HD LIVING Magazine Winter 2014/2015

L O C A L F O O D | H D P E R S O N A L I T I E S | L O C A L M U S I C | H D H E A LT H | W I N E T R E N D S

YOUR PREMIERE HIGH DESERT LIFESTYLE

THE GOOD DOCTOR Dr. Tehrani Fights the Good Fight for Women in Crisis

WINTER 2015

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H.D. Living H.D. Living Magazine Volume 6, Issue 3, Winter 2014/2015 PUBLISHER/CEO Frank A. Castillo frankc@hdlivingmagazine.com AD COORDINATOR/CFO Tiffany Santee tiffanys@hdlivingmagazine.com MARKETING/CIRCULATION DIRECTOR James Piar : jamesp@hdlivingmagazine.com

Our Mission...

A Continuing Commitment to Our Patients Orthodontics is an evolving science with frequent developments in techniques, technology and treatment.

At our office, we ensure that patients receive the most advanced orthodontic care. Our office regularly attends seminars and conferences devoted to orthodontic treatment, new technology and patient care. With Patient Care as our top priority, this is our commitment to you.

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WINTER 2015

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TABLE OF CONTENTS WINTER 2015

28

Women’s Warrior Dr. Tehrani fights the good fight.

32

Fleet of Feet Krystle Beck Dance Company heads to reality TV.

34

Tonyan Coffee Genuine HD-roasted goodness in every cup.

DEPARTMENTS 8 PUBLISHER’S LETTER

26 HD HAPPENINGS

13 UPFRONT

38 LOCAL DINING SPOTLIGHT

22 LOCAL PERSONALITY

44 WINE TRENDS Wine and Walk

23 HD PERSON OF INTEREST

46 SUSAN’S CORNER Domestic violence can be

38

HD local music, Desert Heritage Brass Pickle Deli Writing contest winners, Winter Wonderland, Bear Valley Rentals, 40 HD DINING GUIDE Family Assistance Program

Victor Valley College’s Paul Mroz

Walter Feller: The Ansel Adams

stopped

of the Desert

28 24 HEALTH MATTERS

Cilantro

FOLLOW US ONLINE

6 High Desert Living magazine

WINTER 2015

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High Desert Living magazine 7

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Another Year Over ... Again?

I

am excited, as this is our thirtieth issue of HD LIVING Magazine, and while we have faced many challenges over the years, we have continued to produce the area’s premier lifestyle publication bringing our readers the best of the Victor Valley. This issue is no different; Dr. Tehrani, who was featured on our cover back in 2010, has made it back to our cover feature as his philanthropy and impact on those who have faced challenges of their own is a perfect segue into 2015. I was invited by Dr. Tehrani to an event in Apple Valley that celebrated the success of the Art Pink Warriors Project and was touched by the stories and lives, Naomi Oyadomari in particular, that were impacted by this organization as will you be, I am sure. We also feature a local dance studio that made it to the realm of the “oh so popular” reality television. Krystle Beck Dance Studio was recently featured on Lifetime’s new series “Abby’s Studio Rescue,” and we give you an inside look at their experience. Love coffee? Then you’ll love Tonyan Coffee House, this quant coffee house nestled in an industrial area of Apple Valley roasts their organic offerings daily and has become a local favorite in the HD. So, as we enter 2015, our staff and I look forward to bringing you more of the best our area has to offer. While much has changed in the Victor Valley, we still have incredible people, local interests and great businesses that drive our community in a beautiful setting we call the HD. Frank Castillo, Publisher & CEO frankc@hdlivingmagazine.com

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WINTER 2015

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High Desert Living magazine 9

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WINTER 2015

UPFRONT 13 HD’S LOCAL MUSIC SCENE

14 HERITAGE WRITERS

16 CALENDAR

18 BEAR VALLEY RENTALS

18 WINTER WONDERLAND

20 FAMILY ASSISTANCE

CHECKING OUT THE SCENE HD’S LOCAL MUSIC SCENE

T

here’s nothing like going out for a night of live music. Enjoying musicians plying their craft, feeling the vibe, the bass and the beat of the drums deep in your chest; you just can’t get that from a jukebox. The performance values of seeing a live band can’t be beat. But do you have to travel to LA or another spot down the hill to get in on some great performances? No. There are a lot of really good working musicians playing in local venues, so let’s show some them some love.

You can find the band Coast 2Coast working every Thursday at The Rustic Tavern in Victorville. They are available for gigs anywhere in So Cal. The guys are all highly skilled players. Bassist John Curran studied at Berkeley School of Music, and has toured the U.S. for decades. Bill Crane, on keyboard, worked with the Grass Roots and has toured with the international Reggae AllStars, where he is known as Bill the Bubbler for his great reggae keyboard style. He also has been a veteran of the Las Vegas show band scene. Guitarist Dontay Taylor has deep soul roots, having worked with the Ohio Players, Shalamar and Heatwave, to name a few. The group is anchored by the solid percussion section of Gary Whitesides on drums and Thomas Atkinson on hand drums. Gary has been a staple of the local music scene, working Palm Springs and Las Vegas and the whole of So Cal. Then there is Thomas Atkinson, possessing great percussion chops and vocal ability along with loads of stage presence. He has had the high honor of working with some of the best musicians to pass through the Victor Valley for over 40 years. Coast 2 Coast is an eclectic rock jazz reggae soul blues band, founded by Thomas Atkinson and Jarvy Dabbs who has since moved on to other projects.

If you’re in the mood for good-time classic rock that you can really dance to, Impakt is definitely your band! This fantastic, fun, high-energy group of four guys features Steve Ashton on drums, Steve Terrano on lead guitar, and Phil Thomason on bass, and frontman and rhythm guitarist Tom Kelm, whose impressive range and versatility allows him to effectively cover all your favorite artists--everyone from Led Zeppelin to Tom Petty to Social Distortion. Kelm believes the thing that sets them apart from other bands is their focus on how each song will be enjoyed by the audience, and that the group is intent on always creating a memorable, interactive good time evening for all—a phenomenon this writer has witnessed firsthand. Check them out for yourself!

Southern Spirit features Joe Eiffert/Lead Guitar/Vocals, Teeci Clark Eiffert/Acoustic Guitar/Vocals, Jaye Sooter/Bass/Vocals,

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High Desert Living magazine 13

MARC GARNER

Bobby Joe Bearden/ Drums, and Al Cooper/Guitar/Vocals. These folks play everything from Merle Haggard to Metallica--Classic Rock and Country to Blues and Hard Rock.

The Cadillac Ranch is their home base, but they can be heard on occasion at places like Fat Jacks and Gators 3. What makes them unique? They’ve been together for over 22 years. At their peak, they were one of the premier bands, asked to open concerts for artist like the Kentucky Headhunters, Lee Roy Parnell, Brooks and Dunn, Pam Tillis, Toby Keith, Travis Tritt and many more. That was mainly due to not only high energy music, but magic in their harmony vocals, which remains a focal part of Southern Spirit’s sound today.

