Our nation is in a health crisis that is currently not being addressed and is out of control. Costs are sky rocketing at alarming rates; which in turn costs us all through government/taxes and through insurance premiums. In summary, don’t suffer from the “over analysis paralysis;” don’t go the journey alone. Consider consulting with a certified health coach to help you remove the barriers to your success (like an unhealthy lifestyle). Remember, when we travel the road to success barrier free, the road becomes a much smoother ride.
FALL/WINTER 2015
Retirement.
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How do you get there? Matt Valdez, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0I97421 12180 Ridgecrest Road Suite 520 Victorville, CA 92395 Bus: 760-596-1985 Mon - Thurs 9:00am - 7:00pm Fri 9:00am - 5:00pm Weekends by appointment
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High Desert Living magazine 19
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE DRIVE!
Sunland Ford
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A SUCCESSFUL CAR DEALERSHIP for more than forty-seven years? It takes determination, an optimistic outlook, a great product, and most of all, it takes a team commitment to customers. Sunland Ford has all of that and more! First opened in 1968 in an unpopulated area of the Victor Valley, the folks at Sunland Ford have literally had the high desert population rise up around them. With nothing but open desert surrounding them, many predicted that they would not survive; they not only survived but thrived thanks to offering great customer service. According to owner Scott Chambers, “at Sunland, we are all one team with a ‘can do’ attitude being led by positive leadership… reinforcing the idea that everyone is included, everyone is part of the team, everyone’s contribution is respected, and we’re passing that on to our customers.”
Scott goes on to say that, “Sunland’s Service Department has fully Factory Trained, Master Certified Technicians who are here for all your vehicle’s needs. Your car will be serviced expertly by technicians who are extensively trained to know every aspect of your vehicle.” In a hurry? Sunland Ford also offers Quick Lane. When you’re ready for essential maintenance, the experts at Quick Lane are ready for you. Easy, convenient, and hassle-free, Quick Lane requires no appointment and uses only quality parts from Motorcraft. Whether you need an oil change, a brake repair, batteries, alignments, air conditioning repair, or a set of new tires, Quick Lane is at your service. And, your car doesn’t even need to be a Ford as they service all makes and models at Sunland’s service department. With an outstanding track record, everyone at Sunland Ford is committed to providing the H.D. with the best care, commitment, and courtesy. Stop by to visit them where Palmdale Road meets Amargosa, and you’ll see just how warmly you’re welcomed. By Susan Landers
FOLLOW SUNLAND FORD ONLINE Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sunland-Ford-113098662043993/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sunlandford Instagram: instagram.com/sunland_ford
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FALL/WINTER 2015
MATT VALDEZ: State Farm Agent MATT VALDEZ HAS BEEN A BUSINESS OWNER AND ENTREPRENEUR MOST OF HIS LIFE. When State Farm Insurance came knocking at his door, he had a lot to consider. After much research and contemplation, Valdez began to see that there was a real opportunity to work with the local community and do business in a more meaningful way. “My wife and I are both self-employed with three children, we absolutely understand how crucial insurance and sound finances are to a family and their future” states Valdez. Recruited for his business acumen and accomplishments as an entrepreneur, State Farm trained him extensively, preparing him for what would be a perfect match: his skills and protecting families and businesses. “Insurance is about service” says Valdez. He sees his job as one where he helps protect customers through appropriate insurance coverage and with long term financial needs. He takes the time to get to know his customer to really understand their situation and goals. State Farm is branching out. They now have a bank and offer various products such as mortgages, refinancing, vehicle loans, checking, savings and credit cards. They even have vehicle loan and credit card products at great rates for young adults with no established credit. Valdez is securities licensed, so he is able to help people with investments, retirement plans and 401k rollovers. He is also mortgage licensed, and is the only State Farm agent in the high desert that can assist you with State Farm’s own low cost home mortgage products. “Being a direct lender has allowed State Farm to offer some of the lowest cost lending products available” says Valdez, “We really are the best kept secret in banking”. Helping people get to retirement, shepherding families and businesses through the different stages in life and helping them achieve their goals is what motivates Valdez and what makes being a State Farm agent the best job he’s ever had. Matt Valdez enjoys getting out in the community and
meeting people. Says he’s had some great conversations and is lucky to be able to include his customers among his good friends. His office has supported many local events, and really believes in giving back to the community. He supports the Apple Valley High School Volleyball team, Youth Soccer, and A Dancer’s Point to name a few. He’s also been involved in Veterans of Foreign Wars men’s auxiliary, is a six year member of the Elks and has recently recruited members of his team to join him in donating blood in remembrance of 9/11.
