Local Community News and Public Relations established in 1997 and serving cities of Eastvale, Norco, Chino, Walnut, Corona, Riverside, and San Gabriel Valley.
Many years ago we owned a two-door Dodge Dart with a slant-six engine. I think it was a pretty reliable car but not very practical with two young children in the back seat. We took several family vacations in that two-door car including a trip from Arizona to Colorado in 1977. Members of the Hopper family were gathering in Denver for my Grandmother Hopper’s 75th birthday. We decided to stop at some campgrounds along the way to enjoy the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and to reduce spending money on hotels.
I attached a roof rack on the top of the car to help transport the tent, ice chest, sleeping bags and other camping supplies. The trunk was filled with luggage and baby supplies for our new born daughter Trisha. We looked like the Beverly Hillbillies.
When we got everything and everyone loaded into the car we asked a neighbor to take our picture before we departed. However when I turned the key we discovered we had a dead battery. The neighbor got his car and battery cables to try to jumpstart our car. No Luck. The battery was dead and needed to be replaced.
After we got the kids out of the car I removed the old battery and drove to JCPenney’s to buy a new one. A regular battery in those days was about $35. But they also offered a more expensive battery with a life-time warranty for about double the price. In a weak moment I selected the more expensive option. I bought the lifetime battery. It was one of the best investments I ever made. In the years ahead I think JC Penney’s replaced that battery at least three or four times! I certainly got my money’s worth. Eventually Penny’s stopped selling them.
I don’t think many companies offer a lifetime warranty on their products anymore. But I actually do when it comes to weddings. I tell couples in premarital counseling they can come back to me for help as long as I am still alive on this earth. I promise to be available to meet with them when they have problems in their marriage. I am convinced God can heal and restore marriages if couples are willing to follow His instructions and willing to make changes in their own life. If you are going through difficulties in your life or your marriage, let me encourage you to get help now. Begin with your own life. Read my story about “The Man in the Mirror” in my book Let Me Encourage You. You will be glad you did and your spouse will too.
Read 365 more stories and articles (one for every day of the year) in the book Let me Encourage You by Mark Hopper. You can purchase two copies for only $30 plus postage ($5). Buy one for yourself and one to give a friend. Order your copies at mark@efreedb.org.
Eastvale – There are several events coming up this new year. Save the dates below.
CERT Training
When: January 27 to January 29, 2023
Details: This FREE training is 20 hours spread out over the course of three days and will cover basic response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Visit www.eastvaleCA.gov/CERT to register.
Riverside County Small Business Conference
When: February 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Marriott Riverside
Cost: $25 per ticket
Details: The City of Eastvale is partnering with the Small Business Development Center as they provide the education, resources, and information needed to grow and drive revenue to your business. You’ll get the opportunity to network with local business owners and local and state legislators. Sign up here: ociesbdc.org/rivco-con!
Lantern Festival
When: February 18 and 19 from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Where: 7447 Scholar Way, Eastvale
Details: Eastvale is partnering with Panana Night Market and Yaamava Resort & Casino for this year’s Lantern Festival. They will be celebrating the Lunar New Year by taking the Lantern Festival to the streets. There are currently 150 vendors so far but you can submit vendor inquiries to events@eastvaleca.gov.
“…the Dayspring from on high has visited us; To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:78-79
Zechariah was given word that his wife would have a son. His name would be John. John the Baptist would be the one paving the way for the Messiah. Zechariah doubted and was made mute. When John was born, Zechariahs tongue was loosed, and he broke out in song. Prior to this, it was a dark time for Zechariah. We find that sometimes the darkness and difficulty is orchestrated by the Lord. We have valleys and mountaintops all throughout our lives. Most of the time we spend is in the valleys. The place that even Psalm 23 calls “the valley of the shadow of death.” Martin Luther King said that “it is only in darkness that you see the stars.”
I recently experienced one of the most difficult times in my life and ministry. Someone very close to me tragically took his own life. The guilt, darkness, shame, and horror just enveloped me like never before. It was very hard not to feel responsible in some way. I remember reading this verse during this time of darkness. I knew at that moment that the Lord was breaking through. It’s a process, but I can sense the Lord’s presence even in the darkness. The Lord gives His light in the darkness, and it’s also in the darkness that He gives his amazing peace.
