Getting to Know

Getting to know An in depth look at the best businesses in the High Desert

A PUBLICATION OF THE VICTORVILLE DAILY PRESS

Table of Contents A Clean Pro ................................................................................................................. 4 A Dancers Point .......................................................................................................... 6 AC Plus ........................................................................................................................ 8 A Magic Moment ...................................................................................................... 10 Alam Real Estate........................................................................................................ 12 Ramin Ashtiani, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.H.R.S., C.C.D.S ....................................... 14 American Tax Service .............................................................................................. 16 Apple Valley Transport & Storage .......................................................................... 18 Armstrong Fairway Insurance Agency .................................................................. 20 Bear Valley Animal Hospital ................................................................................... 22 Bob’s Tire Service & Alignment Center ................................................................ 24 Burke Myers Farmers Insurance ............................................................................ 26 Choice Medical Group ............................................................................................. 28 Cross Eyed Cow Pizza .............................................................................................. 30 Desert Valley Hospital ............................................................................................. 32 Choice Medical: Akhil Sharma, M.D. .................................................................... 34 Choice Medical: Charmain Earle, M.D.................................................................. 36 Choice Medical: Dawit Mamo, M.D. ..................................................................... 38 Choice Medical: Eduardo T. Gallegos, M.D. ......................................................... 40 Choice Medical: Hemanshu Patel, M.D. ................................................................ 42 Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Institute ............................................................... 44 Choice Medical: Sonyar Nayyar, M.D. ................................................................... 46 Dr. Viruch Vachirakorntong, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. ................................................... 48 Energy Healing Therapies. ...................................................................................... 50 Excelsior Charter Schools ...................................................................................... 52 Gracie Jiu Jitsu ........................................................................................................... 54 Guasiti Solar .............................................................................................................. 56 HavanAzucar Cuban Restaurant............................................................................. 58 Health First Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care .................................................... 60 High Desert Skin & Laser Medical ........................................................................ 62 The Jet Room ............................................................................................................. 64 Kern Heseria Mortuary ........................................................................................... 66 Colon Hydrotherapy ................................................................................................ 68 Mason’s Treescape .................................................................................................... 70 Medeiros & Associates ............................................................................................. 72 Ozel Fine Jewelers .................................................................................................... 74 Pizza Factory ............................................................................................................. 76 Redeemers Church.................................................................................................... 78 Sierra Vista Pacifica Senior Living ......................................................................... 80 The Speedwash .......................................................................................................... 82 St. Marys High Desert Home Health...................................................................... 84 Sunset Hills Memorial Park .................................................................................... 86 Sunset Hills Weddings ............................................................................................. 88 The Gym .................................................................................................................... 90 TNT’s Cafe ................................................................................................................. 92 The Tree Pros ............................................................................................................ 94 2 Getting To Know 2019

Getting to Know Contributing writers: Jen Pellerito, Jacqueline Fitzgerald, Kathy Young Cover and page design: Michael Kraxenberger Sept. 29, 2019 Getting to Know is published and copyrighted 2019 by the Daily Press, 13891 Park Ave., Victorville, Calif. 92392 General Manager: Steve Nakutin Circulation Manager: Mario Mejia Advertising Team: Danial Gardner, Irene Gaulke, Lisa Woodhart, Cynthia Brudnak, Andrea Dunn, Megan Martinez, Andrew Covarrubias

About Getting to know The Daily Press’ Best of the Desert has two voting phases that take place over several months. Readers choose the top three businesses in more than 200 categories. The voting begins each December and culminates with a red carpet gala and awards ceremony in late March.

This past year, we received over 230,000 total votes from readers of The Daily Press and vvdailypress.com. The top three finalists in each category were featured in our Best Of The Desert magazine. GETTING TO KNOW is your chance to learn much more about these businesses that have all been recognized as one of the Best of the Desert.

Each two-page spread in this magazine includes a feature story on that business, a profile of the owner or a key employee as well as a Q and A portion full of great information.

Please enjoy reading about the businesses that are truly...

The Best of the Desert. For more information about The Daily Press’ Best of the Desert or to get a free copy of the 2019 magazine please contact Steve Nakutin, General Manager at 760-951-6288 or snakutin@vvdailypress.com.

Getting To Know 2019 3

A Clean Pro Home Services and Real Estate

A

Clean Pro has offered professional, full-service carpet, upholstery, area rug, and tile cleaning to the High Desert community since 1988. Since that time, A Clean Pro has provided cleaning services over 40,000 times. As Jim Francis, owner and founder of A Clean Pro, says, “We’re now cleaning for our clients’ kids’

kids!” A Clean Pro also offers urine damage treatment, fiber and fabric protection, tile and grout cleaning and sealing, air purification services and water damage restoration.

Above all, cleaning technicians at A Clean Pro care for their clients. From the first phone call to the cleaning to the follow up call afterwards, A Clean Pro makes sure its clients are the top priority. Jim and his entire staff take pride in providing the most outstanding service to the members of the High Desert community.

How often should carpets get cleaned?

It’s a good question. Jim recommends at least once a year, but the number of people and pets that live in your home also plays a role. The technicians at A Clean Pro aim to make the entire process as easy as possible.

4 Getting To Know 2019

A Clean Pro is certified by the IICRC, the world’s most recognized training and certification organization for carpet and upholstery cleaners. All technicians hired by A Clean Pro are certified and background checked.

Even better, there’s also a 100% satisfaction guarantee for every service. A

Clean Pro will always call customers to ensure they’re happy with the outcome.

If a client isn’t completely satisfied, the technicians at A Clean Pro will come back to your home to make sure the work was done right. If a client is still unsatisfied, you’re guaranteed your money back.

Jim is proud to run a family-owned business that strives to serve with integrity, honesty, and professional attention.

On-site and phone estimates are offered complimentary through A Clean Pro. Call A Clean Pro at (760) 245-5556 to set up an appointment.

Jim Francis started his business right after graduating from Serrano High School. At the time, he went to a trade show in Los Angeles with his parents and soon enough, they decided to start the business together.

Since then, Jim has built the business into what it is today. As a lifelong resident of the High Desert, Jim cares about serving the people who make up the area where he grew up and now continues to reside.

As a certified master cleaner, Jim has learned everything about carpet and fabric cleaning over the years.

A Clean Pro uses a 12-step carpet cleaning process every time to ensure your carpet looks as fresh and new as possible. Carpet retailers, property managers and homeowners often consult with Jim when a difficult cleaning problem arises. He is always happy to offer his knowledge and assist others with any questions.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What makes your cleaning business different from the others?

A: I grew up in the High Desert and started this business 31 years ago to bring a superior cleaning service to the area. We own 3 truck-mounted steam cleaning machines, which provide our clients with the deepest clean on the market. Our full 12-step cleaning process gets maximum soil and spot removal without leaving any residue behind. We care so much about our client’s cleaning experience that we call each client a few days after their job to make sure that they are 100% satisfied with their cleaning.

Q: What makes your technicians stand out?

A: All of our technicians go through a background check before we hire them and are thoroughly tarained to use the most advanced cleaning systems on the market. They are committed to first-class service – like showing up on time in a company uniform and treating each client with the utmost respect. They are always looking for ways to go above and beyond the client’s expectations.

Q: What is your company mission?

A: Our company mission is “To Provide the Most Outstanding Service Experience Ever” to every client.

From the first phone call to the cleaning job and then to the follow-

up call - we work hard to make sure we not only meet, but exceed, our client’s expectations.

Q: What kind of services do you provide?

A: We provide service for both residential and commercial clients.

In addition to carpet and upholstery, we also clean tile and grout, stone, area rugs, and mattresses.

Another service that we provide is our air purification service, which is beneficial to remove the smell associated with cigarette smoke or fire damage. We also are equipped to handle water damage and work with insurance companies to make the process easier for our client.

Getting To Know 2019 5

A Dancers Pointe A

Dancers Pointe is an awardwinning dance studio of the High Desert, offering dance, music, and vocal instruction since 1993. About 400 students currently attend classes at A Dancers Pointe, from all ages, ranging from three years old to senior citizens.

The studio was founded with the in-

tention to teach students the fundamentals of dance, while also teaching the love of dance itself. The most popular classes available at the studio consist of ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, and hip hop.

Students have the opportunity to learn how to work with one another in a group, how to focus and work towards achieving goals. Dance provides all the athleticism of a sport with the mental challenges of a classical art form. Children learn how to think on their feet in the moment through many opportunities to perform on stage.

Productions are a major element of the coursework at A Dancers Pointe. In the fall, the studio hosts a recital, and in the winter, the studio puts on a production of the Nutcracker. Young students are allowed the opportunity to have support while developing dance technique, emo6 Getting To Know 2019

tional strength, and physical well-being.

The dancers at A Dancers Pointe also have the chance to give back to the community. The Pixies, a group of young dancers, perform in nursing homes around the holiday season for the elderly community. The young stars also participate in the Victorville

Christmas parade and the Disneyland Main Street parade. These events serve as the perfect opportunity for students to get out and perform in front of an audience.

The instructors at A Dancers Pointe train students to become excellent dancers, but also teach them how to respect their bodies and know their limits.

A Dancers Pointe is one of the few studios in the area that uses a graded level of curriculum. The dancers know at the beginning of the year, the movements they need to master in the weeks ahead in order to progress. The gradiing allows for a pre-professional level of training for dancers so that they may reach their highest potential.

Amanda Castellanos is the Head of the Ballet department at a Dancers Pointe and is originally from the High Desert area. Before A Dancers Pointe had been founded, Castellanos used to train “down the hill� in Los Angeles as a young adult. She eventually trained at the XXX (kirov) Academy in Washington D.C. with the Berllington Youth Ballet as they toured through Scotland.

Castellanos studied dance at the University of Utah, one of the top-ranked university-level ballet programs in the country. Dance has given Castellanos the ability to travel around the world, through China, Scotland, Italy, France, Germany, and more. As a role model for young students in particular, Castellanos is overjoyed at the opportunity to bring dance to the population of the High Desert, a convenience she onced lacked when she was growing up.

Today, she loves helping teach dance to those who are just beginning to learn and to those who are working on perfecting their dance technique.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What are the benefits of a dance program?

Q: What styles of dance do you teach?

A: Dance helps young people learn personal responsibility, work ethic, discipline and poise. Dance is uniquely personal, allowing dancers to be both athletes and artists.

Knowing how to remain poised and eloquent even when you’re nervous is important, as is being an effective and integral part of a team when you know your fellow dancers are relying on you.

A: We offer training in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hop-hop, pointe, partnering, Polynesian, pre-ballet, combination classes, pre-teen beginner combination and more. We offer classes for ages 3 to adult. Class times are Mondays through Fridays between 3 and 9:30 p.m.

Additionally, our dance studio really works as a family. Our younger dancers have the role models of older dancers to look up to.

Q: What is a “graded, structured curriculum�?

A: A structured curriculum with specific objectives must be mastered before students are eligible to move to the next level. Dancers have a clear understanding of what is expected of them while ensuring they have fewer gaps in their training and technique.

This also provides dancers with a connection to dance outside the desert. Our ballet program follows the Vaganova technique and training development system, which has consistently turned out many of the best dancers in history.

Q: How do I sign up?

A: Feel free to call or stop by during office hours (3:30 to 8 p.m.) for a current class schedule. Dancers with previous experience can take a placement class with one of our highly trained staff to find the best level for their development.

Getting To Know 2019 7

AC Plus

Heating & Air Conditioning

A

C Plus was founded in 2001 by Ron and Leslie Postoian. Shortly after opening, Ron and Leslie brought their sons Eric, Scott, and Matt into the business. The family-owned and operated business is committed to providing air conditioning and heating better than the rest.

The story goes that Ron had a bad experience with the HVAC company that serviced his home. It made such a lasting impression on him that he decided to make the air conditioning and heating business better by getting into it himself.

AC Plus works hard to deliver prompt and reliable service to its customers in the High Desert. The technicians at AC Plus approach each customer’s air conditioning or heating problem as if it were a problem in their own home. A sensitivity to customers’ needs and the willingness to listen to issues as they arise are two important characteristics that set the technicians at AC Plus apart from the rest.

Within 90 minutes of your call, AC Plus can be at your home. If they fail to arrive within that time frame, they will waive the trip charge.

8 Getting To Know 2019

The level of transparency that AC Plus provides is unparalleled in the High Desert. Since AC Plus offers a flat rate to determine the cost of a repair, it means that the price of a repair is clear to the customer. Technicians aren’t able to raise the price or give a different quote to a different customer

for the same repair, which ultimately eliminates the practice of overcharging.

It also means that no matter how long a repair takes, the price quote stays the same. No surprises!

AC Plus combines the professionalism and expertise of a big company with the family-run feel of a small business.

Contact AC Plus for any repair needs or if you are interested in upgrading your heating and air conditioning equipment. Free, no hassle estimates are available. For all Daily Press readers, enjoy a free Nest Wifi Learning Thermostat with any complete heating and air system through November.

Call AC Plus at (760) 243-4440 and mention this article.

Matt Postoian has been a senior technician and operations manager with AC Plus ever since he graduated high school. As part of the Postoian family, Matt enjoys being a part of the family business along with his parents and siblings. The entire family at AC Plus aims to help other families in need through excellent air conditioning and heating services.

Matt enjoys working with the senior citizen and veteran communities in the High Desert. Since AC and heating repairs and installations require visiting the homes of residents, Matt often gets the chance to talk to residents and hear their stories. It’s meaningful to him to get to know the people he serves and help out with everyday fixes or even in times of emergency repairs.

Matt lives in the High Desert with his wife of five years, and together they recently welcomed their firstborn son into the family, Henry. In his spare time, Matt enjoys restoring classic cars and has previously owned multiple classic cars.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Are your technicians trained?

A: Yes all of our technicians go through rigorous testing before being hired and continue their education throughout the year.

Q: Do You carry insurance?

A: Yes, We are fully insured and also carry extensive Workman’s Comp insurance.

Q: Do you have a maintenance program?

A: Yes, We have an extensive maintenance program where we come out twice a year and do a full diagnostic review of your unit.

We will let you you know how your unit is performing and make suggestions to keep your equipment in top running order!

Q: What is your warranty?

A: We are very proud of out warranties.

Most equipment has a Ten Year Parts warranty and we normally give a two year labor warranty, not the standard 1 year required by law. We want you

to peace of mind when choosing AC Plus to do your job. We have also been known to include free service agreements with a full installation.

We are proud of our company and it shows.

Getting To Know 2019 9

A Magic Moment A cake always signals a special occasion and when it’s a one-of-a-kind confectionary creation, the event is sure to be even more memorable.

Jessica Condoluci-Carrillo, owner of A Magic Moment Custom Cakes, enjoys helping people mark their milestones. “I like weddings. I’m infatuated

As her kids got older, she got serious about putting out a chiffon shingle.

“The kids didn’t need me anymore.

I’ve always been a stay-at-home mom and I’m home all day. I had done a lot of baking over the years as they were growing up and one thing led to another.”

with brides, they’re always so happy.

And baby showers – those are the happiest times of your life.”

Condoluci-Carrillo was a longtime hobbyist baker before opening her business about seven years ago. “I’m Italian and my mother cooked all the time but I’m the only one in the family who really loves to bake.”

While her kids were growing up, she would bring baked treats to their school activities as well as to community functions. “I’m very involved in the community and I sit on a couple of foundation boards.” She found her test audiences were extremely receptive.

“It’s a product everyone loves,” says Condoluci-Carrillo.

All cakes are handmade to order and freshly prepared in her home-baker kitchen, which is fully licensed. A selftaught designer, she does custom design, fondant work and hand-painting. Her biggest job so far: A six-tier cake and a 24 foot dessert table for a wedding at the Hilton Garden in Victorville. “I was so pleased. It was amazing.”

Don’t have a party or big event on the radar? That’s OK. You can always treat yourself to a lemon blueberry cake with cream cheese frosting (her most popular offering). That alone is reason to celebrate.

10 Getting To Know 2019

760-900-4550 toywjess2@msn.com

On deadline days, Jessica Condoluci-Carrillo, owner of A Magic Moment Custom Cakes, is up at 3 a.m. Since opening her business seven years ago, her early rising has helped her build a loyal following and now she can add a Best of the Desert award to her accolades.

Besides an alarm clock, what’s her recipe for success? Being open-minded, listening to what the customer wants and creating that in her mind. Creativity is especially crucial because a customer might come in with a picture to use a starting point but it’s up to the baker’s imagination to make the cake unique and match the customer’s vision.

As for the challenges? Lastminute requests for a custom cake, says Condoluci-Carrillo. And then there was the time that she had to toss a cake and start over.

“The cake was not working for me,” she says. “It kept leaning over and I got so frustrated and upset, I threw it in the sink and started over.” Still, she persevered and the job came out fine.

And most days, it’s smooth sailing. “I love to bake and I am proud of myself that I’m self-taught from youtube,” she says.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Do you design custom wedding cakes?

A: Yes, I love to sit down with the bride and groom to learn their ideas and style. This helps me design the perfect cake to help make their day a little sweeter.

image on your cookies or cupcakes.

This printer uses edible ink to print on a sugar paper. This allows me to customize just about any treat for your special day or even marketing events. How fun to hand someone a cookie business card?

Q: In addition to cakes, what other desserts do you offer?

Q: Can you build a cake if I bring you a picture off the internet?

A: I can provide a large variety of sweets to fill up the dessert table at your event. This includes cupcakes, cake-pops, lemon bars, bon bons, chocolate covered strawberries and more!

A: I often have brides and parents come to me with a cake they saw somewhere. I am always happy to sit and discuss exactly what they are looking for to make it their own. The perfect cake that tastes amazing is always “the icing on the cake� of any event.

Q: Can you put my Wedding or Business Logo on my treats?

A: Absolutely, with the help of a speciality printer, we can put any

Getting To Know 2019 11

Alam Real Estate M

ohammad Alam has been a real estate agent in the High Desert ever since he first moved to the area in 2004. After years spending time in the area, Alam saw the opportunity to open his own agency in 2012.

Even though it was at the height of the recession, Alam was determined to

open his business and serve the High Desert community. He started with just one agent in an 850 square-foot office.

Today, Alam Real Estate has expanded exponentially -- now staffing 17 employees with 61 agents on hand. Even despite the growth, Alam has been able to nurture a sense of comradery among his agents.

It’s the family approach that makes a difference when his agents work with clients, too. Alam and the agents at his firm serve clients individually, on a one-onone basis. Communication with clients is a top priority at Alam Real Estate. Every agent who is led by Alam has learned how to do the best for their clients.

Even more, the agents at Alam Real Estate are committed to giving back to the High Desert community. Many are actively involved in volunteering with the 12 Getting To Know 2019

homeless population and helping out with food drives.

An emphasis on leadership and learning is a major part of the vision at Alam Real Estate. Alam started a training program for prospective real estate agents, where students can not only learn, but also train and prac-

tice their skills -- for free. He teaches students personally, dedicating his time to help anyone who may be interested in real estate. Whether or not a student ultimately receives a real estate license, Alam is committed to helping those who may be new to real estate.

Now as a leader in real estate in the High Desert, Alam never forgets his journey from the bottom to the top.

“I came to this country to fulfill my American Dream,” Alam says. “I didn’t want to waste any time. I just worked hard and make things happen.” Determination has brought much success to Alam Real Estate, a quality that Alam has imbued in the agents who work at his agency, too.

Alam Real Estate Mohammad Alam 760-646-3423

Mohammad Alam originally hails from Bangladesh. He says he came to the United States with only $60 in his pocket and hit the ground running as soon as he arrived.

Through persistence, hard work, and dedication, Alam has seen his dreams become a reality as a business owner in the High Desert.

Alam started out in California as a scuba diver instructor on Catalina Island, until his ear drum was injured.

After his injury, Alam moved in a new direction and decided to pursue real estate. Quickly enough, when he began to grow a reputation in the community, he knew he had discovered his passion. He continued to work hard until one day the opportunity arose to start his own firm in 2012.

These days, when he’s not hard at work, Alam enjoys seeing the world and traveling.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Who founded Alam Realty?