If you’re in the mood for top-40, R&B, Latin and dance music, then Caliente is sure to please. This group features, in its four-piece version, drummer Satoshi Kirisawa, lead vocalist/bass player Kenny Tomlin, vocalist/guitarist Elisa Urmston, and Chris Urmston on vocals, keyboard, harmonica and trumpet. They also have trio and duo versions of the group when playing in more intimate venues. Caliente has been a local favorite since the early 90s, and pride themselves on providing a high-energy, fun performance featuring a wide variety of your favorite dance tunes from artists varied as Frank Sinatra, Stevie Nicks, Daft Punk and Pharrell. They also have been known to play their own jazz/funk and R&B originals. Be prepared to dance all night when you come out to see these gifted and versatile entertainers. You can follow them and get schedule updates by liking their Facebook page. – By Elisa Urmston and Susan Landers

CONGRATULATIONS! Last April, the 29th annual awards ceremony for the Desert Heritage Writing Contest was held in the gymnasium of Barstow Community College. Prizes were awarded for multiple categories, which range from elementary school to college age writers in fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Grand prize winners for each level received $100 cash, a personalized plaque, and the top winners (Grand prize through 3rd place) had their work published in the Desert Heritage Writing Contest booklet. The Caliente Duo performed at the ceremony. The contest is open to students in the northern high desert region and further information for the 2014/2015 contest will be posted on the Barstow Community College’s website soon.

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WINTER 2015

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UPFRONT

CALENDAR OF EVENTS January 8

February 14-16

San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino, 777 San Manuel Blvd. Highland www.sanmanuel.com Superstar actor and stand-up comedian George Lopez brings his immensely popular and hilarious comedy to the Inland Empire. Star of the TV show George Lopez and host of Lopez Tonight, Lopez will be performing his classic act at the San Manuel stage January 8. Get your tickets now and prepare for a night of uncontrollable laughter!

Calico Ghost Town, 36600 Ghost Town Rd., Yermo www.calicotown.com Experience history as the North meets the South in Authentic Civil War Reenactments. Drills, Music, Living History Displays, Confederate and Union Camps set up throughout the town. Imagine yourself under martial law in a town occupied by the Confederate army. Suddenly a cannon blasts, smoke fills the air, and a hundred Union soldiers come rushing in.

Experience it all at this Calico Ghost Town annual event.

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CIVIL WAR RE-ENACTMENT AT CALICO GHOST TOWN

January 10-11

DISNEY LIVE: JAKE THE PIRATE AND PRINCESS ADVENTURE

Citizens Business Bank Arena, 4000 East Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario www.cbbankarena.com Its danger and dueling on the high seas as Jake discovers what it takes to be a true hero. Coming to the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, this adventure is filled with new music, amazing effects, thrilling action and endless surprises, your whole family will sing, shout, and soar into the action when Disney Junior Live On Tour! Pirate & Princess Adventure sails into the Inland Empire.

January 24

AN EVENING OF COMEDY AND MAGIC

VVC Performing Arts Center, 18422 Bear Valley Rd, Victorville Ca. www.communityconcerts.org Looking for some laughs and entertainment? Look no further as the Victor Valley Performing Arts Center presents a Periwinkle Entertainment Production, “An evening of Comedy and Magic” featuring two-time comedy magician of the year Chipper Lowell, outstanding master of mystery Ron Saylor and the Amazing Bornstein’s Jeff and Kimberly who know the inner you!

February 8

PAUL MCDERMAND

VVC Performing Arts Center, 18422 Bear Valley Rd, Victorville Ca. www.communityconcerts.org Paul McDermand began his musical career as a free-lance percussionist in the Chicago area. At the age of nineteen, he assumed the percussion duties on a popular theatrical production playing in one of Chicago’s downtown theaters. Paul has lent his artistry to film scores, commercial jingles, symphonic productions and stage shows of every description.

The list of big-name entertainers with whom he has performed is vast: Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett, Johnny Cash, Liberace, the Temptations and the Moody Blues have all tapped his considerable talents. With his rising demand as a concert artist, Paul appears both as leader of his own group and as a guest soloist with the finest ensembles.

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GEORGE LOPEZ

WINTER 2015

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By Elisa Urmston So many exciting things are happening at Athena Jean Salon and Day Spa! To begin with, Athena Jean’s will soon be the exclusive High Desert source for the marvelous Nouveau Contour, the latest technology in digital micro-pigmentation permanent makeup from Europe. Jean has been traveling the world to learn the techniques and secrets that make this technological advance so uniquely special.

There are many marvelous applications for Nouveau Contour, including permanent EYEBROWS eyebrows, permanent eyeliners and lip liners that most women would love to have to enhance their beauty or wakeup with their makeup, and for those who need medical reconstruction, this technology is nothing short of a modern day miracle.

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Also, be sure to check out our brand new website, www. athenajeansalonandspa.com for other terrific updates. We offer many different special promotions and unique services in this lovely, fully appointed salon and spa for you that just can’t experience anyplace else in the region, and there is always something new and beautiful here to discover. You can always be sure you will find exactly what you are looking for, whether it is a service such as styling, manicures, or massage, a dazzling and impressive array of exclusive, top-of-theline products, or now the latest in digital micro-pigmentation; Athena Jean Day Spa and Salon is the premier High Desert location for all your beauty needs. Sign up for the newsletter, Ezine, so you never miss out on fabulous offers and promotions you are sure to love.

Finally, don’t forget: December is all about giving. Ask about our gift certificates, special membership benefits, and all of the other wonderful promotions for that special someone in your life. Everyone at Athena Jean Day Spa and Salon look forward to making your life beautiful.

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High Desert Living magazine 17

HD LOCAL PROFILE

Ready to Party!

BEAR VALLEY RENTALS

I

f you want to party, Joe and Helen Monte are the people to see. They began their party rental business back 1991, and have been going strong ever since. In the beginning Joe continued to work as a contractor down the hill while Helen got the business up and going. In the beginning they rented out bounce houses and that sort of thing. But, when business kept getting bigger and bigger, Joe put aside the contracting and began working full time at his party rental business.

Today Bear Valley Rentals can accommodate up to 900 people and more starting with tents, chairs and everything in between. That includes fountains, archways, a podium, and an incredible number of colors in table linens. Matching a bride’s chosen colors shouldn’t be a problem. The Montes even do invitations.

Joe is proud of the fact that he has never missed an event. Once he had an event in Wrightwood, and the truck carrying all that was needed for the event broke down on its way. Joe jumped into his car and headed for the broken truck. With a lot of work they got the rentals there in time and set up, and no one ever guessed there had been a problem. “We do it the way we’re supposed to do it,” Joe says.