If you are struggling, please reach out to somebody. Be candid and real. If you are on the receiving end of a call for help. Do everything you can to stand in the gap and seek help. I am reminded that no matter how thick the darkness, it can’t put out even the tiniest of lights. Scripture says that Jesus is the light of the world. He is the Dayspring, which means He is the first appearance of light or sunrise. God reveals His light through Jesus, who is the Light of heaven who came into the world (John 8:12). A world which is riddled with darkness, pain, sickness, depression, and hate. He experienced the darkness of death when he gave his life (Hebrews 4:15). He died and was buried. But the grave could not hold him. He rose! He conquered the darkness of sin, which is at the core of so much pain in the world. He did it for YOU. Even though we may be in darkness, we could experience His light and His peace. Trust in Him today. He is the Dayspring.
Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am at Eastvale Elementary. Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. Download their app to be up to date on all events. Livestream, YouTube live, and Facebook live is available.
Happy New Year. Another year has come and gone. Be happy, be blessed, and be thankful. I was sitting here thinking and mentally beating myself up for the goals I had set for myself that I didn’t achieve for 2022. Also, for the projects that I said I was going to do and didn’t get done, and for all the time I wasted worrying. But this verse came across my mind.
1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)
7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
I am removing all my anxiety from what wasn’t done or completed to what was done and accomplished. It doesn’t matter if it was on my list of resolutions. Life sometimes seems to take a turn, and what we plan to do is not always what direction God wants us to go in.
The backyard project may still need to be done. But Spending moments with my kids and seeing them laugh and enjoy life is so much more than a New Years’ resolution that I broke. This year I vowed for 2023 to laugh and smile more, love deeper, pray a lot harder and walk a little slower and enjoy every step of the way without worrying about what got done or didn’t get done.
Happy New Year to you, and may you take time to smell the flowers, watch a bird fly, count the stars, smile at a stranger, and hug your kids any chance you get, Be blessed, my friends. Have a wonderful New Year.
Melody Kraemer is the Editor and Publisher of AutismMomAdventures.com. Follow her on Instagram @lifewithmelody_k. Tik Tok @lifewithmelodyk and Facebook.com/autismmomadventur es. For more information or general encouragement, feel free to email her at: autismmomofboys@gmail.com
Happy New Year to all of you wonderful beings. Yes it’s a new beginning for us all. It’s a chance to start fresh and finally become who you are meant to be. The New Year brings unlimited possibilities and new energy that helps us believe, the sky is the limit. The New Year gives us hope and many new chances. I say take these chances and make this year, the best one ever!
Start this process by setting some small very obtainable daily goals. Once you’re in the groove and have met the daily goals, now it’s time to set a realistic goal for the year. You may or may not ever meet the year end goal but it’s all about the steps or the process that we take in our attempt that cause us to change. That’s what I want you all to focus this year. So what if you never get there all the way, you’re certainly moving in the right direction. Be proud of what you are able to do in 2022 and don’t beat yourself up for what you couldn’t do.
I hope you will be good to yourselves this year and finally work toward who you are meant to be. I want you to remember it’s all here for you and all you have to do is believe in yourself and go and get what you deserve. So I dedicate this to all of you in hopes that this will be a magical year. I wish for all of you that you will get out there and find all the greatness that exists in you and our very wonderful world. It all starts by believing in you and I believe in all of you and want you to be the very best you can be. Make 2023 a magical year, the best year of your life!!!!!
This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Nancy is now accepting new clients. She also works as a motivational speaker. Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens and can handle many court mandated needs. For more information about any of these services contact Nancy at (909) 229-0727. You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com
I was very close to my family. I loved them with all my heart. I no longer see any of them. One day I woke up and felt that they had abandoned me. And then I drove them further away by sharing my experiences with the world. I am hurt by the loss of their lives.
The day I opened up to my father I began a real relationship with the one I feared the most. Although I never had his complete love, I somehow gained his respect by my success and aggressiveness. After we began our journey of becoming emotionally close, one dark night I found him lifeless on the hallway floor. I am hurt by the loss of his life.
When I met him five years ago, he spoke of fairness and honesty in life. Integrity was high on his list, but it wasn’t necessary. His fatherly personality made me confide and respect him. Eventually he became my boss, both personally and professionally. We shared secrets and feelings. We helped one another and confided in each other. His heart was bigger than anyone I’ve ever met. And then one day he developed cancer. I was forced to watch him die, and I felt helpless. I am hurt by the loss of his life.
