Category Archives: Eastvale Community News

Two Riverside County Deputies Killed

Staff Reports

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.”

If you would like to donate to the Cordero family, here is the link to the donation page: https://helpahero.com/campaign/deputy-isaiah-cordero?fbclid=IwAR3UY8DbnnkGyARYbZSnoZ2MAAs26kLbGxjKiHB0TI35Zjn38cffIWoNGhk.

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.”

If you would like to donate to the Calhoun family, here is the link to the donation page: https://helpahero.com/campaign/deputy-darnell-calhoun?fbclid=IwAR2K-69d4bFjsgGkctb0Nv9QkAAwh6P1vFJmGWILF-it4V8tbvWey91vYcw

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 Shopping Centers Ranked Top

Staff Reports

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!”

Crime Recap

Staff Reports

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’.

City of Eastvale News Complete Print Edition – January 2023

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:

The Power Of A Child

By Michael Armijo

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. 

Out of Gas

By Mark Hopper

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.

New Engine-Braking Prohibition Ordinance

Staff Reports

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.

New Eastvale Mayor and Council

Staff Reports

Courtesy: City of Eastvale

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.

Here We Grow

New Businesses

Staff Reports

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.”

A Gift from the Heart is Priceless

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist
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.

December

By Melody Kraemer

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

I Will Be With You

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“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.

City of Eastvale News Complete Print Edition – December 2022

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:

City of Eastvale News Complete Print Edition – November 2022

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:

Don’t Cry When I’m Gone

By Michael Armijo (2001)

I’ve left this earth and you’re still here crying. Well, don’t cry now that I’m gone. You see, I’m free.  Free of the responsibilities that came with life.  I can’t hear anymore; I can’t see what you see.   I’m a pure and flowing spirit that will roam and feel the energy of life. When I shed my body I shed the tears, the pain and the torment that came with it.  I waited all my life to feel what I’m feeling now.  I waited what felt like an eternity.  I lived a good life on earth, so now I will lead a good life in my next step.  Just as I was taken from the womb of my mother and lived that life completely, I am now taken from this life to live yet another.

I am happy, as each life gets easier, stronger, better. I no longer know pain, so when you are in it, I cannot see you.  I only know love, so when you follow it, I will watch you shine.  Just as I do not remember my life in my mother’s womb, I do not remember the life I had on earth.  All I know is that I am truly happy now.   My world now is the world that I’ve built in my heart while on Earth.   My world is the one I had always hoped for.  It is beautiful.   It is wonderful.   It is mine.  But I must tell you, enjoy your life as I am now enjoying mine.  It’ll go quicker than you can ever imagine, it travels faster than you’ll ever believe.  One day you will look up and your life will be over.  Enjoy today completely and contently as tomorrow may never come.   Tomorrow never came for me.

So please don’t cry when I’m gone, be happy for me as I was always happy for you.  And please remember to live life with compassion and character, hope and pride, and love and peace, because the love you’ve embedded in your heart today is the love you’ll hold onto forever.

In Loving Memory of Michael Anthony Armijo 1/20/1964- 10/22/2020

Prayer

By Melody Kraemer

Every morning I wake up and thank the Lord for another day and always ask to protect my family as we go off for the day in our separate directions.

On one day last week, I was praying and said Amen. However, I bowed my head again, asked for protection for my family, and said Amen. For some reason, I did this four times this morning. Something in my heart kept telling me to keep praying.

Little did I know what would transpire on this day. But, according to the timeline of this incident, twenty-five minutes after my prayers, I learned that they had lost my boy at school.

The story of events from that morning: The kids all lined up at the gate and were all there, so they proceeded to walk to class. All but one. My son. He wandered off. I am still unsure why the teachers were front-leading the “autism” class instead of behind them. Oh, that’s right; they did mention that the aide, that is usually in the back called off sick that day.

When the teacher told me what happened, it made it sound as if he was missing for a few minutes, but come to find out, he was missing around 10-plus minutes or so before they figured he was gone.

Once they realized he was missing, they ran out and found my boy in another person’s car. He had buckled himself in and wanted to go home. I am thankful for this parent. She was kind to my son. She had to get the principal, and the principal had to coax him out of this stranger’s car as he was asking for mommy.

They told me about it after school. All the what if’s crossed my mind. My heart broke, but I didn’t cause a scene, yell or scream. I drove off and broke down in tears.

At that moment, I knew why I had prayed so hard that morning for God to keep us safe.

Psalm 121:7-8 NIV

7 The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; 8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forever more.

Melody Kraemer is the Editor and Publisher of AutismMomAdventures.com. Follow her on Instagram @lifewithmelody_k. Tik Tok @lifewithmelodyk and Facebook.com/autismmomadventures. For more information or general encouragement, feel free to email her at: autismmomofboys@gmail.com

Directing Traffic

By Mark Hopper

My wife taught sixth grade at Chaparral Middle School in Diamond Bar California. She loved her students and they loved her too. She made learning fun and helped students succeed.

One of the worst things about teaching at Chaparral was the volume of traffic at the beginning and end of each school day. Like most teachers Jeanne got to school early to avoid the crush of cars.

When I was driving to my office one day I noticed the traffic light near Jeanne’s school was out. There were no flashing red lights either. Most people were stopping but some were not. Clearly this was a dangerous situation. There was a long line of southbound cars trying to turn on to the street leading to the school. There were also a long line of cars on the residential street trying to get away from the school after they had dropped off their students.

But the cars going northbound lane of Diamond Bar Blvd were not stopping. They drove right through the intersection without slowing or stopping. It seemed like there would be an accident at any moment.

