May 5, 2026

Hi, . My wife is a great mom and deserves the world for Mother’s Day. I got her a card instead. In this week’s Buzz:

A brush fire ignited just after noon last Tuesday near Arroyo Trabuco Golf Course, prompting a swift response from crews at Mission Viejo and surrounding OCFA stations. With support from two FIREHAWK helicopters, the Arroyo Fire was quickly contained to about one acre with no structures damaged. However, the blaze prompted the evacuation of staff and animals at the nearby Mission Viejo Animal Services center, which remained closed until noon Wednesday. Fire danger is expected to rise across Southern California as summer approaches. Low snowpack and March’s heat wave are forecast to dry out brush earlier than usual, raising wildfire risk, especially in inland and lower-elevation areas. More info.

The Mission Viejo City Council unanimously approved a partnership with WISEPlace to house very low-income residents who are homeless or at risk. The Orange County nonprofit offers shelter, counseling, mental health services, case management, and addiction and employment support. WISEPlace will take over management of two condominium homes under a minimum 35-year agreement. The city's share is $530,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant funds; WISEPlace is contributing $355,000. “There are two beautiful families in these units, and we are looking forward to serving them,” said WISEPlace CEO Brateil Aghasi (pictured). More info.

Who doesn’t love a big steaming bowl of chili? Whether you like it with or without beans, chunks of beef or pork, mild or five-alarm hot—or even vegetarian (which should be outlawed)—chili is always a crowd-pleaser. Show off your best batch at the Rotary Club of Mission Viejo’s 4th Annual Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, May 23, at the Norman P. Murray Community Center. The winners get more than bragging rights: $500 for first place, $250 for second, and $100 for third! There will be live music, and beer, wine and soft drinks available for purchase. All proceeds benefit Mission Viejo High School scholarships and local charities. Get cooking!  More info.

There’s nothing more frustrating than hitting the gym only to find your favorite elliptical out of order—or a rower that’s clearly past its prime. That won’t be a problem at the Mission Viejo YMCA, which has just upgraded its cardio rooms with brand-new equipment. The lineup includes sleek TechnoGym rowers, StairMaster climbers, and Life Fitness treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes—all equipped with the latest features, from advanced workout programs to seamless Bluetooth connectivity. In other words: less waiting, better workouts, and every reason to plug in, turn up your music, and break a serious sweat. More info.

A fresh face is running for California State Assembly District 71, which includes Mission Viejo. JJ Galvez, a 34-year-old Democrat, is seeking the seat currently occupied by Republican Kate Sanchez. Originally from Honduras, Galvez moved to the U.S. in 2010 on a student visa to attend Loyola Marymount University. He says his decision to run is rooted in wanting to give back to the state where he built his life and a career in tech. “I grew up admiring this country, so it’s heartbreaking to see how divided we’ve become,” Galvez said. “Lowering the cost of living in California will help every resident, regardless of party.” More info. Editor’s Note: The Buzz will feature candidates running for local office this election season, regardless of party affiliation.

Mission Viejo is about to get a new go-to for Latin flavors. Mucho Mucho Market, a popular shop in Laguna Niguel known for its specialty pantry goods, is expanding into the former High Park Tap House space at 23641 Via Linda. Owners Juan Vargas, Michelle Endo and Alex Arellano expect to open by the end of summer. The new location will offer features not available at the original, including hot food and patio dining. For fans of the original, there’s no need to worry—the Golden Lantern location, which just celebrated its five-year anniversary, isn’t going anywhere. More info.

Students from across the Saddleback Valley Unified School District gathered at Trabuco Hills High School on April 23 for the 7th Annual Unified School Games, a districtwide event focused on inclusion, teamwork and school spirit. About 800 students from 13 schools participated, taking part in activities including flag football, cheer, fitness challenges, water relays and soccer. “In Saddleback Valley, we are deeply committed to Unified programs and the opportunities they provide for our students,” said Superintendent Crystal Turner. “Unified brings students together through teamwork, friendship and belonging.” More info.

The Little Mermaid. Beauty and the Beast. Frozen. Your favorite songs from Walt Disney films like these will get the royal treatment at Mission Viejo High School Choir’s Spring Concert, the final choir event of the year. Since 2013, the program has flourished under the direction of Sarah Norris, gaining recognition as one of the premier choral programs in South Orange County and earning top honors in competitions across the U.S. MVHS’s talented choir students will perform classic Disney favorites alongside newer hits at this performance, so there’s sure to be something for everyone. Bring your friends and family to support these incredible singers one final time this school year on May 8 at 7 PM in the Performing Arts Theatre. — 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].

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Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 10. Treat mom to a special brunch at one of our local restaurants.

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Beginning with this issue, the Buzz will feature political candidates for local office and issues affecting our community. We welcome participation from qualified candidates of all parties. We’ll also accept paid political ads representing a range of viewpoints. These will be clearly labeled. Whether editorial or advertising, appearance in the Buzz does not imply endorsement.

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

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

Proofreader: Stella Lissak

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