November 18, 2025

Hi, . It’s almost Thanksgiving! Last year, after our meal, someone snuck into the kitchen and stole the carcass. It was a clear case of fowl play. In this week’s Buzz:

If the price of putting your Thanksgiving dinner on the table seems higher this year, you’re not mistaken. According to a new study from Purdue University, turkey prices have increased 75% since October 2024—reversing a trend of relatively lower turkey prices in recent years. There are two primary reasons for the rise in prices: the cost of turkey feed and the effects of bird flu.

Animal feed makes up 60-70% of a turkey producer’s operating costs, said Caitlinn Hubbell, a co-author of the Purdue study. The core ingredients in turkey feed, however, have been hit by the newly imposed international tariffs. While higher bird populations could help offset those costs, bird flu has killed more than 7 million commercial fowl this year. Minnesota, the biggest turkey-producing state in the country, is already on track to reach close to a million deaths from bird flu.

Despite the higher cost of turkey this year, there are still deals out there. We’ve scoured local markets to find the lowest prices in town, saving you the time and expense of tracking them down yourself. Keep in mind that prices and availability can change overnight, and the best deals usually require coupons or store membership. Most stores also limit the number of birds you can buy at the lowest price.

Notes: All prices listed are per pound. NAE = No Antibiotics Ever.

The cast and crew of Mission Viejo High School’s Parfumerie, directed by Christopher Hixson, shone in last week’s performances of the 1937 Miklós László classic play that inspired the movie You’ve Got Mail. Led by Tristan Fordham, Liam O’Rourke and Annika Clark, the cast kept audiences laughing throughout the show. Each night, the Hammerschmit parfumerie shop came alive with chemistry and a steady stream of playful chaos. The energetic ensemble, set and costumes made the story feel fresh without losing its old-school charm. It’s the kind of production that reminds you why live theater is still worth showing up for. Congratulations to all! — Myrra Uppuluri

The rainy season is here, with Mission Viejo and other parts of Southern California placed under a flood watch a few days ago. Residents can protect their property and limit erosion from future storms with free sandbags provided by the city. The pre-filled sandbags are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and are available at Marty Russo Youth Athletic Park, Gilleran Park, the Civic Center, Craycraft Park, Florence Joyner Olympiad Park, the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, and Mission Viejo Animal Services Center while supplies last. Limit 10 per residence. Many local Orange County fire stations offer empty sandbags too. More info.

A new rug, runner or pillowcase can be the perfect item to add color to your home. An added bonus is when those accessories improve lives in a war-ravaged country. Cali Haven Rugs brings these beautiful heirlooms to the Mission Viejo Farmers Market on most Saturdays. Ahmed Weiss of Cali Haven explains that the items are woven from sheep wool by women in villages throughout Afghanistan. The colors are all natural, extracted from ingredients such as pomegranate, onion skin and cactus. “Each item takes about 250 hours to make,” said Ahmed. “We buy them from the women, and this is their main source of income.” More info.📍 25282 Marguerite Pkwy.

$2,099,000, 4 beds, 3 baths, 3,057 sq. ft.

Nestled on a quiet street in the gated Canyon Crest community, this stunning home showcases thoughtful design and superior craftsmanship. Step inside to a grand living and dining area with soaring ceilings, designer finishes and abundant natural light. The gourmet chef’s kitchen features an eight-burner built-in range with dual ovens, a large built-in refrigerator/freezer, high-end stainless steel appliances and a large walk-in pantry. The luxurious primary suite offers a private retreat with its own fireplace, a spacious sitting area, massive walk-in closet and spa-inspired bathroom. Three additional bedrooms complete the upper level. Additional highlights include a solar system with battery backup, water softener, plantation shutters and beautifully landscaped backyard. More info.

Listing agents: Dalileh Sajjadi, 310-927-4270,

and Dennis Gournias, 949-991-8840, 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!

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I’m so grateful for everyone who has subscribed to the Buzz! I wish you all a happy, healthy Thanksgiving holiday surrounded by friends, family and football. No issue next week, but we’ll be back with an all-new Buzz on December 2.

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

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