A: ALAM REALTY was founded by Mohammad Alam; one of the top Realtors in the High Desert of California for many years. The company goal is to provide superior communication, personalized and quality customer service to each individual client.

Q: What types of Real Estate Services do you offer?

A: ALAM REALTY is a full service Real Estate firm that has many years of experience in Residential, Multi Family or Residential Income, Commercial and Land Sales throughout Southern California.

Q: How many Real Estate Agents do you have?

A: Alam Realty has over 40 Real Estate Agents. By working with our agents, you will be guaranteed the experience and work ethic that only properly trained and seasoned agents can provide. Our company’s mission is to provide service that is unparalleled in the Real Estate industry. We are 100% committed to making sure our clients, whether buyers or sellers, are happy with their decision to work with us!

Whether you are looking for property for sale in the High Desert area or the Inland Empire, our agents can help you to achieve your Real Estate goals!

Alam Realty makes searching for

property easy. Please do not hesitate to use our website for your property search by utilizing our Multiple Listing Service!

Q: How can I tell how much home I can afford?

A: Fortunately, there’s a pretty simple formula for coming up with this number. It’s the FHA formula that many mortgage lenders use. Most people can afford to budget 29 percent of their gross monthly income to housing expenses, depending on total debt. Buyers with no debt can budget as much as 41 percent of monthly income to housing.

Getting To Know 2019 13

Ramin Ashtiani, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.H.R.S., C.C.D.S

D

r Ramin Ashtiani chose to pursue cardiology because his father had severe congestive heart failure when he was in medical school. “That was a turning point for me to gravitate toward cardiology,” he said.

He tries to spend as much time as possible with the patients while consulting them. His goal is to hear what they have to say and listen to them. “I try to treat them as a patient and not as a number…If you treat the patient using only numbers and tests, you might not be able to treat the patient correctly. You need to hear it from the patient’s perspective and treat them as a whole.”

Dr. Ashtiani has treated many patients

14 Getting To Know 2019

throughout Southern California, including at Orange County Hospital, Riverside Community Hospital, Desert Valley Hospital, St. Mary Hospital, Victor Valley Hospital, Barstow Community Hospital, and San Antonio Hospital.

He is currently a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at UC Riverside, where he teaches cardiology to students in the office and hospitals.

To set up an appointment with Dr. Ashtiani in Victorville, call 760-241-3547. To set up an appointment with him in Barstow call 760-256-0328.

Dr. Ramin Ashtiani helps people keep their hearts pumping strong.

He is a cardiologist and an electrophysiologist with his practice based in Victorville. Patients know him as a genuine doctor because listening is a critical part of how he treats the individual. He has 12 years of experience in his field and has been treating patients in the High Desert for nine years.

He specialized in internal medicine cardiology in Mount Sinai New York and in electrophysiology at Baylor University in Texas.

His passion for helping those with congestive heart failure stems from his father’s own experience with congestive heart failure while Dr. Ashtiani was in medical school.

Dr. Ashtiani is now passing on his considerable knowledge to the students he teaches UC Riverside, where he is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, specializing in cardiology.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Where did you go to school?

A: I specialized in internal medicine cardiology in Mount Sinai New York and electrophysiology at Baylor University.

Q: What is cardiac electrophysiology?

A: It is the study of the electricity of the heart and congestive heart failure. It deals with diagnosing and treating irregular heart beats. Pacemakers use electricity to stimulate the heart and regulate its contractions and defibrillators can restore the heart’s beating if it suddenly stops.

Q: How does someone know if they should visit you?

A: I treat patients with shortness of breath, exercise intolerance, hypertension, and dizziness. I

also treat patients with peripheral artery disease, cholesterol disease, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, cardiac apnea, atrial fibrillation, palpitation, and syncope.

Q: What can people do today to keep their heart healthy?

A: Number one is daily exercise. It is important to maintain an ideal body weight. Also eat plenty of vegetables, fish, lean meats, fruits. It’s important to have a diverse diet. Watch your calorie count and eat less saturated fat. If you have any risk factors of heart disease, follow up with your doctor. These risk factors include hypertension, high cholesterol, prior stroke, cardiac apnea, diabetes, obesity, and a family history of heart disease.

Getting To Know 2019 15

American Tax Service I

t’s a simple truth: taxes aren’t a fun thing. With a lengthy tax code and frequent changes, it makes sense to let a pro wade through all those puzzling pages.

That’s where Michelle Moore and American Tax Service come in. She likes doing taxes and she’s good at it. Says

Moore: “I enjoy working with people and meeting new people. I like to build a good business relationship with my clients.”

Convenience is paramount to building those relationships. Customers can stop by, of course, or they can use a free mobile app, or fax in information and documents so they can file from home without coming into the office.

Also, Moore notes, they service clients year-round for questions and assistance.

“We can easily be reached by email anytime all year for whatever clients need.”

What’s the biggest misconception people have about taxes? Moore explains: “Most people act scared about 16 Getting To Know 2019

taxes because they don’t want to owe money and nobody wants to mess with the IRS. I try and make the experience more pleasant and ask as many questions as possible to see what deductions they qualify for to reduce tax liabilities.

Most people don’t know what they can write off as a deduction. Many new

clients are surprised about all the questions we go through.

“They say nobody has ever asked them these questions. We like to do a complete interview every year with new and existing clients to see what has changed. Most of my returning clients are quite prepared for next tax year with all their deductions and paperwork ready to go.”

Through it all, she follows this golden rule: Treat your clients as you want to be treated.

760-946-2400 Email: michelle@americantaxes.net info@americantaxes.net

Originally from the San Gabriel Valley area, Michelle Moore moved to the high desert in 1989 to buy a home. “I was about 21 years old when we came up here with my husband and three little kids.”

Prior to doing taxes, she was in real estate and mortgages. Then something unusual happened. When she had her own taxes done, she got a nice compliment. “The preparer told me I basically did my own tax return and that I would be good at it if I wanted to enter this business. She would tell me she would hire me for sure. I’m basically a paper pusher and am good at it.”

So, sure enough she started pushing paper and she liked it better than real estate. Moore has been doing taxes for the past 10 years at her own location. She and her team strive for due diligence, professionalism, consistency, and follow up with clients.

To that end, she attends seminars for taxes to keep up with all the changes and to be educated, she says.

And when she’s not working? “I enjoy spending time with my family and grandchildren. We enjoy vacations together.”

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Do you offer individual and small business tax preparation services?

What is your fee schedule?

A: Yes we offer Individual and small business tax preparation services, as well as corporate tax returns. We usually charge a flat fee per return depending on the complexity of the return and whether it is for an individual, business and the kind of business. We also offer special pricing for students.

Q: Will you (or the same person) work on a person’s return from start to finish?

A: We try to build a relationship with our clients and would like them to return to the same preparer they used previously. Our clients will work with the same preparer from start to finish

to make the process as simple as possible for the client.

Q: Tax laws are constantly changing‌ how do I know that your company is up-to-date on all of the most recent changes?

during our busy season. During the off season we are only open 2 days a week, Wednesday and Thursday to ensure we are accessible for questions or in the case of an audit.

A: Our preparers attend IRS conventions yearly to keep up to date on tax law changes. Tax preparers must renew their licenses annually and in doing so, it helps to keep us on top of the ever changing Tax Industry.

Q: Do you offer evening and/or weekend appointments?

A: We offer evening appointments until 7:00pm and we are open Saturdays.

We are not open on Sundays as this is our rest day. We are generally already working around 10 hours daily

Getting To Know 2019 17

Apple Valley Transfer & Storage

T

he official name is very impressive — Apple Valley-Atlas Interstate Agent — but the more familiar title, Apple Valley Transfer & Storage, has established itself as the premier familyowned and operated moving and storage company in the High Desert.

Multiple generations of the Layton family have been involved over the years, and generations of employees work here, too, including one employee who has worked here 40 years, joined by three of his children.

For nearly 40 years, AVT&S, an agent of Atlas Van Lines, the second largest moving company in North America, has well-trained employees offering topnotch customer service in every aspect of the moving and storage industry.

Experts agree that moving is one of the most stressful events in a person’s life.

With highly trained professionals like those at AVT&S, your move — whether industrial, residential or military — will be made as easy as possible.

With multiple rotations from Fort 18 Getting To Know 2019

Irwin, Twentynine Palms and other military bases, the moving in/moving out process is non-stop. AVT&S, a woman-owned small business, is fully approved to handle military relocations.

If your new residence or location is not ready when you are, AVT&S can

store your belongings for one day or as long as necessary. When everything is ready for you, your household goods will be delivered and unloaded.

Document storage is another facet of the business. AVT&S has the only Firelock Data Storage vault in southern California. The company has all approvals needed to store medical office and hospital records, archival documents, antique paintings, films and more.

Apple Valley Transfer & Storage is located at 21284 Corwin Road, Apple Valley. They are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. They are on Facebook and Yelp. Their website is www./applevalleyatlas.com. Call them at 760-247-4878.

Jeanie Layton Miller, owner-president of Apple Valley Transfer & Storage, is the daughter of Bob and Ginger Layton, who originally started the company. Jeanie started working her way through the ranks of the business — as a packer, office manager, estimator and now owner, carrying on the family legacy of being first-class moving professionals for homes, offices and businesses.

Jeanie oversees many of the highly trained expert movers and staff that have had long careers with AVT&S, Inc., and over the years has watched second generations as well as extended family members take the same pride in offering outstanding customer service.

Led by Jeanie, the company’s dedication to providing stress-free service during a very stressful time — that of moving from one location to another — has cultivated favorable working conditions as witnessed by the longevity of many of the employees.

Jeanie and her staff have come to know and experience all types of moving requests. Their office walls are covered with awards and recognition for their fine work. Mobile document/ media destruction or shredding is also available for customers’ convenience.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What services do you offer?

A: We professionally and safely do residential, business, corporate, and military local, long distance and international packing and moving.

Included in this, we can handle short and long term storage of documents and household goods.

Lastly, we offer document shredding services for residences, businesses, hospitals, etc.

Q: Why is your business different from other moving companies?

A: It’s all about our employees! Our family owned, third generation business is operated by trusted, dependable and highly trained High Desert residents. Many of our background checked and drug tested team have been employed here for

decades, and have their children and other family members working in the office, as packers, estimators, drivers and movers.

Q: Do you have a public scale?

A: Yes, we have a Certified Public Weighmaster Scale for DMV, CHP, and your RV’s, trailers and vehicles.

Our 70’ public scale can accurately weigh all your vehicles.

Q: What is “Firelock TM” Data Storage?

A: We offer the ONLY “Firelock TM” Data Storage Vault of its kind in Southern California. It can safely protect paper records, digital media, servers and other IT infrastructure, priceless items, film masters and biological and stability samples.

Getting To Know 2019 19

Armstrong Fairway Insurance Agency

W

hen Jennifer Kelley’s husband Jay severely fractured his ankle in a motorcycle accident in 2013, her first call was to Casey Armstrong, a benefit adviser and president of Armstrong Fairway Insurance Agency. Kelley is the president of Kelley’s Underground Construction, a 28-employee company

based in Apple Valley, California. She has worked with Armstrong both personally and professionally for about 15 years. Kelley remembers backing out of her driveway to head to the hospital and calling Armstrong on speed dial. At the time, Kelley and her family did not have health insurance — she says rocketing costs after the Affordable Care Act went into effect led them to cancel their coverage (it was not mandated given the small size of her company). So when Kelley received the emergency call, she knew they were in trouble. “I was like, you need to get me insurance now,” she recalls telling 20 Getting To Know 2019

Armstrong on the phone. Armstrong got the couple an HMO plan that took effect the following month and was able to refer them to an orthopedic trauma surgeon at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine.

The surgeon would later operate on Jay’s pilon break, a severe fracture that can

drive the foot bone into the shin. If not for the insurance that Armstrong was able to put in place, the Kelleys’ medical bills from years of treatment would have cost them hundreds of thousands of dollars. “She’s just more personal,” Kelley says of Armstrong. “She’s been through the struggle and understands what we’re all going through in life. She doesn’t just sit behind her keyboard.”

Armstrong, 41, has been a benefit consultant for nearly 22 years and is one of Employee Benefit Adviser’s 2019 Top Women in Benefit Advising.

When Armstrong was 21, she suffered a stroke in her Apple Valley, California, apartment. This left her with limited mobility on the right side of her body. The stroke was initially misdiagnosed as encephalitis and then multiple sclerosis. Armstrong quickly became frustrated with how difficult the healthcare system was to navigate as she jumped from doctor to doctor. “[I was] really confused at that point,” she says. “I was still so young and I was just angry at the world.”

After a two-year recovery, Armstrong emerged as an advocate for client healthcare issues.Armstrong was eager to be back at work almost from the moment she entered the hospital — armed with a new passion for helping people navigate the health insurance marketplace.

She is now the owner of Armstrong Fairway, where she manages 10 employees and brings in $8.7 million in benefits business per year. Seeing the complexities of the healthcare industry from the eyes of a patient also galvanized Armstrong politically.

She feels strongly about achieving greater transparency in healthcare and ending surprise billings

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: How much can you afford to pay if you get in an accident?

A: Think of insurance like a scale… if you pay less monthly, you’ll have to pay more if you have an accident.

Q: What discounts are available?

A: Ask about good driver, multi-policy, and good student discounts. Like your parents say, you won’t get a discount if you don’t ask!

Q: What’s the procedure for filing and settling a claim?

A: Ask who to call and what happens after you file a claim as well as the turnaround time.

Q: What’s the most you’d be able to pay in the event of an accident?

A: That’s a good gauge to know what deductible may be your best bet.

Q: What is the insurance company’s level of service and ability to pay claims?

A: You want to be in good hands with a reputable company.

Getting To Know 2019 21

Bear Valley Animal Hospital

E

xceptional care with a gentle touch -- that’s the motto the team at Bear Valley Animal Hospital stand by.

For over 30 years, Bear Valley Animal Hospital has proudly taken care of the beloved pets of the High Desert. Bear Valley Animal Hospital treats dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, and potbelly pigs.

Valley Animal Hospital use only the latest equipment and techniques to minimize invasiveness and discomfort for your pet.

The exceptional staff at Bear Valley Animal Hospital work together to provide compassionate pet care. It’s an honor when staff members have the chance to see pet patients grow from

Whether your pet needs preventive care or treatment, Dr. Jaime Velasco, Chief Veterinarian, and the rest of the team are ready to assist. Services include examinations, prescriptions, domestic health certificates, spays, neuters, general surgery, orthopedic surgery, vacacinations, dental procedures, laboratory work (in-house and outgoing), X-rays, ultrasound, laser therapy, and regenerative therapy. The staff also takes a highly sensitive and compassionate approach to euthanasia and cremation when the time comes.

Bear Valley Animal Hospital is one of the few facilities in the High Desert that offers orthopedic surgery. The extensively trained surgeons at Bear

puppies or kittens onto adult animals throughout the years. The love each staff member has for the pets they serve is visible after just one visit to the animal hospital.

A sense of community is noticeable as soon as you walk into Bear Valley Animal Hospital. A resident cat, Radar, makes his rounds through the hospital, always ready for attention and purposely blocks the computer screen to get petted. The fun continues with a “pet of the month” tradition -- a lighthearted contest that gifts a $50 gift certificate to the winner. One pet’s photograph is selected and proudly framed in full view in-person at the hospital and on the website for the entire month.

22 Getting To Know 2019

Dr. Jaime Velasco is the current owner and chief veterinarian at Bear Valley Animal Hospital. For his entire life, Dr. Velasco has been dedicated to caring for and protecting the pets that families hold near and dear. He believes that our pets are our family members, and deserve to be treated with the utmost care and respect.

Dr. Velasco was a former Los Angeles City Commissioner for the Department of Animal Regulations that sponsored the first mandatory spay and neuter program for the City of Los Angeles, and was also an official veterinarian for the Burbank and San Fernando Valley Police Department for 20 years.

In addition to his veterinary work, Dr. Velasco also oversees the operations for the Apple Valley animal shelter. Dr. Velasco was awarded the Top Award for Outstanding Achievement in Leadership Excellence in the Field of Veterinary Medicine and Community Leadership in 2018.

His daughter, Mayra Velasco, also works at Bear Valley Animal Hospital as the office manager. Her work involves making sure that both humans and pets who visit the animal hospital are happy with their visit. Mayra also collaborates with organizations that help individuals receive access to spaying and neutering pets at a reduced rate.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Is there an inexpensive way to vaccinate my dog or cat?

Q: What is Laser Therapy and what ailments might it help?

A: We offer a low cost vaccine clinic every Thursday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm, and every Saturday from 9:00am - 12:00pm. Only our recommended core vaccines are discounted during the vaccine clinic. Appointments are not needed as we want you to come at your convenience for the health of your pet. Please visit our website (www.. bearvalleyanimalhospital.com) for pricing and more information.

A: Laser therapy provides our patients with non-invasive, drug-free treatment for numerous ailments and conditions. This treatment uses light energy to stimulate cell proliferation, circulation, accelerate healing, and reduce inflammation in affected tissues. It works for Arthritis, Sprains/Strains/Fractures, Cuts/ Bites and much more

Q: Do you have evening and weekend hours?

A: Yes, for your convenience, we are open from 7:30am until 6pm during the week and from 8 to 4 on Saturdays.

to test blood, urine, feces, tissue samples, etc.

These tests give our doctors the information necessary to confirm and rule out diagnoses, and ensure the proper care and treatment for your pet.

Q: Can you handle lab work in house or does it need to be sent out?

A: Our hospital has the capability to perform laboratory work like blood tests, urinalyses, and snap tests in-house to receive same-day results, and our team is able to send out laboratory work to Idexx Laboratories

Getting To Know 2019 23

Bob‘s Tire Service & Alignment Center

B

ob’s Tire & Alignment Service has won the Best of the Desert award multiple times. Owner Steve Murray has spent his entire professional life there (working first for his dad before taking it over) and has built an excellent reputation for the business.

To be sure, there are plenty of places that will sell you tires or fix your

customers. I do that every single day.

You’re not going to find that at franchise dealers.”

The last ingredient in his recipe for success? Plenty of networking. “We get involved with different activities going on in the High Desert. It’s still a fairly close-knit community.”

He and his dad are both past presi-

brakes, but Murray believes being an independent company allows him to offer better service and more options.

“We’re not a chain store. If a customer comes in wanting tires and says, ‘what do you recommend for my car?’ I stock multiple brands so I can help guide customers to what they need and what’s best for their car.”

Additionally, Murray goes the extra mile in terms of customer service. “We do a lot of pick-up and delivery if a customer can’t bring the car in. I will go out of my way to pick up a car, fix it and bring it back as a convenience for

dents of the Victorville Rotary Club and he’s active with the Chamber of Commerce, both of which he says, “have been huge for us.”

Murray says his dad taught him to be true to his word and to work hard and play hard. Speaking of play, Murray and his wife find time to have fun (boating for instance) and he has his mind set on getting his dream car. Says Murray: “Someday I’m gonna have a Porsche.”

24 Getting To Know 2019

www.bobs-tire.com/ 760-245-3333

Steve Murray keeps his cell phone on 24/7. As the owner of Bob’s Tire & Alignment Service, he’s ready to address any situation and attend to every detail.

That brand of vigilance and dedication has helped him run his successful business, whose longevity is measured in decades. Bob’s Tire & Alignment Service has been repairing cars since 1951. Murray’s parents bought it from the original owner in 1975 and he took over about seven years ago.

Growing up, he worked there part time. But his father was “all about my not doing this,” Murray says. “He wanted me to work for a gas or utility company – to go somewhere that offered good benefits.”

In 1986, he had an opportunity to leave and work at Southwest Gas. He decided not to take the job. “It’s a choice I made to stay because I love what I do.”

Of course, much has changed over the years. For example, review sites like yelp can play a big part in attracting new business. “We’re rated fairly high,” he says. “But if my company did something wrong, I will take care of it. I will make amends. I won’t sleep for days until I figure out what happened.”

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What tire brands do you carry?

