Category Archives: Eastvale Lifestyle

Lifestyle tips, health and fitness, movie reviews

My Little Miracle Named Jaida

Nancy Stoops

A few weeks ago, I had to put down my Midnight. He was thirteen years and four months old.  I was devastated and to my surprise this wonderful girl named Jaida came along to adopt.  I couldn’t believe she came along the same week I had to put my Midnight down.  My dogs have to be exceptional because they are therapy dogs.  I got her on a Saturday and on Sunday she was in the office seeing patients just like Midnight did. I believe Midnight sent Jaida to me.  It’s crazy how much they look and behave alike.  I feel so very blessed to have had Midnight and now to have Jaida.

We are going through some tough times but we need to focus on what we have not what we have lost.  We need to be filled with gratitude each and every day. We need to take sometime and look for the blessings that are bestowed upon us on a daily basis. Take this time that we are all needing to staying home to work on becoming your best selves.  Don’t be anxious and depressed instead practice being hopeful, grateful, relaxed, positive and have faith in yourself and in our world that we will come out better individually and as a nation.

Every morning when Jaida and I walk I celebrate another day by witnessing the sunrise and I’m truly honored by another day of life and being witness to such natural beauty.  Every evening as the sunsets and fills the sky with a rainbow of magnificent colors I feel peace in knowing I survived yet another day and was filled with gratitude, joy and hope.  Please keep believing in miracles and in our world. Both Midnight and Jaida my miracles have changed my life!!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    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. 

Pastor’s Corner: The Man In The Mirror

Mark Hopper

Many years ago, I heard a pastor share his story about his relationship with his teenage daughter. He was discouraged and concerned that his daughter was angry and frustrated with him. One day he took his whole family to a local park. As they sat on some tree stumps, he asked his wife and each of their children this question – “What changes do I need to make in my life that can help heal our family”? He said it hurt deeply as each of them shared some of their frustrations with him. His teenage daughter was the most vocal. She told her father that he was too busy and he never listened to her.

After each of them shared, he told them he needed some time to be alone and think about what they had said. As he got up to leave, his daughter stopped him and said she needed to ask him the same question. “What changes did she need to make in her life?” This was a turning point in their strained relationship. His heart was softened and he began to make some changes in his schedule and he spent more time with his daughter. The daughter’s heart was softened and she began to make changes in her life too.

There is a passage in the Bible where Jesus said, “Before you try to remove the speck from your brother’s eye, you need to remove the log from your own eye” (Matthew 7:1-5). If there is a problem in your family, marriage or other relationship – the place to begin is in your own life. Look in a mirror and ask yourself this question – what am I doing that is causing problems in our relationship? What changes do I need to make in my life that will help heal the wounds and restore my relationship with others?

There is a song from the 1980’s written by a famous singer with the title – Man in the Mirror. Some of the words are, “If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change. I’m starting with the man in the mirror. I’m asking him to change his ways”.

I love the phrase – Changed people change people. I believe that when you make positive changes in your life it will produce positive changes in others too.  Your words, attitudes and actions can have a positive or negative impact on others. Let me encourage you to look in the mirror and ask yourself – what changes do I need to make in my life. You can ask your spouse, children or a trusted friend too. Pray and ask God to reveal some things to you that you need to change in your life with His help. You will be glad you did and those around you will too.

Pastor Hopper has published a book with 365 of his articles and stories. The title is “Let Me Encourage You”. The cost is $25 which includes shipping. Order your copy at markh@efreedb.org.

Here We Grow Again

Staff Reports

Eastvale – There is a lot of construction happening in the City of Eastvale and new businesses proposed to come soon. Here is an update of how the community is growing.

On Aug. 10, JCSD started construction on water service lines, which will take place through Sept. 25. “Please be advised that there will be an increase in noise levels and temporary asphalt patches,” stated the City.

On Aug. 6, it was also announced that there will be construction work related to pressure betterment improvements on a gas main on Hellman Avenue beginning Aug. 10 – Aug. 14. “Please be advised that traffic delays are to be expected,” stated a news release. “It is recommended that the area be avoided if possible, as there will be intermittent lane closures on the north bound side. At least one lane will remain open at all times.”

On Aug. 5, Chino Preserve Development Corp performed construction activities on Legacy Park Street and East Preserve Loop in the City of Chino.

For additional information about any construction in Eastvale, contact the City of Eastvale Public Works Department at 951.703.4470.

On Aug. 2, a long-term lane reduction was announced to take place on the westbound SR-60 from Country Village Road to Wineville Road. Lanes will be reduced from five lanes to three lanes. Re-striping began on Aug. 2 followed by k-rail placement. This lane reduction will allow for accelerated pavement work to take place. Changeable message signs are utilized along the I-10 and the I-215 to alert motorists of the lane reductions on SR-60. “The right lane on eastbound SR-60 from Archibald Avenue to Mission Blvd. will remain closed during construction to allow for accelerated pavement work,” stated a news release. “The closure will be monitored for traffic impacts and based on traffic volumes.”

On July 28, the City of Eastvale reminded the community to join the conversation about the City’s general plan. Visit engage.eastvaleca.gov and click on the Eastvale 2040 project square to download worksheets from the kid’s corner, answer a survey, and share your voice through our forums.