Bear Valley Rentals furnishes party equipment to the private and military sectors. Besides weddings and quinceañeras, the company does grand openings, events at Sunset Hills, Evening Affaire at the Victor Valley Mall, events at the Hilton Hotel, the home and garden shows.

“This is a family run business,” Joe points out. His niece Cindy has worked for Joe and Helen for 18 years, and nephew Joey has worked for them for 8 years. Joe says he had hoped his sons would take over the business one day, but Rocco, 23, is an aircraft mechanic, and Nicholas, 19, is attending Grand Canyon University with hopes of becoming a doctor.

To get your party on call (760) 955-5195. Or better yet, visit Bear Valley Party Rentals at 12402 Industrial Boulevard G1 in Victorville. You’ll think you died and went to party heaven. – By Tere Kidd

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WINTER 2015

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High Desert Living magazine 19

HD LOCAL PROFILE

THERE’S HELP IF YOU NEED IT FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

D

omestic violence knows no racial, socioeconomic, or educational bounds. Domestic violence can and does happen in all kinds of homes to all kinds of people. Domestic violence causes pain and suffering and often creates a generational cycle of abuse.

But more importantly: Domestic violence can be stopped.

Family Assistance Program has been helping high desert families escape the cycle of violence and begin new lives for nearly thirty years. Their services include shelter for women in need of emergency housing for themselves, their children, and pets. But, there is much more: transitional housing, classes in financial management, anger management, parenting skills, and even classes that help teens prevent violence before it can get started in their dating relationships. With restraining order clinics,

20 High Desert Living magazine

support groups, and even an art healing program, Family Assistance Program is helping to curb the rise of domestic violence in the high desert and has now expanded into the inland empire. Services offered seek to build stronger families, which builds a stronger community.

Family Assistance Program also helps their clients pay rent and utilities on a limited basis; they offer counseling for families and individuals in need of support. In addition, they act as a safe gobetween for supervised visitation, and offer shelter services to runaway and homeless youth. Family Assistance Program offers bilingual programs, as well. This fall, Family Assistance Program held a series of “Taco Tuesdays” fundraisers at various local Mexican restaurants in the H.D., and there will be more great ways to support this very worthy organization through the

end of the year and into 2015.

As the Official Inland Empire Charity Partner of the LA Marathon, Family Assistance Program is recruiting sponsors, fund raisers, and a marathon team to run the LA Marathon on March 15, 2015. All money raised will contribute toward building a much-needed shelter for sexually exploited youth. The marathon team runs under the motto “We run because they have to.”

Always in need of volunteers and support, Family Assistance Program gratefully accepts monetary and other support to help them help others.

FOR MORE INFORMATION on how you can help see their website at www. familyassist.org, or to get help, call their 24hour domestic violence hotline at 760-9494357 or youth crisis line at 909-335-2627.

WINTER 2015

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LOCAL PERSONALITY

American Mountain Conference Champions has jettisoned Mroz and his teammates to the top of the Junior College Football landscape. With a seemingly happy ending in sight, Mroz knows it’s not over because he still wants to secure a few more full ride offers, and then of course, compete wherever he goes.

Coach Hoover remembers talking to Mroz, who spent a season at Fullerton College in Orange County as a backup. “I told him we had the top quarterback in the conference returning” says Hoover.

Mroz’s response was exactly what every coach wants to hear, “I just want a chance to compete Coach, a real shot to win the job”. Win the job he did, Mroz has passed for over 2,400 yards, completed almost 55% of his passes, and had twenty-six touchdowns through the air leading the Rams prolific shotgun offense. “ I faith in God,” says Mroz as things weren’t always so promising, growing up in a mostly urban setting and having to battle adversity at every turn faced with choices that could take a young man on a much different path. His story was documented in an article by ESPNBoston.com in 2011.

Mroz says that maybe it’s maturity and his faith that has him where he is today. Finding himself motivated with his academics and excelling at the game he loves has Paul Mroz thankful for his journey to the HD, the journey that has landed him with the Victor Valley College Rams…for now because his journey may just be getting started.

IT’S THE JOURNEY, NOT THE DESTINATION VICTOR VALLEY COLLEGE’S PAUL MROZ

22 High Desert Living magazine

ONE NEVER KNOWS WHERE LIFE MIGHT LEAD; sometimes it’s choice, sometimes it’s fate, and sometimes it’s just blind faith.

Knowing that the journey may lead to the Promised Land is what has brought Paul Mroz from a little known high school prospect to catching the eyes of division I Universities, with a scholarship offer from the University of Rhode Island and interest from schools such as the University of Georgia and Kansas State to name a few. A native of Brockton Massachusetts, Paul’s journey has landed him at Victor Valley College, where this season Mroz and the Rams have had a year to remember.

Finishing the season undefeated (10-0) and

NOTE: Victor Valley College football had thirteen athletes who signed athletic scholarships with four year colleges after the 2013 season and expects 2014 to be another successful recruiting year.

WINTER 2015

HD PERSON OF NOTE

ANSEL ADAMS OF THE DESERT WALTER FELLER

Walter Feller is a man who is passionate about his art. A man who believes each photograph should portray his view, his aesthetic.

No two people ever see the same event, the same picture the exact same way. Thus, there is little use in comparing. No one else’s work matters, and it is because he feels deeply about each portrait - be it that of an animal or other worldly landscape - he does not indulge those who are interested in typical portraiture.

His subjects are wild and beautiful, animals and rock formations, skies and mountains. They pay homage to the brilliance nature shows us in each and every vignette, but, also, through his eyes.

Just as it is said that no two grains of sand are exactly alike, he believes no one else can see what he sees in his pictures unless he puts it there. Another photographer’s picture would not be the same as his - even when they have both photographed the same subject. He is the one who interprets the shot. “Make it about me,” is the way Feller describes it, “expressing what I see, what I feel.”

As with most artists, Feller devotes himself to his art. When out CLOUDBURST DISTANT OF TRONA PINNACLES for a shoot, he is out an hour before sunrise and stays at least half Trona, Searles Valley, California, Walter Feller an hour after sunset. The light is everything to a photographer.

Oftentimes he brings a blanket in the late evening and sleeps at “The same season brings the rains that have the site. The animals wake him up in plenty of time to catch first work to do, ploughing storms that alter the face light. He is a man in love. In love with the land, the animals and of things.” his cameras.

– Mary Hunter-Austin, Land of Little Rain He has many fans who appreciate his perspective. Among them is William Randolph Hearst III. Hearst found Feller on the internet, which is not really that hard to do. When looking up almost anything about the Mojave, you are likely to find Feller’s work. It defines the desert as words can only approximate.