I pulled over on the side street and got out of my car. I carefully walked out into to the middle of the intersection and motioned for all of the approaching cars to stop. Then I began to direct traffic on all four sides of the intersection. I would allow 10-15 cars to go one way and did the same with the traffic going the opposite way. I also alternated the cars making left turns. Gradually traffic improved and accidents were avoided.

Eventually a motorcycle officer arrived on the scene. I asked him if he wanted to take over but he told me I was doing a pretty good job. One of my wife’s students ran into her classroom to report that her husband was out in the middle of Diamond Bar Blvd directing traffic. She didn’t believe him at first but several other students confirmed his story.

Finally the police officer did take over and I went on to work. It was a crazy situation but thankfully no one was hurt. There is a passage in the Bible in Luke chapter 15 about a Good Samaritan who stopped to help a stranger who had been robbed and injured. Let me encourage you to follow his example and be willing to stop and help when you face an unexpected situation. You may save a life or prevent serious injury to a stranger. You will be glad you did and they 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.

Depth

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:6-7

There are many advertisements for virtual tours of homes everywhere you turn nowadays. Cyberspace has opened opportunities and a whole new world of virtual experiences to the online and “connected” generation. But one thing we can agree on is that the virtual experience isn’t reality. Its life like, but not the real thing. On TV we see house hunters who get to see and smell the home, we are just spectators. Online you can have a 360-degree view, but with a virtual experience, you don’t see the neighborhood, you don’t hear the neighbors you can’t appreciate the colors or materials up close and personal. The virtual world is a copy of the real world. The virtual world is not a true measure of the world, but a copy, and a superficial one at most. It’s possible as a person in this life to live superficially, and walk a talk a good game, but have no depth.

The Apostle Paul encourages the Colossian church to “let your roots grow down…let your lives be built on Him.” He was calling the church to grow and not be superficial. Paul says don’t live life as though we’re on a virtual tour. We do this when we live as if there is no deeper meaning or purpose to our lives. Sadly, people seem to be completely unaware of the danger of living only on the surface. Paul says don’t measure by the world’s standards. Build on him, grow your faith, and you will overflow with thankfulness. Some measure others by height – that is, how high they climb the ladder of achievement. Someone may be worth a million bucks, but also be empty inside.

Scripture says that it measures a person by his depth. Like a tree, everything depends on its roots. The psalmist said “…his delight is in the law of the Lord… he will be like a tree firmly planted…” (Psalm 1:1-3). The true measure of a person isn’t influence, stature, or success, but the depth of his life. Be sure your foundation is the Lord; Build your house on the rock.

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.

Here We Grow

Businesses Now Open

Staff Reports

Courtesy: City of Eastvale

Eastvale – Several new businesses have officially opened in Eastvale.  

Uncle Tetsu Japanese Cheesecake recently opened at 4916 Hamner Avenue, Suite #110.

Tetsushi Mizokami founded the original Uncle Tetsu in Hakata, Japan in 1985, according to the City. “Since its debut, Tetsushi’s cheesecakes have become an international phenomenon and stores have been opened throughout the nation. These made-from-scratch cakes combine the richness of American cheesecake with the lightness of French soufflés. They’re admired for their lighter quality and balanced sweetness that provide the perfect taste and texture combination.”

Crying Tiger Thai Bistro & Bar has also officially opened their doors in Eastvale. At Crying Tiger, you will enjoy dried curry beef, pad thai, their signature crying tiger dish, crab omelets, eggplant tofu, and so much more. This eatery has upscale seating options and a full bar with signature drinks. Crying Tiger Thai Bistro & Bar is located at The Station and is open Sunday through Saturday, between 11:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.

Crying Tiger’s neighbor, Sunright Tea Studio, has also opened as well. Sunright Tea Studio offers various drinks, including pudding boba milk, Oreo brulee boba, red bean boba, cheese foam drinks, taro frosties, lattes, matcha, and many others. They are located at 49160 Hamner Avenue, Suite 100 and are open every day from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

A few ribbon cuttings also took place in September, welcoming two newest businesses: 9Round Fitness and Serene Medical Aesthetics. 9Round is a kickboxing fitness studio that is located at The Merge at 14063 Limonite Ave, Suite 140. Serene Aesthetics Med Spa is located at the Marketplace at the Enclave at 14252 Schleisman Road.

Dance Like Nobody’s Watching

By En yu Chang

“It takes ten years of practice for one minute on the stage” a piece of melodic music, a beautiful dance, a set of accurate expressions, plus the audience’s applause, this is dance. Since I was a kid, I’ve loved dancing, especially aerial yoga, and K-pop dance.

After successfully setting up a dance workshop for small children at our church, I soon realized that I enjoyed teaching children to dance as much as I enjoyed dancing. Especially during the pandemic, when most children became languid and inactive in isolation of varying degrees, I relished the reward of watching children break out of their shells and have fun. Introvert children and those who were the only child in their families took more patient coaxing and empathic listening. Still, when they got into the music and paid attention to unison and formation, my sense of accomplishment and joy was all the sweeter. We turn no one away.

As the President of Dancing With The Kids Club, I’m inviting the church, kindergarten, and elementary school educators to kindly open the door and allow us to come to sign up for dance sessions. We can work out the arrangements. The sessions will culminate in a performance show funded entirely by our club’s fundraising drives at no cost to your school.

The following is my contact information: Remind: @erhsdwtk; Instagram: erhs_dwtk; Website: https://erhsdwtk.web.app/; and Email: erhsdancingwiththekids@gmail.com

I might not be the best dancer this side of Twice, but I’m a very good dance teacher.

Three years of working with children and learning choreography have served me well. Our children are urged in my workshop to dance like nobody’s watching, but they will always be comfortable knowing that whenever they dance off or even goof off, I’m there watching and admiring.