Thanks Pep Boys.. this SAT.. read more!

Pep Boys hosting free filter exchange Saturday
Pep Boys in Aliso Viejo is hosting a free filter exchange program on Saturday, December 10.Simply bring in this flier and your used oil filter between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to Pep Boys at 26881 Aliso Creek Road and you'll receive a new filter free.Used oil must be stored properly in a clean, uncontaminated container. For more information, call 362-9254.

Donate used clothing and accessories to a worthy cause

Laura's house has a new location on El Toro Road. They are helping women from domestic violence and opened a new clothing store that is much easier to get to than the San Clemente location.

23635 El Toro Road, Suite F. It is located in the same shopping center as Smart n Final, BEV MO and Crunch Fitness. You will find it between Bev Mo and Crunch Fitness. YOu can pull up behind for clothing and book donations or visit the store during their hours.
Mon and Tuesday. 10 to 6pm
Wed_ Sat 10 to 8pm
Sunday 12 to 5pm.

Tel is 949-472-8800

It's a very worthy organization that has been helping women and their families for many years.
Visit them at www.laurashouse.org

Holiday Concert at Soka's New Performing Arts Theatre

Don't miss special Holiday Concert December 10


Tickets are available for a special Holiday Concert on Saturday, December 10 in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the City of Aliso Viejo and Soka University.

The Holiday Concert is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Soka's Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive.

The festive family event will feature community choirs, music ensembles and dance companies representing diverse cultures and time-honored holiday traditions.

The event is $10 for adults and $5 for children or free for kids who bring 2 cans of food for South County Outreach. Concert proceeds will benefit local scholarship programs.

Tickets are available by phone at 949-480-4278, online at www.soka.edu; or at Soka's box office, which is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For more information, contact the Aliso Viejo Community Services Department at 949-425-2550.




Holiday safety tips


Mayor Carmen Cave discusses the importance of holiday safety in her latest message, which is available by clicking here.













The City of Aliso Viejo, which incorporated July 1, 2001, encompasses approximately 7 square miles with over 46,123 residents. The City's annual budget is approximately $21 million. The budget is available on the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com. The City supports a thriving business community with companies such as Pacific Life Insurance Co.; United Parcel Service (UPS); Clarient; Valeant Pharmaceuticals; Q-Logic; Lennar Homes; Buy.Com; Fluor Daniel; Pepsi Bottling, Inc.; Shea Homes; the Renaissance ClubSport Hotel; and Bausch and Lomb. Aliso Viejo has 23 parks, vast open space and top-notch amenities including the Aliso Viejo Ranch and the City's new Conference Center and Aquatic Center. The City of Aliso Viejo, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2011, welcomes you to "Experience It All." For more information, visit www.cityofalisoviejo.com.

Pet photos with Santa for a donation on Saturday

Santa Paws Saturday



Santa Paws is coming to the area for a good cause. On Saturday, December 3, you and your pet can have your picture taken with Santa and also help support the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center, which serves Aliso Viejo.


Santa Paws will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Winter Wonderland Village nestled in the Kershaw Garden at the Mission Viejo Civic Center, 200 Civic Center.


The cost is $20 (cash or check only) for the portrait with Santa, and 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit the animals at the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center, located at 28095 Hillcrest. Friendly and social pets are welcome.
For more information, call 949-470-3045.

Santa is coming! This Sunday to Town Center

Santa Claus is coming to town Sunday



Santa Claus will arrive in Grand Park on Sunday, December 4 during the Aliso Viejo Community Association's (AVCA) Winter Holiday Event


The holiday event attracts people of all ages to the Grand Park/Town Center Amphitheater for a festive seasonal celebration. The fun kicks off at 4:30 p.m. and includes live entertainment; complimentary cookies and hot chocolate; and tons of holiday cheer.


Besides the arrival of jolly old St. Nick and his jovial bride, visitors will enjoy the official lighting of the holiday tree.


Kids can also visit with Santa after the formal program.


For more information, visit www.avca.net.