“Being a direct lender has allowed State Farm to offer some of the lowest cost lending products available. We really are the best kept secret in banking.”
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
Valdez’s office is located in the Ridgecrest Industrial Park, at 12180 Ridgecrest Road, suite 520 in Victorville. You can reach him by phone at (760) 596-1985. Hours are from 9am to 7pm, Monday through Thursday, and 9am to 5pm Fridays. Matt understands that people are busy and is happy to meet clients in the office or at their homes on nights and weekends as needed. — By Tere Kidd
High Desert Living magazine 21
No Static at All
THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING EXCITING HAPPENING AT KJAY EPIC! RADIO. From live comedy to the absolute best music in the High Desert, you will find it streaming on the World Wide Web on www.epicradio.info. Entrepreneur, fabulous doughnut chef, and musician Jay Jaime always had a dream of owning a radio station, and has always loved helping others. KJAY radio is a realization of his dream, and as with most labors of love, it’s a dream that is getting better every day. Jaime is animated and brimming with enthusiasm as he tells me about what makes this station special. There are many aspects, but it becomes clear that the enthusiasm and variety
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are the magic ingredients. He tells me how he features different genres every day, in an attempt to offer choices to the diverse community he serves. He has programmed 80s Mondays, with a classic rock show from 4-6 that evening. Wednesdays feature is a show called The Crucial Reggae Connection. Not into that? Wednesday features 90s hits, and Tank’s Heavy Metal Show. I listened on Classic Thursday, and heard all of my favorite songs from my crazy youth. Friday nights, kick off your weekend fun with The Epic! Show Live, with prank calls, a request hotline, and comedy from guests like the charmingly hilarious JT Turner. Because it’s all live, the show is reminiscent of radio days of old, where anything can happen, but it’s also fresh and modern. There is a certain excitement in creating an unpredictable, fun, independent show in this era of corporate, risk-averse radio. Jaime is a big fan of Howard Stern, and learned a lot about how to entertain his audience from listening to Stern’s radio show, and you catch echoes of that same playfulness in the vibe of KJAY. The future is looking bright for this venture. Jaime has big plans, including a Sunday Service show, a punk rock show, local news and sports, and--this is exciting, when you consider all the talent in this desert-- live band performances. Bands and promoters from all around the country have actually expressed enthusiastic interest in stopping in to perform. In a giant step
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forward, Jay Jaime is about to unveil Epic! TV later this month, featuring a variety of shows, including a Tonight Show type of comedy/talk/entertainment format. Epic Radio is developing a strong, positive presence in the High Desert, doing live remotes with the Epic Radio van, helping businesses with promotions, emceeing events, running exciting contests, all the while independently interacting with the community to better suit its needs. Loyal listeners have started to send donations,which are also helping the station to grow. It has grown beyond a hobby--it’s a labor of love, a growing creation, reaching hundreds of listeners from Adelanto to Big Bear (and points far, far beyond) with, as the Steely Dan song says, no static at all, since it’s coming to you 100% live from the World Wide Web. To listen, go to www.epicradio.info, and hit the play button. You won’t be disappointed. — Elisa Urmston
High Desert Living magazine 23
LOUISIANA CAJON SEAFOOD HOUSE Looking for a unique dining experience unlike any in the HD? Then this is the place. Eat right off the table using only your hands; this Cajun Seafood spot in Hesperia (with a second location opening in Victorville soon) is a hands down favorite! Offering a menu that includes Lobster, Shrimp and Crab legs with your choice of spice and a modern ambiance, full bar and food that is finger licking good, make sure to take the family into Louisiana Cajun Seafood for an experience unlike any other. 14466 Main St. #103, Hesperia | (760) 244-2323 louisianacajunseafoodhouse.com
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BEST
5 SPOTS TO EAT IN THE HD
A
lthough there are many places in the HD to grab some grub, we wanted to spotlight a few of our favorites as voted on by some of our readers and staff. Some of these spots are new, and some have been serving the HD for years, but one thing is certain, they all offer something unique to our growing High Desert, and if you haven’t tried them, then you’re missing out!
