June 9, 2026

Hi, . Growing older is mandatory; growing up remains optional. I'll be testing that theory tonight when I see the band Rush with my closest friend, who I’ve known since we were nine. In this week’s Buzz:

Capistrano Valley High School's Class of 2026 crossed the stage last Thursday in the school’s new $21.5 million stadium, opened just one week ago. The upgraded venue features seating for 2,750 fans, new concessions and restrooms, improved lighting, a modern sound system, and a press box with elevator access. Funded through a combination of state and city funds, the project broke ground in spring 2025. The previous year's Class of 2025 ceremony was held at Saddleback College while construction was underway.

A major redevelopment could transform the southern end of Marguerite Pkwy near Avery Pkwy. The Horowitz Group, a Newport Beach-based real estate investment firm, has proposed demolishing the existing Burlington store and the long-vacant former Coco's restaurant to make way for a 413-unit apartment complex. The developer’s plans are under review, and the City is appealing the project’s affordable housing requirements. If approved, it would be among Mission Viejo’s largest redevelopment projects in recent years and could prove as contentious as the Vista Del Lago apartment redevelopment.

A tiny mewing in a driveway led to a big Mission Viejo Animal Services rescue. A Laguna Niguel resident spotted a baby bobcat wandering alone in their front yard and called MVAS. Animal Control Officer Stephanie DeAlmeida responded and found the roughly 4-week-old kitten nearby with no mother in sight. Underweight and lethargic, the bobcat needed urgent care. She was taken to the MVAS center, where staff provided medical treatment before transferring her to a specialized wildlife rehabilitation partner for continued care and eventual release. MVAS encourages residents who encounter young wildlife to avoid handling the animals and contact the agency immediately.

The Canaveras Ridge Walk Trail delivers one of Mission Viejo’s most striking 360° views. From this elevated perch, the landscape stretches past Irvine and Newport Beach westward toward Catalina Island, while the peaks of the Santa Ana Mountains rise to the east. It’s a sweeping reminder of Southern California’s scale—coastline to peaks in a single glance. Tucked just north of Canaveras on Lago Del Vista, the mile-long trail is a scenic gem, and perhaps one of the city’s best-kept secrets.

Happy hour started with the U.S. Navy more than a century ago, then took off during Prohibition. Mission Viejo’s Piccolino Ristorante is keeping the tradition alive every day from opening until 5:45 PM. Guests can enjoy $7 beers, $10 wines (or $40 bottles), and $10 cocktails, including Negronis, Old Fashioneds and Margaritas. The menu also features discounted small plates such as salads, pasta and cheese pizza. Whether you’re winding down after work or meeting friends before dinner, Piccolino’s daily happy hour offers plenty of reasons to raise a glass. More info.

In Southern California, fleas can affect pets year-round, but spring and summer are peak flea season. According to Joe Hamameh of Mission Viejo’s Dirty Pet Wash, effective flea control requires treating both your pet and your home—and timing is critical.

Start by giving your dog a thorough flea bath and applying a treatment such as Frontline or Advantix. The same day, use a flea fogger in your home, apply flea powder to carpets, and wash pet bedding in hot water. “Seven to 10 days later, repeat the entire process, because that’s when the flea eggs hatch,” Hamameh says. The follow-up treatment helps break the flea life cycle and prevent reinfestation.

Stevie has every reason to be happy. The 12-year-old border collie is living his best life—but it wasn’t always that way. As a puppy, he was so malnourished that the rescue organization feared he might be blind.

Everything changed when his foster family on Catalina Island introduced him to the water. Stevie quickly developed a love of boats and splashing at the surf’s edge. After being adopted by the Taylor family in South Orange County, he also learned to ride a stand-up paddleboard while family members snorkeled nearby. Not bad for a dog whose future once seemed impossible to see.

We want to meet your pets! Furry, feathery, scaly or anything in between—all creatures great and small that call Mission Viejo home are invited to appear in our Critter Corner section. Send a photo or video, along with a few words about what makes your companion one of a kind, to [email protected] and we'll take it from there.

$1,889,000, 4 beds, 4 baths, 3,076 sq. ft.

At the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in Pacific Hills, this home offers an exceptional blend of space, style and privacy. Soaring ceilings and sun-filled rooms set the tone, with an open layout anchored by a gas fireplace and wet bar in the living room. The kitchen features a large island, stainless steel appliances, stone countertops and backyard views. A downstairs guest suite adds flexibility for visitors or multigenerational living. Upstairs, the primary suite includes a dual-sided fireplace, dual walk-in closets, a private balcony and a spa-like bath. The garage has been upgraded with epoxy flooring and built-in storage, completing this exceptional package in one of Mission Viejo’s most sought-after neighborhoods. More info.

Listing agent: Carrie Wigh, (949) 701-2178, Bullock Russel Real Estate Services

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

Have you checked out the new Mission Viejo Buzz website? Along with local news, you’ll find a directory of Mission Viejo businesses, including dentists, plumbers, electricians, pizza places, and more. Keeping business local is what it's all about—and don't forget to tell them the Buzz sent you!

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.