Neighbor of the Week: Leimamo Taylor

Leimamo has made the Riverside Airport Café (RAC) a true community hub. From hosting fundraisers and toy drives to organizing events like Planes & Treats, she brings people together and fosters a spirit of connection. Earlier in the year, she organized donation drives and supported those most impacted by major Southern California fires, demonstrating her deep care for community.

Under her leadership, the café also became the first restaurant in Riverside to join the Blue Zones Project—an initiative that promotes healthier living through small, sustainable lifestyle choices. The café now features a menu with Blue Zones-inspired options like veggie omelets, avocado toast, and a plant-based burger, all designed to make healthy eating more accessible.

Leimamo’s involvement extends beyond her business. She’s an active supporter of Miracles and Dreams events for underserved children, contributes to local charities, supports her Ward 3 Councilmember Steven Robillard and is a member of the Riverside Chamber of Commerce. Whether she’s serving meals or mobilizing neighbors, Leimamo shows what it means to lead with generosity and heart.

What does Riverside mean to you? Riverside, California means so much to me—it’s more than just the place I live; it’s home. From the historic Mission Inn to peaceful walks up Mt. Rubidoux, Riverside holds my memories, my roots and my pride. I see strength in the community, beauty in its diversity, and a deep sense of belonging that makes me proud to support this city. It’s where I’ve grown, connected with others, and found a true sense of identity. Riverside is not just where I am—it’s who I am.

What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated) Over 100.

What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? Olivia’s Mexican Restaurant.

What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? CBU.

What is your favorite Riverside small business? Hailey Bell Creations.

What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Miracles and Dreams Foundation.

The Festival of Lights: Every year on opening night or maybe on a Tuesday? On opening night!

What is your go-to sandwich in town? D’Elia’s Grinders.

What is your idea of a perfect weekend day in Riverside? Breakfast at the RAC, then a walk up Mt. Rubidoux and an evening in Downtown with dinner at Dapper’s.

What is your favorite spot for a date night? Dapper’s Dine & Lounge.

Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? The Galleria.

What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? The Orange Blossom Festival.

If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? “Rooted in Riverside. Growing with pride!”

Finally, tell us what you’re working on right now and how our readers can support your efforts—whether it’s a project, passion, or cause close to your heart! I’m building up participation for “Laps at the RAC,” a community event held the first Saturday of every month between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., weather permitting. Families come out to walk laps around our parking lot — kids who complete a certain number of laps earn a free kids’ meal, and adults receive 10 to 20% off their meal. It’s all about community involvement and encouraging healthy activity while connecting neighbors. For more info, visit riversideairportcafe.com.

Neighbor of the Week is our way of celebrating the hidden heroes of Riverside—those who go above and beyond to make our community stronger, kinder, and more vibrant. We believe every remarkable Riversider deserves their story told. Know someone who’s making a difference? Nominate a Neighbor of the Week