On July 23, the City introduced the new Building Official, Jerry Arellano, and the City’s new Assistant Planner, Allen Lim.

On July 14, the City announced that new anchors are being proposed at The Station located in the Goodman Commerce Center. “This includes a Grocery Store, a medium retail building, and a Food Hall.”

On July 3, the City also announced that Fire Wings is coming soon to the Eastvale Gateway Food Court on the corner of Limonite and Hamner. Fire Wings will offer guests over 20 wing flavors, beer on tap, a Pepsi Spire machine and unbelievable sides to pair with your meal. More details will be added soon about their arrival.

Eastvale Mayor Not Running For Re-Election

Staff Reports

Eastvale – On July 14th, Eastvale Mayor Brandon Plott announced that he will not run for re-election in Eastvale.

“I have been very fortunate the last few years to serve as a Councilmember and currently as Mayor for the Great City of Eastvale,” said Plott in a Facebook post. “After some personal reflection and conversations with the Family it has been determined that I will not run a re-election in our City.”

Plott says his reason for not running for re-election is because he and his wife are in process of extending their family. They are progressing through the Foster to Adopt Program and are planning ahead as they move closer to their goal.

Eastvale Mayor Brandon Plott. Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale.

 “…I feel that it is best to make myself more available to the needs of my Family,” said Plot. “Furthermore, my workload is continuing to increase which plays another factor into this decision making process.”

“I will be forever grateful to the Residents and Constituents of this City. Your countless love and support during these years has not gone unnoticed,” said Plot. “I want you all to know that I have left nothing on the table. I have literally given a 100% energy and effort to this position in hopes to be the most suitable representative during these times. And it is my promise, that I will continue with that same energy and effort till the end of year….especially during these challenging times.”

He ended the Facebook post by thanking the community and saying how blessed he feels to have been able to serve as Mayor. He also thanked his wife, April, for her sacrifice as he served.

Plott has lived in Eastvale for several years and was born and raised in the City of Chino. He was elected Mayor in 2019 and he was previously a City Council Member for 3 years.

Brandon’s professional background evolves from the private sector and includes having worked in the field of Mergers & Acquisitions and as a Corporate Accounts Manager for a large privately-held Security/Fire Alarm Company, according to the City of Eastvale. “As a leader within the company, Brandon has a successful track record of generating revenues, implementing productive policies, and managing large teams in order to achieve growth.”

Brandon studied at Fullerton College, Brigham Young University, and California State University, Fullerton. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Communication from California State University, Fullerton. 

Autism Mom: School

Melody Kraemer

Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths“

We had made it through March, April, May, June, and July, and we anticipated August. August was when school was going to start. It may not have been the traditional full learning days or even five days a week, but we would be back on campus.

Every day my little one asks me for school. I told him on August 10th. That was my mistake; I had high hopes. As the days got closer, the excitement got higher and I was so happy for him.

He doesn’t understand why he is home. He doesn’t understand anything about this pandemic around him. All he knows is he stopped going to school. I know he misses his daily routine, his classes, his teachers, and learning.

Every day he would tell me, “We go school August,10th!”

Then one afternoon, the governor came on and declared it was not safe to go back that only distance learning will take place until at least the end of August. Sadness filled my heart and the worrying about how I would explain this to him crossed my mind as I looked at my little boy.

Now I am all for safety and health, so when it is safe to go back, we will go back to school. Though try and explain that to an autistic child. 

I have to tell him his teacher is sick, that is why he can’t go to school. That statement does satisfy him. Thank goodness, he understands that much.

I am frustrated that distance learning will be part of our lives once again, which did not have a positive impact on our daily life back in March, April, and May. My two autistic boys had the hardest time with distant learning, but we will have to make the best of it and see where it takes us. We can only hope and pray that by the end of August, we will be able to step back on to the school campus and move forward. Though until then I have to trust God above and lean on his understanding and not mine. Better days are ahead; I do believe that. 

Melody Kraemer is the Editor and Publisher of Macaroni Kid Jurupa Valley-Eastvale and Autism Mom Adventures. For more information or general encouragement, feel free to email her at: autismmomofboys@gmail.com.

Construction Update: Week of August 17, 2020

Riverside County Transportation Commission

This week, crews will continue working on the project drainage systems. Photo courtesy: Riverside County Transportation Commission.

Daily intermittent lane closures will continue this week along Summerhill Dr. and Grape St. at Railroad Canyon Rd. for curb and gutter work. Northbound on- and off-ramps at Railroad Canyon will be closed nightly.

Community members may notice increased noise during the next two to three weeks as crews drive piles for the widening of the Railroad Canyon bridge at I-15. Work will occur during daytime hours. We apologize for this noisy work.

Local Street & Ramp Work

Date: Monday (8/17)  – Thursday (8/20)

Time: Daily 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Nightly 8 p.m. – 5 a.m.

Details: Intermittent lane closures along Summerhill Dr. and Grape St. at Railroad Canyon Rd. The streets will remain open to through traffic.

Date: Monday (8/17)  – Thursday (8/20)

Time: Nightly 8 p.m. – 5 a.m.

Details: Northbound Railroad Canyon on- and off-ramps closed intermittently.

Date: Friday (8/21)

Time: Daily 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Nightly 9 p.m. – 7 a.m.