The City of Aliso Viejo, which incorporated July 1, 2001, encompasses approximately 7 square miles with over 46,123 residents. The City's annual budget is approximately $21 million. The budget is available on the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com. The City supports a thriving business

Help Support a Worthy Cause in Orange County

Please click on the link to see the trailer to this most important documentary being made about the loss of lives of our teens and young adults due to the abuse of prescription and illegal drugs. The newspapers don't like to talk about it, but if you ask around, I am pretty sure you know someone or have a friend of a friend who has suffered the heartbreak of losing someone to an overdose.

We live in a most beautiful place but we are not immune to the suffering this epidemic has caused. Please take a moment to watch the video and if so inclined to make even a small donation to getting this film shown on PBS and also in our schools and churches.

Looking for a new furry feline?

'There's a cat for that' promotion starts Saturday
Do you need a frisky play partner, lap warmer, morning alarm clock or cuddly companion? The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center, which serves Aliso Viejo, is launching its "There's a Cat for That" adoption campaign on Saturday with a major discount on dozens of friendly cats compatible with people of all ages, desires. For only $50, you can take home a lovable, cuddly cat or kitten of your choice. All cats are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and micro chipped. Plus, you'll receive a certificate for a free vet visit.The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is at 28095 Hillcrest. To view the available cats and kittens, visit www.cmvas.org. Information is also available by calling 949-470-3045.The City of Aliso Viejo, which incorporated July 1, 2001, encompasses approximately 7 square miles with over 46,123 residents. The City's annual budget is approximately $21 million. The budget is available on the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com. The City supports a thriving business community with companies such as Pacific Life Insurance Co.; United Parcel Service (UPS); Clarient; Valeant Pharmaceuticals; Q-Logic; Lennar Homes; Buy.Com; Fluor Daniel; Pepsi Bottling, Inc.; Shea Homes; the Renaissance ClubSport Hotel; and Bausch and Lomb. Aliso Viejo has 23 parks, vast open space and top-notch amenities including the Aliso Viejo Ranch and the City's new Conference Center and Aquatic Center. The City of Aliso Viejo, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2011, welcomes you to "Experience It All." For more information, visit www.cityofalisoviejo.com.

Market update for 10.10.2011 to 11.10.2011

Currently we have 210 Active listings.
90 of them are standard sales

We have 108 listings in Back up status
22 of them are standard sales

We have 53 listings in Pending status
14 of them are standard sales

We closed 59 listings in this time period
25 of them were standard sales

We have 47 properties available for lease at this time.

It's time to buy a house, rates so low, prices down.. call me at 949-939-5188 if you are in the market or need more information. Aliso Viejo has been my home for 20 years!

Get your child's Car seat inspected Nov 15th for FREE

Free car seat inspections Nov. 15
Aliso Viejo Police Services and Safe Kids Orange County are conducting free child car seat inspections on Tuesday, November 15 at Corpus Christi Catholic-Christian Community Church, 27231 Aliso Viejo Parkway. Nationally certified child passenger safety technicians from Safe Kids Orange County will perform inspections and train parents and caregivers how to install and adjust their car seats properly. The one-hour inspections are by appointment only from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Appointments are available by contacting Safe Kids Orange County at 714-532-8631.Safe Kids Orange County is one of more than 600 coalitions across the country providing these services as part of the Safe Kids Buckle Up® program. Since 1996, Safe Kids Buckle Up has inspected more than 1 million car seats at more than 45,000 events and provided hands-on training to more than 15 million parents and caregivers.Motor vehicle crashes are the leading killer of children under 14. "Under California law, all children under six years old or under 60 pounds must be restrained in an appropriate car seat - whether in the family car, traveling with friends or relatives, or in a rental car or taxi," said Erin Malone, Safe Kids Orange County coordinator. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 73 percent of all child passenger restraints - more than 80 percent of car seats and about 40 percent of booster seats - are used incorrectly. "It's a parent's responsibility to make sure a child's car seat is properly installed and adjusted," Malone said. "We're here to show you how."Safe Kids Buckle Up® is a national program developed by Safe Kids Worldwide and sponsored by General Motors to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of properly restraining children on every ride.

