January 6, 2026

Hi, . Happy new year! Make any resolutions for 2026? I did, and it will be a miracle if I remember what they were by month’s end. In this week’s Buzz:

After three years of rate-induced headwinds, Mission Viejo’s housing market could turn a corner in 2026. Inventory is climbing—about 9,900 homes are currently on the market across Orange County, the highest level since 2019—giving buyers more choices as homeowners begin to loosen their grip. Economist Steven Thomas says mortgage rates will set the tone, with three possible scenarios:

Spring should bring peak activity, especially for higher-end homes. As more listings hit the market, smart pricing will matter more than ever. Here’s to a dynamic 2026 market!

About 200 brave souls kicked off the New Year with a dunk in Lake Mission Viejo at the annual Polar Bear Plunge on January 1. Despite a rainy morning, the showers let up just in time for the dip, with both the outdoor air and lake water clocking in at a (relatively balmy) 61 degrees. Why do it? Plungers had plenty of reasons: to start the year fresh, keep a longtime tradition alive and—mostly—for fun. For first-timers Bryce and Celeste Keyser, the chilly soak doubled as a memorable way to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Cold, quick and full of good vibes, the Polar Bear Plunge once again proved there’s no better way to ring in the New Year in Mission Viejo.

Shake off the holiday couch coma—and save some money, too! Through January 31, Mission Viejo Recreation and Tennis Centers are waiving the $50 initiation fee for new members. That’s right—fifty bucks staying in your pocket. What’s waiting for you? Heated pools, fully equipped gyms, energizing group fitness classes, tennis and pickleball courts, and more. Whether you’re a fitness fanatic or just looking to try something new, there’s something for everyone. Swing by the Montanoso or Sierra Rec Centers to sign up. Your future, more-active self will thank you! More info.

Know someone whose service to Mission Viejo deserves permanent recognition? The city wants to honor residents who’ve gone above and beyond—volunteers whose impact echoes long after their work is done. Nominees for Mission Viejo’s Wall of Recognition Award must show they’re true local legends, with signatures from 20 fellow residents vouching for their extraordinary contributions. No paid work counts—only pure community spirit. Winners earn more than applause: they’ll be immortalized on the Wall of Recognition at the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, where their legacy will inspire future generations. The deadline for nominations is February 27 at 5 PM. More info.

The 2026 Spring Little League season is approaching quicker than a Nolan Ryan fastball, and registration is now open. For South Mission Viejo Little League info, click here. For North Mission Viejo Little League, click here. For Viejo Little League, click here. Don’t wait, as space is limited!

Just over six months after opening their business, Salt & Pepper, Sophie Lee and Gemma Na (pictured) are already favorites at the Mission Viejo Farmers Market. The two Korean women, who love Italian food and cooking for friends, operate Salt & Pepper out of a commercial kitchen in Costa Mesa. What began as frustration with store-bought sauces has turned into a tasty lineup of homemade pasta sauces and fresh, hand-cut pappardelle and fettuccine. Their signature Original Ragù Bolognese—made with ground beef and pork—has earned devoted fans, alongside spicy and vegan versions. Their newest creation, Creamy Mushroom, is rich and flavorful, with a velvety mouthfeel. “This is a very family-friendly market,” says Gemma. “Many customers come to chat with us as well as buy our products, and we really value the relationships we’ve made here.” More info.

The Trabuco Hills High School Thundering Mustangs marching unit celebrated the New Year in style—they jetted across the pond to perform in the 40th annual London New Year’s Day Parade and Festival. “We only wanted the very best marching bands, fitting for our 40th anniversary,” said the parade’s founder, Bob Bone. “And Trabuco Hills High School certainly fit the bill.” The Thundering Mustangs—a powerhouse ensemble that’s earned multiple Grand Champion titles at the Western Band Association Championships and other major competitions—joined more than 8,000 performers from around the world in the globally televised event. Cheers!

The football season may not have ended as desired for the Mission Viejo Diablos—they lost to Mater Dei in the CIF Southern Section Playoffs—but the team still had an outstanding year. No player shone more brightly than senior quarterback Luke Fahey, who was named All-Orange County Offensive Player of the Year by the Orange County Register and High School Back of the Year by the Los Angeles Times. Fahey finished the season with 3,199 passing yards, completing 71% of his attempts. He also rushed for 569 yards and six touchdowns. His next stop? Ohio State University, where the odds are good that his national prominence will continue rising.

ATTENTION STUDENT WRITERS!

If you’re a middle or high school student in Mission Viejo and want to report on the activities, events and people at your school for the Buzz, we’d love to hear from you. It’s a great way to earn a byline, build experience and have your voice heard. Reach out to [email protected].

$1,725,000, 4 beds, 2.5 baths, 2,680 sq. ft.

The Stoneridge community welcomes you to this elegant Mediterranean-style home. A dramatic two-story entry opens to sun-filled living spaces featuring stone flooring, crown molding, plantation shutters and a grand curved wrought-iron staircase. The chef’s kitchen showcases granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances, double ovens and a hammered copper farmhouse sink. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite offers dual walk-in closets and a luxurious spa bath with a jetted tub and walk-in shower. Outside, the backyard oasis features a saltwater pool and spa with waterfalls, a covered patio and an outdoor kitchen pavilion. More info.

Listing agents: Henry Yang & April Mota-Igualate, 949-735-7899, First Team Real Estate

Refer five friends, family members or neighbors to our growing swarm of Buzz subscribers and we’ll hook you up with one of our brand-new, limited-edition Mission Viejo Buzz caps. They’re seriously cool and you can’t get them anywhere else!

Click below to help spread the word!

Share the Buzz

Having a yard or garage sale? Got stuff you want to sell or give away? List it here for free! Simply send your listing, including contact information and a photo to [email protected].

Mission Viejo Buzz is growing quickly, making it a powerful way to promote your business to an engaged, local audience. To learn more about advertising in the Buzz, contact [email protected].

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

Copyright (C) 2026 | Lissak Communications. All rights reserved.

Proofreader: Stella LissakWant to change how you receive these emails?

You can unsubscribe.