A: As a “Independent” tire dealer we are able to get almost any brand of tire for our customers needs. Our length of time in the desert as the premier tire dealer has given us a lot of time to understand the roads, excessive temperatures and miles our customers drive. We want to be sure our customers are driving on the best tire for their needs.

Q: What type of work do you do on RV’s?

A: Our large RV & Truck shop is available for: Brake, Suspension and Alignment needs no matter what size vehicle our customers may have. Custom suspension packages and alignment work on motor homes is one of our specialities. Alignments on “Big Rig”

trucks is one of the the main reasons we built the facility.

Q: Does Bob’s Tire handle Fleet Accounts?

A: Yes.Our shop also handles many “fleet” accounts. The commercial aspect for our High

Desert businesses is one that we pride ourselves on. From small construction companies with 2-3 vehicles to large corporations with 50-100 vehicles, we strive to accommodate their needs in a timely manner so their employees can get back on the job as soon as possible.

Getting To Know 2019 25

Burke Myers Farmers Insurance

F

or over 17 years, Burke D. Myers has helped ensure the members of the Apple Valley community stay protected. Whether for business or individuals, Burke takes the time to listen to his clients so that every client receives a tailored insurance policy, custom to their unique needs. Since the type of coverage you decide to purchase

depends on many factors, Burke gets to know his clients and understands each on an individual basis, just like family.

As an award-winning insurance agent, Burke has made an impact in the Apple Valley community that hasn’t gone unnoticed. Rave reviews on social media sites and numerous personal referrals from members of the community are the reason Burke continues to be included in Best of the Desert.

Selecting an insurance policy can pose many questions along the way.

Burke knows the ins and outs of every coverage option, so his clients are free to ask any questions that arise. His straightforward and amicable approach makes all the difference when making important coverage decisions.

26 Getting To Know 2019

Burke generally advises his clients to bundle policies for the best savings potential. Bundling also ensures there are no surprise gaps in coverage. Whether you need to protect your home, your business, or your property, Burke can help find the right policy for you.

Another benefit that comes Farmers that not many people know about

is replacement insurance, rather than actual cash value insurance. That means, for example, if an item like a TV is stolen from your home, you’ll receive the full value for a brand-new, replacement TV, instead of the estimated value for how much the stolen TV was worth.

Big differences like these highlight how Farmers Insurance is always looking out for you.

In need of a quick insurance quote?

It just takes a quick call to Burke at Farmers Insurance. Burke and his award-winning team can pull up a quote within minutes over the phone, and even have the policy written the same day.

Submitting a claim? Farmers Insurance offers claim services 24 hours a

Burke D. Myers was born and raised in Apple Valley. As a lifelong member of the community, Burke has a personal connection to protecting the people of the High Desert. He strongly believes in serving the individuals and businesses that make up the community.

Burke’s great-grandfather originally settled in the High Desert as homesteaders over a century ago. A love of the land and its people was passed down generation by generation, and Burke is proud to play an important role as the community’s local Farmers Insurance agent.

He is a father of four young children in the Apple Valley. In his spare time, Burke enjoys volunteering his time coaching high school ice hockey. day, 7 days a week.

Through Farmers Insurance, Burke offers coverage for all needs that come up along the way: Home, Rent, Auto, Life, Business, Motorcycle, Recreational, and Umbrella.

Call Burke at (760) 247-1000 to speak with him about all your questions relating to insurance coverage.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What is an umbrella policy and do you offer it?

A: Umbrella Policies are a very important coverage that not enough people have. When you have assets to lose, it’s insurance to cover you and your assets above what you are insured for. It supplements all of your other personal policies any time they are exhausted. An Umbrella Policy is a low cost and effective way to add a boost of coverage to all of your policies.

Q: What is the difference between term and whole life insurance?

A: Both are great options but the recommendation of one over the other depends on many factors.

We like to think of Term as a more

temporary solution, where as Whole Life is more permanent. This is summing up a very complicated subject so we are more than happy to offer a Complementary Life Analysis to help you choose the option best for your lifestyle, needs and dependants.

Q: Do you offer earthquake insurance?

A: YES! After recent events with our neighbors to the north, it has become very popular. Most people are shocked at how very little it currently costs after recent rate adjustments, especially with the High Desert being so close to a fault experts anticipate activity from. If you haven’t asked for a quote on

earthquake insurance recently, now is the time to do it. If you have another policy with us, the multipolicy discount will dent even the original low cost.

Q: How complicated is it to make a claim?

A: It’s NOT! With Farmers, claims are simple. We have an award-winning claims force to serve your needs every step of the way. We are here in your time of need to help put your car or your life back together and help you Get Back Where You Belong.

Getting To Know 2019 27

Choice Medical Group C

hoice Medical Group has over 300+ physicians, fourteen urgent care facilities, express referrals, fitness classes, crafting classes and healthy education classes in the High Desert community. The ever-present motto at Choice Medical Group is: Doing our part in our community to keep you healthy. Choice

Medical has stood by this mission for over 29 years by providing personalized medical services and making a positive impact on the community as a whole.

The classes and workshops organized

by Choice Medical Group have made a big impact in the High Desert community. Senior yoga and tai chi, painting classes, and strength-training fitness workshops are just a few of the community events hosted by Choice Medical Group that improve quality of life and wellness for local residents.

Choice Medical Group is committed to providing the utmost high-quality medical services for the community in Apple Valley, which is why the group continues to be voted Best of the Desert again and again – nine years in a row.

Health and wellness is the first priority 28 Getting To Know 2019

at Choice Medical Group. Co-founded

by Dr. Manmohan Nayyar, Choice Medical Group has helped bring more highly-trained physicians to the High Desert to provide care for patients closer to home. Through the years, Dr. Nayyar’s children have also become practitioners in the High Desert medi-

cal community as well.

Patients can find information easily through the Choice Medical website.

Search for a doctor or physician by browsing professional profiles online before even making an appointment.

Choice Medical Group offers an extensive network of primary care and specialty physicians in Adelanto, Apple Valley, Barstow, Hesperia and Victorville. The group is also affiliated with Victor Valley Global Medical Center, Barstow Community Hospital, and Desert Valley Medical Center.

If you’re interested in becoming a member of this award-winning medical group, call one of the Member Services Representatives at 855-834-4855.

Val Vetack is the Director of Network Management at Choice Medical Group. Her hands-on role has taken her into the community on a daily basis for the past five years.

She has face-to-face conversations with local residents and has gotten to know many residents of the High Desert on a first-name basis.

For Val, the most memorable community events come from the heart. She enjoys giving back to the community by promoting awareness around health and wellness programs.

Choice Medical Group was involved in Showers of Blessings, an event that helped the homeless by offering free showers and provided undergarments, toiletries and food.

Making a difference, connecting in-person with patients, and seeing a gleam of hope in the eyes of local residents are the most important aspects of Val’s work. Val has been a resident of the High Desert since 1991, and is a graduate from Victor Valley High School. She is passionate about helping and supporting the people of the High Desert community through her work at Choice Medical Group.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Why should I choose Choice Medical?

A: Our commitment to you is to deliver superior medical services ensuring health and quality of life for you, our members. Choice Medical Group/ Choice Physicians Network achieve this through our extensive network of primary care and specialty physicians in Adelanto, Apple Valley, Barstow, Hesperia and Victorville. We are proudly affiliated with Victor Valley Global Medical Center, Barstow Community Hospital, and Desert Valley Medical Center.

Q: How do I choose the right physician for me?

A: The patient-doctor relationship is integral in keeping our patients healthy. So we understand it’s

important to find a physician that’s a right fit for you. To help you find the best relationship for you, the doctors of Choice Medical Group and Choice Physicians Network have created professional biographies that you can review on our website that include information regarding their education and medical training, specialty, and languages spoken.

Q: Are there any special programs for women?

A: Choice Medical Group and Choice Physicians Network believe that it is imperative for women to be healthy, as they play a very vital role in maintaining the health of their family and the community as well.

That is why we created the Women’s Health and Wellness Center. At the

Women’s Health Center, patients can receive medical services and participate in healthy educational programs. Just a few of the services offered through this state-of-theart clinic are: Well-Woman Exams (pap smear), Gardasil Injections, Manual Breast Exam and Nutrition Lifestyle Program.

Q: Are there any other programs I should know about?

A: Choice Medical Group has a number of programs for better health including the Senior Kick’s Club whose objective is to provide healthy lifestyles and camaraderie to the local senior community. Some activities are senior discounts, dances, health screenings, social events, educational programs, exercise classes and more.

Getting To Know 2019 29

Cross Eyed Cow Pizza A

sk owners Donna and Jim Granger about how to make fresh pizza, and they’ll have an answer for you. For six years, Cross Eyed Cow Pizza has served up hot pizza, salads, and subs out of a renovated barn in Oro Grande, northwest of Victorville . The familyowned restaurant makes pizza from

scratch, using only fresh, non-processed ingredients.

Donna and Jim created their pizza recipes by gathering inspiration from the pizzas they tasted during their travels. They even kept a notebook to record the flavors they liked, which later came in handy when they made pizza recipes of their own.

When the high school next door to the barn opened up, it sparked an idea to open up a pizza restaurant. Students and pizza always make perfect pair, and the barn is located on historic Route 66, which brings in a significant amount of tourists.

Donna and Jim knew that they’d fallen into a promising business idea that combined their love for pizza and serving high-quality food to the community. Once Cross Eyed Cow Pizza 30 Getting To Know 2019

opened up, soon enough, more businesses nearby began to open, including boutique shops and antique stores.

On the menu, you’ll find appetizers, pizzas, salads, subs, and desserts.

Choose from the “Hippie Veggie,” the “BBQ Chicken Gone Wild,” “Roy’s Hot Rod,” and many more creatively

named menu items inspired by the local area, which only adds more to the whimsical fun of the establishment.

From the outside of the restaurant, you’ll immediately notice the large sculpture cow perched atop the roof, which was originally hand-painted by Donna and Jim’s teenage daughter.

There’s also a tall windmill that Donna and Jim drove in from Northern California. Top it off with the VW Bus parked beside the barn, which three years ago was actually stolen, then returned when a local woman spotted the bus racing down the highway.

Visit Cross Eyed Cow Pizza at 19242 National Trails Highway in Oro Grande. Call to inquire about catering.

Donna Granger is co-owner of Cross Eyed Cow Pizza along with her husband of 19 years, Jim Granger.

She is also a professional interior designer and has worked on projects in the High Desert, Los Angeles, and Orange County.

As a longtime resident of the High Desert, Donna has a love for the people who make up the area. Originally hailing from the South, Donna moved to California in the 80s and lived all over the state before deciding to settle in the High Desert area. “It’s got that middle America, hard-working feel,” which she says she loves.

As an interior designer, Donna naturally took on the task of designing the interior of Cross Eyed Cow Pizza. She found decor from around the area to reflect a homegrown, down-to-earth and authentically Californian atmosphere inside the restaurant. Her passion for good food and good design can be seen through the thoughtful selection of cow-print upholstery on the booth seating, winebottle chandelier light fixtures, and old black-and-white photograph prints framed on the walls.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Has pizza always been sliced?

A: Originally, in Italy, pizza was sold as smaller whole pies. It’s hard to say who first had the genius idea of cutting a pizza into slices and selling it that way. One popular story from turn of the century explains how pizza sellers in New York would walk up and down the street with metal washtubs full of pizzas on their heads, sell the pizza for pennies a slice.

Q: Do you have Daily Special?

A: (All Day) 2 Slices, 2 Toppings and a drink - 6.95 Q: Does Cross Eyed Cow pizza Cater?

A: Yes we Cater. We also include: Plates, napkins and utensils.

Q: Cross Eyed Cow pizza Hand Craft’s all there pizza?

A: Built from scratch, using the finest ingredients crafted together to create the most imaginative pies with simple but distinctive flavors and textures.using the finest ingredients crafted together to create the most imaginative pies with simple but distinctive flavors and textures.

BuBuilt from scratch, using the finest ingredients crafted together to create the most imaginative pies with simple but distinctive flavors and textures. ilt from scratch, using the finest ingredients crafted together to create the most imaginative pies with simple but distinctive flavors and textures.

Built from scratch, using the fineBuilt from scratch, using the finest

ingredients crafted together to create the most imaginative pies with simple but distinctive flavors and textures.st ingredients crafted together to create the most imaginative pies with simple but distinctive flavors and textures.

Getting To Know 2019 31

Desert Valley Hospital T

his year marks Desert Valley Hospital’s 25th anniversary. While the hospital offers cutting-edge care in a wide variety of practice areas, its staff also sees the human connection as a powerful medicine.

The 148-bed acute-care hospital was founded and built by Dr. Prem

and women’s health services. Also notable is the hospital’s emergency department, which uses Fast Track to significantly reduce patient wait times.

Additionally, the hospital is affiliated with Desert Valley Medical Group, which boasts more than 35 physicians working in areas such as outpatient

Reddy in 1994. In its first year of operation, the hospital received an accreditation with commendation from the Joint Commission.

More accolades followed. The Hospital is a six-time winner of Thomson Reuters’ Top 100 Hospitals in the Nation award. Premier/CareScience recognized Desert Valley as one of the Top 1% of Hospitals in the Nation for quality health care. The Hospital Facilities Accreditation Program gave the hospital the highest marks of any hospital in California for quality patient care. PacifiCare’s Quality Index survey ranked the hospital at the top of the Top 10 Hospitals in California.

The Hospital specializes in state-ofthe-art interventional cardiac catheterization procedures, cardiothoracic surgery, robotic surgery, general surgery,

primary care, pediatrics, cardiology, neurology, rheumatology, hematology, urology, physical therapy, industrial medicine and urgent care. The group also runs a senior wellness center in Apple Valley.

Being a pillar of the High Desert community is a priority for the hospital.

To that end, Dr. Reddy also created the Desert Valley Charitable Foundation in 1989 with an initial gift of $1 million. The Foundation supports a public health library, health-care related charities and a scholarship program for students in the health-care field.

The hospital will work with you to find the best doctor and accepts most major insurance plans. www.desertvalleymedicalgroup.com www.dvmc.com/ 760-241-8000

32 Getting To Know 2019

There is a proverb that says: he who has health has hope and he who has hope has everything.

As the chief executive officer of Desert Valley Hospital and Desert Valley Medical Group in Victorville, Fred Hunter provides hope on a daily basis.

He has more than 24 years of experience in healthcare management, physician and network contracting, managed care, and community-based partnerships. Prior to accepting his current position, Hunter served from 2007 to 2014 as president and CEO of Centinela Freeman Holdings, Inc., which owned and operated the Marina Del Rey Hospital and Medical Office Building.

He was also the administrator and chief nursing officer of Centinela Freeman Regional Medical Center, Marina Campus, from 2006 to 2007.

And at Centinela Freeman Regional Medical Center, Memorial Campus in Inglewood, Hunter held the position of chief nursing officer (2002 to 2006).

Additionally, from 2000 to 2002, he ran primary care services at Centinela Hospital Medical Center in Inglewood.

At Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles (from 1998 to 2000) Hunter was director of critical care and emergency services. He was the director of nursing administrative services at Robert F. Kennedy Medical Center in Hawthorne from 1993 to 1998.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: How do I go about picking the right doctor?

A: We choose our doctors as carefully as you do and know that compassionate care is important when choosing a provider. Desert Valley Medical Group has a broad range of primary care providers and specialists that include Pediatrics, Family Practice, Internal Medicine, Oncology, Occupational Medicine, Obstetrics/Gynecology, Orthopedics, Cardiac Surgery and much more.

Q: What Insurance Plans do you accept?

A: United Healthcare: Commercial HMO, POS, Medicare Advantage, PPO; Aetna: Commercial HMO, POS, Medicare Advantage, PPO;

Blue Shield: Commercial HMO, POS, Medicare Advantage, PPO, Covered California; Health Net: Commercial HMO, POS, Medicare Advantage, PPO, Covered California; Inter Valley Health Plan: Medicare Advantage; Champus: Tricare, Tricare for Life, VA PCCC, Medi-Cal, Medicare; Beech Street: PPO, Corvel; Healthcare Corp: PPO, Work Comp; Great West Healthcare: PPO; InterPlan Health Group (IHG): PPO; MultiPlan/Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS): PPO; Pacific Foundation for Medical Care: PPO; Prime Health Services: PPO; Three Rivers Provider Network: PPO; MedRisk: Workers Comp; State Compensation Insurance Fund: Workers Comp.

Q: Do you have Urgent Care or an Emergency Room?

A: Desert Valley does offer an Urgent Care located at 16850 Bear Valley Road and is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday through Saturday.

Q: How long has Desert Valley Hospital been serving the High Desert?

A: For the more than 400,000 people who live or work in Victor Valley, Desert Valley Hospital has become a trusted resource for expert medical care over the last 25 years. A place where babies are born and hearts are healed. A place of comfort that every member of the community can count on in an emergency.

Getting To Know 2019 33

Akhil Sharma, M.D. Choice Medical Group

R

adiant Pediatrics has been providing quality, compassionate medical care to children since 2005.

They see patients through from birth to adolescence, offering listening ears and helping hands to sick children and worried parents.

34 Getting To Know 2019

Dr. Akhil Sharma describes it as a “blessing” that he’s been able to provide care in the area for more than a decade and calls pediatrics “the most satisfying branch in medicine.”

“We are the only people that come to work on Monday and look forward to it,” he said. “Nothing is more satisfying than watching sick children get better.”

He believes fulfilling this mission is a team effort, and he and his staff have worked to make their practice better by offering parents and patients easier access to care.

Next month, they plan to upgrade their centralized electronics record system and allow parents who have a routine question to ask it electronically instead of holding on the phone.

Other improvements will help reduce wait times and result in more efficient service and happier patients.

The practice has a good rapport and working relationship with three major children’s hospitals: Loma Linda, Children’s Hospital of Orange County, and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, providing access to a large network of experts and specialists for conditions that may be beyond their scope.

Dr. Sharma believes in being honest with parents and truly listening to their concerns. He also likes to educate them to better handle future situations should they arise.

Voted Best Pediatrician for two years running now, Dr. Sharma believes his empathetic approach to patients and great staff has led to their success.

“I’ve seen them grow up from newborns, and go through all their stresses and happy moments, and now graduate and go to college,” he said. “It’s a pleasure. I feel blessed everyday to be here.”

Akhil Sharma, M.D. has been practicing medicine for over 25 years.

He earned his medical degree from A.P.S. University in Rewa, India and was a practicing pediatrician at the prestigious Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi.

Coming to the United States, he completed an additional residency at St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital in New York. In addition to his required training in India, this represents six total years of specialized training solely in pediatrics.

He moved to the High Desert area in 2001, and opened his practice, Radiant Pediatrics, in 2005. The company now has 3 locations in Apple Valley, Victorville, and Hesperia.

In addition to being board certified, Dr. Sharma is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a member of the San Bernardino County Medical Society, alternative delegate for the AAP, and lifetime member of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics.

He is married to his wife, Aparna, who is also a practicing pediatrician in Hesperia. Their family includes six other doctors who work in various specialties.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Are you board certified?

A: Dr. Sharma is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Sharma is an exclusive Pediatric Primary Care Physician with Choice Medical Group and was Voted #1 Best of the Desert – Pediatrician, 2017.

Q: What treatment/procedures do you perform regularly?

A: Dr. Sharma attends to high-risk newborn deliveries and routine procedures including newborn circumcision, catheterization, incubation, lumbar puncture and IV access.

Q: Tell us about your education and training?

A: Dr. Sharma went to Medical School at A.P.S. University Rewa, India, followed by a Residency in Pediatrics at St. Luke/Roosevelt Hospital in New York City.

Q: What is your general philosophy?

A: Dr. Sharma believes in delivering high quality health care to all his patients. Dr. Sharma understands that good communication is a key element for a healthcare partnership, especially when it comes to children. Dr. Sharma is involved in both outpatient and inpatient management, including attending high-risk newborn deliveries .

Getting To Know 2019 35

Charmaine Earle, M.D. Choice Medical Group

S

hiloh Medical Center has been providing patient care in the Victor Valley area since 2005, with two offices located in the city of Victorville: one on Hesperia Road, north of Nisqually Road, and one on Palmdale Road, east of Highway 395. From these locations, Shiloh Medical Center is able to service patients in Victorville, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Adelanto and the surrounding areas.