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 25
MAMA CARPINO’S What can we say? The veteran of this group Mama Carpino’s has be serving the Victor Valley for many years and continues to be the area’s premier spot to dine. From their signature dishes such as the Penne Alla Vodka to the made to order pizza pies, this is a place where you celebrate that special occasion. Offering fine wines and craft beer to pair with your meal, Mama Carpino’s is an HD classic that never gets old. 22010 CA-Hwy 18, Apple Valley | 760) 240-9664 mamacarpinos.net
DESERT BARN BREWERY This new-on-the-map local brewery in Hesperia has quickly become a local favorite. They’re now offering dining options as they’ve paired with Itchy Foot Barbecue to bring you, not only homemade brews, but some great BBQ and a full menu to boot. Desert Barn Brewery has a family feel with picnic style seating and a full list of in-house seasonal beers. This place has certainly brought the local Brewery/eatery concept to the Desert. 11352 Hesperia Rd., Hesperia | (760) 995-3894 desertbarnbrewery.com
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WHISKEY BARREL This new-on-the-map local brewery in Hesperia has quickly become a local favorite. They’re now offering dining options as they’ve paired with Itchy Foot Barbecue to bring you, not only homemade brews, but some great BBQ and a full menu to boot. Desert Barn Brewery has a family feel with picnic style seating and a full list of in-house seasonal beers. This place has certainly brought the local Brewery/eatery concept to the Desert. 11352 Hesperia Rd., Hesperia (760) 995-3894 desertbarnbrewery.com
DOWN HOME GRILL The overwhelming support for this new local eatery has been amazing; the Down Home Grill offers a concept unlike any other in the HD. A local spot to grab that early morning breakfast with organic free range eggs, an organic grass fed burger & fresh cut french fries for lunch, or a craft beer with your dinner to bring the day to a close. With the motto Breakfast, Burgers and Beer, the Down Home Grill is already pleasing the masses with its unique décor, organic offerings and down home feel. 12120 Ridgecrest Rd. #101, Victorville | (760) 241-4663 downhomegrill.com
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 27
WINTER DAY TRIPPIN’ TO
Santa Monica “All I wanna do…is have some fun…until the sun comes up over Santa Monica Boulevard.”
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A
pparently singer/songwriter Sheryl Crowe knows where to have a good time, but…I’ve got a feeling…she’s not the only one! We’re pretty lucky here in California. When we’re not under the threat of El Niño, our fall and winter months are mild, and we can still get out and about for some much needed fun. If you’re itching for a change of scenery and don’t have the time for a lengthy vacation, we’ve come up with another fun-filled day-cation hotspot for you to consider. In past issues we’ve ventured to our local mountain resorts and to the Wine Country of our Central Coast; however, this time we’d like to take you with us on a virtual fun-filled day-cay in scenic…you guessed it…Santa Monica! Most are aware—or have at least heard a rumor or two—of the entertainment to be had on the Santa Monica Pier, and we’ll touch on that, but we’ll also reveal a few other distractions and seasonal attractions you may want to discover in beautiful Santa Monica. By Stephanie Morris
SANTA MONICA PIER
Built in 1909, the Santa Monica Pier is home to the celebrated amusement park, Pacific Park. With rides and attractions to please kids young and old, it offers thrill inducers such as Pacific Plunge—a nine story tower ride, the five story high West Coaster roller coaster, and…of course…the famous solar powered, over-the-ocean Pacific Wheel Ferris Wheel! Featured in The Sting and also deemed a National Historic Landmark, the Looff Hippodrome Carousel, built in 1922, is also a must see, must do. Just below it, located at beach level, you’ll find the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Now, if you’re feeling adventurous and you aren’t afraid of heights, the Trapeze School of New York may offer just what you need to get your adrenaline pumping. Gamers will appreciate the Playland Arcade, which offers over 200 games, from old classics to the latest and greatest. And, for those who enjoy a good splurge, the Ocean Front Walk is lined with intriguing boutiques and restaurants.
