May 20, 2025

Hello, Mission Viejo. Three-day Memorial Day weekend ahead! Woo-hoo! Enjoy it while remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. In this week’s Buzz:

Low water pressure on Viana
Mission Viejo’s best donut
De Portola Elementary named California Distinguished School
Ike Bushkin: A cut above
Out and about
Weekly weather forecast

Got water pressure? Folks on Viana don’t.

Most of us expect a refreshing hot shower after a long day, but residents on Viana in South Galicia aren’t so fortunate. The Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) cites 45-60 pounds per square inch (PSI) as optimal residential water pressure. The water on Viana reaches just 35 psi, barely enough to rinse the shampoo from your hair if other water is on in the home. Residents one block away, on Betanzos, get 60 psi. Though SMWD acknowledges the issue, they say fixing it would be too costly. Their solution? Viana residents who desire better pressure should install a pricey booster pump at their own expense. Ken, a handy Viana homeowner who installed a pump himself, commented, “It made a huge difference. I’d forgotten what a nice shower feels like at home.”

Mission Viejo’s King of Donuts: Royal Donuts & Burgers

The votes are in! Royal Donuts & Burgers wins Mission Viejo's Best Donut award. Their fresh, pillowy donuts hit every mark—perfectly sweet, never cloying. Raised donuts float like air, apple fritters dance with cinnamon, and old-fashioned cake donuts pack that buttermilk tang. Added bonus: Their burger special comes with a donut for under $10. Royal proves great donuts don't need gimmicks, just a baker’s touch and quality ingredients. 24501 Marguerite Pkwy.

NEWS BITS

Totally rad May Night Market

Last week’s Mission Viejo Night Market turned back time with an epic '80s bash! DJ beats had families rocking to Bon Jovi, Cyndi Lauper, Michael Jackson and other chart-toppers as parents chilled with beer and wine and their kids battled at Connect Four and Jenga. Food offerings included steamed dumplings, lobster rolls, fire-roasted corn, tea-infused gelato and New Zealand-style fruit ice cream. One local mom, there with her hubby and 11- and 15-year-old kids, said they attend the market, which happens the third Saturday of the month, whenever they can. “We all have a lot of fun and it’s a safe, welcoming environment, so, yeah, it’s great.”

Epic sale on kid stuff

Why empty your wallet when you can dress your little humans for pennies? Kiddos Consignment’s blockbuster five-day pop-up event is your chance to score gently used kids items at 50-90% off retail. Kiddos Consignment will also sell your outgrown outfits and unwanted items. Just drop your stuff off and they’ll do the rest. Refer friends and you can increase your earnings by 5%. It’s the easiest money you'll ever make! May 27-31. Click here for more info. 27620 Marguerite Pkwy.

De Portola Elementary achieves distinguished school honor

De Portola Elementary has been named a 2025 California Distinguished School, earning Blue ratings in both ELA and Math. Students with disabilities showed remarkable improvement, advancing from Yellow to Blue on California’s performance bands. Robust student leadership programs—including Peer Assistance Leadership and Student Council—help to create an inclusive campus culture. The school’s positive climate is further supported by STAR expectations that emphasize Safety, Taking Responsibility, Kindness and Respect. Way to go, De Portola and principal Kimberly Slawson!

PEOPLE & PLACES

Revel Cheesecake: big flavor, small package

For John Nyberg, the ideal cheesecake is made from just a few simple, high-quality ingredients. After perfecting his recipe over the course of 35 years, John’s baking journey took an unexpected turn when his daughter Vicki requested individual servings for her wedding. That lightbulb moment sparked Revel Cheesecake, which John and Vicki launched in January 2025. The father-daughter duo now offers 5- and 8-oz classic personal cheesecakes, as well as custom sizes and flavors, online and at the Mission Viejo Farmers Market. Reach them at revelcheesecake.com or by phone at (949) 307-2806.

Ike Bushkin, looking sharp

Got a chef’s knife that won’t dice? A meat cleaver that won’t cleave? Scissors that won’t snip? Ike’s Sharpening Service can help. Operating out of his Mission Viejo garage, Ike Bushkin has worked on the cutting edge since 2013, following a 30-year career in textiles. The idea for his business was born of necessity—he couldn’t find someone to sharpen his kitchen knives, so he bought a sharpening machine and taught himself the ropes. He’s since earned a number of Yelp awards and a loyal following. “My knives are as sharp as the day I bought them,” said Kelly K., a satisfied customer from Newport Beach. “I'm also glad that Ike included band aids, I did need them!” Reach Ike at (949) 322-4915 or ikessharpening.com.

OUT AND ABOUT

Happenings

5/22, Writers Present: Kristina McMorris, 6:30 PMJoin New York Times best-selling author Kristina McMorris as she discusses her latest novel, “The Girls of Good Fortune.” City Hall Council Chamber, 200 Civic Center.
5/24, Third Annual Rotary Club of Mission Viejo Chili Cook-Off, 11 AM-3 PMWatch professional and amateur chefs battle it out for chili bragging rights, check out local vendors and groove to live music! Entry is $10 per person, $50 for competitors. Visit the Cook-Off web page for more info. Norman P. Murray Community Center, 24932 Veterans Way.
5/26, Memorial Day Ceremony, 8:30 AMPay homage to the men and women who have given their lives for our country. The ceremony includes guest speakers and a live vocal performance by Chad Berlinghieri, a performer with the LA Philharmonic and Opera Pacific at the Orange County Performing Arts Center. More info. The Kershaw Garden, 200 Civic Center.

Entertainment

Live Music, Pub Thirty-Two, 23962 Alicia Pkwy, #25/23: Mouhammed Bassaj, 7-10 PM5/24: Andy Stocks, 7-10 PM
5/23, ‘90s Night, Oso Creek Golf Course, 6-8 PMDance to hits from the rockin’ ‘90s spun by a live DJ. Did someone say alternative and grunge? Cocktails and menu items available. For more info, call (949) 470-4997 or email [email protected]. 27601 Casta Del Sol.
5/24, Lord of the Strings: Joscho Stephan Trio, 7 PMA blending of gypsy swing with Latin, classical and rock influences, along with unique interpretations of classic pieces. Tickets: $60. More info and tickets. City Hall Council Chamber, 200 Civic Center.

Buy, Sell & Trade

Olds Ambassador trumpet: $200. 1976 model. Good condition. Not used in many years. Contact Keith: [email protected].

Bernardaud Gemme Gris bone china: $400. Seven place settings: dinner plates, salad plates, bread plates, saucers and tea cups. Three soup bowls. Never used. Contact Michelle: [email protected].

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 (if selling an item), to [email protected].

Your Weekly Forecast

THANKS FOR READING THE BUZZ!

How’s the Buzz working for you? Let me know what you think. And if you’ve got a story idea or thoughts about how we can do better, drop me a line: [email protected].

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor