February 17, 2026

Hi, . The Winter Olympics have me watching sports I’d never bother with otherwise—like curling. Nothing says peak athletic drama like aggressively sweeping ice at 2 miles per hour. In this week’s Buzz:

Anglers, grab your rods and reels! Lake Mission Viejo was restocked for the first time in a year and a half on Friday, February 6. Seven hundred pounds of 12"-15" catfish and 500 bluegill were released. Thanks to favorable water conditions and low golden algae levels, the fish appear to be thriving. Catfish are going for nightcrawler worms, “stink” baits and garlic-flavored Powerbait, while a small worm portion or chunk of Powerbait is best for catching bluegill. More fish may be added if the good conditions continue—though golden algae is unpredictable. The last time the lake was stocked was in spring 2024, but the fish survived only for a short time. More info.

Got a hole in your daughter's favorite stuffed animal? A vacuum cleaner that won't suck? A chair that wobbles? Don’t toss it—bring it to Repair Cafe OC on February 25 at the Norman P. Murray Community & Senior Center. There’s a 71% chance a local expert can make your item like new in minutes. Founded by Mission Viejo resident Jill Packard, Repair Cafe OC gathers folks skilled in fixing, mending, tinkering, sewing and rejuvenating broken stuff. The work is free, though donations are appreciated. “It’s both a chance to save repairable items and a social event,” says Jill. Hours: 5:30-9:30 PM. More info

The Jewish religion is often misunderstood by followers of other faiths. Rabbi Zalman Marcus (pictured) of the Chabad Jewish Center of Mission Viejo aims to answer questions about Judaism posed by anyone who is curious through the “Jewish Bible Heritage Tour,” a program that invites non-Jews to learn about the beliefs of Judaism. Chabad visitors can see Torah scrolls, menorahs, prayer shawls and other ritual items, and ask questions of Rabbi Marcus. “This is a wonderful opportunity for people to realize that although we may have theological differences, we fundamentally all want to live a happy, meaningful, spiritual life,” says Rabbi Marcus. More info. 📍 24041 Marguerite Pkwy.

Looking for a great volunteer opportunity? Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County can use your help to ensure that our neighbors in need have dignified, equitable and consistent access to nutritious food. Second Harvest supplies food to a partner network of 286 organizations. These organizations, in turn, distribute the food for free to over 458,000 people each month. Volunteer shifts are available at Second Harvest’s Irvine distribution center six days a week and farm five days a week. There are options for kids as young as seven years old, and teens over the age of 16 don’t even need a chaperone. There’s absolutely no ongoing commitment required. More info. — Linda Coss

From its beginnings as a way for German soldier Joseph Pilates to maintain physical fitness while interned during World War I, Pilates has grown into a global discipline practiced by more than 12 million people. Maya Parris and Paulette Vasconcellos (pictured) believe it can help people feel good, look good and transform the way they move through life. Their new studio, Soul Movement Pilates, helps folks of all ages reach those goals through classes ranging from free orientations to advanced sculpting sessions. Members can even combine Pilates with yoga at Paulette’s Soul Movement Yoga next door. “We’re creating an open, inviting community that makes it fun to build not just physical strength, but also a strong mind,” says Maya. More info. 📍 25380 K Marguerite Pkwy.

The Trabuco Hills High School Girls’ Varsity Basketball team captured a Sea View League Championship. The Lady Mustangs went 7-1 in league play and 22-4 overall. In the first round of the CIF Southern Section Playoffs, they defeated La Serna High School in convincing fashion, 70-46. Sophomore Ellie Tapper led the team with 27 points, and senior Kelsie Wong added 12 points. The Lady Mustangs’ quest for a CIF Championship continues this week. Congratulations to Coach Calvin Mackey and the entire team. Good luck in the playoffs!

Raising Resilience is a student-led club at Mission Viejo High School focused on a simple goal: to brighten someone’s day. Club members make handmade motivational bracelets, which are then delivered to nursing homes and hospitals. “The bracelets are cute little reminders of strength during challenging times,” said club founder and president Hannah L. Recently, club leaders personally handed out more than 100 bracelets to nursing home patients, families and staff. “Seeing all those smiling faces encouraged me to be a part of Raising Resilience,” said vice president Norah B. The club’s work proves that small gestures of kindness can brighten even the darkest days.— Myrra Uppuluri

ATTENTION STUDENT WRITERS!

If you’re a middle or high school student in Mission Viejo and want to report on the activities, events and people at your school for the Buzz, we’d love to hear from you. It’s a great way to earn a byline, build experience and have your voice heard. Reach out to [email protected].

$1,349,000, 4 beds, 2 baths, 1,782 sq. ft.

This well-maintained home is set on a large corner lot. Upon entry, you’re welcomed by a bright living room and formal dining area. The kitchen opens to the family room, featuring a cozy gas fireplace and sliding glass door that leads directly to the spacious wraparound backyard. The primary suite includes two closets with mirrored doors and a private en-suite bathroom. Three additional bedrooms feature brand-new carpet and recessed lighting. Updated vinyl windows are found throughout the home, enhancing both comfort and efficiency. Step outside to enjoy an Alumawood patio cover and expansive lawn.  More info.

Listing agent: Scott Alden, 949-466-2933, eXp Realty of California

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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Have an event you want to list? Simply send your info, including contact details, to [email protected].

It’s been a treat getting to know Rabbi Zalman Marcus over the last few weeks. Chabad of Mission Viejo is doing some wonderful things to bring our community together, and I hope you’ll take advantage of these opportunities. I invite Mission Viejo congregations of all faiths to reach out and let us know what you’re up to.

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

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