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 29
SANTA MONICA BEACH
The beach! And what a beautiful one! If you’re into fitness or just can’t sit still, take advantage of the South Bay Bicycle Trail, a 22-mile stretch that runs right along the beach. If you head just south of the pier, you’ll find the Sandy Beach Volley Ball Courts, always free to the public. And, of course, there’s always fishing, surfing, boogie boarding, and if the sun is shining, sweet sunbathing to be had. Get the VIP treatment and treat yourself to a Beach Butler who will set up an umbrella, your beach chair, and keep an icy cold beverage in your hand.
ICE SKATING
If the beach isn’t your thing this time of year, how about a little ice skating to get you into the holiday spirit? Starting November 1, 2015—January 18, 2016, downtown Santa Monica provides ice skating to the beachside community by transforming the corner of 5th Street and Arizona Avenue into ICE at Santa Monica. The premier rink is 8,000 square foot and offers visitors a little taste of winter fun.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON SANTA MONICA www.santamonica.com/visitors
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NIGHTLIFE
Whether you prefer dancing the night away in a contemporary nightclub, tipping a few back at a charming pub, or live performance venues, Santa Monica has it all when it comes to nighttime good times. Bodega Wine Bar is a favorite amongst wine enthusiasts, and Harvelle’s Blues Club is a Third Street Promenade hotspot. Those that prefer the club scene may want to check out Trip or the popular Zanzibar. If it’s live music that makes you sing, Rusty’s Surf Ranch, found on the pier, is always a guaranteed good time.
BODEGA WINE BAR
THE ARTS & CULTURE
The art scene is a huge in Santa Monica, so it’s not surprising that museums are heavily sprinkled throughout the city. The Santa Monica Museum of Art draws many, but there are a vast number of galleries, public art displays, and historic landmarks to expand your mind and broaden your artistic taste and culture. Music lovers will enjoy the Santa Monica Pier Concert Series, which draws both local talent and musicians that are world renowned. There are also theatres galore, including the new, state of the art The Broad Stage. For a complete listing of events, visit www. santamonica.com/events-calendar and get the full spectrum.
SHOPPING
It’s that time of year! From the fashionably unique Main Street boutiques to the trendiest 3rd Street Promenade stores, Santa Monica is Heaven on Earth for shopaholics. Designer purses, fine jewelry, furniture, home décor — you name it, they’ve got it. Visit Pico Boulevard to find the eclectic musical instrument strip and Santa Monica Place for an array of holiday shopping spree opportunities.
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 31
HD HAPPENINGS On September 10 the Victor Valley Chamber of Commerce held their Annual Kemper Campbell Ranch Mixer Sponsored by the DeBlasis Family. This annual event brings out business owners and professionals from around the Victor Valley to enjoy an evening of hors d’oeuvres and drinks while enjoying the Ranch, which consists of several houses on the property and dates back to 1858. Over the years, Kemper Campbell Ranch has been host to many guests as well as the sight of many film productions. Photos by Eldon Kingston
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How Will You
#BeSignificant Today?
Chris Ackerman’s
IGNIFYDESIGNS Graphic Design | Marketing | Public Speaking
7 6 0 . 5 5 9 .1 6 8 6 | c h r i s @ s i g n i f y d e s i g n s . c o m
www.signifydesigns.com H e l p i n g I n d i v i d u a l s a n d B u s i n e s s e s B e S i g n i f i c a n t f o r O v e r 2 0 Ye a r s www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 33
LOCAL DESERT HANGOUT
MENCHIE’S
MORE SMILES FOR EVERYONE! YOU CAN’T HELP BUT SMILE WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH MENCHIE’S’ FRONT DOOR. These people aren’t selling frozen yogurt, they’re selling smiles. It is more than just a frozen yogurt shop. It’s entertainment for the young at heart regardless of age. Think: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Just about every candy you’ve every wished for is there waiting for you. Just choose one of the 14 flavors and go crazy with the toppings. Menchie’s has 140 flavors serving 14 at a time. They team up with various brands such as Cinnabon – a current flavor right now – Hersheys, and Nutella. Generally frozen yogurt contains 1/3 of the calories of ice cream and are listed on the labels. For a party or just because you love it so much, you can choose from a number of cakes to make the day a special day. Menchie’s has its own dairy so they are in control of the process from the very beginning, which means no hormones. They offer frozen yogurt with or without sugar added, vegan, kosher, and dairy free. Owner Josh Grewal, was looking for an investment that went beyond making a living. He wanted something that would contribute to the community. He sees himself not as an owner of a frozen yogurt shop, but more as the leader of a team and contributing member to the community. Menchie’s teams up