He’s a new friend, and I really like him. He’s a cross between an older brother and a young father. He loves to laugh and shares the same dysfunctions I do. We get along and we really care for each other. He’s now someone who I respect, and I love him very much. I consistently remind him to get plenty of rest, live healthy, and to go to the doctor when he feels sick. But I am very afraid. I worry. I am in fear. I am afraid of the loss of his life.
They call it condition stimulus. A repetitive action that turns into a repetitive response. I love, and then I hurt. Bring out the meat sauce because I’ve now turned into the Pavlovian dog that I read about in college.
I have a problem understanding life today; I have a problem loving people who may suddenly leave this earth without warning. I know, any one of us could die at any moment. We can get into a car accident, a plane could fall from the sky, or our heart could just quit without any warning. We cannot control it. This is just the way it is.
Through these experiences I’ve learned not to wait until tomorrow, but I’ve also learned to be afraid to feel love today. I’m tired of the losses. I’m tired of the pain. The siblings who are hurt and hate. Others who are hurt, attack. The blame. The absurd accusations. I don’t want to go through those things anymore. Lately, I haven’t participated in my community. My heart had felt numb. Personal experiences have pushed painful scenarios within my spirit. I felt the struggle between what is, and what could be.
Today is a good day. I feel content. I am happy. I know that whatever happens, I will look towards the positive. Whatever darkness that creeps into my life, somewhere, somehow, I will see a light. Whomever I love today, I will love completely, … today. I will not wait to hug. I will not wait to express how I feel. I will not feel pain and anguish without confronting those feelings with those who try to push their hate into my life. I will do this, each and every day, because I choose to no longer feel the sadness. This is the gift I’ve received from those who have passed. I choose to feel the many joys hidden deep inside the experiences of the loss of life.
Eastvale – Last month, the Western Bridge Span officially opened on the new Mayor Berwin Hanna Bridge on Hamner Avenue. Traffic has now shifted to the new section and demolition of the old bridge is in progress.
The new speed limit is 35 MPH in the construction zone, and it is advised to watch for uneven pavement as you drive cautiously through the area. “No pedestrian access is granted over the bridge during the phase of construction due to safety and limited access,” according to the Hamner Avenue Bridge and Widening Project facebook. “Pedestrians may use RTA bus route 3 for access with stops at Taft St., and Hamner Ave. (northbound), and on Citrus St. west of Hamner Ave. (southbound).”
In 2021, the City of Norco and the Riverside County Transportation Department began construction for this $71-million-dollar project. After demolition of the old bridge, the next steps are to construct the Eastern Bridge Span then construct a multi-use trail. “Once complete, the Berwin Hanna Bridge on Hamner Avenue over the Santa Ana River will be 1,200 feet long and 12-foot-wide travel lanes,” stated the City in a news release. The Hamner Avenue Bridge and Widening Project is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.
Courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff’s Department; Pictured: Deputy Isaiah Cordero
Eastvale – Two Riverside County Sheriff Deputies were killed in the line of duty within the last month. The first was Deputy Isaiah Cordero who was fatally shot on December 29, 2022, and the second was Deputy Darnell Calhoun who was fatally shot on January 13, 2023. Prior to these incidents, the last time a Riverside County Deputy was killed in the line of duty was in 2003, according to Sheriff Chad Bianco during a press conference.
On Dec. 29, shortly after 2 pm, Deputy Cordero initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 3900 block of Golden West Ave. in Jurupa Valley. As Deputy Cordero approached the vehicle, the driver pulled out a gun, shot Deputy Cordero, then fled the scene. A witness called 911 and nearby residents attempted to assist Deputy Cordero until law enforcement and paramedics arrived, according to Sheriff Bianco. Law Enforcement from Riverside County and San Bernardino County began a massive manhunt and located the suspect in San Bernardino County. A vehicle pursuit continued to Jurupa Valley off the 60 and 15 freeway. The pursuit ended with a single car accident and a shootout, where the suspect was fatally killed. Deputy Cordero passed away that afternoon.
The suspect was later identified as William Shea McKay, who had an extensive criminal history and was arrested three times prior. However, during his last trial, the judge lowered his bail and allowed him to be released twice, according to Sheriff Bianco. His bail should have been 25 years to life, he added.