Both offices are well staffed, including specialized departments for prescription refills and referrals. Shiloh Medical Center also provides focused

services through dedicated advocates for the region’s senior population.

Seniors can call a special line to ask questions, request information, and make appointments.

The medical staff includes Dr. Charmaine Earle, physician assistants Jenoa Holmes and Virginia Muro, as well as a team of medical assistants. At Shiloh Medical Center, the entire staff is committed to providing courteous and compassionate healthcare of the highest standards in a professional, yet personal, manner.

Dr. Charmaine Earle is a family practice doctor who has provided service to the people of the High Desert since 2003. Since her arrival in the Victor Valley community, Dr. Earle has been passionately providing the highest standard of care to her patients with kindness and compassion.

Strong patient relationships are important to her. She genuinely cares about her patients and takes time to listen them, encouraging a collaborative relationship and educating them to lead healthier lifestyles. Dr. Earle has been nominated for Best of the Desert for the last four years and voted the No. 1 Family Practice Physician for 2017 and 2018.

Dr. Earle and her husband, Pastor Paul Earle, serve the community of the High Desert through their work at Life Church on Industrial Boulevard in Victorville. Along with their four children, Dr. Earle loves the outdoors and spending time with family and close friends.

36 Getting To Know 2019

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Tell us about your education and training?

A: Dr. Earle went to medical school at the University of the West Indies in Jamaica with an internship at Kingston Public Hospital in Jamaica.

Her residency was in Family Medicine at the University of Southern California.

Q: What is your general philosophy?

A: Dr. Earle believes it is critical to a successful practice to develop strong patient relationships. She is also dedicated to providing exceptional

medical care with compassion.

Q: Are you board certified?

A: Dr. Earle is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Q: How long have you been in the High Desert?

A: Dr. Earle has been practicing in the High Desert since 2003. She joined Choice Medical Group and Choice Physicians Network as an exclusive Primary Care Physician and was Voted #1 Best of the Desert – General Practice Physician in 2017 and 2018.

Getting To Know 2019 37

Dawit Mamo, M.D. Choice Medical Group

D

r. Mamo said he was first inspired to practice medicine by his father, who worked as a pharmacist and physician in his home country of Ethiopia. Watching him take care of those in the local population where he lived with “helping hands” was really the “drive” that pushed him to go Europe for school. The doctor brings this same community-minded spirit to his practice.

Before starting his private practice, Dr. Mamo ran a mobile clinic with St. Mary’s, attending to those with less access to care. Now, he has a healthy practice with a loyal patient base and has been practicing medicine in the High Desert since 1995. He is exclusively affiliated with Choice Medical Group.

38 Getting To Know 2019

Dr. Mamo is board certified in Internal Medicine. His interests/specialties within the field include hypertension, heart and lung disease, diabetes, arthritis, thyroid disorders, gastroenterology, kidney disease, and geriatrics.

He emphasizes health awareness, early screenings, and a relationship of trust with patients, seeing that as the “whole core of medicine.”

When asked how he feels about being a Best of the Desert winner for the second year in a row, Dr. Mamo said he feels humbled and honored: “To know how much the people appreciate my service is so gratifying. I thank my Almighty God for giving me the ability, wisdom, and opportunities to continue serving my community.”

Dr. Dawit Mamo has practiced medicine in the High Desert since 1995. He graduated from Comenius University Medical School in Bratislava, Slovakia, and completed his residency training at Michigan State University. He first developed a passion for medicine from his father, who was a pharmacist/clinician in his home country of Ethiopia. Growing up watching his father care for others less fortunate in the developing nation motivated and inspired him to go abroad to Europe for medical school.

In addition to his back-to-back wins in 2017 and 2018 for Best of the Desert - Internal Medicine doctor, he was named a 2018 Dreamers, Visionaries, and Leaders Black History Month Honoree in Medicine and Community Service. In addition to working in private practice, he is an Associate Medical Director for Kindred Hospice.

Dr. Mamo is married with two children, a son who is on the path to becoming a professional golfer and a daughter who will be graduating from medical school in 2019. He is a devoted Christian and enjoys playing golf in his free time.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Tell us about your education and training?

A: Dr. Mamo went to medical school at Commeneus University in Bratislava, Slovakia. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at Saginaw Cooperative Hospital at Michigan State University.

Q: How long have you been in the High Desert?

A: Dr. Mamo has been practicing in the High Desert since 1995 and exclusively affiliated with Choice Medical Group and Choice Physicians Network and he is very dedicated to his patients and their needs. Dr. Mamo was Voted #1 Best of the Desert – Internal Medicine Physician, 2017 and 2018.

Q: What special interests do have in your practice?

A: Dr. Mamo is particularly interested the treatment and prevention of hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, stomach and thyroid disorders.

Q: Are you board certified?

A: Dr. Mamo is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Getting To Know 2019 39

Eduardo T. Gallegos, M.D. Choice Medical Group

D

r. Edward Gallegos is a neurologist with a specialty in pediatric and adult neurological conditions. His focus is primarily on neuromuscular conditions, including patients with neck pain, back pain, weakness, numbness, and paresthesia. He identifies and treats neurological conditions that come from abnormalities in the central and peripheral nervous systems (CNS and PNS, respectively). Fluent in both English and Spanish, Dr. Gallegos serves both the English and Spanish-speaking populations in the High Desert.

Dr. Gallegos can run diagnostic scans and tests to ascertain a diagnosis, which is essential for creating a comprehensive treatment plan for a patient. Treatments may include medication management, multiple therapies, and lifestyle changes.

After seeing Dr. Gallegos at his office, a patient recently left the following review: “He is a very kind doctor. He took care of my little baby Ryan when he was sick. One thing I can say is that he is caring, and extremely thorough

40 Getting To Know 2019

with his pediatric patients. He practices old-school medicine and took the time to really sit with my four year old and really ensure he told him what he was looking for.”

Dr. Gallegos received his medical degree from the Autonomous University of Guadalajara, Mexico, and completed his internship at the General Hospital of Tijuana. His pediatric residency was through Texas Tech University, Health Science Center, and his adult and pediatric neurology residency was through the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. He is AMA, ASIM, AAP, CNS, and AAN certified.

He is exclusively affiliated with Choice Medical Group in the High Desert and enthusiastically stands by the group’s motto: Doing our part in our community to keep you healthy.

Call to set up an appointment with Dr. Gallegos at (760) 946-3876 and visit his office at 18523 Corwin Road, Suite A, Apple Valley.

Edward Gallegos, M.D., has been a part of High Desert Neuro Diagnostic Medical group for over 8 years. He is fluent in both English and Spanish, which allows him to treat an even greater population in the High Desert area.

His ability to serve the Spanishspeaking population in the High Desert means a great deal to him.

Patients feel comfortable sharing their concerns with him in the language they are most familiar with, an aspect that makes all the difference when receiving medical care. He finds great fulfillment in successfully treating neurologic conditions in his pediatric patients, knowing that his impact will make a difference for the rest of a patient’s life.

Dr. Gallegos maintains a private practice in Mexico and is a medical staff physician, Pediatric Neurologist, at Children’s Hospital Orange County (CHOC). As a leading pediatric neurologist in the High Desert, Dr. Gallegos is consistently voted Best of the Desert in the Daily Press.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Tell us about your education and training?

A: Dr. Gallegos attended Autonomous University of Guadalajara, Mexico.

He completed his Pediatric Residency at Texas Tech University Health Science Center and Adult & Pediatric Neurology Residency at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, Oh. Q: How long have you been in the High Desert?

Q: Are you board certified?

A: Dr. Gallegos is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Q: What special interests do have in your practice?

A: As a leading pediatric neurologist in the High Desert, he is fluent in both English and Spanish. Dr. Gallegos welcomes both adult and pediatric patients to his practice in AppleValley.

A: Dr. Gallegos has been with High Desert Neuro Diagnostic Medical Group for over 8 years. He maintains a private practice in Mexico and is a medical staff physician, Pediatric Neurologist at CHOC, Childrens Hospital Orange County.

Getting To Know 2019 41

Hemanshu Patel, M.D. Choice Medical Group

D

r. Hemanshu Patel has provided excellent care to patients at his family practice in the High Desert for over three years. Board certified in Family Medicine, Dr. Patel treats adults and children with an unwavering sense of dedication, devotion, and passion. His specialties include geriatric medicine and diabetes management. His contagious, friendly personality and genuine interest in his patients’ well-being has been one of the many reasons he is consistently voted Best of the Desert by local residents.

Affiliated with Choice Medical Group, Dr. Patel has practice location sin Victorville and Barstow. He provides excellent care to pediatric and geriatric patients.

Dr. Patel provides treatment in many areas, but his passion lies in family practice.

He and his staff are dedicated to doing their part in the community to keep the High Desert healthy.

During his residency, Dr. Patel served as Chief Resident at the University of Alabama Birmingham. He consistently received many awards during his residen-

42 Getting To Know 2019

cy, including the distinguished resident teacher award, the Internal Medicine award, and the Pediatric Family award for best resident. He also received the STFM Teaching award, given to individuals who demonstrated an interest and commitment to Family Medicine Education. He was among the first in his program’s history to achieve nearly all training awards during graduation.

Dr. Patel is a highly motivated physician that is proud to be serving the High Desert community. His dedication to his patients makes an impact that shows. A recent Google review of Dr. Patel said, “Dr. H. Patel is very caring. He listens carefully and doesn’t cut you off. He sees you close to your appointment time.” A separate review also expressed: “I never feel rushed to share my concerns. You are a patient and not a number.”

Dr. Patel’s offices are located on Hesperia Road in Victorville and Main Street in Barstow. His office telephone for Victorville is (760) 8437873; (760) 256-1422 for Barstow.

Dr. Patel started his practice three years ago with the goal to help keep the High Desert community healthy. He enjoys actively participating in volunteer events in the community, and speaks on public panels whenever possible to encourage health and wellness in the area.

A few of the events Dr. Patel has participated in include DocTalks in Barstow and the Women’s Expo.

He earned his medical degree at the American University of Antigua in 2013. Soon after graduating, he completed his residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

His approach towards care is to treat the whole person, instead of just treating symptoms. His goal is to listen to each of his patients with care and consideration, so that patients receive the highest quality care possible and medical issues can be treated expediently.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Tell us about your education and training?

A: Dr. Patel’s devotion, dedication, and passion toward patients are supported by his achievements during his residency training. He not only served as the Chief Resident, he was among the first in his program’s history to achieve nearly all training awards during graduation.

Q: What category did you win for Best of the Desert?

A: Dr. Patel was Voted Best of the Desert – General Practice Physician, 2018 Q: Are you board certified?

Q: Tell us about your practice?

A: Dr. Patel is Board Certified in Family Medicine.

A: Dr. Patel is a highly motivated physician who is proud and honored

to be serving the High Desert community. Dr. Patel is accepting new patients.

Getting To Know 2019 43

Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Institute

P

utting patients first is the top priority for Dr. Samir Nayyar of the Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Institute. “We understand that patients come to us in pain or are suffering from immobility issues so we make a point of being calm and patient, and offering mental support.”

The next step is forming a treatment plan to eliminate the pain and treat the issue, such as arthritis, hip and knee problems, and broken bones. (Injuries often vary depending on the season and its sports, such as winter skiing and snowboarding.) “We also make sure we’re all on the same team and we’re on the same page in terms of expectations.

If there are challenges along the way we deal with them appropriately as a team.”

Nayyar notes that patients typically make quick progress. For example, people who receive hip and knee replacements usually complete the process in about three months. “Patients are eager to get better. To see them get out of pain and get their lifestyle back, it’s definitely gratifying,” he says.

Another advantage the Institute of-

44 Getting To Know 2019

fers is providing top-notch care locally.

“When I returned to the area (after studying in New York) I saw a big need for physicians. It wasn’t unusual for a patient to have to drive several hours for treatment. We deliver the best possible medicine so they don’t have to go to bigger cities.”

One of Nayyar’s major tools is employing the latest medical technology.

A case in point: the Institute uses a dynamic imaging device from Trice Medical that allows a faster and more precise diagnosis of damaged joints.

Similarly, using computer navigation in a joint-replacement operation significantly improves accuracy.

“We definitely try to stay at the forefront of technology,” says Nayyar, “for our patients to get better information more quickly and to get better results.”

Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Institute 13010 Hesperia Road, Suite 600 Victorville, CA 92395 760-552-8585 Web site in progress

Coming from a family of doctors, young Samir Nayyar found it relatively easy to chart his career course.

In particular, his neurologist dad was a big influence as Samir grew up in Apple Valley. “I always wanted to help people and medicine was always at the forefront. My father was a role model.”

Samir also loved sports, especially tennis and basketball, but at 5’ 9” playing professionally wasn’t in the stars, he recalls. But sports medicine definitely was. He studied at the University of Buffalo, followed by a fellowship at New York University.

After that, he returned to his roots in the desert and eventually founded the Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Institute, motivated yet again by a lesson he learned from his father. “He taught me the importance of giving back to the community.”

As for winning the Best of the Desert award for the second year in a row, Nayyar says he’s grateful and humbled by the honor. He’s also quick to share credit with the Institute’s three other physicians and seven staff members, noting that the team works hard throughout the year. “My staff does an excellent job communicating with patients, always working with a smile,” Nayyar says.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Tell us about your education and training?

A: Dr. Samir Nayyar attended University at Buffalo, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences for his studies where he received the SUNY Chancellors award and the Excellence in Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery award.

Q: How long have you been in the High Desert?

A: Dr. Samir Nayyar was born in New York and moved to Apple Valley, CA soon after. Dr. Samir Nayyar attended Granite Hills High School in Apple Valley prior to University at Buffalo

Q: Are you board certified?

A: Dr Samir Nayyar is certified in Orthopaedic Surgery by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Q: What special interests do have in your practice?

A: During his time at University of Buffalo and NYU Langone Medical Center / Hospital for Joint Disease, he gained experience in joint reconstruction and replacement training under the world’s most prestigious orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Nayyar utilizes innovative techniques that lessen postoperative pain & blood loss. He takes pride in his ability to help his patients regain function and mobility. He is excited to bring the most innovative surgical techniques back home to the High Desert.

Getting To Know 2019 45

Sonia Nayyar, M.D. High Desert Neuro-Diagnostic Medical Group

H

igh Desert Neurology is a general neurology practice that has been serving the High Desert community for over 30 years, since 1988. At her practice, Dr. Sonia Nayyar treats pediatric and adult patients with a variety of neurologic symptoms.

High Desert Neurology provides general neurology outpatient visits, seeing patients with headaches, seizures, tremors, strokes, sleep disorder, memory changes, back pain, neck pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and other symptoms.

The philosophy at High Desert Neurology is simple: to provide the best evidence-based medicine and the safest possible care to patients. The doctors at High Desert Neurology strive to ensure that each patient understands his or her disease, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

Through the care Dr. Nayyar provides, she aims to foster a community

46 Getting To Know 2019

that is not only healthy, but also aware, educated, and informed about health conditions. In 2018, Dr. Nayyar was voted #1 Best Neurologist in Best of the Desert.

A recent review of Dr. Nayyar on Vitals.com said, “Dr. Nayyar was very thorough in explaining my mother’s condition to me. At no time did I feel rushed during out conversation. I highly recommend her.”

Dr. Nayyar is affiliated with Choice Medical Group and many hospitals including Desert Valley Hospital, St Mary Medical Center, Victor Valley Global Medical Center.

Call High Desert Neurology at (760) 946-3876 to set up an appointment to see Dr. Nayyar, and visit the office at 18523 Corwin Road, Ste A, in Apple Valley.

Dr. Sonia Nayyar is a neurology specialist in Apple Valley, California.

She completed her medical degree through The George Washington University Medical School in Washington, D.C., her residency at SUNY Upstate in Syracuse, NY, and her fellowship at UC Irvine in EMG/ Neuromuscular.

Through her career, Dr. Nayyar has been Chief Neurology Resident and has presented over 15 posters and multiple publications. She has also received awards for her professionalism, humanism, and leadership throughout her career.

In her spare time, Dr. Nayyar stays active, enjoys the outdoors, and loves everything related to food. She had previously been a writer for her college newspaper and continues to write as a creative outlet.

Dr. Nayyar’s commitment to serving the High Desert community is unwavering. Her passion for medicine and caring for others allows her the opportunity to give back to a community that has given her and her family so much. She believes that the more each person can give back, the stronger the community becomes as a whole.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Tell us about your education and training?

A: Dr. Sonia Nayyar attended George Washington University. She completed her residency at SUNY Upstate Medical University and her fellowship was with UCI Medical Center.

Q: Are you board certified?

A: Dr. Nayyar is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Q: What special interests do have in your practice?

A: Dr. Sonia Nayyar’s passion centers around medical education for patients and colleagues alike as well as patient care. Her primary focus is to diagnose, manage, and treat while educating her patients.

Q: Awards and Honors:

A: Dr. Sonia Nayyar’s attention to detail and personable bed side manners were recognized with multiple awards, including the

American Academy of Neurology’s “Excellence in Neurology” award and “Humanism in Excellence in Teaching Award”

Getting To Know 2019 47

Dr. Viruch Vachirakorntong, M.D., F.A.C.O.G

D

r. Viruch T Vachirakorntong treats his patients like family. So much so, in fact, that it’s the motto you’ll see when you visit his practice. Treating patients with the utmost consideration and care is something Dr. Vachirakorntong has always done since he first opened his practice in the High Desert area back in 1998.

The board-certified practitioners at Dr. Vachirakorntong’s office follow the same belief. They care for the High Desert community through comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology services, including free pregnancy tests for prospective patients. Dr. Vachirakorntong’s practice makes extra efforts to ensure patients thrive in all stages of life.

Dr. Vachirakorntong and his staff pride themselves on providing compassionate and honest gynecological care.

Most blood collections are done on site,

48 Getting To Know 2019

which allows for ultimate convenience and comfort. The first priority for Dr. Vachirakorntong and his staff are their patients.

His OB/GYN practice specializes in the following areas: Birth Control/IUD, Breast Control, Breast Exam, Pelvic Pain, Premenstrual Tension Syndrome, Laparoscopy, Hysterectomy, Venipuncture, Family Planning, Geriatric Gynecology, Urinary Incontinence, Infertility, Gynecological Surgery, Pap Smears, Prenatal Care & Delivery, Menopause, Hormonal Imbalance and more.

The practice is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including St. Mary Medical Center-Apple Valley and Victor Valley Global Medical Center.

To set up an appointment with Dr. Vachirakorntong in Apple Valley, call (760) 242-2271. To set up an appointment in Barstow, call 760-256-0383.

Dr. Viruch T Vachirakorntong is a fellow of the American Board of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

He completed his residency program in Obstetrics & Gynecology at Jersey City Medical Center, Seton Hallo University, in New Jersey, and received his medical degree from Mahidol University Faculty of Medicine. He has been in practice for over two decades.

Dr. Vachirakorntong provides outstanding quality care to the High Desert as a longtime resident of the desert himself. He has previously placed in the top 10% of the 1994 Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CREOG). In 1995, Dr. Vachirakorntong was recognized by Jersey City Medical Center as the “Outstanding Resident in Gynecological Endoscopy.”

Along with Dr. Vachirakorntong, Patricia Gutierrez, NP and Carlos Chavez, NP, provide care to patients at the practice as well.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Why is Prenatal care important?

A: Regular appointments will ensure the health of you and your baby, and give you the opportunity to learn more about pregnancy and the child birthing process.

Q: What is the PACT program?

A: California’s Planning, Access, Care, and Treatment (PACT) Program is a smart and savvy approach to pregnancy for eligible low income men and women. The PACT program can provide you with many services, including all FDA approved birth control methods, reproductive health history, testing, and counseling.

Q: Why are annual exams so important?

A: Annual exams are critical to ensuring good health. Annual gynecological exams can help to detect ovarian cancer or breast cancer so you can get immediate treatments.

Q: What services do you provide?

