December 2, 2025

Hi, . It’s official: The holiday season is here! My bank account is already shrinking and my waistline expanding. In this week’s Buzz:

The holidays can be challenging for many in our community. If you or someone you know needs assistance, the City offers year-round help. Free groceries for seniors are available every Friday, 8-9 AM, at the Norman P. Murray Senior and Community Center. Multiple food pantries surround Mission Viejo and serve our area, including Mercy Warehouse in Laguna Niguel, South County Outreach in Irvine, Family Assistance Ministries in San Clemente, and Community Table and Pantry in RSM. Folks experiencing a housing crisis can contact Families Forward, Family Assistance Ministries, South County Outreach and SPIN for guidance. Visit the City's website for complete information on social services available to residents. More info.

Patients at Rady Children’s Hospital at Mission (formerly CHOC at Mission Hospital) have a loving new friend to help them through their health challenges: Haines, the service dog. The nearly two-year-old female black lab is just four weeks on the job but is already making a huge impact, according to her handler, Certified Child Life Specialist Brittany Ferran. “We have a great team here, but we can only do so much for our patients,” says Brittany. “When we bring in the dog, it’s a different kind of magic that gives the kids a certain comfort and joy. Haines just knows how to connect with our patients and make them feel seen, heard and loved in a special way.” When Haines isn’t working, she goes home with Brittany and becomes just another goofy lab, romping with Brittany’s golden retriever mix, Poe. “As soon as I take her vest off, she goes into play mode, and the two of them have a lot of fun.” Sounds like a perfect ending after a day at the office!

After 24 anxious hours, Josie the dog is back where she belongs—thanks to cutting-edge technology and compassionate service. When Josie went missing in remote, mountainous terrain, Mission Viejo Animal Services deployed a thermal imaging drone donated by the Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) to help find her. The aerial search used thermal imaging to spot and track Josie nearly a mile along a trail; DAWG was then able to guide her owner to intercept her path. When Josie entered a nearby park, her owner calmly called to her, and after a few anxious moments, Josie recognized the familiar voice and leapt into her owner’s arms. “This is exactly the kind of compassionate, community-focused outcome we strive to achieve,” said Mission Viejo Animal Services Manager Kyle Werner.

Joybird Mission Viejo is celebrating its grand opening with a holiday open house on Saturday, December 13, from 11 AM to 2 PM. In addition to holiday-themed refreshments and a chance to win a $1,500 Joybird gift card, the furniture retailer is offering guests a free holiday portrait with their pet. Shot by professional pet photographer Ti Chu, the portraits come just in time to create the perfect holiday card! The event will also benefit Wags & Walks, a local nonprofit and community of dog lovers working to reduce euthanasia in local shelters and increase awareness that rescue dogs are wonderful pets. 📍 28361 Marguerite Pkwy.

Todd Rosene has worn many hats in his life: entrepreneur, marketing and advertising multimedia producer, software developer, home inspector, Lyme disease survivor, storyteller, dad. This time of year, however, the Mission Viejo resident becomes the man of the season: Old St. Nick. Todd, you see, with his rosy cheeks, sparkling eyes and lush white beard, bears an uncanny resemblance to Santa Claus. As a member of the Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santas, he entertains at holiday parties and events, and thrills children across Orange County to help make the season bright. “Of all the hats I’ve worn in my life,” he says, “this is definitely one that fits the best.” More info.

Kick off the holiday season with something festive and useful: gorgeous poinsettias that support Mission Viejo High School’s instrumental music programs. These plants from Armstrong Gardens, wrapped in gold foil, will brighten any home, office or gathering. Choose delivery right to your door or easy pickup at MVHS. Every purchase helps fund the school’s bands, orchestras and color guard, so you get holiday cheer while also supporting young musicians. More info. — Myrra Uppuluri

Silverado High School kicked off the academic year with a new principal: Justin Stanfield. Part of the Saddleback Valley Unified School District, Silverado is a continuing education school that provides a dynamic, standards-based, student-centered education for at-risk students. “I’m excited to work alongside our exceptional faculty, support staff, students, families and community members as we continue to foster an environment where every student can succeed,” said Stanfield. “Whether it’s in our classrooms, through our arts programs or in our numerous activities, every Eagle has the chance to discover their passions and reach their full potential.”

$1,299,900, 3 beds, 2 baths, 1,470 sq. ft.

Single-level home with many recent upgrades, including new roof, HVAC, double-paned vinyl windows and plantation shutters, and outdoor landscape lighting. Fully remodeled kitchen with elegant maple shaker-style cabinets, attractive quartz countertops and modern appliances. The expansive backyard is perfect for relaxing with family, hosting gatherings and outdoor dining. A charming gazebo adds a special touch for year-round enjoyment. There’s plenty of space to create your own retreat for a pool, outdoor activities or home expansion—all with exceptional privacy. More info.

Listing agent: Christopher Zoch, 949-547-1723, Coldwell Banker Realty

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Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

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