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with local schools and charitable organizations to raise money for good causes. The company supports student achievement by supplying awards for every 10 books a child reads. Honor roll students, and those with perfect attendance are rewarded, too. Menchie’s, also, supports Lighthouse Restoration – a program that helps single mothers and grandparents who are raising children alone. Food and toy drives are another way Menchie’s serves the community. At this time of the year, children and their families who need help are truly thankful for Menchie’s’ commitment to the community. Grewal is most excited about opening a second Menchie’s at the Victor Valley Mall in Victorville by the end of the year. He has been at the present location in the Hesperia Super Target center - just off the freeway, going south - for about two years and lovin’ it. There are 540 Menchie’s world-wide, and the froyo just keeps on coming. By 2020 the chain is looking forward to the numbers growing to 2000 stores. By Tere Kidd
MENCHIE’S www.menchies.com 12719 Main Street, Hesperia (760) 662-5777
FALL/WINTER 2015
Dig in and have fun at Louisiana Cajun Seafood House located here in Hesperia! Indulge in succulent crab, lobster and shrimp, boiled in a cajun style sauce. SUNDAY FOOTBALL AT 1 1A M US FOR N I ! JO Y N A D I G S H R U T H F T OOTB Y& A D A N L L MO
HAPPY HOUR SPECIAL Monday - Friday from 3-5 buy any drink get one free and get 5% off entire menu
14466 Main Street #103 Hesperia, CA
760-244-2323 Download the App and pick your own music for free!
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
Monday - Saturday: Noon - 11pm Sunday: 11am - 11pm
High Desert Living magazine 35
LOCAL DINING SPOTLIGHT
DESERT BARN BREWERY HESPERIA’S DESERT BARN BREWERY STARTED AS A SEEMINGLY SIMPLE PASSION FOR CRAFT BEER. High Desert native Josh Waters spent weekends traveling from the High Desert to some of his favorite California breweries to sample all that those breweries had to offer. But he had to travel. What he needed was a local brewery that met his standards for a fine craft beer while still having a great family environment. With the support of his wife Sarah—along with their three children—they decided that it was time to get into the brewing game. After spending time brewing at home and learning the trade, Josh realized that he loved creating his own unique recipes, and he wanted to share that with others. With the confidence of his creations and the encouragement of family and friends, Josh set out to share his idea of a great local brewery with the High Desert community. One thing that the Waters family was sure about was the fact that this brewery needed to be family friendly. They emphasize that “the community needed a safe and clean family environment that encouraged a sense of community.” You can be confident that when you enjoy your favorite beer, your family and children can also feel welcomed and valued with great food, family style games, activities, and live music. It is their exciting take on beer, however, that will bring you back time and again. They don’t believe in needlessly relegating beer to just a few flavors or varieties. They know that “sipping on bland beer is quickly coming to a halt,” so they infuse their brews with carefully selected quality ingredients from around the world and use flavors like coffee, toffee, honey, chocolate, jalapeño, and cactus. There really is nothing boring about their Wild Smoked Jalapeño Porter or Black Bomber, for example. Desert Barn is also a great place to really educate yourself on your favorite kinds of beers. The knowledgeable and friendly staff is happy to help you find your favorites and introduce you to new and unique preferences as well. With all the possibilities Desert Barn has to offer throughout the year, you’ll never exhaust their varieties of not only beer but wines and craft sodas as well. Make sure to stop by Desert Barn and ask about their aptly named Desert Rats Brew Club. With a yearly membership, members gain great perks, including taking part in choosing a seasonal beer. It is a beer only Desert Rats will have access to. — By Katie Chavez
DESERT BARN BREWERY (760) 995-3894 | www.desertbarnbrewery.com
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A warm and intimate ambiance in a confortable setting with plenty of tasty and satisfying food combine to make Mama Carpino’s one of the High Desert’s favorite Italian restaurants. Featuring live entertainment on select weekends.