Details: Intermittent lane closures along Summerhill Dr. and Grape St. at Railroad Canyon Rd. The streets will remain open to through traffic.

Date: Friday (8/21)

Time: Nightly 10 p.m. – 7 a.m.

Details: Northbound Railroad Canyon on- and off-ramps closed intermittently.

Project Background

The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), in partnership with Caltrans and the City of Lake Elsinore, is upgrading the Interstate 15 Railroad Canyon Interchange in Lake Elsinore. RCTC is the lead agency for this project.

The project will improve safety and capacity by adding lanes, modifying ramps, and building sidewalks and bike lanes along Railroad Canyon Road. These improvements will help residents and other travelers move through this area and reach businesses and other “Dream Extreme” attractions in Lake Elsinore.

Please expect periodic closures to lanes and ramps, slow down, allow extra travel time, watch for construction crews and equipment, be alert to changing conditions, follow detours, and stay informed by checking construction updates, social media, and mapping apps.

Councilmember Tessari Resigns

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale.

Eastvale – It was announced on Aug. 12 that Councilmember Joe Tessari will resign from the Eastvale City Council. “Joe and his wife Lanee are off to start a new adventure in the State of Texas,” stated the City.

Joe has made a huge impact on the city as a member of the City Council, Planning Commission, and he was a proponent of Eastvale’s incorporation from the beginning. He served throughout the City, first one of the City’s first Planning Commissioners until August 2014. He was then “appointed to the Eastvale City Council in August 2014, re-elected in November 2016, and continued to serve until today,” stated the release. “He also served as Mayor in the City of Eastvale in 2017.”

As a volunteer, he served as a Board member and Club President for the Eastvale Kiwanis Club for over 7 years. Tessari helped champion the Roadway Adoption Program, along with several other charitable events in our City.

“We wanted to take a moment to thank Joe for all that he has done for our community,” stated the City. “Best of luck to Joe and Lanee on their move to Texas. We’ll miss you!”

COVID Updates for Eastvale

Staff Reports

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale has provided several updates over the last few weeks regarding businesses closing, sports activities opening, and new testing available in the City of Eastvale.

First, it was announced that COVID-19 Testing is available at Silverlakes Sports Complex with a 60 minute result option for a $150 fee. To book an appointment, text “Lifeline” to 96000. Or for more information, please visit wearelifelinehealth.com or call 424.220.6560.

In August, it was announced that the Riverside County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a program that will recruit youngsters to help support the community response to the deadly pandemic. $2 Million was approved to launch this Youth Community Corps. For the full news release, please visit: https://bit.ly/39YKm1u

On Aug. 4, it was announced that organized youth sports activities, sports conditioning, and practices may resume at local parks with JCSD Parks and Recreation Department Field allocation permits. JCSD is working with local sports groups to coordinate field use. For additional information, please visit https://covid19.ca.gov.

On July 28, the City announced that an antibody study shows coronavirus spread wider in Riverside County. “Results of a COVID-19 antibody testing study indicate the virus may have infected more than 100,000 Riverside County residents,” stated the City. “This finding underscores the need to wear face coverings as people may have the virus without any symptoms, then easily spread it to others when not wearing a mask or keeping six feet of distance.” For the full news release, please visit: https://bit.ly/337Zg43

On July 28, Riverside County health officials reminded residents to call 9-1-1 when they have urgent health needs. Officials are reminding residents to seek emergency care when they have potentially serious symptoms such as chest pains, shortness of breath or signs of a stroke, and not wait to call 9-1-1 out of fear of catching coronavirus.
On July 19, the City temporarily suspended the enforcement of street sweeping violations effective Monday, July 20. “This is designed to help our residents and our City get through this unique time together as more people will be at home during the next few weeks,” according to the City.

Please note that the City will continue to enforce violations that pose a risk to public safety and health. Those include parking in front of fire hydrants, along red curbs and in disabled/handicap stalls without a placard. “We ask that you do your part and park responsibly, be courteous to others and be mindful of public safety. Thank you for your patience and understanding,” stated the City.

On July 17, Superintendent Dr. Lin of Corona Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) sent out an update regarding the physical return of students for the 2020-21 school year.

“Out of an abundance of caution, CNUSD will be delaying the physical return of all students for the 2020-21 school year due to the recent elevated health risk conditions of COVID–19 in Riverside County.” The notice continued, “This plan of action has not been reached lightly. All possible options for opening our schools in a safe manner have been thoroughly considered. The only safe option at this time is a temporary full remote learning option. It is our intent to move to a physical return when it is safe to do so.”

On July 13, all Counties were announced to close indoor operations per State Executive Order, including: restaurants, wineries & tasting rooms, movie theaters, family entertaining centers, museums and zoos, and cardrooms. In addition, 30 counties will now be required to close indoor operations for: Fitness Centers, Places of Worship, Offices for Non-Critical Sectors, Personal Care Services, Hair Salons and Barbershops, and Malls.

If a restaurant in Eastvale is interested in providing outdoor dining, then the restaurant can obtain a temporary use permit by clicking here: https://bit.ly/39ZXGCT For questions and information please contact our Planning Department at 951.703.4460 or by email planning@eastvaleca.gov.

Autism Mom: Patience!