After discovering Feller’s work, Hearst commissioned him to illustrate the sixth edition of the classic book The Land of Little Rain, which will be out in October. Written by Mary Hunter Austin and first published in 1903, the book’s second edition in 1950 was illustrated by the world famous photographer Ansel Adams. Though Feller doesn’t like to compare his work to others, he couldn’t be in better company. Adams used primarily black and white film while Feller uses color most of the time. Still, he decides which film to use according to the subject, time of day for the lighting, and effect.

The book is a collection of essays and short stories centered on desert life - the landscape and its inhabitants. Austin’s prose is captivating. Somewhat like Edward Abbey’s Desert Solitaire in its fascination with what most people see as a dead deserted waste of land, Austin pays homage to the landscape she sees as APPROACHING STORM AT COYOTE DRY LAKE alluring and fascinating.

Coyote Dry Lake, Barstow, California, Walter Feller If you would like to check out Feller’s work go to www. walterfeller.com or like his facebook page www.facebook.com/ “Void of life it never is, however dry the air and mojavedesert.net. – By Tere Kidd villanous the soil” – Mary Hunter-Austin, Land of Little Rain

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 23

HD HEALTH MATTERS

GETTING TO KNOW CILANTRO

I

n a past issue’s health column, I mentioned the combination of chlorella and cilantro as helping the body detoxify itself of heavy metals. So, I thought it would be fitting to carry on the conversation about cilantro. Right now, you must be wondering, where is he going with this? What can be said about cilantro to possibly warrant writing a health column about this common herb?

Well, truth be told, cilantro, and its seed coriander, could fill a book with interesting facts and research studies.

Coriander is native in Northern Africa and Southern Europe but has been used throughout the world for centuries; the use of coriander can be traced back to 5,000 BC. Coriander is even mentioned in the Bible on a few occasions. The Romans are said to have used coriander to preserve meat, flavor breads, and exposed the English to cooking with coriander. Hippocrates, one of history’s early physicians, used coriander for its medicinal properties. Today coriander is used by many health care practitioners; such as Naturopath doctors, Ayurvedic doctors, Chinese Herbology practitioners, and more.

Coriander is considered both spice and herb, being that its leaves and seeds can

24 High Desert Living magazine

be used to season food; please note that the plant/leaf and the seeds have different flavors and cannot be substituted for each other. Coriander’s flavor is described has having a flavor similar to both citrus peel and sage. Cilantro’s flavor is somewhat controversial in that some people seem to taste soap or metal, while others describe the flavor as a mix of parsley and citrus.

Coriander seeds are available whole or ground in powder; like most things, if you grind it yourself you will receive a fresher flavor. Cilantro is typically purchased fresh, but can also be found dried. Often for medicinal uses and research coriander is used in the form of an oil.

Cilantro is full of good nutrients, and with only 5 calories per serving, would be a great addition to your daily diet. Cilantro contains vitamin A, C, and K, niacin, folate, choline, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, manganese, selenium, a small amount of protein, fiber, and phytonutrients.

Cilantro and coriander research, mostly in animal studies, has shown it to be effective at: helping the body excrete toxic metals, lowering blood sugar, lowering cholesterol, helping with digestive issues,

and reducing joint inflammation; it also offers free radical protection and is antiinflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-biotic, anti-rheumatic. There are few recorded reactions to coriander and cilantro, the main one being allergic reaction.

Integrating cilantro, and coriander, into your diet is easy. Try blending some in a daily smoothie, add it to juice, add it to salads; it is great in stews, soups, dips, and salsa. Look for the next issue of HD Living and we will continue our journey to an improved and healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Hannon graduated from the Southern California University of Health Sciences’ Doctor of Chiropractic program. Dr. Hannon dedicates his time to his passion of health, exercise, and nutrition.

WINTER 2015

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High Desert Living magazine 25

HD HAPPENINGS

On September 23 the Victor Valley Chamber of Commerce held the 2014 Business Showcase Expo. The expo offered local businesses the opportunity to showcase their services to the local community.

This year’s keynote speaker was nationally known Dr. Marc Dussault. Dr. Dussault, who is an exponential growth strategist, author and entrepreneur from Australia, offered his advice on how to achieve extraordinary sales results in today’s economic environment. Photos courtesy Eldon Kingston

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High Desert Living magazine 27

Art & Science Working Together for Good DR. ALI TEHRANI IS A FRONT-LINE WARRIOR FOR WOMEN IN CRISIS – By Tere Kidd

Dr. Tehrani had never met Los Angeles artist Lilli Muller, but he had met Naomi Oyadomari, his patient. Naomi had been diagnosed with breast cancer. She was one of his many patients who would have reconstructive surgery at the time of her mastectomy. How she would deal with it was anything but the usual.

Like many of his patients who were trying to make sense of her diagnosis, Naomi was seeking answers. Perhaps the last place she expected to find them were in the combination of art, technology and the right doctor.

BIG BEAR LAKE VILLAGE

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“I want to bring a sense of normalcy back into these women’s lives. I want to help patients during their most vulnerable times.

Help those whose lives have changed due to cancer, birth defect, or unusual trauma.� www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 29

ARTIST LILLI MULLER A diagnosis of breast cancer can be devastating, unreal, debilitating. It’s that Alice in Wonderland feeling that you’ve just fallen into a very deep, dark hole with no more illumination than a match stick to help you climb out. And, no magic potion to help you fit through the key hole into the light that awaits on the other side of the door.

Associated with the Art Pink Warriors Project, artist Lilli Muller does full body casts of women and then uses them as canvases. When she and Oyadomari got together, Muller brought support to Dr. Tehrani’s breast cancer patients by making upperbody casts of each woman. She allowed the women to choose a before-surgery or after-surgery cast. Then the women decorated their own body casts.

Plastic surgery isn’t all about face lifts and breast augmentation; it’s, also, about helping people find their way out of the dark after a dramatic trauma. Dr Tehrani says, “Older breast cancer patients respond differently than younger ones. They have the same concerns, but seem to adjust better. For a woman in her 30s through 40s, the diagnosis is dire. For an older woman the trauma is still there, but she seems to be more capable of handling it.”

“I want to bring a sense of normalcy back into these women’s lives,” says Dr. Tehrani. “I want to help patients during their most vulnerable times. Help those whose lives have changed due to cancer, birth defect, or unusual trauma.”

Formerly, when patients had mastectomies, they would have the reconstructive surgery 6 to 12 months later. That meant the trauma of surgery was twice visited upon the patient and months of disfigurement. Dr. Tehrani works with a team of surgeons who have diagnosed their patients with breast cancer. These doctors refer their patients to Dr. Tehrani for reconstructive surgery at the time of the mastectomy. There is only one surgery not two, and the patient is already on the road to recovery without facing another surgery months later.