Deputy Isaiah Cordero, age 32, was an 8-year veteran of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. He started as a correctional deputy at Robert Presley Detention Center in 2014 and continued at the Larry Smith Correctional Center and Indio Jail. He became a Deputy Sheriff in 2018 and was transferred to the Jurupa Valley Station in 2020. “Deputy Cordero learned from his mother the value of serving and helping others. His goal from the day he was hired was to become a motor deputy,” said Sheriff Bianco. “He was a jokester around the station, and all of our deputies considered him their little brother.”
Deputy Cordero is survived by his parents. His funeral service and procession took place on Friday, January 6 in Riverside.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department posted the following: “We are humbled by the tremendous show of support yesterday as we laid Deputy Isaiah Cordero to rest. From members of the public lining the streets, to the thousands who attended the service both in person and online, to the immense show of law enforcement agencies from across the country, your presence over the past week has kept us going. To the Cordero family: we promise to keep Isaiah’s memory alive. You are forever a part of the tan and green family.”
Courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff’s Department; Pictured: Deputy Darrell Calhoun
On the evening of Jan. 13, Deputy Darnell Calhoun answered a domestic violence call in the 18500 block of Hilldale Lane, near Lake Elsinore. Deputy Calhoun was the first to arrive, but law enforcement is unsure about the initial contact. Deputy Calhoun was found wounded in the street by the second Deputy to arrive, according to Sheriff Bianco at a press conference. A gunfight between the suspect and the second Deputy ensued. The suspect was hit, treated at the scene, and transported to the hospital. The suspect is in critical condition and was later identified as Jesse Navarro, 42, of Lake Elsinore. Deputy Calhoun passed away that evening.
Deputy Calhoun served as a Police Officer for the San Diego Police Department for two years and began at the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department in February 2022.
“Deputy Calhoun’s character as an encourager, a protector and a mentor embodied the Service Above Self pride of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department,” stated the Help A Hero website. “His relationship, love and service to Jesus Christ emboldened his impact on the many walks of life he encountered.”
“Deputy Calhoun, 30, was a husband, a father of two young boys (ages 2 and 4), and a third baby boy on the way. Darnell loved and served Jesus with his church community joyfully. He will be remembered as a son, a brother, a grandson, a nephew, a cousin, a son-in-law, a brother-in-law, and a loyal friend. “
On Jan. 17, the City of Lake Elsinore hosted a candlelight vigil in honor of Deputy Darnell Calhoun. Hundreds of people gathered to remember the Deputy and mourn together as a community. An additional vigil was held on Jan. 18 in the City of Murrieta at the Town Square Park Amphitheater.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office released the following message on behalf of the Calhoun family:
“Since the tragic loss of Darnell, our family has received an outpouring of love and support from our community for which we are immensely grateful. While we are heartbroken, we also celebrate the gift of Darnell – the husband, father, son, brother, and deputy. His life, though cut short, is a blessing. Our faith in Jesus will carry us through this and we know we will be reunited with Darnell once again. His life, his commitment and dedication to his family and his community will remain an inspiration. He was genuine, kind, loyal, and had the heart of a servant. We take great comfort in knowing that Darnell led a life well lived. We are grateful to our community, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, and law enforcement agencies around the country that have uplifted us.
While we respect and are thankful and grateful for the community, we ask that the media respect our privacy during this difficult time. Thank you for your continued love and prayers.”
January 9th was National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Please take a minute to tell your local law enforcement how much you appreciate them and thank them for putting their life on the line every day.
The City of Eastvale stated they are “proud to recognize and honor those that serve the Eastvale community! The Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station serves the community year-round, keeping us safe at our events, shopping centers, parks, and in our homes. We would not be the amazing city we are without them.”
They added, “Thank you again to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department for all that you do and another special thank you to the Jurupa Valley Station for taking such great care of us here in the City of Eastvale!”
Eastvale – The Eastvale Gateway and the Goodman Commerce Center were recently ranked amongst the most visited shopping centers in the United States, according to a Placer Labs, Inc. report.
The Eastvale Gateway Shopping Center was ranked #9 in California and #21 in the U.S. Goodman Commerce Center was ranked #30 in California and #72 in the U.S. There are 712 in California and 6,525 shopping centers in the U.S., according to the Placer Labs, Inc. report. The Eastvale Gateway Shopping Center was also ranked #6 out of the 300 shopping centers in a 50-mile radius and the Goodman Commerce Center was ranked #17.
In the last 12 months, a total of 9.63 million individuals visited the Eastvale Gateway Shopping Center and 6.83 million individuals visited the Goodman Commerce Center.
