February 24, 2026

Hi, . The men’s Olympic gold medal hockey game between the U.S. and Canada was 60 minutes of nerve-wracking intensity. My fingernails will eventually grow back… I hope. In this week’s Buzz:

The City’s Planning and Transportation Commission recently approved redevelopment of a portion of the Vista Del Lago apartment complex at 21622 Marguerite Pkwy. The project includes demolition of 68 existing apartments and construction of 418 new units in a six-story, wrap-style structure located at the center of the complex. California law requires all cities to plan for housing across all income levels—non-compliance risks fines and loss of local control. The Vista Del Lago development meets the state’s mandatory housing requirements while seeking to preserve Mission Viejo’s unique character. Some residents have raised concerns about the plan, however, claiming that the new structure will negatively impact their neighborhood. All residents are encouraged to share their perspective at the March 10 City Council meeting. More info.

Mission Viejo’s Jack Propeck has an Instagram account featuring videos of him jumping from airplanes, cliffs and other tall objects. One of his latest stunts has landed him in hot water with federal authorities. The video shows Propeck BASE jumping from Glacier Point in Yosemite—illegal in national parks. BASE jumping is an extreme sport in which participants leap from objects including skyscrapers, radio antennas and mountaintops, landing safely with the aid of a parachute. Although park video shows Propeck entering the park on the day of the alleged jump, he denies the charge, claiming he used AI to fabricate the footage. Propeck is due in court April 7 for arraignment.

Food pantry items are in high demand by families in need. The Mission Viejo Farmers Market is hosting a Canned Food Drive this Saturday, February 28, to help. All donated food items will go to the Families Forward Community Market, a grocery-style space in Irvine where families can choose food and essential items that best fit their needs and dietary preferences. In addition to canned food, items like cereal, rice, pasta noodles, peanut butter, and mac and cheese are also welcome. Non-food items—including diapers, baby wipes and feminine hygiene products—can also be donated. The Farmers Market is open 9 AM-1 PM. More info. 📍 25282 Marguerite Pkwy.

The Mission Viejo YMCA is a great place to work out and get into shape. On select Friday nights it’s also a place for kids to eat, play games and watch movies while their parents hit the town. Themed Date Nights at the Y are offered monthly through April. Upcoming evenings include this Friday’s “Into Space,” a “Superhero Party” on March 27 and “Hop Into Spring” on April 10. YMCA members pay $29 to participate; non-members are welcome too for $49. Children ages 3–11 are welcome. More info. 📍 27341 Trabuco Cir.

After nearly 40 years, Chocobean is brewing up a fresh chapter. The Hashoul family—seasoned café operators who previously ran four Choco Bean Cafés in Australia—purchased the beloved coffeehouse in July 2025. The name match? Pure coincidence. Or perhaps destiny with a double espresso shot. The family is honoring longtime Chocobean traditions while adding fresh flavors and a contemporary vibe. High-quality Arabica beans are still roasted in-house every Wednesday, and most items are scratch-made—from savory breakfast sandwiches on locally baked bagels to crisp salads. There are also new treats like croissants, pastries and cookies. Stop by to taste what’s new and enjoy a free coffee when you buy one. More info.📍 26032 Marguerite Pkwy, #D.

A seed of an idea can grow into a beautiful gift. Nicole Sparks, a teacher at Del Lago Elementary School, secured grants totaling $16,800 to build a raised garden at the school. Contributions came from Cox Communications, Whole Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market and other local companies. On installation day at Del Lago, 15 Cox Communications employees helped out alongside 10 students from Trabuco Hills High School's Key Club, and additional staff and community members. Together, the team cleaned up the area and built the raised garden beds—the start of something that will benefit students for years to come.

Saddleback Valley Unified School District is home to many great educators. Each year it recognizes the very best with its Teacher of the Year honors across its 33 schools. Here are the 2026 winners at the elementary schools located in Mission Viejo: Zoie Lange at de Portola; Kiaya Snow at Del Cerro; Nicole Sparks at Del Lago; Stefanie Chiljian at Glen Yermo, Marcie Gamble (pictured) at La Tierra; Kenna Carey at Linda Vista; and Jaclyn Gerken at Montevideo. Intermediate school winners are Dan Robbins at La Paz and Erika Mota at Los Alisos. Kelly Turner at Mission Viejo, Alexis Asmus at Silverado and Emily Tombleson at Trabuco Hills were recognized at our local high schools.

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].

$1,424,990, 3 beds, 2 baths, 1,472 sq. ft.

Located on a quiet cul-de-sac near Pavion Park and steps away from the Oso Creek Trail, this home has been renovated inside and out. All major systems are updated, including plumbing, electrical and HVAC. There are new cabinets, appliances, quartz countertops and a large central island in the kitchen. The primary suite features a large walk-in closet and luxurious bathroom boasting a large, freestanding soaking tub, a zero-entry tiled shower and a dual sink.

The exterior of the home has been freshly painted, and new hardscape and landscape helps to beautify the exterior. The home sits on a large view lot with plenty of room for a future pool. More info.

Listing agent: Jonathan Petersen, [email protected], BOLD Realty Group

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Development in Mission Viejo never fails to spark debate—between residents who like things the way they are and those who believe our city can better capitalize on all it has to offer. The March 10 City Council meeting is an opportunity to weigh in.

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

Copyright (C) 2026 | Lissak Communications. All rights reserved.

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