30 High Desert Living magazine

Dr. Tehrani saw the benefit Oyadomari derived from Muller’s castings, and decided to put it all together… the reconstructive surgery - done in a timely manner - and the celebration of life.

In May this year, he gave a gala inviting his breast cancer patients and all the doctors involved in the patient’s treatment.

And, he invited Muller who displayed her art. It was a synthesis of what is right with patient care, the best science, the transformation of art when it helps to heal, and the celebration of life.

When asked why plastic surgery, Dr. Tehrani replies, “it’s the sense of creativity. Surgical principles, aesthetics, and function are all involved.”

Once a year in January, Dr. Tehrani joins a team of doctors who travel to either the Dominican Republic or Kenya to do pro bono work for two weeks. Conditions are primitive; oftentimes, tents are used to house surgeries and sleeping quarters. The team goes for two weeks doing up to 123 surgeries in four and a half days. All together there are usually 35 to 40 doctors who travel to remote areas where other medical care is scarce. The work is done through the Paul Chester Children’s Hope Foundation.

WINTER 2015

SURVIVING AND THRIVING Naomi Oyadomari’s Journey to there and back again There are two things Naomi Oyadomari would like everyone to know: The first is that cancer is not a death sentence. The second is that she would like everyone to know that self-examination of the breast is a true life saver.

In August of 2011, she had her yearly mammogram. The results came back negative. It was one thing off her mind for at least another year. She was comfy and happy with the world, until it came crashing down upon her. She and her boyfriend, T Smith, were cuddling and watching television one day when he discovered a lump in her breast. That was October of 2011. At first she brushed it off; after all her mammogram had detected nothing. The results had been negative. But, then she decided to heed Smith’s urging that she have it checked. She had a second mammogram and a sonogram. In November of the same year, she was diagnosed with stage 1B cancer. That diagnosis indicated the growth was the size of a pea.

She underwent radiation treatment for 30 days, five days a week. It burned and was painful. Her next step was a huge decision. Radiation wasn’t working and the other two choices were a lumpectomy or the more radical mastectomy. She described the cancer as feeling she had something foreign in her body and she wanted it out. “I wanted to be normal again,” she recalls thinking.

She decided to have the mastectomy, and in January of 2012, Dr. Ajanwachuku, her oncologist, proceeded with the surgery.

Her saving grace came in the form of a plastic surgeon, Dr. Ali Tehrani. When Dr. Ajanwachuku finished with the mastectomy, Dr. Tehrani immediately began the reconstruction of her breast. The idea of beginning reconstruction at the time of the mastectomy is relatively new, but doing it at the time of the surgery saves having another surgery months later.

At this time, Dr. Tehrani put an expander in her breast and inflated it.

“It felt something like a water balloon,” Oyadomari explained.

Every three weeks she left her home in Big Bear and descended the mountain for another injection of a saline solution. Going home the solution would expand and driving down the hill it deflated, somewhat.

“When life gives you cancer you get new boobs,” she jokes.

To make her breasts symmetrical Dr. Tehrani put silicone implants in both breasts. “It was about feeling normal again,” she emphasized.

What made the process even close to tolerable was Dr. Tehrani.

“He always joked; he kept it lively. I could tell he really cared.”

However, when she went home and got herself into bed, it was a different story. All alone the day before her 50th birthday, and experiencing great discomfort the tears poured out.

Nipple and areola replacement came in early 2013, another difficult process but necessary if she was going to feel whole again.

Before her first surgery Oyadomari had met a Los Angeles artist

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

named Lilli Muller. Muller is well known for her full-body plaster casts that she makes of women. When the casts have dried, she paints them. Muller cast Oyadomari in a cast from her waist up before her surgery. She gives these cancer patients the choice of casting before their surgeries or after. Oyadomari chose to have hers done before her surgeries. She never suspected what an awakening that would be.

“I’m claustrophobic so I didn’t know if I would be able to do it, but I did and it felt like a rebirth. When they removed the cast, I felt alive; I felt different. We all hugged each other and cried. It was a healing experience. Symbolic of my metamorphosis. My daughter, Sierra Hood is an art student at Santa Monica City College. She covered it (the cast) in a montage of photographs.”

All of this came together – the art, the science, the breast cancer survivors – in a gala given by Dr. Tehrani. The casts were on exhibit, women shared their stories. About 30 doctors came to the gala, and all but two of the 30 survivors came. “Dr. Tehrani really cares about his patients,” Oyadomani declares. “I’ve met a lot of good people on this journey.” – By Tere Kidd

High Desert Living magazine 31

Fleet of Feet

Krystal Beck Dance Company Experiences Reality Television

T

his past October, the dancers, parents, and staff of Krystle Beck Dance Company (KBDC) took their talents to the world of reality television by appearing in an episode of the new Lifetime Television show, Abby’s Studio Rescue. Hosted by famed and feared reality TV star and dance mogul Abby Lee Miller (Dance Moms, Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition), each episode centers around Abby reinventing and remodeling dance studios from across the nation. Members of the Krystle Beck Dance Company, parents, and owner Krystle Beck, had their every move documented as their studio makes a new mark on the dance world.

For one week, the Apple Valley studio closed down and film crews moved in to rejuvenate the studio. Focusing on the dynamic of the dancers’ moms and cosmetic changes of the studio space, the KBDC family learned about improving the studio and the realities of reality television.

Krystle says, “It was a little hard to act normal in front of a bunch of cameras, but it got easier.” One of the more abnormal aspects of the experience was that their daily tasks were supplemented by having to give individual interviews at night.

Discussing their feelings about the events of the day was both challenging and cathartic. “Nothing is fake, nothing is scripted,” she says, “but when you put everyone in a room and start poking at them, you’re going to get a reaction.” The reactions are what make for good reality television, and there were many things to react to.

32 High Desert Living magazine

Two sets of KBDC moms were at the center of the episode’s drama. Separated by hair color—blonde and red, respectively— these parents of dancers had to work through differences before the new KBDC could be unveiled. Part of the unveiling was the cosmetic changes made to the studio.

The redecorated studio was a reflection of changes made throughout the week of filming. Because Abby and her team didn’t run any design ideas by Krystle, she was a little apprehensive about what the outcome might be. The kids’ studio was decorated with butterflies, and a new marley floor was installed. They were also given new dance barres and mats to aid in the education of the dancers. In the lobby, the white walls were replaced with the KBDC green and a bold geometric design. The old furniture was updated with new couches and chairs, a large coffee table, and a receptionist desk.

The design surprise made Krystle cry when it was finally revealed. It is a stunning and welcoming space. Even if the white couches are impractical, Krystal says her dancers enjoy spending time socializing in that room. “If the kids love it,” she says, “I love it.”

Part of Abby’s advice was to expand the ballet program. The new ballet barres have helped KBDC accomplish this. Since the filming they have hired a new ballet instructor and added more ballet classes.

