January 13, 2026

Hi, . I like to begin each issue with a silly joke. I don’t have one this week, but if I did, it would be freaking hysterical. Trust me. In this week’s Buzz:

The City annually recognizes employees who have set themselves apart through their commitment to serving the community. The three folks honored this year will be formally recognized at an upcoming City Council meeting.

Deputy Cameron Mosher is the 2025 Mission Viejo Police Services’ Employee of the Year. In his two-and-a-half years serving the City, Deputy Mosher has worked as a patrol deputy, Explorer Post Advisor, drone pilot and member of multiple specialized teams. His work mentoring aspiring law enforcement professionals through the Explorer program made the greatest impact this year. “Deputy Mosher demonstrates the maturity necessary to earn the respect of the City’s residents, while also possessing the ability to relate effectively to youth through his skills and professional development," said Sgt. Joe Pawlikowski. More info.

Fire apparatus engineer and paramedic Max Harter is the 2025 Orange County Fire Authority’s Mission Viejo Employee of the Year. In his role, Max demonstrates superior technical skill, calm decision-making under pressure, and a strong dedication to training and operational readiness. He was cited for his deep understanding of fireground operations, apparatus management, and advanced emergency medical care, all of which elevate the performance of his crews and directly enhance the quality of service provided to Mission Viejo residents. “Max embodies the highest standards of public service, professionalism, and leadership within the Orange County Fire Authority,” said Fire Captain Christopher Trokey. More info.

Animal control officer Stephanie DeAlmeida is Mission Viejo's 2025 Employee of the Year. A seven-year employee of the City, Stephanie is known for being kind, compassionate and caring, and her stellar work with Animal Services has earned the respect of her peers and supervisors alike. She is assigned to investigations where she handles complex and sensitive cases involving animal cruelty, dangerous and vicious dog investigations, nuisance complaints and compliance checks. “Drawing on more than 15 years of veterinary experience, Stephanie helped establish procedures, assisted in surgeries and supported medical evaluations that have elevated the standard of care for animals within the City,” said Animal Services Manager Kyle Werner. More info.

Because golfing at night isn’t weird enough, Oso Creek Golf Course is going full fantasy mode with a nighttime Gnome Hunt on January 24 (6–9 PM). After a buffet dinner and hot chocolate, you and your family will pile into a flashlight-equipped golf cart and cruise all 18 holes searching for sneaky little gnomes while solving their mystery riddle. The damage: $55 for adults, $48 for kids ages 5–12. It’s part scavenger hunt, part detective story, part “what the heck are we doing out here?” Register now—before the gnomes unionize or vanish back into the rough. More info.

The Village People had it right in their exuberant ‘70s anthem, “YMCA”: the Y is a great place to get in shape and build community. Now the YMCA is making it easier than ever to get in on the fun. All Orange County Y’s—including the Mission Viejo Family YMCA—are waiving their enrollment fee through January 31, a savings of up to $90! There’s no better time to get your body moving in the Y’s weight room, swimming pool, and group exercise classes like Spin, Zumba, Bodypump and Yoga Flow. Let the fun begin! More info.📍 27341 Trabuco Cir.

Hawaii's “aloha spirit” is alive and well at the Mission Viejo Farmers Market. Each Saturday morning, you can find Vincent and Eliza Adriatico of Lumpians of Planet Earth serving up tasty Maui-inspired Filipino food while serenading the crowd with Hawaiian music—Vincent strums his ukulele as Eliza hula dances. If that’s not draw enough, the aroma of their food lures lines of adventurous eaters. On the menu are generously sized lumpia, a type of Filipino egg roll; pancit, vegetables stir-fried with rice noodles; and the Hawaiian staple, spam musubi. For the uninitiated, spam musubi combines sticky rice with a thick slice of spam, wrapped in seaweed and topped with a sweet soy sauce. No wonder Vincent is often called “Uncle Spam!” Stop by next Saturday and say “aloha!” More info.

GameStop in the Shops at Mission Viejo is throwing in the towel. The video game store has permanently closed as part of an ongoing reduction in brick-and-mortar locations due to “underperformance” and shifting consumer tastes. The Mission Viejo closure is one of 36 in California and 390 nationwide. The retailer previously closed 590 stores in fiscal year 2024.

Experience the Diablo difference at Mission Viejo High School’s annual Showcase! This is a great opportunity to get a taste of student life at the school, meet teachers and staff, and explore academic and extracurricular programs. Whether you’re a current or prospective student, a parent or community member, Showcase is a great way to experience the creativity and excellence that Mission puts into every program. Enjoy performances from the Cheer team, band and choir, visit booths on the football field, and learn about sports, arts, classes and what it’s like to be a Diablo. The event is tomorrow, January 14, at 5 PM. — Myrra Uppuluri

Trabuco Hills High School’s new thrift shop, Monty & Millie’s Exchange, is a win-win for students. Four student founders—twins Olivia and Shelby Kwon, Sofia Kim and Chloe Park—launched the project in October with special education teacher Kara Johnson to provide free clothing to classmates while teaching retail job skills. Open Wednesdays at lunch, the shop offers vintage finds, prom dresses and trendy pieces that fuel teens’ thrifting craze. Students can select two free items per visit, with lines often extending outside the classroom-turned-boutique. Special education students gain hands-on experience organizing inventory, managing shoppers and running operations—skills that translate to real-world employment.

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].

$1,999,000, 5 beds, 5 baths, 3,227 sq. ft.

Resort-style living doesn’t get any better. This luxury home features upscale amenities with an incredible backyard that includes a saltwater pool, swim-up table, waterfall and 12-person spa. Indoors, the home has been completely upgraded. The spacious kitchen includes a five-burner Verona gas range, additional oven and microwave, large island, and separate breakfast counter. The primary suite is a relaxing retreat with a walk-in closet, coffered ceiling, crown molding and private veranda access. The ensuite bath includes dual vanities, a jetted tub, and a walk-in shower with rain shower heads and body jets. Also upstairs are four additional spacious bedrooms, including one with a private ensuite bathroom. More info.

Listing agent: Amy Balsz, 949-246-5222, 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!

Click below to help spread the word!

Share the Buzz

Having a yard or garage sale? Got stuff you want to sell or give away? List it here for free! Simply send your listing, including contact information and a photo to [email protected].

Our weather is pretty spectacular lately, right? I was chatting at Saturday’s Farmers Market with a local resident who grew up on the East Coast, and she commented that there’s no place else she’d rather live. With a temperature of 73° and a cloudless sky yesterday, I couldn’t agree more!

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

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

Proofreader: Stella LissakWant to change how you receive these emails?

You can unsubscribe.