January 27, 2026

Hi, . This morning I looked out the window and saw an Amazon van, UPS truck and Fed Ex truck out front. Clearly, there was some heavy ship going down. In this week’s Buzz:

Southern Nevada has its Area 51, the secretive U.S. Air Force base said to house alien spacecraft. Southern California has Site 3, a wild tract of land in Mission Viejo that the City Council is exploring for development. Located between the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center and Saddleback College, Site 3 covers 23 acres with an estimated developable area of just under 6 acres, which could yield more than 200 new residences. City officials have analyzed proposals for initial development of the property and are now beginning negotiations with the selected builder. Unlike Area 51, Site 3’s secrets won’t remain classified for long—residents can expect to see development plans unveiled in the coming months.

Run for a cause while celebrating America’s 250th birthday! The Oso Fit 5K Fun Run is set for Saturday, February 28, at the Norman P. Murray Community & Senior Center. The patriotic-themed event includes a 5K race along the Oso Creek Trail, and quarter- and half-mile races for kids (perfect for little legs!). There will also be a Community Health Fair offering free health screenings and giveaways. Every dollar of your pre-registration fee goes to the nonprofit of your choice. Register by February 20 at 7 PM to snag discounted fees and an event T-shirt. On your marks! More info.

Photo by Jen Badraun

Tired of a roaring lawn mower disrupting your morning coffee? One local resident is. At the January 13 City Council meeting, Michael Schlesinger pitched a ban on gas-powered yard equipment within city limits, including mowers, trimmers and leaf blowers. The idea is not new. California banned new sales of gas-powered lawn equipment in 2024, though older machines can still be used. Irvine led Orange County with a usage ban in 2023, followed by Buena Park last year. The data is compelling—running a gas mower for one hour emits roughly the same amount of air pollution as driving a car 100 miles. Small gas engines produce 5% of all U.S. greenhouse gases. Schlesinger’s closing argument: If nothing else, zero-emission lawn equipment will allow us to sit in our backyards in relative peace. More info.

Ahoy, Lake Mission Viejo boaters: Don't get caught without your 2026 registration tag! That little sticker is mandatory for all personal watercraft on the lake—and forgetting it means a $100 fine (yikes). Returning boaters can grab their updated tag at the membership office. First-timers must call 949-770-1313 to book an appointment. Now get out there and enjoy the water!

Want to make a real difference in your community? Mission Viejo is rallying volunteers for Orange County's Point in Time Homeless Count on Thursday, January 29. This biennial count provides crucial data on the homeless population—numbers and demographics that directly shape how local government addresses the issue. Volunteers are needed as team captains, field surveyors and deployment center support staff. Register to volunteer in the South County Service Planning Area and access the recorded training session online. It’s a few hours that could impact thousands of lives. More info.

Ever felt the need to hurl a sharp axe across the room? Look no further than Whoop Axe. Located at the Kaleidoscope, Whoop Axe is an axe-throwing and entertainment venue designed to provide a safe and thrilling environment for throwers of all skill levels. Expert instructors are on hand to guide participants in the art of axe throwing and to help unleash their inner lumberjack. There’s also a full bar, food, a lounge area for watching sports, and a pumping sound system for dancing. What else do you need for an axe-kicking good time? More info.📍 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy, Ste 207.

Meet Mission Viejo High School’s January Artist of the Month, Sumaya Siddiqi! A senior and two-year member of the Drama program, Sumaya has shined in both the Spring Musical and Fall Play. She’s not just a talented actor—she also serves as the Drama department’s head of hair and makeup. Deeply passionate about inclusivity and representation on and off the stage, Sumaya says, “I’m motivated by my ability to create space for people like me in the world of theater.” After every show, she loves celebrating with her cast, sharing how those moments “bring us together as a community.” Sumaya’s dedication truly makes the program shine.— Myrra Uppuluri

Thinking of switching your child’s school next year? If they attend a school in the Saddleback Valley Unified School District and you haven’t submitted a School Choice Transfer Request yet, you need to act fast—the deadline is this Friday, January 30. Submitting the form is the only way to request a transfer for the 2026-27 school year. Transfers aren’t first-come, first-served—requests are approved through an impartial random lottery, based on space availability at the requested school. Don’t wait! Make your choice and get your request in. More info.

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].

$2,075,000, 4 beds, 3.5 baths, 3,557 sq. ft.

Located within the guard-gated Canyon Crest community, this gorgeous home greets you with beautiful vinyl wood flooring and tons of natural lighting. The elegantly remodeled kitchen includes top-of-the-line appliances by Viking and Thermador, quartz countertops, shaker cabinets and more. The backyard was recently reinvented with a pool and spa, pergola and string lights. One bedroom is downstairs, with an ensuite bathroom. The remaining three bedrooms, in addition to a large loft/option for a fifth bedroom or bonus room, are upstairs. There are sweeping views of rolling hills and pine trees from the backyard or upstairs. More info.

Listing agent: Mark Elmasry, [email protected], Douglas Elliman 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].

I was saddened when I heard that Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead passed away on January 10. Truly the end of an era that had a significant impact on my life. Fare thee well, Bobby, and rest easy knowing that the music never stops.

Keith Lissak

Publisher/Editor

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