WINTER 2015

The final part of the filming week included a dance showcase—a showcase that had to be put together in one day. The KBDC staff and dancers worked on choreography and received feedback from Abby, while parents gathered and prepared costumes. It was an important and difficult accomplishment that Krystal says, “symbolized our fresh start as a studio.”

The experience is one that brought the studio together. Part of that was due to the dedication of the dance moms. “They were all up for the opportunity to better themselves, better the studio, better their kids,” she says, “and I appreciate them for doing that and trusting me— going through the process with me.”

It was a unique opportunity that owner Krystle Beck was not even sure would happen. When she was contacted about doing a dance reality show, she disregarded it. This was not the first time she had received such an offer. “I didn’t have time,” Krystle says, “but after more calls and emails, I filled out the paper work.”

After three months of interviews and visits from producers, Krystle Beck Dance Company became one of seven studios nationwide to be featured on Abby’s Studio Rescue.

KBDC dancers spend untold time and energy in the studio, and as Krystle notes, “this is a home away from home for most of them.” To be able to add beauty and functionality to the demands of the dance environment has had an impact on KBDC students.

A few months after the show was filmed, they competed in Las Vegas and brought home three national titles.

When asked if she would ever consider doing something like this again, Krystle didn’t hesitate: “Yes, of course. It will hopefully give recognition to the hard work that I do and my staff and parents and dancers. This is our life. The kids go to school all day, and get good grades, and dance fifteen hours a week here.

It’s a lot, and I respect all of them for that.”

While the series kicked off in September, KBDC was featured on October 7 on Lifetime. For more information on the Krystle Beck Dance Company, visit iluvdancing.com or call (760) 2477007. – By Katie Chavez

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

BEFORE

AFTER FOR MORE INFORMATION Krystle Beck Dance Company www.iluvdancing.com | (760)247-7007

High Desert Living magazine 33

TONYAN COFFEE Fresh-Roasted HD Goodness

“Once you begin to enjoy what fresh really tastes like, you won’t want to settle for less.”

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A

wakening to the smell of freshly brewed coffee—there is nothing like it. The rich aroma, the warmth that first cup brings to your body and soul as you savor each sip. If you’re a coffee fan, get ready to be awakened to a whole new side to your morning brew!

Once upon a time in America, coffee was just a drink, a morning jump start, the hotter, the better, strong and bitter was the norm. The perennial brew tossed back by cowboys around the campfire, poured by harried waitresses, or perked by 50s housewives was something to be endured: the cup of Joe, cup of mud, the morning eye-opener. But, within the last twenty to thirty years, something changed, and coffee began a renaissance of sorts. Many American consumers got a taste of what good freshly ground coffee could bring to the senses, and the old vacuumed packed, bland, bitter drink was banished.

These days, coffee connoisseurs are everywhere, the variety of blends and roasts endless, but even most good coffee sits on a shelf for months after it’s been roasted, and therein lies the real difference between a good cup of coffee and a coffee experience like no other. Once coffee beans have been roasted, the flavor begins to fade, with many of the subtle notes disappearing completely while being shipped to store shelves.

Imagine enjoying your coffee that is not only freshly ground and brewed but freshly roasted! Sure, you say, but coffee roasters are in South America or Asia or some other exotic locale. Not any longer. Now, you can enjoy coffee that’s been freshly roasted right here in the H.D. Tonyan Coffee Roasters is right here in Apple Valley. Fair Trade, Organic, and conscientiously grown, the coffee sold at Tonyan is also freshly roasted, so none of the coffee goodness is lost. Buying superior beans and roasting them at their peak means Tonyan Coffee is a bean above the rest. Other coffee is often packaged for a long shelf life but at Tonyan Coffee Roasters: “Our goal is to provide you with coffee that’s the freshest on the planet. We aren’t just saying that. You’ll probably never buy a package from us that’s one month old, never mind eight.” As John Tonyan himself says, “Freshly-roasted coffee is like warm bread, no matter how it’s engineered to seem fresh, it just doesn’t taste fresh unless it is […] and “once you begin to enjoy what fresh really tastes like, you won’t want to settle for less.”

Tonyan Coffee is available at their shop in Apple Valley and at a kiosk in St. Mary’s Hospital. Buy it by the cup or whole bean.

Order online to get coffee ready for pick up or packages delivered right to your home.

Whether Mild, Medium, or Bold in strength, decaf or regular, freshly roasted coffee will change the way you consume your morning brew. –Susan Landers

TONYAN COFFEE ROASTERS 13528 Nomwaket Rd. Apple Valley (760) 628-4462 www.tonyancoffee.com

www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 35

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WINTER 2015

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High Desert Living magazine 37

LOCAL DINING SPOTLIGHT

A HIGH DESERT CLASSIC THE BRASS PICKLE DELI

F

THE BRASS PICKLE DELI

15617 Roy Rogers Dr., Victorville (760) 241-4846 | www.brasspickle.com Visit them on Facebook!

38 High Desert Living magazine

or long time High Desert residents, the Brass Pickle is a familiar name. After more than twenty years in the desert (and changes in owners, locations, and a period of being out of commission), this deli has made a permanent home in Victorville on Roy Rodgers Drive.

From 2003 to 2005, Anthony Wong and Charles Luebcke owned and operated the Brass Pickle, but to pursue other interests, they sold the deli. Under the new ownership, however, it eventually closed.

In 2012, Anthony and Charles decided to give the Brass Pickle another try. Charles says one of the reasons why they wanted to reopen the deli was because they missed the daily interaction with their loyal, sandwich loving customers.

There’s a lot to love about the more than forty sandwiches on the menu.

Along with favorites like the 49er and the California Club, the menu is always growing. Recently, customers asked for a chicken salad sandwich, so the Brass Pickle delivered. Not only do the selections offer variety, but they also offer quality ingredients. Their turkey, for instance, is what the Brass Pickle supplier calls “a four-star turkey” without fillers, and they also offer leaner pastrami. The meats and cheeses are sliced on sight, they brew their own tea, and they have designer sodas.

While the classic breads are available,

they also have croissants and gluten free bread. When informed about customer allergies, they take extra precautions in preparing the food.

Charles stresses that all of their sandwiches are made to order. “We are so easy going here,” he says. “If someone wants to remodel the sandwich, we don’t care.” One of the most memorable remodels was when a pregnant woman ordered the 49er with egg salad on top.

With all the memorable moments and successes of the new Brass Pickle, there has also been heartbreak. In September of 2013, Anthony tragically passed away, leaving Charles to forge ahead without his partner. Through this difficult year, Charles has worked to make sure that the business Anthony loved will continue to bring joy to others. Charles admits: “I think he’d be proud of me.”