22010 US Highway 18 Apple Valley CA 92307-3971 (760) 240-9664 Mon: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Tue: Closed Wed, & Thu: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Fri - Sat: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sun: 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Voted by the High Desert Community
HESPERIA LOCATION
VICTOR VALLEY MALL
12719 Main St, Suite 410 Hesperia, CA 92345
14400 Bear Valley Rd, Suite 729 Victorville, CA 92395
at Hesperia Super Target Center
(760) 662-5777
in the Food Court
(760) 662-5777
MenchiesHesperiaDesertGateway
MenchiesVictorValleyMall
@MenchieHesperia
@MenchiesVVMalll
MenchiesHesperia
MenchiesVictorValleyMall
www.hdlivingmagazine.com
Coming Soon!
www.menchies.com High Desert Living magazine 37
DINING GUIDE
The following is a listing of select High Desert Restaurants. These listings are a free service provided by H.D. Living Magazine and are subject to change. This guide also includes wine tasting venues. 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.
Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant 17790 Wika Rd. (760) 946-5344
Victorville
Oggis Pizza & Brewing Co 19201 Bear Valley Rd (760) 240-8977
Thai Dawn Bistro 14317 Bear Valley Rd Ste 2 (760) 244-7600 Broken Saddle Saloon & Steakhouse 14562 7th St. (760) 951-0077 Thorny’s Sports Bar & Grill 13261 Spring Valley Pkwy (760) 596-3971 Paulina’s Mexican Grill 14845 Monarch Blvd (760) 955-2661 Tokyo Steak 14317 Bear Valley Rd. Ste 2 (760) 956-6888 Yoshi Sushi 14177 Kentwood Blvd (760) 241-1960 Chateau Chang Restaurant 15425 Anacapa Rd (760) 241-3040 Steer ‘n Stein Restaurant 12224 Mariposa Rd (760) 241-0775 D’Vine 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
Marie Callenders 12180 Mariposa Rd (760) 241-6973 The Brass Pickle Deli 15617 Roy Rogers Dr (760) 241-4846 Outback Steakhouse 12400 Amargosa Rd # B (760) 962-1003 Mimi’s Cafe 12032 Amargosa Rd (760) 244-6888 Original Roadhouse Grill 11940 Amargosa Rd (760) 949-2308 Carino’s 11970 Amargosa Rd (760) 949-2248 The Flame Broiler 12127 Mall Blvd (760) 951-0888 Giuseppe’s Restaurant 14309 Bear Valley Rd (760) 949-5400 Corner Green Tree Golf Course 14144 Green Tree Blvd (760) 245-4860 Poncho Villas Fresh Grill & Tequila 11620 Amargosa Rd. (760) 981-1958 Itchy Foot Islands Deli & BBQ 15329 Palmdale Rd (760) 243-3354 Miguel’s Baja Grill 14480 7th St. (760) 241-3838
Mega Tom’s Restaurant 20781Bear Valley Rd (760) 240-9022
Linko Sushi 12115 Apple Valley Rd (760) 240-1125 Apple Valley Golf Course Grill 15200 Rancherias Rd 760-242-3653 Carmen’s Ponderosa Restaurant 9544 Kiowa Rd (760) 247-7727 Mama Carpino’s 22010 Highway 18 (760) 240-9664 Marcelinos Mexican Restaurant 21510 Bear Valley Rd (760) 240-4344 Viva Maria 20162 Highway 18 #D (760) 946-2087 Linko Sushi 12115 Apple Valley Rd (760) 240-1125 Ninja Sushi 15850 Apple Valley Rd., (760) 242-3913 Siam Thai Cuisine 18564 Outer Hwy 18 Ste 203 (760) 242-5093 The Flame Broiler 18975 Bear Valley Rd., Suite 301 (760) 961-7100 The Hang Out Cafe 21600 Corwin Rd. Apple Valley, CA (760) 247-7818
The Corner Café 15683 Roy Rogers Dr. (760) 900-6676
Apple Valley
Giuseppe’s Apple Valley 18855 Bear Valley Rd. Ste. 1 (760) 247-1999
Poncho’s Salvadorian Restaurant 16427 Victor Street (760) 843-3336
Go Bangkok Thai Cuisine 20783 Bear Valley Rd, Ste H (760) 240-3888
Havana Wine & Beer Club 13692 Apple Valley Rd, Suite 1 (760) 961-6880
Golden Gate Restaurant 15208 Bear Valley Rd # B, (760) 245-6189
Di Napoli’s Fire House 17856 US Highway 18 (760) 242-5802
Spirit River Cafe 16000 Apple Valley Rd. Ste. B4 (760) 242-1400
Tokyo Sushi & BBQ 14741 7th St #A (760) 955-7123
The Wine Seller Apple Bear Center (760) 961-2500