Melody Kraemer

Ephesians 4:2 | NIV
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in
love”


Someone once told me that they don’t pray to God for patience because if you ask God for more patience, he will give you more things to be patient about in the day.
With my two boys, I sure don’t need that.


So how do I ask God to get me through the day? I pray for peace and
calmness within myself. My (autistic) boys will jump, climb and put anything
they find in their mouths. They will lick windows, pick up bugs, once my son
put a bee in his mouth!


Some days I feel like I’m a jumping bean watching after them. I find myself looking up to the heavens many times and saying, “I’m losing it here, help.” Usually, by noon, I am so drained, all my patience is gone. Though I know God heard my prayer because at that moment, my oldest boy will come up to me, put his arms around me and say, “Mom, I think you need a hug”. Or my little one who is not much on words will crawl up in my lap and put his head down on me, just at that moment when I feel I no longer have the patience to deal with life. I may get pushed over my limit on patience throughout the day, but I know God is there, putting calmness in my heart. Life and raising kids is all about love, understanding, grace and a whole lot of patience. I thank God daily for the patience I have.


Melody Kraemer is the Editor
and Publisher of Macaroni Kid Jurupa Valley-Eastvale and Autism Mom Adventures. For
more information or general encouragement, feel free to email
her at: autismmomofboys@gmail.com.

Saying Goodbye to Midnight

Nancy Stoops

I rescued Midnight was he was two years old.  He was so well behaved that I got him on Saturday and on Sunday he was going to work with me to see patients.  He was very calm, highly intelligent, loving, compassionate, he had a fabulous read on people, and had a zest for life that few do. Just like myself, he was very clear that he was put in this world to help people.  At two he tested to be a registered therapy dog and passed with flying colors the first time.  This was important because I had an emergency hysterectomy that I should have died from but St Jude’s Hospital saved my life. During my stay they brought a therapy dog to visit with me.  I felt to pay them back for saving me Midnight and I would volunteer there and we did for the next seven years.  We also spent seven years in their cancer center visiting patients as well

            Midnight seemed to just be abandoned by his family and was in a shelter when Westside Shepard Rescue found him and brought him to their Los Angeles location.  Nobody wanted him because he was a black dog.  Well I was the one that got lucky and got to adopt him.  You can read his story in a book on Amazon entitled Midnight the Therapy Dog. My grandson Taiko and him are the same age and literally grew up together.  When Taiko would play Midnight would guard him and look out for him.  They would play fetch but Taiko enjoyed sleeping over and his morning walks with Midnight the most.

            Midnight lived to take care of me and he did that so well.  He was the best friend I have ever had. His entire existence was about making sure I was good and happy.  He refused to sleep till I was in bed sleeping.  When my mom passed last year, he laid by her bed for three days until she took her last breath.  Everybody loved him and he was famous in our community and around the world with the people I met on my travels. He will be so very missed but will live in my heart and soul eternally!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    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. 

Pastor’s Corner: Water Pressure

Mark Hopper

When was the last time you checked the water pressure in your house? Most people have never checked it. We just turn on the faucet and we are thankful to have running water in our homes. We assume the water pressure is fine until we have a problem. Recently a hose burst in our bathroom in the middle of the night. My wife heard a noise and woke me up at 3:00 AM.  The noise came from the bathroom at the other end of the house. The hose that supplied water to the toilet had burst and it looked like a fire hose was flooding the bathroom, bedroom and hallway. I quickly turned off the valve but the water damage was extensive. I wondered why the small hose had burst and flooded the rooms. The next day I checked the water pressure in our house and discovered it was 120 PSI – twice what it should be. A few weeks later I was able to replace the water pressure regulator which reduced the pressure down to a normal 60 PSI.

Just as high water pressure can damage your home and high blood pressure can damage your heart, outbursts of anger can cause serious physical and emotional damage to yourself and to others. Two different words are used to describe anger in Ephesians 4:31-32. One word is thumos which describes outbursts of anger when people lose their temper and vent their anger with words and deeds. The other word for anger is orge which is a slow, simmering temper that gradually builds up like a volcano until it finally bursts or explodes.  Both of these types of anger can be harmful and destructive just like high water pressure and high blood pressure.

In the same passage there are two different words – kindness and compassion. These are helpful and constructive. They are the antidote of anger.  Kindness and compassion seek to resolve problems and restore relationships. Words and acts of anger damage and destroy relationships. If anger is simmering beneath the surface in your heart or revealing itself in harmful words and deeds, let me encourage you to get help.  A new ministry called Domestic Kindness is equipping churches to be part of the solution to domestic abuse. Find them at domestickindness.org. Let me encourage you to ask God and ask those you have hurt to forgive you. Ask God to give you a heart of kindness and compassion that comes through faith in Christ. You will be glad you did and your family and friends will too!

Pastor Hopper has published a book with 365 of his articles and stories. The title is “Let Me Encourage You“. The cost is $25 which includes shipping. Order your copy at markh@efreedb.org.

The Eye Of The Beholder

Michael Armijo

It was a warm yet windy day filled with strong sorrow. The air reflected a deep sense of respect as people gathered to say goodbye to a friend whose spirit had left the earth.

