March 31, 2026

Hi, . My March Madness men’s bracket went bust when UCLA lost to Connecticut in round two. I’ve since thrown my support behind the Lady Bruins—so, apologies in advance. In this week’s Buzz:

Costco announced plans last June for its first-ever standalone gas station, to be located here in Mission Viejo. The 40-pump facility is now expected to open in late June at the Mission Viejo Freeway Center, just off Interstate 5 between La Paz Rd and Oso Pkwy. Since the start of the Iran conflict on February 28, gas prices have soared by as much as $1 per gallon locally. Costco’s Kirkland gasoline is typically among the area’s least expensive, so the new gas station can’t open soon enough. “I save several dollars every time I fill up at Costco, and hopefully the new station will cut down on the lines at the Crown Valley location,” said Mission Viejo resident Michelle L.

The City Council is advancing the Quad Cities Trail Project, a new 4.5-mile trail system that will connect the bikeways and trail networks of Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills and Lake Forest. Funded by the Orange County Transportation Authority, the project includes a dedicated two-way path and Class III bikeway along Cabot Rd (pictured) and El Paseo, between the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Metrolink Station and Los Alisos Creek Trail near Heroes Park in Lake Forest. With projected completion in October 2029, the trail will serve commuters, recreational users and cyclists, while also laying the foundation for a future regional north–south trail system through South Orange County.

Even in affluent communities, some residents need a helping hand. South County Outreach exists to provide just that. Despite an average household income exceeding $165,000, some Mission Viejo residents still go to bed hungry or face homelessness. “We may all know a neighbor on our street right now who is struggling and needs a little bit of help,” says LaVal Brewer, SCO president and CEO (pictured). SCO provides critical support to residents experiencing financial hardship, and to low-income families and individuals facing poverty. The Mission Viejo City Council recognized the organization’s contributions to the community at its February 24 meeting. More info.

“Something wicked this way comes.” Shakespeare’s tale of ambition, blood and madness is coming to the McKinney Theatre stage in Saddleback College’s production of Macbeth. The play runs April 3-12. Widely considered Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy, the story follows the violent quest of a Scottish general to become the King of Scotland. First performed around 1606, Macbeth remains a cautionary tale that resonates for contemporary audiences. Tickets: $22.50. More info.

In an era when most car owners replace their vehicles every 8–10 years, few cars stay in a family for decades. Not so for one 1956 Ford F-100. The cherry-red V-8 pickup is the centerpiece of The Red Truck Company, Amy and Robbie Rathburn’s business dedicated to turning special moments into lasting memories. Originally owned by Robbie’s grandfather and lovingly restored by Robbie and his dad, the truck was Robbie’s main ride through high school and college. Today, he rolls up in it to provide the backdrop for one-of-a-kind photo ops—perfect for holiday cards, family celebrations and community events. More than a business, Robbie’s truck reflects the lasting bond between three generations of Rathburn men. Could his young son be its next owner? More info.

Trabuco Hills High School recently cut the ribbon on The Well Space, a brand-new student wellness center born from a partnership with Rady Health and the Orange County Department of Education. The journey started in Fall 2022, when the THHS Guidance team created a simple calm corner called The Meadow. That seed grew into something transformative: a dedicated space for mindfulness, reflection and emotional support — open to students, staff, and parents alike. Assistant Principal Jenn Moore, who helped lead the project, calls it a “beautiful, purposeful space for our whole community.”

With the departure of standout quarterback Luke Fahey for Ohio State, Mission Viejo High School varsity football was looking at a big hole in its lineup next season. Stepping in to fill that gap is junior Nash McElree (pictured), a QB from Aledo High School in Aledo, Texas, who is transferring to MVHS. While football season doesn’t kick off until the fall, there’s already excitement for what the 6-foot-1, 212-pound McElree can bring to the Diablos. In his two seasons at Aledo, he threw for 1,331 yards and 16 touchdowns.— Myrra Uppuluri

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$1,899,000, 4 beds, 3 baths, 2,754 sq. ft.

Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in one of Mission Viejo’s most desirable neighborhoods, this impeccably maintained home is a true gem. Enter through beautiful stained-glass front doors to a bright, spacious living room. The formal dining area flows into a highly functional kitchen featuring refaced cabinets and drawers, granite counters, two ovens, a gas stove, two pantries and a wine refrigerator. A bay window overlooks a large backyard entertaining area with stunning lake views— views you’ll also enjoy from the private primary bedroom. Skylights throughout flood the home with natural light and help to create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. More info.

Listing agent: Wendy Taylor, 714-381-1088, Pursuit Brokerage

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With the Passover holiday underway and Good Friday and Easter later this week, it’s the season to celebrate spring with friends and family. Whether you gather for a seder, Easter egg hunt or Easter brunch at one of our local restaurants, we wish you a buzz-tacular holiday!

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

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