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Hesperia Louisiana Cajun Seafood House 14466 Main St. #103 (760) 244-2323 Whisky Barrel Restaurant & Saloon 12055 Mariposa Rd. (760) 244-1115 Desert Barn Brewery 11352 Hesperi Rd. (760) 995-3894 Juliano’s Italian Restaurant 12052 Hesperia Rd. (760) 949-0595 Go Bangkok Thai Cuisine 15800 Main St. Ste 200, (760) 947-9029 Cancun Mexican & Seafood 15550 Main St. (760) 956-7720 Italian Kitchen 16409 Yucca St, (760) 244-7757 Thai-Lotus Restaurant 12027 Hesperia Rd, (760) 949-9362 Wood Grill Buffet 14135 Main St. (760) 981-4418 Los Domingo’s Restaurant 15885 Main St, 92345 (760) 948-6161 Oasis Sushi Restaurant 12719 Main St, (760) 244-9608 Beef O’Brady’s 12728 Main Street (760) 948-8214
Oak Hills Summit Inn Restaurant 5970 Mariposa Rd. (760) 244-8278 Oak Hills Brewing Company 12221 Poplar St. #3 (760) 244-8278
Oro Grande Cross Eyed Cow 19242 National Trails Hwy (760)241-1987
Barstow Idle Spurs Steakhouse 690 Old Highway 58 (760)256-8888
FALL/WINTER 2015
12120 Ridgecrest Rd #101 • Victorville, Ca 92395 (760) 241-home • downhomegrill.com
local grass fed organic beef organic chicken • organic eggs gmo & gluten free pancakes & Waffles real maple syrup • fresh cut fries exclusively french roasted coffee beans -Because our family eats here too!
Mon-Thu 4:30 AM To 10:00 PM Fri 4:30 AM To 11:00 PM Sat 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM Sun 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM www.hdlivingmagazine.com
High Desert Living magazine 39
WINE TRENDS
‘TIS THE SEASON … FOR PORT?
CRACKLING FIREPLACES, JOYOUS MERRYMAKING, COMFORT MEALS, AND GREAT WINE … Yes, the “ber” months are upon us once again, and we welcome them wholeheartedly. Yet, sometimes, between the shopping, parties, traffic, and chaos, the holidays just whiz by and we forget to take the time to actually savor the season. I say, sit down, take a deep breath…and sip on a glass of port. Yes, I said port. Trust me, I know—there are a lot of preconceived notions about ports. Back in the day (like, two years ago) ports always brought to my mind a sort of motion picture visual of ostentatious old men, retiring to a stuffy study to puff on pipes, while sipping port and discussing dull matters. It just didn’t look like a good time, and I had no desire to indulge in that kind of…fun. But, trust me; times have changed! After enjoying the perfect port paired with the ideal eats, in a great atmosphere, and with some even greater company, my view has been forever altered. So, what is port? Produced in the Douro Valley in northern Portugal for over two thousand years, port is an intense, sweet wine, fortified with Brandy. There are several port variations produced here, in America, but most will argue that a “true port” comes straight from Portugal. As with any wine, ports vary in style and taste, but I’ll highlight a mere few here just to whet your whistle. A white port tends to be light in taste and can range from dry to very sweet, or lágrima. White ports are wonderful when paired with a classic crème brûlée and marzipan desserts, but if you’re drinking it as more of an aperitif, try it with some roasted almonds, olives, or fancy dried fruit. Rich, red, sweet, and fruity, a ruby port is delightful with chocolate mousse, chocolate torte, chocolate anything! It’s also divine with Gorgonzola Dolce cheese. Tawny ports are mahogany in color, nutty in flavor, and are typically a little drier than a ruby. If you’re planning to pair a tawny port with appetizers, I would suggest teaming it with blue cheese, hazelnuts, and/or pecans. If the idea is to sip it with dessert, pairing it with a tasty caramel apple pastry, gingerbread, or maybe some warm raisin strudel would be heavenly. I’m not a cigar smoker myself, but the word on the street is that a fine port also complements a good cigar as well. With so many other port varieties left unmentioned, I’d suggest going for a tasting/ pairing to find your own personal preference. While it’s true that port is not a wine you’d have several glasses of over lasagna or pizza, it is a smooth pleasure to be enjoyed slowly and fully, much like our holidays. May it add a little warmth to your festivities this season. Cheers to you and yours!