As everyone gathered, the vibrant, wooden casket lay atop the ground as the family huddled closely around. The youngest, a young man, gazed at the casket while tears flowed from his swollen eyes. He walked up and laid his cheek on the rigid, shiny, wooden box, as his white-gloved hands gently caressed the top of the last home his father’s body would ever have. He laid gentle kisses on the top of the casket, as his unconditional love was reflected in front of all those who watched. A gentle whisper was heard a row back, “Did you see that? How sad.”

When I heard those words, I felt something deep inside that disagreed; something that didn’t see the message of sadness when the boy showed his emotions. Instead, I saw an act of love. A love so strong, it displayed the true meaning of unconditional love. Something deep inside that didn’t care if the world looked on or what people felt. A feeling of purity, of joy, and of strength.

I believe the old saying, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” I believe we all see life in certain light, and sometimes, in certain darkness. I also believe that when we express the darkness which surrounds our lives, it spreads like a contagious and cancerous disease. It attaches by simple contact, clings like a dependent child, and deteriorates in a short amount of time.

I’ve learned that opinions are only perceptions of a person’s immediate thinking, and reflections of someone’s inner self. What we see is usually what we feel, what we feel deep inside. Without realizing it, we express past experiences, deep histories, insecurities about our future, and we reflect the perception of our own lives.

I also believe that when we see life in its darkest hour, we have the opportunity to see life through the brightest light. For some, it’s a short path traveled to a place inside that holds our mind hostage from our heart. For others, it’s a level of confidence that sits deep within that’s been damaged by a careless act from another.

I believe that the true meaning of life can only be understood through the light of beauty and the inner joy that sits deep in our hearts. I believe the vision of what will come can only be seen through the eyes of a believer. I feel the truest form of emotion can only be felt when a person can feel the presence of a higher power, a stronger entity, something or someone greater than themselves.

I understand that life is not always what it is expected to be. It changes moods like a spoiled child. But I also understand that life can be what we want it to be; all we have to do is apply our hearts in front of our minds. Following what we truly feel, not what we think we see, is the only way to put aside our petty angry thoughts and our insignificant bitterness. Because just as the young man who helped bury his father, the tears that flow from our swollen eyes are tears of love that can only be seen when beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Father’s Day Essay Contest Winners!

Addison (8) and Kaitlyn (6)

Our dad is the coolest because he is the best snowboarder we have ever seen. He is always so determined, and he fought for his life. He had a brain bleed in 2019 and fought so hard to stay alive. He is also a great fireman. He has saved many lives.
Our dad is hilarious and he always plays pranks on us. He always plays with us. My dad is always there for us when we really need him. He cuddles with us, laughs with us, and always loves us.
My dad once in a while he gives us wheel barrow rides. We have so much fun! Also he loves gardening. Every spring we plant a big garden. On special occasions my dad makes chicken piccata. It is our favorite food.
Another thing that makes our dad cool is because he loves to surf. My dad is a great surfer. Something that makes my dad special is he loves to go on bike rides. When my dad is home we always go on bike rides. My dad loves going to the beach. In the summertime we always go. When my dad was 14 years old he started playing water polo.
These are the reasons why our dad is the coolest.

Maya (17)

Dad, you are very special
You mean so much to me
There aren’t many Dad’s like you
Who give so selflessly and teach resilience

When life has turned my world completely inside out
You are always there to lean on

This world has many heroes,
You’d know most by name,
It’s apparent they gave their personal best,
And they deserve the fame

But, among all of the heroes this world has ever had,
There is not one that I admire more than my precious, Dad
He’s more than just a hero, he never looks for praise,
He’s heroic in his in his quiet strength and in his various caring ways
He may not be famous as those you hear about or see,
But he’s so much more than a hero ought to be

Whenever things go wrong
And I don’t understand
I know that you will be there to lend a helping hand

The years have brought so many memories and adventures
For those have helped me grow
You’re guidance and empathy is what made me who I am
There’s not another dad who can ever take your place

He keeps his word, its good as gold, on this you can depend
He’s honest and loyal just to name a few,
Compassionate, Kind, Supportive, and Adventurous
I’m proud to call him my father

When I hear about a hero and the special things they have done,
It reminds me of my Dad for he is the COOLEST one out there!

Alice (37)

I truly appreciate that my dad always emphasized how he values me more than things. When I lost his favorite camera, after promising to take good care of it, and was sobbing as a high school freshman into the phone… I remember my dad asking if I can see my hands, then he asked me to focus on my pinkie. He told me my little pinkie finger was more valuable to him than that camera. He told me that items can be bought, but my well-being can not and that THAT was more important. Even years later, when I was in college, and crashed his car, I still remember my dad touching my pinkie and telling me that he was just happy that I was alive and unharmed.

I really appreciate how my dad loves me unconditionally. Even when I ran away from home and disobeyed all his house rules. He wanted to toss me out of the house in my rebellious years, but he never did. He tried hard to understand the filter of life that I was experiencing and compromised with me where he could. Even when I rejected his love back then, called him “uncool” and even yelled that I hated him (to his face), he didn’t cease to stop loving me.