“Thank you to everyone who visits and supports these centers!” stated the City of Eastvale. “We look forward to welcoming so many of you to our future downtown!”
Eastvale – In the last month, several crimes took place in the City of Eastvale. The information below is courtesy of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
Incident: Sexual Battery
Location: Eastvale
Courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff’s Dept.; Pictured: Michael Marende
Details: On December 21, 2022, deputies assigned to the city of Eastvale responded to a business in the 12500 block of Limonite Avenue regarding a report of a sexual battery. The victim informed deputies that an unknown male intentionally walked closely behind her and groped her as she was walking from the parking lot.
Based on the suspect description and store surveillance, deputies recognized the suspect as Michael Marende, a 32-year-old resident of Eastvale. Deputies attempted to contact the suspect close by the shopping center, but he fled from them and was not apprehended.
On December 22, 2022, deputies responded to a follow-up call regarding Marende loitering in the same area. Marende attempted to run away from the deputies, but was detained and arrested. Marende was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center for Sexual Battery.
Anyone with information on this case is encouraged to contact Investigator Komins at the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station by calling (951) 955-2629.
Incident: Suspects Arrested in Commercial Burglary
Location: Eastvale
Details: On December 3, 2022, at 12:00 PM, deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station began a burglary investigation at a business in the 6300 block of Archibald Avenue in Eastvale. Deputies learned the victim suffered a house flood and stored their entire life valuables at this business. Property valued at over $100,000 dollars had been stolen.
Courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff’s Dept,; Pictured: Randy Erickson
Deputies assigned to the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team (SET) assumed the investigation and through various investigative means, identified two suspects responsible for burglary. The investigation led SET deputies to another business in the city of Buena Park. A search warrant was served at the business and several thousand dollars worth of various stolen property was recovered and returned to the victim.
On December 8, 2022, while continuing to investigate the burglary, SET deputies and Riverside County Sheriff investigators served a search warrant at a home in the city of Lakewood. During the warrant, Randy Erickson, a 34-year-old resident of Lakewood, was arrested for his involvement in the burglary.
Courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff’s Dept.; Pictured: Daniel Ray Hendrix
On December 11, 2022, officers assigned to the city of Seal Beach Police Department assisted SET deputies in locating an additional suspect, Daniel Ray Hendrix, a 34-year-old resident of Jurupa Valley. Hendrix was found and arrested in the city of Seal Beach for his involvement in the Eastvale burglary. At the time of his arrest, Hendrix was found to be in possession of an unregistered firearm, along with methamphetamine.
Both suspects were booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center for several felonies. Deputies were able to recover and return some of the stolen property to the victim. Many additional items have yet to be found.
Courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff’s Dept; Pictured: the unregistered firearm Hendrix had
Anyone with information on this case is encouraged to contact Deputy Cosper of the Jurupa Valley Station by calling 951-955-2600.
Incident: Checkpoint
Location: Eastvale
Details: The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, Jurupa Valley Station/Eastvale, conducted a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) / Driver’s License checkpoint on Friday, December 16, 2022. The checkpoint was on Limonite Ave., west of the intersection with Hamner Ave., between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. The checkpoint yielded the following results:
807 vehicles screened
64 vehicles screened in secondary inspection
6 Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) conducted
2 arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol
1 arrested for driving under the influence of drugs
3 arrested for driving with a suspended driver’s license
12 citations issued for driving without a driver’s license
2 vehicles were stored or impounded
1 arrested for misdemeanor warrants
5 citations issued for various traffic violations
Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired.
During the checkpoint, deputies will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The safety of our community is and always will be our mission. Driving under the influence is dangerous and puts a further strain on critical resources.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving.
Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about “driving” or “operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a vehicle. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home.
Drivers charged with DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for this checkpoint is provided to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to ‘Report Drunk Driver Call 9-1-1’.
The City of Eastvale News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, Corona, Jurupa Valley, Mira Loma, Chino, Chino Hills and more. Click the following link to access the complete issue in pdf format:
We go through life and we grow, we build, we conquer, we reach our successful arenas; our niche in life. We overcome things we never dreamt we could possibly overcome. We accomplish the impossible. Then we reflect and feel this power about ourselves, the power of controlling our lives and accomplishing what we need to. We feel strong and purposeful; in control of our own destiny.