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Tasting Notes
READER RECOMMENDATION QUINTA NOVA CLÃ Port Special Reserve When asked if he had a favorite authentic port, Jeffrey Henry, wine aficionado, didn’t have to think twice. “For a delicious and reasonably priced port, I go for Quinta Nova’s CLÃ Port Special Reserve. Quinta Nova is located in the only A-graded area for growing port in all of Douro, Portugal, and I have enjoyed all of their ports that I’ve tried. It’s definitely the most bang for your buck.” With its rich, red color, fruity freshness, and hints of orange and vanilla, CLÃ Port Special Reserve is smooth and elegant on the finish.
FALL/WINTER 2015
The
Wine Seller
Treat yourself - Sit in and enjoy an "M Cupcakes" experience with a pot of organic tea and your favorite dessert served in fine china.
Our products are baked from scratch with the finest quality ingredients to provide gourmet desserts for all.
mcupcakesnpastries.com 760 • 843 • 5988 15617 Roy Rogers Dr. Suite# 102 • Victorville, Ca 92394
Wide selection of craft beer! 19341 Bear Valley Rd Apple Valley, CA 92308
FULL RESTAURANT AND BAR. ENJOY POPULAR COUNTRY MUSIC, LIVE BANDS, DANCING, GREAT FOOD, AND CRAFT BEERS.
(760) 961-2500 thewinesellerapplevalley.com
MON - THU 12P - 10P FRI - SAT 12P - 11P SUNDAY 12P - 6P www.hdlivingmagazine.com
12055 Mariposa Rd. • Hesperia, Ca. 92345 • (760) 244-1115 High Desert Living magazine 41
SUSAN’S CORNER
Mia’s Boxes of Love BY SUSAN LANDERS
SOMETIMES THE BIGGEST HEARTS COME IN THE LITTLEST BODIES. Take little Mia Clayton. Her heart is bigger than many six-year-olds, and she shows it all over the H.D. It was only a year ago when Mia happened to notice a homeless youth. Unable to just look away, Mia came to her parents with a box of her own toys and asked her folks to donate them to homeless kids for her. Inspired by her generosity of spirit, her parents, Nick and Amanda, asked Mia if she wanted to begin collecting more needed items on a regular basis to help more homeless kids, and so was born Mia’s Boxes of Love. Mia’s dad, Nick, says “We talked to a local shelter who works with families in our area and Mia worked hard to collect and fill backpacks for the start of school for several homeless children, along with a $600 donation for other school supplies.” But Mia did not stop there. Nick goes on to say that, Mia “raised several hundred dollars and over 3,300 pairs of socks and other donations during a #Socktober drive at her school and another local school in our area last October.”
“I started Mia’s Boxes of Love because I wanted to help homeless kids. It is my dream to make sure homeless people have a lot of things that they don’t have like toys, shoes, and a safe place to live.” — MIA CLAYTON Mia’s Boxes of Love helps a variety of shelters and service organizations all around the H.D., including Family Assistance Program for whom she has again led a “Socktober” campaign around the area hoping to up the number of socks to 12,000 pairs this year. But that is not all. It is now “Noshiver” November and time to collect jackets for the homeless. You can help in this project by going to Mia’s webpage at http://miasboxesoflove.org/ to donate or to find a collection box near you. It is the time of year when we look around ourselves, count our blessings, and relish in our loved ones and good fortune, but it is also the time of year when the needs of the homeless are most keen. Mia’s Boxes of Love works to ensure that those less fortunate are not forgotten. Mia herself says “I started Mia’s Boxes of Love because I wanted to help homeless kids. It is my dream to make sure homeless people have a lot of things that they don’t have like toys, shoes, and a safe place to live.” Sometimes it takes a little child to lead us to the place in our hearts where generosity, compassion, and love live all year ‘round.
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.
42 High Desert Living magazine
FALL/WINTER 2015
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