I don’t think I truly realized all he did for me until I had my own child. Parenting isn’t easy and it was then that I began to realize how much my dad did for me. He worked hard to provide for me. Loved me even in my worst moments. Now that I’m a parent myself, I understand now how his worry and love for me had resulted in how he reacted to my early years. I realized how lacking my parenting skills are in comparison to my dad’s awesomeness. It was then I realized how cool he truly was… My dad is a cool dad indeed.

Does Eastvale Need Its Own School District?

Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – When the area of “Eastvale” first wanted to gain local control and map out what their destiny was, they began the “incorporation process.” Now with the many changes and growth in our area with over 60,000 residents, should the City of Eastvale consider developing their own school district as 15,000 of these residents are currently students? The idea of Eastvale becoming its own school district is one worthy of further investigation on the ramifications and the actual process.

So let’s examine the facts: The Corona-Norco School District (CNUSD) currently consists of thirty-one elementary schools, eight intermediate/middle schools, five comprehensive high schools, a middle college high school and three alternative schools. With the district serving over 53,000 students in the communities of Corona, Norco and Eastvale, CNUSD is the largest school district in Riverside County. Of the over 53,000 students in the district, 15,000 of them are Eastvale students.

Eastvale residents already pay a large amount of property taxes, special assessment taxes, a bond tax (Measure U), and also are asked to pay an additional $299m bond, on top of the $250 million general obligation Measure U Bond passed by voters in 2006.

“It was a huge process (to incorporate the city), but I believe it was worth the hundreds of hours of work,” said former Councilman Jeff DeGrandpre, who helped spearhead the process of the team who brought the decision to a vote. “It was tons of work, but now we have local control. We are right where we wanted to be as a community.”

Many smaller school districts have broken away from larger school districts for reasons from lack of accountability to simply a desire to run their own system. Walnut Valley Unified School District has a student population of 15,500 and became their own school district in the 1970’s when the area was in its infancy. Duarte Unified School District is a small district that serves about 4,700 students from the areas of Duarte, Bradbury, and the Maxwell Park area. Baldwin Park Unified has over 15,000 students and broke away from Covina Unified before the 1950’s. All of these school districts were part of larger areas that became smaller school districts and grew.

“We would support such a move if it benefitted our community,” said a group of parents at Clara Barton Elementary. “Especially if we have to pay for another bond. Our last bond, Measure U, we pay taxes on but only received 17% of that money.” Another parent felt they didn’t have enough control of the district and felt it’s because it’s too large. They all requested to remain anonymous because they’ve never researched the idea. “I never realized it was possible,” she said.

If Eastvale were to explore the possibility of separating from CNUSD and becoming its own individual school district, the California Department of Education requires a certain process to be followed. According to the California Department of Education District Organization Handbook- July 2010, this type of reorganization would seek to form one new school district of the same kind from parts of one existing school district of that same kind.

This type of reorganization is more commonly referred to as Unification. Although the exact method of Unification is based on a variety of factors, the first step in this process is a petition. This petition would then be presented to the County Superintendent of Schools and he/she would have 30 days to determine the legal sufficiency of the petition. If the petition is found to be legally sufficient, it is then sent to the County Committee on School District Organization and the State Board. A public hearing would then need to be held within 60 days to advise the public of the petition. After the hearing is held and within 120 days, the petition would need to be reviewed to see if it meets Section 35753 of the Educational Code.

These conditions are as follows: (a) The reorganized districts will be adequate in terms of number of pupils enrolled. (b) The districts are each organized on the basis of a substantial community identity. (c) The proposal will result in an equitable division of property and facilities of the original district or districts. (d) The reorganization of the districts will preserve each affected district’s ability to educate students in an integrated environment and will not promote racial or ethnic discrimination or segregation. (e) Any increase in costs to the state as a result of the proposed reorganization will be insignificant and otherwise incidental to the reorganization. (f) The proposed reorganization will continue to promote sound education performance and will not significantly disrupt the educational programs in the districts affected by the proposed reorganization. (g) Any increase in school facilities costs as a result of the proposed reorganization will be insignificant and otherwise incidental to the reorganization. (h) The proposed reorganization is primarily designed for purposes other than to significantly increase property values. (i) The proposed reorganization will continue to promote sound fiscal management and not cause a substantial negative effect on the fiscal status of the proposed district or any existing district affected by the proposed reorganization. (j) Any other criteria as the board may, by regulation, prescribe.

To maintain neutrality, the County Office of Education would most likely hire an independent consultant trained in evaluating this type of criteria. If the independent consultant does find the petition to be in compliance with EC35753, it is then passed on to the State Board of Education and they will determine if it is approved or sent to an election within the area affected. In most cases, this becomes a major obstacle, as a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) would need to be done, which can be expensive.

According to a source from the Department of Education, this is where most of these petitions “die”, mainly due to the large expense of the CEQA. This step often takes a few years due to the state pipeline and the Environmental Impact Study. If the petition makes it through all of these steps and wins in an election of the area affected by the Unification, then a new school district would be formed.

While there are many pros and cons to becoming our own school district, any action to do so would most likely come at a large expense, be extremely controversial as well as political, and would need to be thoroughly researched to truly understand the greater impact on the students and the communities involved.

“It took us 3.5 years to get the city incorporation to the ballot,” the former councilman said. “It’s definitely worth looking into, but a tough road because CNUSD is highly regarded within the state.”

(Michael Armijo contributed to this story.)