And then one day, by an act from God, a 60 pound, 4 foot 1 inch person rips away every sense of power that we’ve worked all our lives to obtain.
I’ve felt helpless at times in my life, but have always felt that I could overcome anything life gives me. But strength, intelligence, and endurance cannot compete with certain elements that come into our lives, seemingly as an act of God. Only God could show us how love can make us feel powerful…or powerless.
When her tiny voice cried out I could hear the weakness in the tone. She looked frail, lethargic, and felt much warmer than she should have. I could sense the virus creeping into her weak little body; she lay exhausted and motionless as her fever climbed to 102 degrees. My child was sick.
Motivated by strength I rise to the occasion and I’m determined to stay by her side and make her well – for as long as it takes (but deep inside I feel afraid and helpless). Intelligence kicks in and I start the bath water running and carry her to the cool water.
Feeling even more helpless as her fever hits 104 AFTER the bath, I call for help. The fear escalates as the paramedics take my child away and I follow them to the hospital. As doctors and nurses attend to her my eyes fill with tears. I spend a sleepless night at her bedside.
I sit slumped over in a chair next to her bed, head in hands, exhausted. My mind starts wandering, and I begin to wonder, is it worth it? Is the responsibility of this little person too much? Does the giving, sharing and loving balance out with the worry and fear?
And then, I feel this soft little touch on my hand as tiny fingers try to interlace with my own. I hear this little voice whisper, “I love you, Daddy.” I feel the tears run down my cheeks and I’m overwhelmed with relief. I look up at my girl and see a hint of a smile, reassuring me that she is better. That little ray of sunshine feeds my soul, and I’m feeling better, too
As she feels stronger, I feel stronger. I embrace my child and feel some of my power being restored and I begin to understand. The moment she was born I relinquished all of my power to her. She is the source that can bring me to the highest of highs, and the lowest of lows.
And so it is with children. They motivate us, give us strength, and show us the power of love. They are worth every worry, every tear, every laugh, and every moment of our time. The power of a child is the power of love.
One of the biggest adjustments for our children when we moved to California in 1988 was adapting to new schools. Our son started high school, our oldest daughter started middle school and the two youngest continued in elementary school.
My wife and I were committed to getting connected to the teachers and staff at each school. One of my first memories was attending Back to School Night at Diamond Bar High in the fall of 1988. I quickly learned that parking was at a premium. I finally found a parking spot down the hill on Brea Canyon Road a few blocks from the school.
This was my first experience going to an event at the high school. I was amazed at how many parents attended. It was a bit intimidating trying to find my son’s classrooms on this huge campus. But I was glad I was there to learn more about the school and the faculty.
At the end of the evening I walked down the hill and found my car. However when I tried to start my car I discovered I was out of gas. How did that happen? I’m sure it was my wife’s fault.
We did not have cell phones in 1988. I knew there was a pay phone by the front of the school. But my wife had gone to the open house at the Middle school and she was not home. I had no way to reach her.
I finally decided to try to coast down the hill on Brea Canyon Road and see if I could make it all the way to the gas station at Diamond Bar Blvd which was probably a half-mile away. Most of the parents were gone and there were not many cars on the road. So I turned my headlights on and put the car in neutral and used my brakes to slow my speed.
I knew I had to cross two intersections to get all the way to the gas station. I worried that if I came to a complete stop I would not have enough momentum to get going again. Things went smoothly as I slowly coasted down Brea Canyon Road. Even when the road began to level out my car kept moving. Then I needed to slow down enough to turn into the gas station but not slow down too much and not make it all the way to the gas pump. Remarkably it worked. I coasted right up to the gas pump, filled the tank and got home safely. Amazing!
Let me encourage you to get involved in your children’s schools. Go to Back to School Night and other school events. And make sure you fill your gas tank before you go. You will be glad you did and I will too!
Read 365 more stories and articles (one for every day of the year) in the book Let me Encourage You by Mark Hopper. You can purchase two copies for only $30 plus postage ($5). Buy one for yourself and one to give a friend. Order your copies at mark@efreedb.org.
Eastvale – Last month, the City of Eastvale City Council voted to adopt an Engine-Braking Prohibition Ordinance to reduce noise disturbance in Eastvale. “The Ordinance prohibits the use of any engine retarding brake systems designed to support the deceleration or braking of any vehicle that results in excessive, loud, unusual, or explosive noises. It also states that the prohibition of engine-braking would apply to designated truck routes in Eastvale,” stated the City.