A: • Premenstrual tension syndrome

• Infertility

• Pap smears

• Hysterectomy

• Vaginal infections

• Menopause

• Venipuncture

• Laparoscopy

Getting To Know 2019 49

Energy Healing Therapies E

nergy is all there is! Our entire world is run by energy, so why not our bodies? When we experience physical pain and emotional distress, our bodies are designed to heal themselves but sometimes just need a little help from someone who can direct us down that path. Pat Farrell helps your body to do its job!

Since the mid-nineties, Farrell has been helping people release beliefs contributing to physical and emotional discomfort and pain. Over her career in the Energy Medicine field, she has witnessed stunning changes in the

50 Getting To Know 2019

health and well-being of her clients, often, after just one session. Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) or Tapping, one of Farrell’s often used techniques, has been proven to help remedy trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and even PTSD. There are unconscious drives that determine our behavior so we might think we are doing something for one reason when, actually, there are often subconscious childhood experiences driving our behavior. In a clinical study, Kaiser Permanente and the CDC determined that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have a defining impact on our health and wellbeing as adults.

According to Farrell, EFT is a healing system that effectively reduces the underlying stress in the human body that can lead to the development of psychological issues and physical maladies. She said it has proven to be effective on fears, phobias, addictions, allergies, pain and symptoms of diseases. Along with EFT, Farrell holds a certification in the Energy Medicine field from Eden Energy Medicine. She is also trained in Acupressure, Applied Kinesiology (muscle testing), Chakra clearing and is a Clinical Hypnotherapist.

“I’ve come to call EFT the ‘miracle drug without the drug,’” said Farrell.

“I have seen miracles. When people come to me, unaware they have been living with these challenges, it’s most often an unresolved emotion that’s causing the pain or upset. So many people don’t believe in this until they come to me and see how their body reacts.”

Pat Farrell began working in the field of Energy Psychology in 1993, teaching Stress Management. She shortly realized that “you teach what you need to learn”. It became lifechanging when she began applying stress management to her own issues.

(Her kids were very grateful for that.)

She started her practice in Energy Healing Therapies in 1998 after being certified in Clinical Hypnotherapy. In 2000 Pat studied Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and became captivated by the ease with which it produced results. In 2008, she became certified in Eden Energy Medicine and Energy Medicine for Women.

Her practice in Energy Healing Therapies has attracted many clients who have suffered from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, and childhood issues.

Pat also specializes in releasing Stress, Trauma, and PTSD. Pat was very grateful for her expertise in Stress Management the morning of 9/11/01, when her daughter was in the air from Philadelphia to the West Coast. It was four hours before Pat learned that her plane was safely forced to land in Wichita.

Pat graduated Magna cum Laude from St. Joseph College in Philadelphia in 1977 and moved to San Diego in 1986. She is the author of 101 Ways to Get a Life: How to Be Happy…No Matter What’s Happening.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What does your technique help with?

A: Pat Farrell helps you understand the symptoms of stress and the resulting damage to your body. Her techniques help reduce stress, physical and emotional pain, anxiety, and depression, and support the energy system. The 5-minute daily routine is designed to restore and keep energies in alignment and to build patterns and habits that keep the energies moving freely. Used as a complement to conventional care, her techniques have also been found very effective in easing the anxiety, nausea, and fatigue that often occur with chemotherapy.

Another benefit of EFT is reducing symptoms of PTSD. Q: How does it work?

A: Applied Kinesiology, also referred

to as muscle testing, is used as an assessment. The theory is that when the muscle or meridian being tested goes weak, the meridian is out of balance. Energy testing is not a test of strength, but to see if the energy is flowing through the body. Similar to acupuncture, EFT focuses on the meridian points, or energy hot spots, to restore balance to your body’s energy. Her Assessment is of the energy system, not of the symptoms or illness. Symptoms provide clues about where the energy system needs attention. Treatment is of the energy system and results in relief of symptoms. EFT uses fingertip tapping to apply pressure. Proponents say the tapping helps you access your body’s energy and send signals to the part of the brain that controls stress.

Q: How many of hours of training and qualifications?

A: In 1998 Pat completed 300 hours in a one month intensive, to become a Hypnotherapist. With years of continued study and practice, she qualified as a Clinical Hypnotherapist. She studied Emotional Freedom Techniques with Gary Craig, the originator of EFT, which was an outgrowth of Thought Field Therapy by Roger Callahan, PhD. She took four weekend intensives with Craig and completed over 100 hours of home study. Upon completion, she passed 2 different certification examinations.

Pat’s Donna Eden Energy Medicine certification was from 2006 to 2008, after which she continued with Energy Medicine for Women. These courses taught Acupressure as part of the Energy Medicine curriculum.

Getting To Know 2019 51

Excelsior Charter School

E

xcelsior Charter School provides students grades 7-12 with a WASC accredited, blended learning program that helps students prepare to be successful adults. Each student creates a Personal Life Plan which includes regular check-ins with a counselor to review academic progress and discuss shortterm and long-term goals, internships, and SAT/PSAT preparation.

About 1,300 students attend the Excelsior Victorville campus. Credentialed teachers at Excelsior are called facilitators to fit within Excelsior’s unique education team model. The educational team model at Excelsior is composed of the student, parent and facilitator, ensuring constant communication with regular check-ins on student progress.

The curriculum at Excelsior Charter School aligns with the California standards for the common core. The many programs at Excelsior provide opportunities to meet the needs and goals of all types of learners. Excelsior offers the following programs: AVID, performing arts, computers, cybersecurity pathway, varsity athletics, junior high athletics, ASB, and a National Honors Society chapter. All students also have access to dual-enrollment with Victor Valley

52 Getting To Know 2019

Community College, so they can take Excelsior courses while taking college courses simultaneously.

Students at Excelsior are encouraged to give back to the High Desert community. The AVID program students recently adopted two streets in Victorville, pledging to help pick up litter and keep the streets clean for community members. Additionally, the parent engagement committee at Excelsior hosts a community clean up. Students have the option to take a service learning elective that involves volunteering at an organization to receive class credit. Annual canned food and clothing drives are also ways students are able to learn how to give back.

Excelsior has a strong anti-bullying policy. The three pillars of the educational team model between student, parent and facilitator provides visibility and communication, which proactively stops bullying before it takes a turn for the worse.

To enroll, simply go online to www. excelsior.com, choose San Bernardino County, and then click on “Enroll now.” Call (760) 245-4262 to schedule a tour.

Lindsey Lee is the Principal of the Excelsior Victorville campus. As a part of the High Desert community for thirty years, Lindsey is dedicated to helping the students at Excelsior grow into successful adults. She has a strong investment in the High Desert, since she was a student here herself.

“Our kids deserve the best,” Lindsey says. As the school principal, Lindsey is dedicated to preserving the high standards of education and core values present at Excelsior. Because the school reaches grades 7 through 12, Lindsey and the Excelsior teachers have the chance to see students grow up through many stages.

“It’s a family, it’s a real community here,” she says. It’s clear that Lindsey feels a personal connection to the students and is wholeheartedly invested in supporting them as they grow and prepare to achieve their life dreams.

When asked about graduation day, Lindsey says: “You want them to succeed, you want them to be great, and there is also a huge part of you that will miss them, too. Our students are great people.”

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Tell us about your school.

A: Excelsior has been educating students in the Victor Valley for nearly 25 years.

Our school is a fully WASC accredited independent study program with a plethora of on-campus supports and extra curricular activities. Students can enjoy flexible scheduling to meet their diverse needs, while participating in Athletics (JH, JV, and Varsity), ASB, Performing Arts, Cybersecutiry, AVID or dual enrollment with Victor Valley Community College. Juniors and seniors also have the opportunity to take college classes for free right here on our campus. Excelsior is unique in that our highly qualified, professional teachers are called Facilitators. Our educational model is built on the strong foundation of the Facilitator, student

and parent meeting regularly to review academic progress and review the student’s Personal Life Plan.

ensuring the student’s Personal Life Plan is specifically designed to meet the student’s needs.

Q: What is your school’s focus?

Q: What is the enrollment process?

A: Our school is focused on preparing students to be successful adults. This means creating a Personal Life Plan with every student to ensure they are successfully working toward their life goals.

A: We accept all students, grades 7-12.

To enroll, simply go online to www. excelsior.com, choose San Bernardino County, and then click on “Enroll now”.

Once the application is completed, you will be asked to come to the campus between the hours of 8:30-3, Monday through Friday to complete enrollment with our enrollment facilitator, Mike Barley. Parents can also call and schedule a tour, 760-245-4262.

All visitors must sign in with their government issued identification. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and your student!

Q: Why do parents and students choose your school?

A: Parent choose our school for many reasons, to include: safety, flexible scheduling, rigor, college and career focus, athletics, and our performing arts programs. Our educational model cultivates a high level of engagement for both students and parents, while

Getting To Know 2019 53

Gracie Jiu Jitsu G

racie Jiu Jitsu Apple Valley has been a part of the High Desert community for three years. Even after such a short time, the gym has quickly grown in popularity, growing from just 19 to over 400 students. Owner and lead instructor Johnny Vasquez has led the gym by maintaining the core principles of self-defense established by the Grand Master Helio Gracie in Brazil over 80 years ago.

There are four self-defense training programs available at Gracie Jiu Jitsu: Gracie combatives, reflex development, bullyproof, and women empowered. The most popular program, Gracie combative, consists of 23 classes that can be taken in any order. Through the classes, students learn 36 self-defense techniques that can make all the difference in an attack from a larger or stronger opponent.

Reflex development teaches students to sharpen instincts. Since these classes go at a faster pace, students must have completed the Gracie combatives lesson at least two times before enrolling in the reflex development program. The idea is to quicken reflexes to use the 54 Getting To Know 2019

Jiu Jitsu moves students have already mastered.

The Bullyproof program is aimed at teaching children what to do when they are faced with a bully. The Bullyproof Gracie program was developed so that kids learn the “The Rules of Engagement.” Although they are taught introductory movements of the Gracie Combatives techniques, most children choose not to engage with bullies, even

if they use verbal or physical harassment to provoke a reaction. These are the core concepts behind The Rules of Engagement.

The Women Empowered program consists of 10 lessons that teach the techniques of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for women’s self-defense. Regardless of age or athletic ability, women can learn how to use leverage, technique, and timing to defend themselves in an attack. No previous experience is necessary for the classes -- just a desire to fight back against an opponent of any size!

Gracie Jiu Jitsu Apple Valley offers over 20 classes each week, mornings and evenings. New students can receive a 10-day free trial.

Johnny Vasquez, owner and lead instructor of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Apple Valley, has ensured the gym upholds the highest standards of instruction of the Gracie Jiu Jitsu combatives program. The goal, he explains, is less about the sport of Jiu Jitsu and more about the ways someone can defend themselves in a real fight. He graduated from the ICP (Instructor Certificate Program) under the Gracie family at the Gracie Academy and holds a purple belt in Jiu Jitsu overall.

Johnny’s goal to empower his students comes from the desire to make the community safer. Widespread issues such as crime and bullying in schools are problems that he hopes can be improved through the programs taught through Gracie Jiu Jitsu. He maintains a strong passion for preserving the original teachings of Gracie Jiu Jitsu, which focuses on self-defense first before anything else.

Aside from his experience in Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Johnny has over 10 years of experience in boxing, Thai kickboxing, MMA and cage fighting.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Do you offer a Free Introductory Class?

A: We do. We offer a 10 day free trial.

Within 10 consecutive days, you can train as much as you like and then let us know if you love it or not. Your very first day will involve a 1 on 1, ten minute intro. This is where we break down the logistics of our program and overview the Gracie concepts.

From there you will be partnered with a student who has done the moves several times, allowing you to receive a private class within a group class.

This gives everyone the opportunity to find the class that fits them and experience the comradery, diversity and self-defense application that lies within our gym the Gracie Way. Q: Is there a “Women’s only” selfdefense class at your studio?

A: Yes, Gracie Women Empowered. Many ladies develop reservations when thinking about training a martial art.

They often don’t feel comfortable training with the opposite sex. For this reason we offer an all-ladies class (ages 14+) that focuses on the most common attacks against women in public. We go further than just teaching technique by incorporating statistical research that gives an understanding of how most attacks take place. This gives us the ability to teach women’s self-defense in stages conducive to preventing an attack as well as what to do when things go wrong.

Q: Do you offer private lessons?

A: Yes, at a separate cost, private lessons are available. We offer private lessons for several reasons. Some want to learn strictly Gracie Jiu-Jitsu as its

reputation speaks for itself but their schedule won’t permit. Others begin their journey with Jiu-Jitsu as private lessons because their schedule does not allow them access to our regular schedule classes. Some students, for whatever reason feel more comfortable training in a 1 on 1 environment. Others still, love group classes but would like to accelerate their learning. For these reasons, we have 4 instructors ready to schedule private lessons at the student’s request.

Q: What special equipment is needed for Jiu Jitsu?

A: The only required equipment needed when first starting is the uniform, otherwise known as a “GI”. Uniforms are available in-house and can be ordered to accommodate a special fit.

Getting To Know 2019 55

Guasti Solar

T

he solar power industry is growing and states like California are leading the way, according to a recent report from C-NBC. In the U.S., of all new power capacity added to the grid in 2018, about 30% was from solar.

Solar power makes especially good sense for a desert community. Just ask Guasti Solar owners, Joe and Beverly Guasti. They have received several awards for their work and are recognized as national experts and leaders in the field of renewable energy, having been in the business since 1987. “We were pioneers in renewable energy,” explains Beverly Guasti.

Their sons Anthony and Luke are also on board – so you know you’ll be 56 Getting To Know 2019

working with a long-established, local, family-owned business. “We pride ourselves on customer satisfaction,” she says, adding that once a year they host a customer appreciation dinner at their home. “We keep our relationships with people after we do their projects. People are important to us.”

It’s also a business that believes in giving back. Joe and Beverly are involved in Gate Church locally and have a history of helping missionaries around the world, including in Nicaragua, Cambodia and the Philippines. “We try to pay it forward and do good,” she says.

760-949-0480 www.GuastiSolar.Com

Joe Guasti Joe, a graduate of Western Illinois University, relocated to Southern California in 1976 to work with Campus Crusade for Christ International. After over 9 years with the ministry, he decided to stay in southern California and start his own construction business. Formally, Guasti Construction, Inc. dba, Guasti Solar has been serving homeowners and businesses with their renewable energy needs for over 30 years.

Joe was chosen as the Small Wind Advocate of the Year in 2007 by the Department of Energy, and in 2012 was chosen as the Small Wind Installer of the year by DWEA. In October of 2014, he received an Entrepreneur Award from Mega Partnering, a business organization.

Joe, along with his wife, Beverly, and sons Anthony and Luke have a local family owned solar company (Guasti Solar) that prides itself on customer satisfaction. Joe Guasti’s passion for green energy solutions was the motivation for the conception of Guasti Solar. Guasti Solar started as a general construction business in 1988, then following Joe’s interest in using wind and solar to produce energy Guasti Solar was conceived.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Does your company offer financing?

A: Going solar requires a major up-front investment but offers incredible long-term savings. At Guasti Solar, we offer affordable financing options to make solar energy more affordable for energyconscious CA homeowners like you. With our help, you can make the switch to green energy now and start saving thousands on electricity costs.

Q: Why Guasti Solar

A: We are a local family owned and operated since 1987 business that has been nationally recognized.

Our solar contractors are fully licensed

and insured. We’re highly rated with the Better Business Bureau, and we hope to impress you with our attention to detail.

Q: How far does your company service?

A: We work on projects throughout San Bernardino and Riverside Counties.

Getting To Know 2019 57

HavanAzucar Cuban Restaurant

F

amous chefs and food critics claim “We eat with our eyes,” and if you need proof of just how true that is, visit HavanAzucar Cuban Restaurant in Hesperia or visit their website, www. havanazucarcubanrestaurant.com.

The Home page displays colorful picture of several seafood dishes and directs you to the menu.

Click on “Gallery” for a slideshow of elegantly plated, beautifully photo-

“chef ’s secret chicken soup.”

There are sandwiches of all kinds as well as beef, pork, chicken and seafood main courses.

For a special celebration with family and friends or that “special someone,” consider ordering one of their House Specialties. Two dishes that serve two people are Paella Valenciana and Paella del Mar. Each starts with Cuban-style saffron rice slowly cooked with aro-

graphed menu choices.

Never tried a Cuban dish? If you like Spanish, African or other Caribbean cuisines, chances are you will love Cuban food. Spices and cooking techniques are very similar.

Salads at HavanAzucar include salmon, shrimp, Caribbean chicken, grilled beef or vegetarian choices including mixed greens with onion, mango and avocado. All salads come with a choice of tamarind, cilantro or jalapeno dressing.

A succulent seafood soup, Sopa Marinera, is a popular choice, as is Sopa de Pollo, described on the menu as the

matic herbs fresh clams, mussels, fish, calamari and jumbo shrimp. The Paella Valenciana adds pork, chicken, ham and Spanish chorizo.

HavanAzucar serves daily lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Happy Hour from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Within that time frame, you will find many delightfully delicious and tempting items to order.

58 Getting To Know 2019

HavanAzucar Cuban Restaurant is located at 15550 Main St., C14, in Hesperia. They are on Facebook and Yelp. Call them at 760-949-0070

Pedro Silvestre and Fortunato Najera. Long time friends and lovers of Cuban food, Pedro and Fortunato worked together in numerous restaurants before opening HavanAzucar Cuban Restaurant in Hesperia.

Pedro is from Cuba and graduated from a culinary school there. He arrived in this country with a passion for the restaurant business and held many jobs including waiter, busboy.

He worked in a country club in Florida and knew someday he would own his own restaurant.

Fortunato is from Mexico and was involved in tourism, which gave him a lot of restaurant experience.

He developed a love of Cuban food, especially the ingredients, seasonings and the taste of every dish.

They share two favorite dishes. One is Lechon Asado, succulent pulled roasted pork marinated with mojo sauce. They are also fans of the “Sandwich Cubano,” roasted pork, smoked ham and Swiss cheese with pickles and served on Cuban bread.

When they came to the High Desert, there were no Cuban restaurants in the area, so they opened HavanAzucar in April of last year. The dishes are traditional and delicious.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What are your hours of operation?

Sunday - Thursday 11am-9pm

A: Friday & Saturday 11am-9:30pm Q: Does your business do anything special for brunch?

A: Yes, on Sunday from 10:00am to 3:00pm we have a champagne brunch for only $20.00.

Q: What is you most famous dish?

A: Rabo Encendido. It is Tender and juice oxtail slowly cooked with a reduction of red wine and our secret sauce Q: Does your business cater ?

A: Yes we do

Getting To Know 2019 59

Health First

Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care

H

ealth First Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care’s slogan says it all: “It’s never too late to look great.” But behind that sentiment is the abiding philosophy to use a medical approach to help men and women achieve their weight loss or skin care goals.

The philosophy is based on the sound medical knowledge and expertise of the staff.

For more than 22 years Health First

Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care has focused on the medical side of skin care and weight loss. Ranked by Allergan, a multi-national pharmaceutical company, as one of the top 500 medical aesthetics clinics for several years, Health First Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care was No. 477 out of the 42,000 clinics in the survey.

Health First Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care’s growth is proof that people are happy with their results and recommending the programs to their friends. The company has grown from five employees to nearly 20.

60 Getting To Know 2019

The weight loss program is easy to follow for those wanting to lose anywhere from a few pounds to hundred pounds or more. From the low-cost initial consultation to receiving a custom-tailored weight loss plan from a licensed medical provider, the program is mainly prescriptive with appetite suppressants and injections. Patients are seen in person over the entire course of their treatment.

The skin care program starts with a free consultation and skin assessment.

There are treatment options for acne, tattoo removal, wrinkles, hair removal, skin resurfacing, photo rejuvenation and more. A full line of PCA Skincare products is also available.

Health First Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care is located at 16061 Bear Valley Road, #1, in Hesperia. The website is healthfirstweightcontrol. com and the telephone number is 760948-0980.

Dr. Leonard Schulkind is co-owner and Medical Director of Health First Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care in Hesperia and San Bernardino.