Centro Basco: French Cuisine In Chino

Michael Armijo

Chino – If you’re tired of the traditional restaurants in your area you have to try a classy and delicious place locally here in Chino since 1940.


Centro Basco French Restaurant, located at 13432 S. Central Avenue, just south of Chino Avenue, has been the best kept secret and the oldest Basque restaurant in the Valley. Featuring delicious and tasty menu items brought here for the Basque lands stretch along the Pyrennes Mountains in the southern region of France and north region of Spain. The hometown of the owner Monique Berterretche can be found just outside of St. Jean Pied Port, France.

Featuring lunch menu items, served from 11 am to 2:30 pm, such as breaded shrimp, fettuccine Alfred, calamari state, rib eye and flat iron steak, lamb chops and their infamous meatloaf meals, among many other menu items.
Centro Basco also serves burgers and sandwiches: Angus beef, steak, French dip, tuna salad, tuna melt, Lukinka sausage and their infamous meatloaf on sandwich bread, among other items.


For dinner, a four course meal will be impressive among you spouse or your clients. Serving French onion soup, salad, and bread, entrees include Roasted chicken, chicken cordon blue, breast of chicken parmesan, fettuccini alfredo, Lukinka sausage and noodles, fresh baked salmon, trout, breaded shrimp, rack of lamb, angus prime rib (14 oz), rib eye and flat iron steak, veal cutlet or pork loin chops just to name a few!
During lunch and before dinner you can always relax in their full service bar, open to those who want to have a relaxing drink prior to eating. Always greeted with a smile and a handshake, always feel free to enjoy the Basque family atmosphere.


Their freshly made entrees for lunch or dinner are always made from scratch and always available the four course meal option, with soup of the day, salad, sourdough break, and main course. The freshness of the food is always obvious along with the feeling of the Basque Country: friendliness and sense of family that is experienced amongst the Basque people. An atmosphere that makes coming to Centro Basco in Chino a unique, memorable and cherished experience.

Centro Basco Restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday and can be reached at 909.628.9014, www.centrobasco.net, or just stop by at 13432 S. Central Avenue, just a block south of Chino avenue in Chino.

Pastor’s Corner: A New Four Letter Word

Mark Hopper

There is a new four-letter word in our vocabulary. I know there are many appropriate four-letter words that people say like – love, hope, help, kind, sure and more. There are also some four-letter words that people use that I don’t think are necessary nor appropriate to mention.

But there is a new word that has become part of our vocabulary during the Corona Virus outbreak.  The word is Zoom.  I’m not sure if it is a noun or a verb. Maybe it can be used both ways. But I hear the word in many conversations by both older and younger people. Even our grandchildren are including Zoom in their vocabulary as they describe going to school and connecting with their teachers and classmates.  

Previously we used tools like Skype and Facetime to talk with people on the internet. But Zoom seems to have surpassed them in popularity. I teach an adult Bible class on Sunday mornings using Zoom. Many churches are using Zoom to broadcast their church services to people at home. Schools are using Zoom to teach their students. Doctors are meeting with their patients on Zoom instead of in their office.

In many ways. Zoom and similar tools are changing the way we do business, education and the way we connect with family and friends. This has been a very useful and helpful tool during the Corona crisis. We have a Zoom call with all of our children and grandchildren once-a-week. But I sense most people feel it is not the same as meeting with people face-to-face. Many teachers feel that online instruction is not the same as classroom instruction. Many students miss the benefit of connecting with their classmates in the classroom and on their school campus.

The Apostle Paul wrote to some church leaders in Corinth expressing how his written letters may give a different impression than when he met with them face to face (Second Corinthians 10:1). Phone calls, email and text messages can be useful. Cards and letters are too. But I believe that Zoom will never replace meeting face-to-face with grandkids, clients, customers and classmates. When this pandemic is over and restrictions are lifted, let me encourage you to spend more time with other people face-to-face. Theywill be glad you did and you will too!

Pastor Hopper has published a book with 365 of his articles and stories. The title is “Let Me Encourage You”. The cost is $25 which includes shipping. Order your copy at markh@efreedb.org.

Celebrating the Simple Things

Nancy Stoops

I believe each day that we have the honor of being alive is call for celebration. Every morning as I awake and see the sun rising and filling the sky with majestic colors I am reminded of how lucky we are. As I step out in the morning with Midnight my therapy dog I feel blessed for his friendship and for the health that we both have. As we start our walk through our wonderful community I am proud to be part of it and I enjoy the morning song of the birds around us. As we walk I enjoy the trees and flowers that represent life in the neighborhood. Midnight and I are greeted by the other daily walkers with a friendly smile and warm hello. It’s so nice to be part of such a wonderful neighborhood filled with such lovely people. Sometimes the other dogs will visit with Midnight as we make our way through our neighborhood and that makes Midnight a very happy soul.


I think the feeling of the sun on my face is just magical. The fragrant plants and flowers are intoxicating and so very delightful. Swimming or floating in water has always been very freeing for me. Laughter truly is the best medicine and I think we all could do a lot more of it. Looking up at a night sky filled with stars and a full moon can be an experience that provides a wonderful kind of solace. Just hanging out with my grandson is fabulous.