The ordinance began on Dec. 9. From this date forward, “the use of any engine retarding brake systems designed to support the deceleration or braking of any vehicle that results in excessive, loud, unusual, or explosive noises along Eastvale’s truck routes (except in case of emergencies) shall be prohibited,” stated the City.
Specific diesel engine retarders were originally designed to “utilize a vehicle’s engine to aid in the slowing and controlling of a vehicle,” stated a news release. “When activated, the engine brake alters the operation of the engine’s exhaust valves. This use of engine-braking in vehicles causes significant noises from the compression release. Many compare these noises to sounds generated by jackhammers and lawnmowers.”
The news release continues: “While engine-braking offers drivers more control over vehicle movements and relief to service brakes, the noise generated is described as loud, unusual, disruptive, and explosive by nearby individuals. Such noises can be irritating and impact the surrounding communities’ quality of life.”
Illegal engine-braking activities can be reported to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office at (951) 776-1099. To view a map of the designated truck routes in the City and to learn more about this ordinance, please visit eastvalca.gov under the “Community” tab.
Eastvale – The City of Eastvale has a new Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, new Councilmembers, and a new City Manager.
At the Dec. 14 City Council meeting, new members of the Eastvale City Council were sworn in, a new Mayor and a new Mayor Pro Tem was appointed. Last month, a new City Manager was also selected.
The December meeting began with accepting the declaration of the Nov. 8th General and Special Municipal Elections. Then a presentation was given for outgoing Mayor Clint Lorimore and outgoing Councilmember Brandon Plott.
An Oath of Office took place for Todd Rigby, Councilmember for District 1, Clint Lorimore, Councilmember for District 3, Jocelyn Yow, and Councilmember for District 4, Mike McMinn, Councilmember for District 5.
The Council appointed Todd Rigby as the new Eastvale Mayor and Christian Dinco as the new Mayor Pro Tem with a unanimous vote for both. The Mayor and the Mayor Pro Tem will preside until the last City Council meeting of 2023.
At the Nov. 16 Eastvale City Council meeting, the Council also appointed Mark Orme as the new Eastvale City Manager. They approved the proposed Employment Agreement for the Position of City Manager as well. The motion passed with a 4-0 vote. Councilmember Yow was not present at the meeting, but former Mayor Clint Lorimore said that prior to this meeting, the decision to hire Orme was unanimous.
“The City conducted a rigorous and extensive recruitment process for the selection of a new City Manager,” stated the Eastvale Agenda Staff Report. The report explained that they conducted two rounds of interviews with applicants before selecting Mr. Orme. Contract negotiations were also conducted, according to the report.
During the meeting, Councilmember Dinco stated that he thinks Orme is “going to lead the City in a really positive way to Eastvale’s next chapter. With so much development happening in the future and so many great opportunities coming for the City, I’m really excited to potentially approve this employment agreement with Mark Orme tonight.”
Orme was previously the City Manager for the City of Chico for approximately 8 years. Prior to that, he served as the Assistant City Manager in Chico. For more information about Orme, visit page 2 of our Eastvale News December 2022 publication.
Eastvale – The Eastvale community continues to grow with new businesses opening and others coming soon.
The Eastvale’s Bath & Body Works is now officially completed and opened on December 10! You can stop by their location at the Eastvale Gateway to do some holiday shopping. They are located at 12327 Limonite Avenue, Eastvale, CA 91752.
Photo courtesy: City of Eastvale; Georgia’s is coming to Eastvale!
Another new addition coming to the Eastvale Gateway is Georgia’s Restaurant. “Georgia’s specializes in gourmet soul food served with southern hospitality,” stated the City. “Their menu houses everything from sliders, to salads, to chicken and waffles, to pork chops! We’re excited to welcome them to the Eastvale Gateway in the Spring of 2023!” Check out their website at https://www.georgias-restaurant.com/ for more information.
A great event was also put on to grow the City. On December 6, the City of Eastvale hosted a Public Workshop for residents to learn about and provide input on the Safety & Connectivity Project Along Harrison Avenue and Scholar Way.
“This project aims to enhance active transportation, safety, connectivity, and opportunity along the Harrison Avenue and Scholar Way corridors, including the potential design and construction of trails, pathways and bikeways,” stated the City. “It does NOT include road diets.”