He has been a practicing physician since 1984 and is board certified in Family Medicine.

He attended medical school at the University of Guadalajara and is an alumnus of Cal Poly.

Dr. Schulkind directs his staff of Registered Nurses and Physicians Assistants who provide medical care and supervision for all treatments given to those seeking to lose weight or treat their skin care problems.

Health First Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care was founded by Joe Tate and Virginia Schuller, who officially retired in 2013. Dr. Schulkind and Virginia’s son William purchased Health First Medical Weight Loss & Skin Care in 2013.

William Schuller is the Operations Director and has been part of the family business for 22 years. He has watched the economic ups and downs of the High Desert community and, having grown up here, gotten to know the local market and the people.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What is Coolsculpting?

A: The CoolSculpting procedure eliminates stubborn fat safely and effectively, without surgery or downtime. This fat reduction treatment is the only FDA-cleared procedure to use controlled cooling to safely target and eliminate diet- and exercise-resistant fat. CoolSculpting results are proven, noticeable, and lasting, so you’ll look and feel great from every angle.

Q: How does it work?

A: Freeze away fat? It comes down to science. Fat cells freeze at higher temperatures than surrounding tissues. CoolSculpting technology safely delivers precisely controlled cooling to gently and effectively target the fat cells underneath the skin.

The treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen), and then die. Over time, your body naturally processes the fat and eliminates these dead cells, leaving a more sculpted you.

your treatment. The most dramatic results are usually visible after 2 months. Several months after your treatment, your body will still continue to flush out fat cells.

Q: Am I a candidate?

A: The CoolSculpting procedure is designed for people who want to eliminate fat bulges in specific areas.

The CoolSculpting procedure is not a weight loss solution (unlike weight loss surgery, such as gastric bypass).

People who choose CoolSculpting often want a non-surgical alternative to liposuction. Good candidates for the CoolSculpting procedure have noticeable fat bulges in certain areas.

Q: When will I see results?

A: You may start seeing changes in your body as quickly as 3 weeks after

Getting To Know 2019 61

High Desert Skin & Laser Medical Center

W

hen it comes to skin cancer, statistics can be alarming. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, it is the most common cancer in the United States, with 1 in 5 Americans expected to develop skin cancer by the age of 70. More than two people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour. Hav-

ing five or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma.

All that said, when detected early, the five-year survival rate for melanoma is 98 percent. And here’s some good news for High Desert residents: Dr. Steven E. Hodgkin brings decades of experience to his dermatology practice at the Spa High Desert Skin & Laser Medical Center in Victorville. This is the second time the Center has won the Best of the Desert award. (There is another location in Redlands.)

As people age – and of course we all do – it’s likely that some skin issues will arise. Many High Desert residents have turned to the Center for help. “If it has to do with skin, we deal with it,” says practice manager Jan Bakland. “We’ve been a staple in the High Desert for quite a long time.”

62 Getting To Know 2019

Bakland points to two factors contributing to skin cancer being on the rise: more skin is being exposed to the sun (bikinis, for instance) and air quality, especially in the desert. Often the challenge is getting people to make time for preventative care, starting with a self-check at home. Says Bakland: “If

you see something of concern, be sure to have it checked.”

While the bulk of patients receive medical treatment, the Center also provides a range of cosmetic procedures, such as Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments including hair removal and skin rejuvenation, acne treatments, vein treatment, photodynamic therapy, body contouring with SculpSure and spa treatments.

The Spa High Desert Skin & Laser Medical Center. 760-245-6465

It’s not hard to put off going to see a doctor.

After all, there are only 24 hours in a day and pressing questions like ‘what’s for dinner?’ and ‘where is my kid’s math homework?’ can get in the way.

But as the saying goes: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That’s certainly true when it comes to identifying skin issues and diagnosing skin cancer: the earlier it’s caught, the better.

And patients at Spa High Desert Skin & Laser Medical Center appreciate the calm and caring bedside manner of Steven E. Hodgkin, MD. “He always listens to me and explains what is going on in a way that I can understand,” shares Maegan H. on yelp.

Dr. Hodgkin is a board certified dermatologist, a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. Additionally, Dr. Hodgkin is a former president of the Inland Counties Dermatology Society and serves as a board member of the California Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery.

He graduated from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in 1990 and completed his internal medicine internship and dermatology residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q What makes your facility special?

A

The Skin & Laser Medical Center was built from the ground up 16 years ago. We have seen many spas come and go yet this one continues to thrive. What did the spa add to the business?

Q What sort of treatments do you offer at the spa?

A There are always new and innovative treatments available for many common issues. One in particular is SculpSure which is a non-invasive laser treatment for the reduction of stubborn fat in areas. The procedure takes 25 minutes and requires no downtime. Clinical trials show an average of 24% reduction in fat volume after a single treatment.

Q What types of massage options are available at Aesthetic Skin & Laser Medical Center?

A• Swedish-American massage to promote relaxation, ease muscle tension and promote greater flexibility •

Deep tissue massage to reach deep into tense, sore muscles, releasing adhesions (muscle “knots”). Therapeutic massage which uses a combination of Swedish-American and deep tissue techniques. customized

•

Accusage designed to address specific pressure points to unblock meridians, promote circulation and support overall health and wellness.

•

Hot stone therapy to restore the balance of internal energies through the

application of direct, specific heat •

Reflexology, a unique foot massage technique that uses pressure points to unblock energy channels throughout the body.

Q Where are injectables used on the body?

A

BOTOX and Restylane can be used to treat crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes, forehead lines, and frown lines -- those pesky, deep wrinkles that form between the brows. They are also beneficial for lifting and smoothing your cheeks and lines around your mouth. Many patients find these treatments are especially effective in reducing the signs of aging.

Getting To Know 2019 63

The Jet Room C

ompliant with the Medicinal Adult Use Cannabis Regulation Safety Act (MAUCRSA), the Jet Room provides a clean, safe, and elegant experience where patients will feel comfortable knowing that their information is kept strictly confidential.

Located 60 miles north of the nearest

Los Angeles dispensary, the Jet Room will provide the convenience that patients need without delivery being the only available option. Owner Lisa Marie Guerra said, “No expense has been spared in order to provide the best experience for their patients, all while staying compliant.” MJRX Corp. and executive management team will be the first to run the entire operation, but according to Guerra, employees will soon be a necessity and at least 50 percent of their employees will be those who reside in the City of Adelanto.

The Jet Room is open to the public 7 days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

64 Getting To Know 2019

Patients need a doctor’s recommendation in order to be served and to receive compassionate pricing. There will be Jet Room specials offered to veterans, seniors.

We love our customers and welcome your feedback and suggestions. Use our Contact Us page to tell us what we’re

doing right or what we can improve on.

Learn how CBD’s could be used to treat pain relief, bone health, soothing effects, fights glaucoma, insomnia and sleep issues, alternative to prescription medications, stimulates appetite, Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Manuel Serrano Executive Vice President of Government Affairs California State University Northridge, Baccalaureate Communications - 1978 Mr. Serrano is a United States Army Veteran, a serial entrepreneur and government liaison to the U.S. Senate, State Senate, State Assembly, the Governor of California and to local city councils.

He is the President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and was instrumental in lobbying, developing and passing Adelanto’s cannabis ordinance. His efforts have brought to the city approximately 500,000,000.00 (Five Hundred Million Dollars) of economic development. Additionally, thousands of new jobs and over 300 new corporations formed.

Mr. Serrano has managed multimillion dollar companies and continues to operate multiple nationally recognized franchises. He is partner, equity owner and top principle to MJRx, Inc., Jet Room Enterprises, MJX Inc., Beaver Freight Inc. and Beaver South Inc.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Who is MJRX?

A: MJRx, CORP. is a group of professionals from a cross range of fields, backgrounds, and experiences that are focused in the medical cannabis industry. Collectively, the group has spent over 100 years learning and perfecting the business intricacies of California’s cannabis culture. The board’s Executive Management team consists of attorneys, entrepreneurs, scientists, engineers, cultivators, lobbyists, and other renowned business professionals

Q: What are the Core Commitments for the Jet Room?

A: • Align Jet Room’s core purpose and business interests with the city’s public policy interests, and maintain a productive and responsible working relationship with all government authorities, including law enforcement and health department officials.

• Operate with complete adherence and compliance with state and local ordinances.

• Maintain robust financial viability that shall enable Jet Room to effectively provide comprehensive products and services for our members and the community, and provide a commensurate financial return for our investors and stakeholders.

• Create and maintain at all times a

Q: .What is your vision for Jet Room?

A: Jet Room’s vision for all cities in which it operates is to present Jet Room as the shining example of each community’s successful implementation of enlightened business policies regarding the cannabis industry.

safe and secure retail store environment and “safe space”, including the surrounding exterior and outdoor property, to assure that our members and our employees are confident in their physical safety and well-being.

Q: What does MJRX do?

A: MJRX management is responsible for the execution of all cultivation, manufacturing and distribution operations for all facilities. MJRx is an executive management company that is responsible for developing business plans, forecasts, standard operating procedures, training, staffing and facility employee management, EDP (Electronic Data Processing), MIS (Management In- formation Systems) & Track and Trace Systems.

Getting To Know 2019 65

Kern Hesperia Mortuary F

or over thirty years, Kern Hesperia Mortuary has helped families honor the life and memory of their loved ones in the High Desert. Through a funeral or memorial service at Kern Hesperia Mortuary, families can celebrate and remember a loved one who has passed.

Kern Hesperia Mortuary also offers online grief support to those seeking support during the difficult time of

center provides a place of support for children or teens who are experiencing grief. Peer groups are available to help children communicate their feelings with one another in a safe environment.

Prearrangements can be made with the assistance of the advisors at Kern Hesperia Mortuary. Pre-planning a funeral allows for more time to make end-of-life decisions in a more relaxed

losing a loved one. Online counseling, group grief support, and interactive videos are made available to those who are interested in seeking help.

Every person deals with grief differently in their own unique way. The intense emotions felt during this time can be overwhelming, which is why seeking support from friends, family, or an outside party can help the healing process.

The staff at Kern Hesperia Mortuary are experienced at guiding others through grief and have the resources available to help. The Sunrise Center, affiliated with Kern Hesperia Mortuary, offers assistance to children mourning a parent or person close to them. The

environment, and helps lift the weight of responsibility for loved ones. Tools are available online or in person to help with planning arrangements.

Kern Hersperia Mortuary is non-denominational, but religious services can be incorporated into a ceremony. There is a chapel located on-site at Kern Hesperia Mortuary for those who wish to celebrate a loved one through a religious service.

66 Getting To Know 2019

Kern Heseria Mortuary is located at 16120 Main Street, Hesperia. The telephone number is (760) 244-9313 and their website can be found at www.kernhesperiamortuary.com.

Alberta Sherratt, funeral director at Kern Hesperia Mortuary, has been a resident in the High Desert for 25 years. She is the primary contact who is in touch with families when they are grieving the loss of their loved one. Her work involves compassionately coordinating the logistics of a ceremony while assisting families during a difficult time of loss.

It is an honor for her to serve the community she lives within.

Comments, questions and concerns are always welcomed by Alberta. She aims to be a guide for the families who have experienced a loss. When someone you love passes, Alberta knows it can be difficult to make arrangements while dealing with intense grief. It is her mission to serve as a gentle leader during these moments in life, so that you can honor and recognize your loved one to the fullest.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What do funeral directors do?

A: Funeral directors are both caregivers and administrators. In their administrative duties, they make the arrangements for transportation of a loved one, complete all necessary paperwork, and implement the choices made by the family regarding the funeral and final disposition of a loved one. As caregivers, funeral directors are listeners, advisors and supporters. They have experience assisting the bereaved in coping with death. Funeral directors are trained to answer questions about grief, recognize when a person is having difficulty coping, and recommend sources of professional help. Funeral directors also link survivors with support groups at the funeral home or in the community.

Q: If my loved one is cremated, can we still have a service?

A: Yes, In fact you can have a full casketed funeral service prior to the cremation process. This is sometimes an alternative for either religious or financial reasons. It is part of many cultural and ethnic traditions, and many grief specialists believe that viewing aids the grief process, by helping the bereaved recognize the reality of death. Viewing can be appropriate for children, as long as the process is explained well and it is their desire to do so.

Q: Can I personalize my funeral service?

many unique ways. Funeral directors are happy to discuss all options and ensure your funeral is tailored to your wishes. Contact us at (760) 244-9313 to explore the possibilities.

Q: Is Kern Mortuary locally owned and operated?

A: Yes, Kern Hesperia is part of the Sunset Hills family of mortuaries and cemeteries. We are the ONLY locally owned and operated mortuaries in the High Desert area. We do not contract with anyone for any of our services so that we can ensure all of our families are served local and stay local.

A: Absolutely, in fact, we recommend it. After all, the funeral is a celebration of life. It may be personalized in

Getting To Know 2019 67

Life’s Essentials T

oday many physicians understand the importance of bowel care in the prevention of disease. Colon cleansing is preventative health care. Dr. Bernard Jensen has said: “When we have toxic substances in the colon seeping into body tissues, it’s like having a timerelease poison in your bowel. It works slowly, imperceptibly wearing down the vitality, resistance and health of body

tissues and organs. It’s sort of like having our own personal chemical dump that we carry around with us all the time. It’s always working as long as the toxins are present, serving out its lethal microdoses. So keeping your colon clean is absolutely essential to a long and healthy life.”

Colonics are not a cure or treatment for disease. It is an adjunctive therapy that can assist the body in the detoxification process. A colonic is a safe, gentle, effective method of removing waste from the large intestine without the use of drugs. Colonics gently cleanse 68 Getting To Know 2019

and exercise the colon by filling and emptying the colon with filtered and temperature regulated water. The waste is softened and loosened, resulting in evacuation through natural peristalsis.

Colonics are best used in combination with adequate nutrient and fluid intake as well as exercise.

It is important to state that Life’s Essentials therapist, Tiffany Jablonski,

is an I-ACT (International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy) Certified Therapist, Instructor and sitting President of the Association, as well as being nationally credentialed through the National Board of Colon Hydrotherapy, thereby ensuring that the center is up to date and in full compliance with all state and national requirements and regulations. The current technology promotes both the safety and sanitation of this popular cleansing practice and the colonic equipment is manufactured through compliance with strict FDA guidelines.

Tiffany Jablonski got into the natural health care out of necessity for her own health and wellness. Finding like minded people helped her through this journey has blessed her beyond a career. She loves what she does and the many amazing people she has met and worked with along the way.

Tiffany has been a Raw Food Chef for 16 years, an I-ACT and NBCHT certified Colon Therapist for 13 years, and an Iridologist.

She is a leader in Doterra for nine years running, offering assistance naturally with Essential Oils, both in her Wellness Center during Colon Therapy and Lymphatic sessions, as well as teaching free classes to the community and supporting her team members with her vast knowledge.

Tiffany has helped many people find digestive tract health through her love and strong belief in what she does naturally. She helps to support people around Southern California working at not only her center but multiple centers in Riverside and Los Angeles County.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What is Colon Hydrotherapy:

A: Colon hydrotherapy is the gentle infusion of water into the colon to cleanse it of accumulated waste material, gas, mucous, undigested foods and other toxins. It may improve muscle tone (like a personal trainer at the gym), facilitating the natural peristaltic action necessary for efficient removal of waste; helping absorption of nutrients. Toxic waste build-up can be the root of a variety of different health concerns. Sessions generally last approximately 45 minutes, but allow an hour in a half for your first session for a full consultation with the therapist.

Q: Why would I need a Colonic:

A: Over the years, the walls of the colon can become packed with hardened feces and mucous from extended

periods of intestinal overload causing intoxication. Autoxemia is when the body literally poisons itself by reabsorbing this decaying buildup from the colon wall. Some possible signs of colon toxicity might include: bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, IBS, leaky gut syndrome, colitis, fatigue, depression, poor memory, a weakened immune system, skin problems, and many more.

same “rush� to go to the bathroom as you often do when taking laxatives.

Q: What do I need to do to Prepare?

A: We recommend that you drink plenty of fluids the day prior to the session, with no food or liquid 2-3 hours prior to the session, avoiding heavy foods the day prior.

Q: What to expect during and after a Session:

A: During the session you may experience some mild cramping or pressure, but generally no pain. After the session, most people feel energized and well hydrated following a session.

You may not have a bowel movement for a day, you will not experience the

Getting To Know 2019 69

Mason‘s Treescape M

ason’s Treescape won Best of the Desert its first year running.

“I was speechless,” says owner Joe Mason. The family-owned business he launched three years ago includes Mason’s wife, brother, father-in-law and brother-in-law.

What sets Mason’s organization apart?

While his job involves plenty of trimming, he never cuts corners. Mason

worked for other companies to learn the ropes, completed an apprenticeship and is a certified arborist.

“It’s definitely a hard line of work but I like the challenge,” he says.

“To see a customer’s face when we transform their yard – that’s what makes me continue.”

As a longtime desert resident, he understands the unique challenges of taking care of trees in an extreme climate.

Mason and his team have extensive knowledge and experience with a variety of tree species, which allows them to trim and shape trees based on their type and growth pattern. Many trees have a preferred season for optimal trimming.

Also, well maintained trees can add considerable value to a property, 70 Getting To Know 2019

whereas neglected trees can be a big negative, not to mention the fact that overgrowth can put the tree in danger of damage from wind and stress.

Mason’s company is fully licensed, insured and bonded with workman’s comp. All work is conducted per industry standards and regulations. Services include: pruning techniques (crown reductions, skirting, thinning and lacing),

corrective pruning, strategic removals and stump grinding.

The other piece is making sure customers are completely happy. Says Mason: “We guarantee our work and don’t accept payment until the customer is satisfied.”

Mason has invested in marketing tools, such as door-to-door flyers. And referrals are key to attracting customers.

“Word of mouth has been the biggest advertising we’ve had so far,” he says.

The company provides free estimates, so what have you got to lose?

Mason’s Treescape 18618 Vine St., Hesperia, CA 92345 760-694-3157 https://masonstreescape.com

Joe Mason, of Mason’s Treescape, acquired the drive to provide for himself at a young age. Orphaned at 15, he had little choice but to work hard in order to survive and then thrive. Before his father died, he gave his son the determination to succeed. Says Mason: “Dad was an old-timer. He gave me a strong work ethic.”

Mason started taking care of trees for a living in 2004. In the early days, he recalls making $7.25 an hour. He gained knowledge and experience, and about 10 years ago, he decided to fully pursue treescaping as a career. “I found my passion – my niche.”

And he became an entrepreneur.

“It’s not all about money but over time seeing the boss make money made me want to be the boss,” he says.

Mason is grateful to operate in an area where people have welcomed his careful and thorough approach. “Just to feel the community value what we bring to the table made me confident that I was in the right line of work. We have good, loyal customers and giving back to the community I live in is important. It’s all about the community.

We can’t forget that.”

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What makes Mason’s Tree service special?

A: Mason’s Treescape is a Family owned/ operated tree service company. We value our community and the people we serve within it.

We’re fully licensed and insured and bonded with workman’s compensation insurance. All of our work is conducted per ISA, TCIA, ANSI A-300, ANSI Z-133 standards and regulations.

Q: How do I know if my tree needs trimming?

A: Mason’s Treescape specializes in Proper Tree Trimming. Their knowledge and experience in a variety of tree species allows them to trim and shape trees based on their type and growth pattern. Not all

trees are the same and many have a preferred season to trim properly.

Q: Can I afford your services?

A: No two jobs are alike. We believe that one price does not fit all projects and we do not want to skimp on your service. We will provide you with an accurate, realistic, and FREE estimate.

Q: Do you have any YELP reviews?

A: We have hundreds of local satisfied customers including these YELP reviews.

4.5 Stars from Scott K. After extensive research, Mason’s Treescape constantly beat out the competition and for good reason! I can’t stress enough the importance of having a tree trimmer who is

licensed and that has obtained certifications for different levels of climbing.

4.5 Stars from Courtney R. Best decisions by far! I had a total of 6 trees between the front and backyard. Not only did they clean all of them up and make them beautiful but they showed up with a full crew and equipment to get the job done.