When describing the Brass Pickle, Charles says, “We’re a small, simple deli, and we’re friendly people.” With a menu as extensive as theirs, however, small and simple might be an understatement. Based on the droves of customers who travel from all over the desert for one of their sandwiches, it seems these friendly people have found a winning formula. For more information, please visit brasspickle.com, find them on Facebook, or call 760-2414846. – By Katie Chavez

WINTER 2015

A warm and intimate ambiance in a confortable setting with plenty of tasty and satisfying food combine to make Mama Carpino’s one of the High Desert’s favorite Italian restaurants.

Featuring live entertainment on select weekends.

22010 US Highway 18 Apple Valley CA 92307-3971 (760) 240-9664 Mon: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Tue: Closed Wed, & Thu: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Fri - Sat: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sun: 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm

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High Desert Living magazine 39

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

VICTORVILLE Thai Dawn Bistro 14317 Bear Valley Rd Ste 2 (760) 244-7600 Broken Saddle Saloon & Steakhouse 14562 7th St. (760) 951-0077 Thorny’s Sports Bar & Grill 13261 Spring Valley Pkwy, (760) 596-3971 Paulina’s Mexican Grill 14845 Monarch Blvd, (760) 955-2661 Tokyo Steak 14317 Bear Valley Rd. Ste 2, (760) 956-6888 Yoshi Sushi 14177 Kentwood Blvd, (760) 241-1960 Chateau Chang Restaurant 15425 Anacapa Rd, (760) 241-3040 Steer ‘n Stein Restaurant 12224 Mariposa Rd, (760) 241-0775 D’Vine Wine Bar 14845 Monarch Blvd. suite C, (760) 843-3888 La Casita Mexican Restaurant 14977 Palmdale Rd, (760) 241-0119 La Casita at the Lake 12170 Spring Valley Pkwy, (760) 843-0440

Tokyo Sushi & BBQ 14741 7th St #A, (760) 955-7123 Marie Callenders 12180 Mariposa Rd, (760) 241-6973 The Brass Pickle Deli 15617 Roy Rogers Dr, (760) 241-4846 Outback Steakhouse 12400 Amargosa Rd # B, (760) 962-1003 Mimi’s Cafe 12032 Amargosa Rd, (760) 244-6888 Original Roadhouse Grill 11940 Amargosa Rd, (760) 949-2308 Carino’s 11970 Amargosa Rd, (760) 949-2248 The Flame Broiler 12127 Mall Blvd, (760) 951-0888 Giuseppe’s Restaurant 14309 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 949-5400 Corner Green Tree Golf Course 14144 Green Tree Blvd, (760) 245-4860 Poncho Villas Fresh Grill & Tequila 11620 Amargosa Rd. (760) 981-1958

Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant 17790 Wika Rd. (760) 946-5344

HESPERIA Louisiana Cajun Seafood House 14466 Main St. #103, (760) 244-2323

Mega Tom’s Restaurant 20781Bear Valley Rd, (760) 240-9022

Whisky Barrel 12055 Mariposa Rd. (760) 244-1115

Oggis Pizza & Brewing Co 19201 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 240-8977

Juliano’s Italian Restaurant 12052 Hesperia Rd., (760) 949-0595

Linko Sushi 12115 Apple Valley Rd, (760) 240-1125

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

Apple Valley Golf Course Grill 15200 Rancherias Rd, 760-242-3653

Cancun Mexican & Seafood 15550 Main St, (760) 956-7720

Carmen’s Ponderosa Restaurant 9544 Kiowa Rd, (760) 247-7727

Italian Kitchen 16409 Yucca St, (760) 244-7757

Mama Carpino’s 22010 Highway 18 (760) 240-9664

Thai-Lotus Restaurant 12027 Hesperia Rd, (760) 949-9362

Marcelinos Mexican Restaurant 21510 Bear Valley Rd, (760) 240-4344

Wood Grill Buffet 14135 Main St. (760) 981-4418

Viva Maria 20162 Highway 18 #D (760) 946-2087

Los Domingo’s Restaurant 15885 Main St, (760) 948-6161

Ninja Sushi 15850 Apple Valley Rd., (760) 242-3913

Oasis Sushi Restaurant 12719 Main St, (760) 244-9608

Siam Thai Cuisine 18564 Outer Hwy 18 Ste 203, (760) 242-5093

Beef O’Brady’s 12728 Main Street (760) 948-8214

The Flame Broiler 18975 Bear Valley Rd., Suite 301, (760) 961-7100

OAK HILLS Summit Inn Restaurant 5970 Mariposa Rd. (760) 244-8278

The Hang Out Cafe 21600 Corwin Rd. (760) 247-7818

The Corner Café 15683 Roy Rogers Dr., (760) 900-6676

APPLE VALLEY Go Bangkok Thai Cuisine 20783 Bear Valley Rd, Ste H (760) 240-3888

Giuseppe’s Apple Valley 18855 Bear Valley Rd. Ste. 1, (760) 247-1999

Poncho’s Salvadorian Restaurant 16427 Victor Street, (760) 843-3336

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

Havana Wine & Beer Club 13692 Apple Valley Rd, Suite 1, (760) 961-6880

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

The Wine Seller Apple Bear Center, (760) 961-2500

Spirit River Cafe 16000 Apple Valley Rd. Ste. B4, (760) 242-1400

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Oak Hills Brewing Company 12221 Poplar St. #3, (760) 244-8278 ORO GRANDE Cross Eyed Cow 19242 National Trails Hwy, (760)241-1987 BARSTOW Idle Spurs Steakhouse 690 Old Highway 58, (760)256-8888

WINTER 2015

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www.brasspickle.com •Sandwiches •Soups •Salads •Catering

Hours: M-F 10AM-7PM • Sat 11AM-5PM www.hdlivingmagazine.com

High Desert Living magazine 41

FREE ESTIMATES

All Estimates Done by: Gary Smith, Owner

All Seasons Roofing offers free estimates. With 39 years experience (Lic. #308089) you can rest assured that you are getting a quality job. All estimates, inspections and roof certifications are personally done by Gary Smith.

Gary Smith, owner of All Seasons Roofing Co. tells Clients, “Even if we have had a light rain season this past winter, do not ignore your roof, remember that it will rain again”.

All Seasons Roofing Co. is a local business based in the High Desert, so you can be comfortable knowing Gary and his staff are here to help with all your roofing needs whenever you are ready.