“At the workshop, residents spoke with our Public Works, Planning, and Community Development teams as well as Eastvale’s new City Manager regarding potential project goals, amenities, and timelines. Residents were also able to express their goals, concerns, and questions.”
Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
By Nancy Stoops
Times are tough for so many right now. I know the media makes us feel like we show our love by spending lots of money. It shows people giving diamonds and luxury cars and the message is that if you really love somebody you’ll give them this type of gift. The truth is that most people don’t have that kind of money to spend on themselves much less somebody else.
Many people tell me they feel bad because they wish they had more money to spend this holiday season. Maybe I’m wrong but the true meaning of the holiday is to spread love and kindness and those things are free. There are many ways to show love and kindness. This time of year is about reminding all the special people in our lives how very much we appreciate them. I have many people every year besides my family and friends that I get a tiny gift for. I don’t spend too much but they sure do appreciate my gesture.
I always love spending time with my family and friends but this time of year is special because we all have time off and we have more time to be together. We love sharing meals together, singing songs, baking cookies, laughing, creating memories, taking pictures and getting all of the generations together. For us the holidays are about having fun and just having more time to express our love for each other. We make sure to always make time for lots of hugs and kisses as well. Over the years I have made many gifts for friends and family. We are all very sentimental so a gift from the heart is priceless in my family and doesn’t have to cost you a cent. Just enjoy the holiday season!!!!
This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Nancy is now accepting new clients. She also works as a motivational speaker. Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens and can handle many court mandated needs. For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727. You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s book’s Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.
How can it be December already? So many things I wanted to accomplish this year, and yet the year is almost over. The days may seem long, but the year goes by fast.
I feel so overwhelmed and anxious at times. However, some of it is beyond my control. I need to relax more and say, “Jesus, take the wheel, please.”
It’s December, the busiest month of the year, but it shouldn’t be. Many of us get caught up with the hustle and bustle of the season. The twinkling lights, the Christmas tree, Elf on Shelf, Christmas parties, the decorations, the Christmas goodies, and the holiday events are all nice but let’s stop for a moment and remember, “Jesus is the Reason for the Season.”
I have burned myself out trying for that perfect Christmas, and each year all the kids remember is being together or that box they played with for hours on Christmas morning. Sure I am anxious and overwhelmed because time goes by way too fast. Although when it comes to Christmas, it doesn’t matter if only the front half of my tree is decorated, or if we don’t have lights in the yard. I am blessed to be surrounded by my family, knowing that “Jesus is the reason for the season.”
Luke 11-14 KJV
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Melody Kraemer is the Editor and Publisher of AutismMomAdventures.com. Follow her on Instagram @lifewithmelody_k. Tik Tok @lifewithmelodyk and Facebook.com/autismmomadventur es. For more information or general encouragement, feel free to email her at: autismmomofboys@gmail.com
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.
The Devil wants you to concentrate on loneliness, your circumstances, your debt, your failures, and your fears. The Devil loves to also steer our minds toward the things that we can’t control. There will be times of difficulty. There will be times when it seems like things are out of control. A little boy asked his dad how big God was. His dad asked him to look at the plane in the air. His dad asked, “How big is that plane?” His son said, “It is tiny.” When the plane landed on the runway and made its way to the gate, he asked the same question. “How big is the plane now?” His son said, “Its ginormous!” It all depends on perspective. If your trials are magnified over God, He may seem far away. If God is magnified, your trials seem insignificant (John 3:30).
As the true Christmas story goes, when Mary found out she was with the Savior Child, she could have tried to hide out of fear of the law, which declared that she could have been stoned to death. Instead, she proclaims in praise “My soul MAGNIFIES the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!” (Luke 1:46). Her faith and prayer paved the way to being God’s chosen vessel giving birth to the Messiah. Amid the “waters” of affliction, the “rivers” (currents) of difficulty and the “fire” of trial, God says He will be with you. Thank God – He is with us in our most troubling times. We live in a world where people have free will and can cause us pain. We live in a world where things happen, and we don’t know why. But God is constantly working all things out for His will. He has compassion for us. He loves us. We are His good work and He will be with you.
Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am at Eastvale Elementary. Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. Download their app to be up to date on all events. Livestream, YouTube live, and Facebook live is available.
The City of Eastvale News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, Corona, Jurupa Valley, Mira Loma, Chino, Chino Hills and more. Click the following link to access the complete issue in pdf format:
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