These simple things I speak of don’t cost any money but are literally priceless. I think if we all take time to appreciate the simple things that are so wonderful in our world we will be more positive. I think then we will not dwell so much on what is wrong but focus on what is right. I know we are all struggling to look at what’s right in our world and celebrating the simple things helps us do just that. I have faith that we all are going to get through these difficult times and come out better people for it!!


This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members. Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger. 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 books Life Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.net.

Norco CarMax Auto Dealership

Staff Reports

Norco – The CarMax auto dealership, approved in January 2019 for the southeast corner of Second Street and the I-15 Freeway, began construction in the fall of 2019. Like many development projects and economic activities, it was placed on hold in March 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic, a decision made by the Virginia-based Fortune 500 Company.

As you drive by the site, you may notice chain link fences and unfinished concrete block walls. The chain link fencing is a temporary measure to secure the site while construction is temporarily suspended and is in no way representative of the final landscaping design, which will be strictly conditioned by the City. Although CarMax has not yet notified the City of the date when construction will resume, hopefully building crews will soon be back on site and the project will fully take shape. When finished, the dealership is expected to be one of Norco’s largest sales tax generators, and the walls that buffer the automotive facility from the surrounding residential neighborhood will be attractively landscaped, with sloping berms mitigating the impact of the commercial use.

CarMax has made a strategic decision to enhance its presence in California, a primary focus of its overall expansion plans, and the Norco dealership is critical to the company’s ability to effectively serve western Riverside County. Because of the company’s unmatched size and its ability to distribute inventory across a national network, automotive industry analysts view CarMax as uniquely positioned to succeed when demand for cars begins to accelerate after the COVID-19 Pandemic passes. For more information, contact the City of Norco at (951) 270-5623 or info@ci.norco.ca.us.

Pastor’s Corner: Snow Days

Mark Hopper

It only snowed 2-3 times a year in Dallas. It was a nightmare to drive in the traffic. Most residents had little experience driving in snow and on ice covered roads. One time in early January, the Superintendent of the public schools canceled classes because of the weather. It seemed like a wise decision but the sun came out by noon, the snow melted and the Superintendent looked foolish.

A few weeks later, when snow was again forecast for the Dallas area the Superintendent did not cancel classes. Students and teachers were expected to report to school. Unfortunately this was a serious snow storm and there were many accidents on the roads. In fact, my wife and I were in an accident as a car slowly slid down a hill into the side of our car. A mother who was trying to get her children to school hit our car while I was trying to get their teacher to school!

Many people were critical of the Superintendent when he canceled classes on a snow day in January and many people criticized him when he did not cancel classes on a snow day in March.

This sounds strangely familiar as we face the current Corona Virus situation. It is easy for people to be critical of government officials for decisions and actions they have and have not taken. Some feel leaders did not act early enough. Others feel that many of the actions and restrictions are an overreaction. State and local officials are making decisions regarding school closures, canceling public events and restricting travel. It is easy to criticize them.

We are living in an uncertain time. It is easy to focus our frustrations on our government and business leaders. Many people are fearful and concerned about how long this will last and how bad it will get. I think our parents and grandparents felt the same way when our nation was attacked by the Japanese in 1941. I’m sure there was fear and concern about how long the war would last and how bad it would get.

There is a wonderful promise found many places in the Bible that says, “Fear not for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10 / Acts 18:9-10). Let me encourage you to open your Bible and read these verses for yourself. Pray for our country and our leaders. Help a neighbor or a classmate.


With God’s help and by helping one another we will get through this together.

Presence of Peace

Pastor Dennis Morales

“The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace” Psalm 29:11

To have peace, is the quest of most of society. “If I could only have this or that… then I will be at peace.” We have a tendency to place earthly demands on peace. Meaning, many think peace is only attained by things we can see, handle, or control. I am reminded when the disciples had followed Jesus into a boat, He had gone right to sleep after a long day of teaching. A violent storm had erupted, and the disciples were soon being tossed around the boat struggling to fight against the waves and wind (Mark 4:35-41). Mind you, some of the disciples were also toughened fishermen. Goes to show that no matter what our experience, we can feel helpless at times. Scripture says that the waves “covered” the boat (Matt 8:24), so the disciples were desperate. Marks Gospel details that other little boats had followed, so they weren’t alone in what they feared. The disciples, gripped by fear, searched and found Jesus in the stern asleep (literally “numb” in the original language). They respond, “don’t you care that we are perishing!” Jesus simply gets up, goes over, and rebukes the wind by simply saying “peace, be still!” Choice words that resonate today. Jesus then responds by saying to the disciples, “where is your faith?” (Luke 8:25). That was the problem. The disciples still lacked faith in Jesus, who had power over the very elements striking fear in their hearts. I think we have a tendency to turn to outlets for information and remain focused on the information, rather than on God’s presence. We have confirmation in God’s word that God gives strength to his people as they trust in Him. Another caveat of His presence is peace (Psalm 29:11). You will have true peace today if you trust He’s in the boat with you (Psalm 46:10). He is near to all who call upon Him(psalm145:18).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Clara Barton Elementary School 7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale. Services times are 8:30 & 10:30 on Sundays. 7pm on Wednesdays. Currently ALL SERVICES online: “Calvary Eastvale” YouTube, FaceBook, Twitter, and Instagram.