Getting To Know 2019 71

Medeiros & Associates Lawyers

W

hen you are looking for a reliable and a results-oriented law firm that cares about you and your case, consider Medeiros & Associates Lawyers in Victorville. The firm has been providing legal services to clients in the High Desert for almost 30 years, and they can help with your case.

Medeiros & Associates Lawyers provide comprehensive assistance on Family Law, Bankruptcy, Criminal defense,

Wills and Trusts. Their firm is dedicated to protecting your best interests. Their rates are cost-efficient to help ensure that all of their clients can benefit from their legal representation and advice.

They also offer a military discount.

Medeiros & Associates Lawyers provides quality legal services within the general areas of law. The firm was founded in 1989 and has been serving clients in the High Desert. What sets them apart is that Medeiros & Associates truly care about their clients to ensure client satisfaction with the level of service. The firm believes that everyone 72 Getting To Know 2019

is entitled to competent legal assistance.

Medeiros & Associates Lawyers has the experience to advocate effectively for your rights. They offer a variety of family services including child and spousal support, child custody and visitation, divorce and property settlements, restraining orders, adoptions, guardianships, Wills and Trusts.

Because of their attention to detail and dedication to client satisfaction,

Medeiros & Associates Lawyers has been voted “Best Attorney in the Desert” for the past nine years. The firm is also a proud member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) with an A+ rating.

Come in for a free 30-minute consultation. Make your appointment by calling 760-241-1234. Medeiros & Associates Lawyers is located at 14390 Park Ave., Victorville. Their website is www.medeiroslaw.com. They are also on Facebook and Yelp.

Donald M. Medeiros is a Massachusetts born and California raised, firstgeneration Portuguese American. He worked for his dad at the gas station and entered the military at age 19.

He became a deputy sheriff in the 70’s and attended night school to attain his AA, BS, MPA and JD. He’s sold real estate, owned small businesses, been a union leader, and practiced law for 30 years.

He’s been a director of the bar association, a judge pro tem, an Attorney for the Minor Children and have lectured at local colleges on law and community issues.

His practice emphasis has been on blue collar law.

“No one wants an attorney, but eventually you will need one.”

The issues that happen in life, including Dissolution, Bankruptcy, Wills/Trusts, DUI’s and Personal Injury are when the average citizen needs an attorney.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Is Bankruptcy a viable option for my financial situation?

A: Yes. In most cases the powerful federal laws protect the debtor and provide relief.

Q: My husband passed, do i need to do a Probate?

A: Maybe, in many cases Probate can be avoided.

Q: What is a benefit of a living Trust?

A: The trust provides asset protection, health care directive, power of attorney and in the event of death, the estate avoids probate.

Q: Since our separation, how do I support my family on one income?

A: Both parties are responsible to support the family. The court has specific schedules to ensure the amount and collection.

Getting To Know 2019 73

Ozel

Fine Jewelers

A

braham Tekin, owner of Ozel Fine Jewelers, wants to thank everyone in the High Desert for making him the leading jeweler in the High Desert and for allowing him to serve you.

“Your commitment, trust and belief in us not only makes me humble but drives me to give you even better service,” he said.

Readers have voted Ozel Fine Jewelers “Best of the Desert” more than four times. Set foot inside any of the Ozel Fine Jewelers locations, and you will be dazzled by all the lovely pieces of jewelry, beautifully displayed.

Ozel means “something special for you,” and the exquisite workmanship and attention to detail illustrate his commitment.

“We manufacture and custom-make everything in house,” Abraham said.

This makes Ozel unique.

Abraham brought his business to the High Desert when The Mall of Vic74 Getting To Know 2019

tor Valley opened in 1986. Eventually moving to the Mall perimeter in 2006, Ozel Fine Jewelers is synonymous with beautiful jewelry—from design, manufacture, cleaning, repair, resizing and more.

Want custom jewelry? Bring your idea to Abraham and let him show you his ideas.

At Ozel, new jewelry-making techniques are available, using state of the art equipment to create 3D custom molds. Heirloom pieces can be updated or incorporated into other designs. The possibilities are endless.

Ozel Fine Jewelers will stand behind every piece they make and sell.

Ozel Fine Jewelers is located at 12200 Amargosa Road, Victorville, 760-2412044; 11400 Fourth St., #103, Rancho Cucamonga, 909-481-7050; and 73375 El Paseo Drive, #K, Palm Desert, 760-773-5522.

When Abraham Tekin was 12 years old, he began working in the family’s jewelry business in Turkey. It did not take him long to start his own jewelry manufacturing business at the ripe old age of 15 years.

He realized his dream of coming to America when he was 18 years old, met and married “the love of his life” Sheila when he was 19, and today the Tekins and their four children — sons Gregory and Jacob and daughters Estee and Robyn — as well as nieces and nephews are now three generations of Ozel Fine Jewelers.

His brother Joe manages the Palm Desert store, and Abraham owns a third location across from Ontario Mills in Rancho Cucamonga.

“I am very blessed to have my four children part of the jewelry business,” Abraham said. “Gregory is head of manufacturing — from CAD work to casting, diamond work and finishing.

Jacob is in charge of purchasing diamonds and creating designs. Robin is a designer and public relations person, handling our website and social media.

Estee handles sales.”

The idea of “family” extends to everyone who walks in the door of Ozel Fine Jewelers. Abraham believes you become part of his family as well.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What is the secret to Ozel Fine Jewelers’ success?

A: Everyone who visits Ozel Fine Jewelers is treated like family. Our customer service is second to none, and whether you need a watch battery replaced or desire a new setting for your ring or a custom design, the staff at Ozel’s can take care of you. Ozel’s stands behind our work and your satisfaction is paramount.

Q: What is Ozel’s “three in one” combination?

necklaces, charms, bracelets and more are available at Ozel’s.

Q: I have older pieces that I don’t wear anymore. Can Ozel’s redesign or update them?

A: If you want to keep your heirloom pieces “in the family” but would like the settings to be more modern, the experts at Ozel’s can make your sentimental pieces wearable again. You can also bring your gold, diamonds or old jewelry to Ozel’s and sell everything for top dollar.

A: Besides outstanding customer service, Ozel’s Fine Jewelers offers the best prices and a wide selection of beautiful pieces. Heirloom jewelry, elegant wedding sets to fit every taste and budget, as well as pins,

Getting To Know 2019 75

Pizza Factory P

izza Factory inc. was established in 1985. The Hesperia location was established nearly 11 years ago, and the Farrell family began ownership in 2017. We have delicious pizzas made fresh to order, but we’re not just pizza! We have calzones, pastas, and mouth watering cannolis. The list seems endless. To

sible. Sometimes that means spending a morning reading to elementary kids or volunteering for a school festival. Other times, that means feeding a high school team before the big game. Sometimes, it’s simply dropping off a donated lunch in appreciation of our hard working HUSD members. We also proud to sponsor many local teams.

top it off, everything from the sauce to dough is made fresh each day at our store. Although Pizza Factory is known for its delicious food, we try our best to be more than that.

Since our family has taken on the adventures of Pizza Factory, we have made it our top priority to be an influential leader in the high desert community.

We take pride in our philanthropy and community interactions. Pizza Factory is a proud supporter of the Hesperia Unified School District. Our goal is to interact with as many schools as pos-

If there’s anything you should know about Pizza Factory, it’s that we’re more than just yummy food. We’re your go to choice before Friday Night Lights, a cold beer after a long day of work, and your lunch buffet during Sunday afternoon football. We celebrate your birthdays and holidays with you. We’re here to celebrate your achievements and provide a place of comfort any day of the week. We’re your neighbors, a part of your community, and a place to make memories.

76 Getting To Know 2019

Pizza Factory owned and operated by the Ferrell family. We are a part of the high desert community and have been for quite some time. All 4 of the Farrell children attend(ed) school in the Hesperia school district.

Leticia Farrell, the matriarchy of our family, is a teacher in the Hesperia Unified School District. John Farrell, the patriarchy of our family, has been in the business sector for over 20 years.

Aside from owning Pizza Factory, John is also the store manager at our local O’Reilly Auto Parts.

The Farrell family has made it our goal to use Pizza Factory as a platform to make an impact in our community.

Although it’s just a small gesture, we display jerseys, plaques, and photos from many local sports teams. In addition, Hesperia Pizza Factory throws mini Patio Parties for all who are able to join in on the fun. On warmer Saturdays, or summer holidays like the 4th of July, we have games and prizes in our patio area. They’re completely free to play. Our family will even go out and teach the kids how to play games like corn hole or ladder golf. One example is this past Independence Day, Geo Farrell was teaching kids how to play chess on a giant chess mat.

We think it’s really important to give back to the community that has given so much to us. We’re so appreciative of you...or friends and neighbors.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What makes Pizza Factory so special?

Q: Where will the Hesperia Pizza Factory’s delivery?

A: All of our food is so fresh! We grate our cheese, slice our veggies and mix our own sauce. We even make dough from scratch! After all, we were voted best pizza in the high desert.

We believe in our delicious pizzas; more than that, we believe in being an integral part of our community.

A: Currently, we delivery out to Bear Valley, the 395, Ranchero Rd, and I Ave.

Q: What is the best Pizza Factory deal?

A: Our lunch buffet is the best bargain in town. It includes all you can eat pizza, potato wedges,breadsticks, salad bar, and a drink everyday except Saturdays from 11am-2pm. To top it all off, we’ll even make requested pizzas.

Q: Do you take reservations?

A: We do! If you’re having a small family get together, there’s no need to make reservations. However, we always recommend making reservations if your party is larger than 10 people.

This ensures that we’ll be staffed accordingly to make your experience the best possible.. You can make reservations up to 3 months in advance. We also offer awesome party packages!

Getting To Know 2019 77

Redeemer Church T

he slogan for Redeemer Church is crystal clear: “We are in the High Desert for the High Desert.”

Starting as the First Baptist Church of Apple Valley 63 years ago in its same location, 26 acres on Nisqually Road, the church changed its name six years ago to Redeemer Church because it more precisely defined their vision to exist to make fully committed followers of Jesus and to view the High Desert community as a place to serve.

Pastor Chris Gillespie believes that members of the church feel at home because they are part of the spiritual family. He believes that Redeemer Church exists for the High Desert.

From teaching those who want to learn more about Jesus and Christianity to those who wish to serve others, Redeemer Church is Gospel centered, mission minded and spirit empowered.

Redeemer Church offers food and clothing distribution centers the second and fourth Sundays of each month, providing more than 1,600 food items as part of the USDA’s food distribution

78 Getting To Know 2019

program plus thousands of gently used clothing for men, women and children.

Special drives are held to provide new socks and underwear for the needy and homeless, and several members of the Church are involved in a food ministry in a local park where meals are prepared.

Redeemer Church raised $15,000 to purchase a mobile shower unit for the homeless in the area. This will be available during the food and clothing distribution. A portable shower as well, Redeemer Church shows in simple ways the importance of serving the community.

Redeemer Church also targets local schools to serve. Yucca Loma Elementary and Rio Vista Elementary are two schools that have been served.

Redeemer Church is located at 22434 Nisqually Road, Apple Valley.

Their website is redeemerhd.com.

Their hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday and Sunday.

Call them at 760-247-5891.

ABOUT THE OWNER Justin Bond has been Assistant to Pastor Chris Gillespie as well as Director of Communications at Redeemer Church for four months. He and his wife moved to the High Desert about two years ago from Arizona and went to another church until they found Redeemer Church.

They attended services for awhile.

Justin realized that he shared the same mission and vision and found Redeemer Church to be more in line with his beliefs. He found more chances to serve and become involved with the High Desert Community.

He is Pastor Chris’s “right hand man,” handling his schedule, his emails and calendar.

As Director of Communications, Justin manages the Church’s website, social media and video presentations.

Justin also teaches Equipping Classes and Bible Study small groups for men. He works “behind the scenes” so that Sunday services run smoothly.

He handles the various ministries of the Church — sign-up sheets, book sales and more.

He will tell you, “There are lots of things going on,” and his handson approach keeps all those things running smoothly.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What is your mission at Redeemer Church?

A: “GLORIFYING GOD BY MAKING FULLY COMMITTED FOLLOWERS OF JESUS WHO LOVE GOD BY LOVING OTHERS.”

Everything we do as a church must accomplish this purpose. Jesus commanded his disciples to “go into all the world and make disciples.” It is therefore our responsibility as his disciples to continue on with this mission until he returns.

Q: Do you offer age appropriate classes or groups studies?

A: Yes, we have COMMUNITY GROUPS, WOMAN’S BIBLE STUDY, MEN’S BIBLE STUDY and KIDS MINISTRY available. We also have Equipping Classes- Equipping Classes are

designed to equip believers in practical ways. Classes include topics such as parenting, marriage, finances, theology and biblical studies. We hold multiple classes throughout the year Q: Do you have a Church website?

A: Yes. Please visit us at www. redeemerhd.com. In addition to our website, you can also find us on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.

Club 56 Ministry available in room G-5 (5th and 6th grade) (9:30am&11:15am) Alive Jr. High Ministry available in room G-4 (9:30am & 11:15am)

22434 Nisqually Rd. Apple Valley, Ca. 92308

Office- 760-247-5891.

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs.

8am-4pm Friday 8am-1pm

Q: 4 Where are you located and what time are your services?

A: SERVICE TIMES AND LOCATIONS8:00 AM - 9:30 AM – 11:15 AM- Located in The Auditorium.

Children’s Ministry available, Newborn to 4th grade ( ALL 3 Worship Gatherings)

Getting To Know 2019 79

Sierra Vista Pacifica Senior Living

P

acifica Senior Living Sierra Vista is designed to be a comfortable, tightknit senior living community in Victorville, CA, where everyone is part of the family. Both Independent Living and Assisted Living residents are welcome to make themselves at home and enjoy retirement to the fullest. Besides our numerous on-site amenities and a central location near many attractions, we have a full schedule of life-enrichment activities and events meant to bring fun to each day. All while providing a wide variety of ADL services to anyone who requires.

Residents live in two-bedroom bungalows with full kitchens or comfortable studios. Our pristine grounds are embellished with a chic water fountain, a beautiful inner garden, and a large courtyard. Inside, there is a large living room and a TV room, where residents can meet and spend time together.

For extra safety, all homes come with emergency call systems, the bungalows are gated to prevent any unwanted access, and we have a secure front door

80 Getting To Know 2019

that requires visitors to be buzzed in or for families to have a code to enter. As for what can be found off-site, the list includes Victorville Golf Course, Route 66 Museum, Mojave Narrows Regional Park, the Mall of Victor Valley, as well as numerous restaurants.

We take pride in our well-rounded Living Options, each specifically tailored to meet the needs, wishes, and expectations of our residents as well as their families. Using the information from the initial interview and health assessment, our team puts together individualized care plans for everyone living at Pacifica Senior Living Sierra Vista. These are topped off with various resident activities that are meant to boost social skills, strengthen the bond of our community, and most importantly, engage cognitive functions. This way, everyone receives the highest quality care while also enjoying the healthy, active, and independent lifestyle they desire.

Visit us for a persona lized tour and stay in for lunch with us!

My name is Maria Gonzales, and I am the Executive Director here at Sierra Vista Independent and Assisted Living. We are a Pacifica Senior Living community.

I have worked for Pacifica Senior Living since 2012, and here, at Sierra Vista Independent and Assisted Living since 2014. I started working in Memory Care and now am in the Independent and Assisted Living side.

I am also a Licensed Vocational Nurse and I chose to work in Senior Living because I also felt in my heart that I wanted to help care for people, especially seniors. I love being able to come to work and knowing that our residents and staff are like a second family.

I have lived in the High Desert my whole life. I was born in Big Bear, Calif., and have lived in Hesperia my entire life. I graduated from Hesperia High School and then went on to become an LVN. I am married and have a two-year- old son we enjoy life in the High Desert.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Does Sierra Vista come all inclusive?

A: Yes. We provide three gourmet meals a day housekeeping, laundry, transportation, all utilities and endless activities.

Q: How can you help if there is financial hardship?

A: We accept all Veterans Pensions and Long Term care Insurances.

Q: Does Sierra accept pets?

A: We love pets Q: Is Sierra Vista Centrally located?

A: Absolutely we are 2 miles from Hwy 15 and 5 minutes to our Hospitals and Doctors offices off of Hesperia Road.

Getting To Know 2019 81

The Speedwash T

he old saying, “Find a need and fill it,” was never more appropriate than when Pedram Fararooy and Fred Simab opened The Speedwash on Bear Valley Road and Industrial Boulevard in Victorville in 2009.

Using state-of-the-art equipment and taking advantage of the spectacular location, the men were rewarded with such success that The Speedwash received the “Rookie of the Year” award from the Western Carwash Association soon after.

The obvious demand for an underserved market inspired the partners to open a second site, Hesperia Speedwash on Main Street and Escondido Road.

Today that site is also running at full capacity.

Two more locations are under construction now — on Bear Valley Road at Topaz Road and on Palmdale Road near McArt Road. These will open in 2020.

Pedram points to several reasons for their success, including the quick entrance to the carwash itself, auto-pay

82 Getting To Know 2019

stations that allow you to be in and out in three minutes, a rotational vacuum area so if the vacuums are full when you drive in, you can use them before you drive out, and the superior customer service training each employee receives.

Many of these employees are promoted to managerial positions.

Customers can also get SpeedPass memberships that, for a reasonable monthly fee, permit unlimited carwashes at every location. Speedwash will soon be introducing the Drive Time Special — from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., you can wash your car at a special discount price.

Victorville Site is located at 12147 Industrial Blvd., Victorville, and the Hesperia Site, at 13311 Main Street, Hesperia They are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. The website is www.TheSpeedwash.com and they are on most social media including Facebook and Instagram (@The Speedwash)

Pedram Fararooy and Fred Simab were involved in busy and diverse careers. They met when their daughters, who are best friends, attended in the same Pre-K class in Los Angeles.

Pedram had his MBA from USC as well as an electrical engineering background and worked for 30 years in the label printing industry.

Fred had worked for 25 years in the document signing business.

Their diverse backgrounds and their desire to work together helped them decide to partner in a service-oriented business. They noted the demands for quick, quality service in the carwash industry, realizing that everyone loves having a clean car but few people have half an hour or longer to wait while their car goes through the “usual” carwash process.

They decided they could open carwashes that were quick — “in and out” — and efficient — providing topnotch results that would keep customers coming back again.

They learned about MacNeil Wash Systems, a Canadian company that made the best in tunnel equipment.

MacNeil Systems are in every Speedwash location.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What is your lowest cost package?

A: It’s our Straight Away, which costs only $6, which includes the basic wash with Zep brand wash solutions and Free Vacuums.

Q: How much is the SpeedPass club membership, and how often can I use it?

A: The SpeedPass is our unlimited wash club that starts at $20/month.

The membership is charged at the beginning of each month, and can be cancelled at anytime by contacting one of our locations in the high desert.

Q: What is SpeedWax and how often should I get one?

A: The SpeedWax is a brilliant protective shield for your vehicle that uses a Nano-Spray Wax applied by the

automated wax system. SpeedWax, when applied every 30-60 days sustains the luster, finish, and protection of your vehicle in our high desert, bright sun light, high wind, and hot weather conditions.

SpeedWax is currently priced under $30, and includes interior cleaning.

Q: Is Speedwash currently hiring, and how do I become a Team Member?

A: The Speedwash is currently expanding with two new locations in the high desert due to open in 2020.

We are in the process of hiring and training new CSR’s and Supervisors for our new locations. Speedwash offers a competitive pay structure, full training, flexible schedules, and various benefits. We also tend to promote from within. Bring your resume and stop by any of our

locations to join our fast growing company and our talented team.

Getting To Know 2019 83

St. Mary

High Desert Home Health

A

s part of Providence St. Joseph Health, St. Mary High Desert Home Health is a nonprofit organization that assists members of the High Desert community with home care services.

A few services that St. Mary’s Home Health provides include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, wound care, infusion therapy, social services, and medication management.

