March 3, 2026

Hi, . Daylight Saving Time returns this Sunday. Don’t forget to move your clocks ahead one hour—because everyone wants to experience jet lag without the vacation. In this week’s Buzz:

Nine years after he died of a brain aneurysm at the age of 29, Konrad Reuland remains an inspiration. A graduate of Mission Viejo High School, Konrad played professional football for the New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens. More importantly, he was committed to helping those in need. Even after his passing, Konrad helped save or improve the lives of more than 75 people by donating his organs and tissues. The 6th Annual Konrad Reuland Charity Tennis & Pickleball Tournaments honors his legacy and supports organizations that reflect his values. This year's event kicks off with a dinner and silent auction on Friday, March 6, at the Norman P. Murray Community & Senior Center. The pickleball tournament is scheduled for March 7–8, with the tennis tournament following on March 21–22. More info.

Peaceful protest is a constitutional right. In Mission Viejo, however, recent incidents have raised tensions between protesters and counter-protesters, including “First Amendment auditors” filming residents against their will near the post office and Trader Joe’s, and a reported harassment incident at a SouthOC4Democracy rally at La Paz and Marguerite. Mission Viejo Chief of Police Services Jason Ivins notes that many such encounters are designed to provoke a reaction, and that staying calm and disengaging can prevent escalation at otherwise peaceful demonstrations. He advises rally participants to contact law enforcement if actual criminal behavior occurs, such as trespassing, threats, harassment, blocking access to buildings, or physical intimidation or assault.

Some graffiti can be considered street art. But when it's not a Banksy appearing on public or private property in our community, it should be removed as soon as possible. Report graffiti by calling the Public Services Department at 949-470-3095, or leave a message anytime on the 24-hour Graffiti Hotline at 949-460-2924. An inspector reviews the line daily and either initiates removal or contacts the property owner to get it taken care of. See it? Report it! More info.

Purim is a Jewish holiday that celebrates how Queen Esther saved her people from a threatened massacre in ancient Persia. The holiday is traditionally marked with costumes, drinking, feasting, revelry and giving gifts to friends and the poor. The Chabad of Mission Viejo is pulling out all the stops with a  “Purim in NYC” event tonight, March 3. Come to savor a true taste of New York with pastrami-on-rye sandwiches, pizza, street-cart hot dogs, cocktails and more. Jewish soul sounds and Brooklyn-style custom graffiti merch add to the festivities. Get your tickets in advance to save a few shekels. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. More info. 📍 24041 Marguerite Pkwy.

In an era of ever-changing food trends and flashy menus, Piccolino Ristorante sticks to fundamentals: superior ingredients, smooth service and a reliable experience. “I once asked my father how to be successful in this business,” says owner Sal Faso, a third-generation restaurateur with roots in Sicily. “He said, just keep everything consistent.” That advice explains why Piccolino customers know exactly what to expect every time they walk through the door—fresh artisan pasta, tomato sauce made from California-grown Alta Cucina tomatoes, olive oil from trees grown in Trabuco Canyon, and prime meat and fish. “At the end of the day, when you’ve got happy customers, you’ve done your job,” says Sal. More info. 📍 28719 Los Aliso Blvd.

A rumor that the Kaleidoscope mall is closing imminently has proven to be false. The scuttlebutt began with a notice stating that power would be turned off in the former space of Yogurtland. That message somehow morphed into speculation that the entire mall was being shuttered. Kaleidoscope management has confirmed there is no truth to the rumor—it’s business as usual.

Mission Viejo High School’s Girls Varsity Lacrosse team kicked off its season with a 12-7 win over Long Beach Poly on February 24. From the first whistle, the team moved in sync, playing with energy and focus and scoring early goals that put them in front—and kept them there. “It felt really great winning tonight,” said junior player Finley Knoll. “There is no better feeling than winning with my teammates.” Coaches and spectators alike praised the girls’ teamwork and determination, calling the victory a strong start to what promises to be an exciting season.— Myrra Uppuluri

The Varsity Wrestling team from Trabuco Hills High School won its fourth consecutive South Coast League Championship and qualified 21 wrestlers for the CIF Individual Championships—the most in school history. Eleven Mustangs went on to compete in the CIF Masters Individual Tournament. Continuing that momentum, standout wrestlers Brock Kenney, Oliver Benninghof and Julio Leija (pictured) have now qualified for the State Championships!

ATTENTION STUDENT WRITERS!

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$1,899,000, 5 beds, 3 baths, 3,055 sq. ft.

Located in the Baja Oso neighborhood, this extensively renovated residence offers quality upgrades, modern systems and move-in-ready convenience. The comprehensive remodel includes a fully redesigned kitchen, three updated bathrooms with contemporary finishes, new flooring, and significant system improvements such as a new HVAC system, upgraded electrical panels and PEX repiping. Capital improvements include a new concrete tile roof, a 27-panel solar system and exterior paint. The backyard is ideal for both relaxation and gatherings, complete with an above-ground spa and built-in BBQ. More info.

Listing agent: Melissa Solia, 949-433-9311, Darren Shepherd, 949-353-9494, eXp Realty of Southern California

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Daylight Saving Time begins this Sunday, March 8, at 2 AM. Don’t forget to move your clocks ahead an hour before you go to bed on Saturday night. Because we lose an hour, sunrise and sunset will be about an hour later on Sunday than they were on Saturday.

Saddleback College’s standout music program hits all the right notes this week. Three student-led classical concerts and a guest set by bassist Stephan Crump promise serious talent and unforgettable performances. Consider this your cue to buy tickets!

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

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