(760) 987-0916 42 High Desert Living magazine

Fully Insured • Lic #308089WINTER 2015

The Victor Valley’s Original Lifestyle Magazine

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High Desert Living magazine 43

Go to hdlivingmagazine.com to subscribe or call 760-241-8475

Photo courtesy: FreeFlow Wine Systems

WINE TRENDS

WINE AND WALK

M

ud Run? Um, no. Wine Walk? Sure thing! That sums up a very condensed version of a conversation I had with a coworker recently. I’m all about getting my exercise, but I just have to say that I can’t think of a better way to walk away the pounds than a good Wine Walk. Okay, okay…maybe the delicious appetizers and wine sampling consumed at each stop is a little counterproductive if you’re serious about weight loss, but…hey, I’d like to think it all balances out in the end. If you’ve never experienced the joy of a Wine Walk, it’s time to…uh…feel the burn!

A favorite of mine, The Crestline Wine and Stein Walk through the Pines is one of the most frequent in the area. It occurs the 1st Saturday of each month, May through October. You get to stroll up and down Lake Drive, visiting antique shops and artists’ booths, while sampling a variety of wines, beers, and snacks. Local musicians provide live music at almost every stop, with the last and most beautiful stop overlooking Lake Gregory. The entry fee is only $20, and well worth it. For details, call 909-338-2706, or write to info@crestlinechamber.net. You can also get more information at http://www. crestlinechamber.net.

If you don’t mind a short trip down the hill, Claremont’s 13th Annual Vintage Village Wine Walk will occur on Saturday, Sept. 13th. I’ve had the privilege of experiencing this promenade a couple of times and highly recommend it. Good wine, good music, good food…good times! Tickets go on sale August 1st and sell quickly. For pricing, visit www. claremontwinewalk.com. You can also send any questions to ClaremontVillageInfo@ gmail.com.

Big Bear Lake will host their Autumn Wine Walk in the Village on September 20th this year. Enjoy tasting fine wines and indulging in light hors d’oeuvres while checking out the Village boutiques and shops. The price is $30 per person (pre-sale) or $35 per person if you buy the day of the event. They sell out fast, so I suggest taking advantage of the pre-sale price. Tickets can be purchased online at www.bigbearlakevillage.com or www.bigbear.com, or give them a call at 800-424-4232.

Get out there, mingle with fellow wine lovers, and by all means…enjoy your workouts!

Cheers! – By Stephanie Morris

44 High Desert Living magazine

Tasting Notes

READER RECOMMENDATION DUCKHORN VINEYARDS 2011 Migration Russian River Valley Pinot Noir A big time wine aficionado, Keith Dineen would like to endorse his latest fancy: 2011 Migration Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, a creation of Duckhorn Vineyards. A Pinot Noir saturated with fruit flavors of cherry, strawberry, and cranberry, mingled with traces of orange and cinnamon spice, Keith likes to enjoy a glass or two…or a few… with a good meal. Recently he enjoyed paring it with grilled salmon filets, roasted asparagus, and rice pilaf. Sounds delectable, Keith!

WINTER 2015

The

Wine Seller 12719 Main St • Hesperia, California (Hesperia Super Target Center)

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Wide selection of craft beer!

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Treat yourself - Sit in and enjoy an "M Cupcakes" experience with a pot of organic tea and your favorite dessert served in fine china.

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mcupcakesnpastries.com 760 • 843 • 5988 15617 Roy Rogers Dr. Suite# 102 • Victorville, Ca 92394 High Desert Living magazine 45

SUSAN’S CORNER

Domestic Violence Can Be Stopped

by Susan Landers

W

Family Assistance Program helps H.D. residents recover their lives, and provides the resources necessary to live those lives free of violence.

ith prominent sports figures and celebrities making headlines for committing violent acts upon their loved ones and a culture of machismo, we often think these incidents of abuse are somehow different, sensationalized as they are, but make no mistake: domestic violence cuts across all racial, age, socio-economic, cultural, and educational demographic lines. Domestic violence is as old as Humankind. The problem is one that first responders and hospital personnel are familiar with, one that educators see in the classroom, one that neighbors may walk past every day. It is a problem that cannot be solved overnight and one that will only be solved through both individual and collective effort. Domestic violence is not a one-size-fits-all problem. Some men abuse their wives, girlfriends, and children, sure, but men are sometimes abused, as well. Straight and gay partners and spouses are the victims and perpetrators of abuse. Many abusers grew up as victims of, or witnesses to, abuse. If we are to change the culture of violence and help the victims, we must also help the perpetrators, and they must help themselves.

Though domestic abuse is often a cycle, the cycle can end.

I have written about my parents here before. My mom and dad were among the “Greatest Generation,” the ones who survived the Great Depression and went on to win World War II for us. My father grew up with a violent, alcoholic step-father; he saw his mother routinely abused and then lost her and was on his own when he was only seventeen. If anyone fit the profile to become an abuser, he did. But…he didn’t. My dad was a loving husband and father. He witnessed what he did not want to become and chose not to emulate what he saw growing up. Substance abuse plays a large part in domestic abuse, and my father decided not to drink; perhaps that was what kept him from continuing the cycle; perhaps it was his tender hearted love for his wife and kids, nature over nurture; perhaps it was a combination, but whatever it was, I am grateful for it.

Humans are lucky. We can use our hearts and minds to change our behaviors, no matter how deeply ingrained we think they are. We can decide every day what we will choose to do…and what we will choose not to do. Don’t hear me wrong; I am not being Pollyanna. Domestic violence is a huge problem to solve in our communities, our nation, and our world, and it will take effort on the part of all of us, but it also comes down to the individual who makes a choice each day. Our actions begin with our thoughts. With myriad agencies willing to help, individuals can make the choice to change, to live nonviolently, to educate themselves and their communities. For help in the H.D., visit www.familyassist.org or www.abetterwaydomesticviolence.org.

If you would like to see something special featured in Susan’s Corner, or if you have a special recipe, drop me a line and let me know about it at: Susan Landers at H.D. Living Magazine 6630 SLV Box Victorville, Ca. 92395, or e-mail me at susanl@hdlivingmagazine.com.

46 High Desert Living magazine

WINTER 2015

OUR HOSPITAL HERO Talitha Marquez, RN

Talitha takes a common sense and practical approach to her duties and she clearly understands the importance of quality patient care.

Her instinctive leadership style, natural curiosity and her willingness to contribute wherever the need is greatest has been an inspiration to her colleagues. Working countless odd shifts is not easy for a mother like Talitha who also finds time to continue her education. Talitha is a member of a perinatal leadership group in the Inland Empire which is a collaborative of 12 hospitals that provides a forum for discussing issues and improving prenatal care. By learning how other facilities are

handling some of the same issues Talitha faces she is now able to impart her knowledge to younger colleagues.

She lobbied to purchase a bili-blanket which allows new moms to keep their newborn with them at all times instead of placing the child in the nursery. Talitha also discovered that some high risk moms were being needlessly diverted out of the area because of slow lab testing. She found a local lab with a fast and accurate turnaround which helped alleviate the problem.

We are proud to call Talitha not only our Director of Labor and Delivery but also our Hospital Hero for 2014.

www.dvmc.com