The dedicated nurses and practitioners at St. Mary’s are proud to serve members of the High Desert community who require intermittent care within the comfort of home. The familiar and comforting surroundings of home provide one of the best places to recover from an illness, injury or procedure. The expertly trained, clinical staff at St. Mary Home Health takes a holistic approach to health and wellness, ensuring that each patient has a personalized plan for care.

The care provided through St. Mary Home Health is among the best in the country. The Home Health Compare rating gives St. Mary’s 4.5 out of 5 stars, one of the highest possible rankings.

Each skilled home health caregiver works with the patient’s physician or doctor to restore health and ensure quality care within a home setting. The large 84 Getting To Know 2019

majority of staff are local residents of the High Desert, which means service time is faster.

St. Mary Home Health makes a lasting commitment to provide care to every patient, regardless of extenuating circumstances that may arise in a patient’s life. Staff members go the extra mile to support patients physical, psychological, and spiritual needs, wherever they are in life.

The faith-based, nonprofit organization is invested in helping you regain optimal health. The St. Mary’s home health caregivers also provide guidance on diet, physical therapy, and exercise in between a patient’s scheduled doctor appointments. Each patient receives compassionate, holistic, and personalized care through St. Mary’s Home Health.

Call St. Mary High Desert Home Health at (760) 956-4119 for more information or a referral.

Kris Wernegreen, community nurse liaison, and Rebecca Kosko, executive director, both work at St. Mary Home Health to ensure patients receive the highest quality of care possible.

Between the two women, they have 50 years’ worth of combined experience in healthcare.

Kris and Rebecca are uniquely connected to the community because they have both been long-time residents of the High Desert. They care for and serve the community they live in — a factor that makes all the difference.

Working as a team, Kris and Rebecca are passionate about providing service that goes above and beyond.

Both Kris and Rebecca are actively involved in engaging with community members at health fairs, in-person events and volunteer efforts. Taking blood pressure, speaking with individuals about overall wellbeing, and forming meaningful connections are all a part of how St. Mary’s makes an impact on the High Desert community.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What services do you provide?

• Rehab Therapy

Q: How is eligibility determined?

A: St. Joseph Health, Home Care Services, Home Health offers specialized services for the community’s adult population who require intermittent care in their home for a variety of needs.

• Remote Patient Monitoring

• Wound Care Program

A: Eligibility for Home Health services is dependent on your physician’s order and your insurance provider.

Q: What type of team should I expect?

• Congestive Heart Failure Program

A: Our experienced, inter-disciplinary team of certified and licensed clinicians work together to provide comprehensive cutting edge care.

Our team includes:

• Fall Risk Program

• Infusion Therapy, IV Antibiotics, TPN, Hydration

• Registered Nurses & Licensed Vocational Nurses

• Physical Therapists & Occupational Therapists

Q: Our services include:

A: • Central Line / Port-A-Cath Care

• Medication Management

• Pain Management

• Medical Social Workers

• Palliative Care Program

• Certified Home Health Aides

• Post-Surgical Care

• Wound Ostomy Certified Nurses

• Triage On-Call Staff

Q: Do you offer any assistance in determining Insurance coverage?

A: For patients who have insurance, the coverage will vary depending on each individual plan. For patients who have Medicare or Medi-Cal, coordination of benefits is arranged through our agency. We will happily assist you with all insurance verification and authorization.

Getting To Know 2019 85

Sunset Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary

S

unset Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary has been the largest family-owned funeral home located in Apple Valley since 1995. The familyowned distinction allows the staff to provide personalized and compassionate service to families in their time of greatest need. Sunset Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary offers pre-planning, engraving, and more services to help celebrate life in a special way.

The grounds at Sunset Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary provide a beautiful, peaceful resting place for those who have passed. The grounds have mausoleums, interment crypts for cremation, a scattering pond, and sections designated specifically for veterans, Catholics, and Jewish faiths. The funeral service and burial can be designed exactly how your loved one imagined.

Building a private estate for your entire family is also an option at Sunset Hills. Designated sections of land at Sunset Hills are available to reserve, providing a private or semi-private resting place. The vision you have for your family can be built on the grounds at Sunset Hills.

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Pre-planning is an option that allows individuals to plan a service in advance.

Making arrangements early can help lift the burden from grieving family members. “A lot of people will come in, and they don’t know what mom and dad wanted because it’s hard to talk about,” says April Johnson, funeral director at Sunset Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary. Family service members at Sunset Memorial Park and Mortuary

are available to speak with individuals interested in learning more about preplanning services.

An important distinction at Sunset Hills is the crematory, which is located on the same grounds as the park and mortuary. This allows for a cremation process you can trust and count on, where loved ones are treated with honor and dignity.

Sunset Hills Memorial Park is located at 2400 Waalew Road, Apple Valley.

Call (760)) 247-0155 or visit www. sunsethills.cc to set up a pre-planning appointment with a family service member.

As the funeral arranger at Sunset Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary, April Johnson feels a true calling to her work. She is impassioned by a desire to care for others during one of the most difficult times in life. April is grateful to have the opportunity to serve those in need, and she finds great fulfillment in serving the High Desert community as a longtime resident herself. She views her role at Sunset Hills as a way to walk the path of her own personal faith as well as celebrate the diverse lives others have led. “I am very thankful to be here,” she says.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: Why is pre-planning for funeral services so important?

A: The decision to pre-plan is a very personal one. Those who ultimately take the important step in documenting their wishes regarding their funeral and burial plots and sharing their decisions with their loved ones usually express a great sense of comfort and relief, both financially and emotionally.

Emotional support is important so that your wishes are carried out the way you would want in the event of your passing. Financially, preplanning can benefit your family because you lock in today’s prices.

Q: Why should I consider a niche at Sunset Hills for my loved ones final resting place after cremation?

A: It is important to have a designated final resting place that all friends and family can come visit their loved one (cremated remains can often be left in a closet or mantle where others are unable to visit).

Q: Is it true that Sunset Hills is starting a cemetery in Hesperia?

A: Yes. We have acquired 84 acres in Hesperia at the top of the Cajon Pass and as an organization feel very honored to give Hesperia their very first and only cemetery. We are currently in the design phase and are looking forward to welcoming and serving the community in 2020.

Q: Is Sunset Hills’ family of mortuaries and cemeteries the only locally owned and operated in the High Desert?

A: Yes. We are the only locally owned cemeteries and mortuary combinations. All of our families are served local and stay local. We do not contract with anyone for any of our services. Everything from transportation to burial or cremation is all done in-house.

Getting To Know 2019 87

Sunset Hills Weddings

N

estled among the exquisite landscape of the Sycamore Rocks, Sunset Hills Weddings provides a picture-perfect location for weddings of every size. Filled with plenty of old world romance and charm, Sunset Hills is a wedding venue where dreams come true.

Quiet, tranquil, and surrounded by nature’s graceful beauty, Sunset Hills

between two lakes, and a beautiful chapel. The options allow for ultimate flexibility between the indoors and outdoors.

Sunset Hills checks every box: unique, classy, and romantic. The aesthetic of the setting is also versatile enough to fit a variety of themes, whether your vision is elaborate and grand, simple and elegant, or something else.

Adriana Lopez, the wedding coordina-

offers a breathtaking backdrop for the bride and groom to say “I do” and celebrate with loved ones. As the name suggests, the sunsets at Sunset Hills are truly magnificent, making the venue a perfect spot for weddings, banquets, anniversary parties and other celebrations.

The elaborate Tuscan architecture featuring picturesque terracotta rooftops provides a spectacular setting for memories and photographs that will last a lifetime. The entire facility is available to the couple and guests on the wedding day.

Sunset Hills includes a variety of settings to choose among: a terrace overlooking the valley, an outdoor pavilion

tor at Sunset Hills, is available to assist with making arrangements leading up to and on the big day. Her reputation for outstanding customer service is known throughout the High Desert, and many happy brides have written rave reviews about Adriana’s exceptional service.

Reviewer Adam D. said on Facebook: “Adriana was a life saver from beginning to end. We met with Adriana multiple times and she was always easy to get a hold of and she made herself available to us 24/7.”

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Sunset Hills is located at 24000 Waalew Road in Apple Valley. Reach them at (760) 247-0155.

Adriana Lopez is the wedding coordinator at Sunset Hills Weddings.

She loves weddings and absolutely loves working brides. Her role involves coordinating to ensure that the wedding day runs as smoothly and effortlessly as possible. During the days leading up to a wedding, Adriana helps make arrangements to make sure that “the dream that you thought your day would be, comes true.”

Providing excellent customer service is very important to Adriana.

From a young age, Adriana learned how to take care of customers through the restaurant her parents owned in Glendale. When she first moved to the High Desert, she opened her own bridal boutique. For 14 years, she helped brides, grooms, and entire bridal parties find the perfect fit for dresses or tuxedos.

It was through her years at her bridal boutique that she discovered a deep passion for the bridal industry.

A natural people person, Adriana loves working to help every bride’s dream day a reality. As a longtime resident of the High Desert herself, Adriana enjoys providing the best service possible to everyone who celebrates their wedding day at Sunset Hills.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: How far in advance should we book our wedding?

A: The venue is usually the most expensive item. We recommend booking at least a year in advance because once the venue is secured, the couple can move on to other things. The onsite Wedding Coordinator handles the booking and stays in touch right up to the day of the event. The Coordinator oversees the decoration of the venue including centerpieces, datebook, favors and makes certain everything is ready for a smooth “start to finish” event.

Q: Is there a “best time of day” for a Sunset Hills wedding?

A: We recommend the ceremony begin an hour and a half before sunset to allow time for special

photos of the couple as well as of the wedding party.

Q: What if we need a caterer, florist or other service?

A: Usually the couples provide the caterer, flowers, disc jockey, photographer or videographer, and officiant. Sunset Hills does the rest.

However, we offer packages that can help couples plan as much as possible. We can also recommend services for hair, makeup, nails, cake artists and more.

Q: Are other events planned the same day as the wedding?

A: No other event is booked for the day of your wedding or for any other special event. Our options include indoor or outdoor services and receptions or combinations of the two — the service outside, reception inside or vice versa, for example, so the entire facility is available for the party. We utilize the lobby for gift display, guestbook signing, appetizer service, photo booth and so on.

Q: We want our wedding to include a dinner reception. Is that possible at Sunset Hills?

A: We usually recommend “head table” seating for the couple and the wedding party, with buffet-style service for guests.

Getting To Know 2019 89

The Gym T

he Gym celebrating 1 year with the official transition from the (World Gym) has increased success in this last year with memberships and people achieving great results. The Gym is a no-nonsense, results-driven fitness brand built from weightlifting culture, committed to pushing our bodies to levels constantly challenging our limits.. Here, great shape is an authentic passion, and

treadmills, stair-steppers, and the heaviest free weights in the High Desert.

There are sauna and steam rooms, and a room for aerobics classes. Anyone wishing to lose weight, rehab from an injury or improve flexibility will benefit from The Gym. Members arrive ready to work out and are focused on their goals because of the positive atmosphere and the personal

strong, fit, and healthy lifestyles are the norm. We don’t back down, and we live for the burn to push our bodies to go beyond what we think they’re capable of. Many have tried to replicate our culture and have failed, they fail where we don’t because they lack our genuine passion to see our members reach their goals.

Experience from a Master US Army Training A.J. Buonarigo, He has helped The Gym re-shape the way we help our members get the results they want by Designing a state of the art Status RX weight room and Cycle room for our Facility.

The Gym’s facility also includes

trainers who can instruct members on the proper way to use the equipment and answer any questions.High Desert residents can sign up for a free threeday trial membership. Each prospective member gets a tour of The Gym from a Membership Advisor. Discounts are available for public service employees, as well.

90 Getting To Know 2019

The Gym is also open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Gym is located at 14689 Valley Center Drive, Victorville. The telephone number is 760-243-4020.

Paula Ramirez loves to run. Her mother bought her a membership to The Gym when she was 16 and a student at Victor Valley High School.

Going to work at The Gym seemed like the obvious “next step.”

Paula started at the front desk and now manages a sales team of five people.

She cannot say enough about The Gym — the facility, the equipment, and various exercise programs — as well as how much she enjoys the people she meets every day.

“We have great owners, too,” she says. “Our facility has something for everyone.”

Paula calls The Gym the best gym in the High Desert and says many members she met when she first started working there 12 years ago are still members today. “Our membership is like family,” she says.

The best part of that “family,” in Paula’s eyes, is that if they leave, they always come back.

She said she enjoys coming to work every day and seeing members reaching their own fitness goals. She understands the importance of fitness and believes a membership at The Gym to be a very good way to make fitness part of your lifestyle.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: What makes The Gym different than the competition?

A: It’s actually a fairly simple answer. We care about our members. We invest in the best equipment, we ensure everything is clean and maintained, that our atmosphere encourages our members to come in and reach their goals, and we support our community.

Q: What are some advantages of working with a personal trainer?

A: Many people forget that exercise is a science, and it takes a lot of study and experimenting to get it right.

Our trainers go through countless hours of professional development to ensure they are offering the best results to their clients.

Consistency and accountability are the cornerstones of fitness, and our

personal trainers will provide exactly that. They will push you and keep you accountable until you reach your goals, and they expedite the results process because they have studied what works and what doesn’t. There won’t be a prolonged trial-and-error phase that many new gym goers experience.

Q: What is all the hype over this program Status Rx?

CPT, Army Master Fitness Trainer, CrossFit Lvl 1. Our coaches will also give nutritional tips to assist our RX members even further.

Q: Is anything changing for your members with the new brand?

A: As far as membership is concerned, no. But we are going to be able to offer more unique apparel options, a larger supplement line, and a greater amount of community support

A: Status RX is the latest innovative program that we offer to our members. We took the best aspects of many fitness programs and designed a hybrid program that is effective for any stage of fitness and working toward any goals. It is designed around science, and programmed by our director who has a B.S in Exercise Science, NASM

Getting To Know 2019 91

Tnt‘s Cafe The philosophy of TNT’s Cafe is simple: They love to please. As a mainstay of High Desert breakfast and lunch cuisine for over 25 years, TNT’s accomplishes this mission by serving delicious food in generous portions at a reasonable price.

As you walk in, friendly wait staff greet you and make you feel welcome.

Their menu is a perfect example of the motto: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” It

whip up whatever you’d like with the available ingredients.

More than just delicious food, TNT’s also offers a comfortable environment that is very inviting. It has remained in the family since they first opened, and several of the employees have spent their entire careers with the restaurant.

Tonette Steele, who took over as owner after her father, Tony Paoletto,

has remained unchanged on the same long sheet since they first opened back in 1992, with an extensive list of items for both the most important meal and the midday meal.

Offering your usual staples such as sandwiches, burgers, omelets, salads, etc., which can all be customized with a slew of side orders, TNT’s also has a specials menu that changes daily.

Some of the more popular items are the delectable chicken-fried steak, club sandwich, biscuits and gravy, and pastrami dip.

If for some reason you don’t find on the menu something that will whet your appetite, the staff will strive to

passed away in 2008, attributes the welcoming atmosphere to her father, who was known as very gregarious and showed real concern for all of his patrons and employees.

Their success is evident with all of the loyal, satisfied customers that regularly pack the unassuming restaurant located on Bear Valley Road just east of Mariposa Road.

TNT’s Yelp page is another testament: it holds an almost perfect score of 4.5 stars with 171 mostly glowing reviews, with one reviewer saying: “Let me tell you that my hunt for the best French toast and breakfast in the High Desert has stopped.”

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Tony Paoletto and Tonette Steele Tony Paoletto had been a successful restaurateur almost all of his life.

Starting out as a cook at 17 years old, his passion for the culinary arts took him on a path that included owning several successful eateries in the Pasadena area and Bullhead City, Arizona before moving to the High Desert with his wife, Sue, and family in 1987.

He opened six TNT’s Cafes throughout the Victor Valley area, named for himself and his daughter, Tonette Steele. She also acquired his love to cook from an early age.

After Tony passed in 2008, the reins were handed to Tonette and the last TNT cafe has always been familyowned and operated since it opened in 1992.

Tonette hopes her father knew how many lives he touched and left some kind of impact on. He sponsored one of his cooks, Roberto, at 26 years old.

Roberto still works at the restaurant today.

Some might see Paoletto’s legacy as the number of successful restaurants he started, but Tonette says his “real legacy was the love and passion he had for our mom and family.”

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: How long have you been in the restaurant business?

A: AT&T has been serving delicious breakfast and lunches since 1992.

But the family has owned and operated the business for years prior Q: What are some changes you’ve gone through since opening?

A: Mostly structural/remodeling painting, furniture, that sort of thing. We consider our employees to be family, and we don’t see much change or turnover there. Many of our workers have been with us since or near the beginning. Customers, too. We have regulars who come in every day. It’s nice to have that feeling of family when you go to work.

Q: What do you attribute your good food too?

A: Knowing what customers like and don’t like, and maintaining a good relationship with our food vendors like Sysco. So many things change, our customers like that our menu

is pretty much the same no matter when they come in. We also serve large portions, so our restaurant family gets what they pay for. We don’t want you leaving hungry, we want you leaving satisfied.

Getting To Know 2019 93

The Tree Pros W

e often hear about people “learning the business from the ground up.” In Warren Adcock’s case, he literally did just that with his tree care business. He started as a “ground guy,” dragging branches for an old-time tree cutter in southern California. The cutter had no big equipment, not even a chipper, and Warren dragged those branches to the truck bed all day long

for four years.

When he saw there was a way up — again, literally — he became a climber and eventually started Golden West Tree Services, growing from one saw and his own gear to overseeing three crews — 15 men — and a mechanic and drivers. His business handled a lot of city contracts down the hill as well as for hundreds of residents throughout the Inland Empire and Pomona Valley.

The business grew until it was almost too much, and a chance visit with a friend in Hesperia was the start of a new appreciation for a friendly business climate and the friendly people of the High Desert.

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That was in 2007, and with a name change to The Tree Pros, Warren’s business became even more successful after giving his life to Jesus and being baptized in 2012.

The current inventory includes a 65foot bucket truck, three chippers, two stump grinders as well as a back hoe, dump truck and log splitters. The Tree Pros are palm tree specialists, too.

Senior, military and first-responder discounts are available, and The Tree Pros take checks and credit cards.

The Tree Pros will beat the prices of other businesses that are fully licensed and insured. They guarantee all their work, too.

At The Tree Pros, it’s satisfaction guaranteed. They offer prompt, professional service and will leave your place cleaner than when they arrived.

The Tree Pros are located at 11630 Seventh Ave., Hesperia. They are on Facebook and AngiesList.com. They are open seven days a week. Their telephone number is 760-981-8049.

Warren Adcock, owner of The Tree Pros, found his own bit of paradise when he visited a friend in Hesperia and saw that life was good in the High Desert.

He was impressed with the friendly business environment in the City and loved the open “feel” of land and sky.

He moved his family here and changed the name of his tree business from Golden West to The Tree Pros.

He has never looked back.

He and his wife Toni and their blended family of eight children along with seven grandchildren love it here. He has worked throughout the Victor Valley and cannot say enough about the nice people and all the great reviews his business has received from happy customers.

Toni is The Tree Pros office manager and handles the phones as well as all the safety classes and anything else that needs doing.

She and Warren knew each other all through school in Azusa, but they were two grades apart and didn’t really connect until she saw an old picture of him in Facebook. He was on his moped. They started dating and eventually married and consider their family and business truly blessed.

GETTING TO KNOW ...

Q: How long have you been in the tree service and are you licensed?

A: Tree Pros is fully licensed and insured and has been servicing trees in the Inland Empire and Los Angeles County since 1984. We specialize in professional pruning, trimming, removing trees and grinding stumps, diagnosis and treatment of diseased trees, and emergency trimming or removal of trees in any shape or size.

Q: When is a good time to trim a tree?

A: Most hardy and healthy trees in the High Desert can be trimmed yearround. The exception would be fruit trees which should be pruned from late fall through early spring when trees are dormant.

Q: Do you guarantee your work?

A: Yes. Our goal is to provide quality work and courteous service while keeping the cost affordable. Our

prices often receive complements by customers that have compared our quote with other tree service companies!

Getting To Know 2019 95