July 22, 2025
Good morning, . Some people see a glass half full, others half empty. I see pizza and think, “I need another slice.” In this week’s Buzz, look out for our first-ever pizza survey, plus:
Diablo QB Luke Fahey commits to Ohio State
Ribbon-cutting at Station 24
New kids play area at Mission Viejo Shops
Bees make new home on Oso Creek Trail
Out and about
Weekly weather forecast
Diablo QB Luke Fahey heading to Ohio State
Mission Viejo High School quarterback Luke Fahey recently led the Diablos to their second consecutive Battle at the Beach 7-on-7 passing tournament championship. Now the 6'1", 185-pound senior has his sights set on the upcoming season and beyond. Fahey has committed to playing for the Ohio State Buckeyes in 2026, the school where his paternal grandparents met as students. “I have been dreaming about playing college football my entire life, and it really feels like a dream come true to find my new home at OSU,” said Luke. Two of his Class of 2026 teammates have also announced their college commitments: Cornerback Jeron Jones will be heading to the University of Washington, and wide receiver Vance Spafford to the University of Miami. The nationally ranked Diablos kick off their 2025-26 campaign on September 26 on the road at Chaparral High School in Temecula.
Who makes the best pizza in Mission Viejo?
Any night of the week is a good night for pizza, right? But with so many delicious options in Mission Viejo, where do you go when that craving hits? To determine the best pizza in town, we need your help. Whether you’re into thin crust or deep dish, meat lover’s or veggie, your vote matters! Simply click below to let us know the pizza joint in Mission Viejo that you think reigns supreme. We’ll announce the winner in our August 5 issue.
NEWS BITS
Fire Station 24 grand opening
Orange County and Mission Viejo city dignitaries cut the ribbon on Orange County Fire Authority Station 24 on Marguerite Pkwy last Thursday, July 17, marking the station’s official opening. T.J. McGovern, deputy chief of the Emergency Operations Bureau with the OCFA, called the facility a model not only for future Orange County fire stations, but also for stations around the country. An open house for the public is planned for the fall.
Big fun for little mall shoppers
Parents and caregivers of young ones, enjoy some stress relief on your next shopping excursion! An expanded, interactive play area is now open at the Shops at Mission Viejo. Sponsored by Providence Mission Hospital, the colorful new space features padded climbing structures, crawl spaces, imaginative activities and plenty of room for free play. Best part? Comfortable lounges where adults can actually sit and relax while the kids burn off energy. The play area, which replaces one on the upper level, is located in Level 1 Center Court, across from Sunglass Hut and Claire’s.
A sweet discovery on the Oso Creek Trail
The Oso Creek Trail is one of the jewels in our community and a haven for wildlife—even honeybees. As of Sunday, an active hive could be spotted on the east side of the trail, on the ground about halfway between the Celebration Garden and North Bridge. Watch for the orange cone just a few feet to the right of the trail. Look closely and you can even make out the honeycomb. But don’t get too close; the bees are easily agitated and can swarm over the trail.
PEOPLE & PLACES
Mission Viejo-born TASK delivering for special needs families
When your child has special needs, navigating education and available services can feel overwhelming. Team of Advocates for Special Kids (TASK) can help. Co-founded by Mission Viejo resident Jean Turner 50 years ago to support her daughter with cerebral palsy, TASK trains parents to advocate for their children in educational, vocational and healthcare settings. Whether you need help with a new diagnosis, developing an IEP or getting assistive technology advice, their staff provides telephone support, workshops, document reviews and referrals. TASK’s ultimate goal is to help kids with special needs succeed through programs that build social and self-advocacy skills. Donate.
From Bucharest to Mission Viejo
What began as a college romance between two advanced mathematics students in Bucharest is now a shining example of the persistence it can take for immigrants to achieve the American dream. Mihai and Mariana Dorobantu’s escape from the chaos of post-communist Romania snaked through the academic halls of Stockholm University to aerospace research labs in Connecticut. As Mihai’s transition to low-emission automobile research called for moves to Minnesota and Michigan, Mariana left the workforce to focus on raising their two sons, Andrei and Victor. The couple moved to SoCal in 2019 to be closer to the boys, soon finding their sanctuary in Mission Viejo. The Dorobantus treasure the opportunities America provides—not to mention South OC’s natural beauty.
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OUT AND ABOUT
Happenings
7/22, Fiesta Tuesday, Oso Creek Golf Course, 4-7 PMTuesday nights are for dinner in the Atrium. Enjoy Santa Maria-style chicken, filet and pulled pork barbecue street tacos, margaritas, complimentary chips and a salsa bar. Reservations not required. 27601 Casta Del Sol.
7/25-27, BBQ Music Fest, Oso Viejo Community Park, Times VaryA three-day BBQ extravaganza featuring live entertainment and DJs, a smokin’ food court, dance lessons, cantinas, local artisans, and kids’ carnival rides and games. Admission prices and times vary each day. More info. 24932 Veterans Way.
7/26, Mission Viejo Farmers Market, North Paseo at Los Osos, 9 AM-1 PMShop a variety of locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, cooked items, handmade crafts and more. 25282 Marguerite Pkwy.
7/26, Food Drive, North Paseo at Los Osos, 9 AM-1 PMHelp families in need by bringing non-perishable food items to the Farmers Market. Donations benefit the non-profit Family Assistance Ministries. Desired items. 25282 Marguerite Pkwy.
Live Music
7/24, Music at the Veranda, Piccolino Ristorante, 6:30-8:30 PMSip, savor and sway to soulful tunes, paired with Piccolino’s memorable Italian dishes. More info. 28719 Los Aliso Blvd.
Pub Thirty-Two, 7-10 PM, 23962 Alicia Pkwy, #27/25: Anesha Rose7/26: Joe Hickey
7/26, Music on the Deck, Montanoso Fitness & Recreation Center, 1-4 PMCome hang out to swim, lounge and hear classic rock, pop and oldies from Tom Bagley. More info. 25800 Montanoso Dr.
7/26, Berlin, Lake Mission Viejo, 7 PMThe award-winning band Berlin is bringing its new wave and synth-pop to the lake! Led by singer Terri Nunn, Berlin hit it big in the ‘80s with songs such as “The Metro,” “No More Words” and “Take My Breath Away” from the original Top Gun movie. More info. 22555 Olympiad Rd.
Buy, Sell & Trade
2006 Winnebago Aspect 29H motorhome: $24,990Winnebago Aspect 29H Class C RV. Less than 45,000 miles and 200 hours on generator. Original upholstery in good condition. Kitchen equipped with stove, refrigerator, microwave/convection oven and plenty of storage. Private rear bathroom with a shower, toilet and sink. Living area includes a dinette, sofa and entertainment center. Many upgrades. Must see! Contact Larry.
Echelon exercise bike: $560Echelon Connect EX-3 indoor cycling bike in excellent condition. Contact Steve.
Blue armchairs: FreePair of comfortable blue armchairs in good condition. Contact Vic.
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].
Your Weekly Forecast
THANKS FOR READING THE BUZZ!
Sometimes I still need to pinch myself that we live in this beautiful place called Mission Viejo—especially with our incredible sunsets this time of year. What’s your favorite part about living here? Let me know!
Keith Lissak
Publisher/Editor
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