Tonight is the night!

Fall Festival at Grand Park Oct 22 from 10 till noon

Don't miss out on this fun event. Costumes and candy stations along with other activities.. lots of fun for all ages!


Aliso Viejo Community AssociationFall Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 22nd from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Grand Park. Join us for a morning of pony rides, arts & crafts, DJ entertainment. Costume Parade Maze begins at 10:30am. Don't forget to bring canned food for our Canned Food Drive! http://www.avca.net/alisoviejo/picture/fall_harvest_flyer_2011.pdf
http://www.avca.net/alisoviejo/picture/fall_harvest_flyer_2011.pdfhttp://www.avca.net/

It's Food Truck Friday!!!!

Roach Coach? Award Winning Food Truck to Feed Aliso Viejo
"The Great Food Truck Race" winners will be serving their selection of fresh eats Friday.
By Julianna Crisalli
Email the author
9:23am
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Add your photos & videos
The Lime Truck, season two winners of Food Network's "The Great Food Truck Race," will be in Aliso Viejo Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Serving "crisp, refreshing, California beach cuisine," the Lime Truck spreads their culinary mission across Orange County.
"The concept is simple, make great healthy food and have it readily available. Our goal is to keep you feeling better, working easier and being happier."
Sample their winning recipes at 30 Enterprise.Related Topics: Food Network, The Great Food Truck Race, and The Lime Truck

Market update 9/13/2011 to 10/13/2011

Today we have 221 listings Active on the market of which 95 are standard sales.

We have 107 listings in Back Up status of which 24 are standard sales.

We have 54 listings in Pending status of which 24 are standard sales as well.

We closed 55 homes in this time period.

We currently have 49 properties available for lease.

Founders Day Event October 15

Founders Day Fair October 15
Celebrate the City of Aliso Viejo's 10th anniversary at its annual Founders Day Fair on Saturday, October 15.This spectacular "Day at the Ranch" is from noon to 6 p.m. at the 100 Park Ave.Strolling the grounds of the old Aliso Viejo Ranch is a once-a-year opportunity to experience a glimpse of Aliso Viejo's history and heritage. This unique fun-filled event will feature free rides and attractions in the carnival zone, live entertainment by Southland Mega Groove, panning for gold, a rock climbing wall, dunk tank, Ferris Wheel and inflatables along with pony rides, a petting zoo, delectable food and much more. Fair-goers will enjoy a puppet show, interactive exhibits and other demonstrations in the historical area to learn about Aliso Viejo's past. For more information, visit the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com or call 949-425-2550.The City of Aliso Viejo, which incorporated July 1, 2001, encompasses approximately 7 square miles with over 46,123 residents. The City's annual budget is approximately $21 million. The budget is available on the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com. The City supports a thriving business community with companies such as Pacific Life Insurance Co.; United Parcel Service (UPS); Clarient; Valeant Pharmaceuticals; Q-Logic; Lennar Homes; Buy.Com; Fluor Daniel; Pepsi Bottling, Inc.; Shea Homes; the Renaissance ClubSport Hotel; and Bausch and Lomb. Aliso Viejo has 23 parks, vast open space and top-notch amenities including the Aliso Viejo Ranch and the City's new Conference Center and Aquatic Center. The City of Aliso Viejo, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2011, welcomes you to "Experience It All." For more information, visit www.cityofalisoviejo.com.

Pet Clinic for shots and Micro Chipping

Low-cost vaccination, microchip clinic Oct. 12


The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center on October 12 will host a low-cost vaccination and microchip clinic for Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel and Aliso Viejo pet owners.The clinic will take place from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 28095 Hillcrest in Mission Viejo. The facility has been serving the City of Aliso Viejo since 2009.Dog vaccines include rabies $8; DHPP $21; and Bordetella $20. Cat vaccines include rabies $8; and FVRCP $22.Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel and Aliso Viejo pet owners can also have their animals licensed at the clinic. A license is required for all dogs starting at the age of 4 months.Microchipping is available for $20. The vaccine clinic will accept cash, check or Visa/MasterCard.For more information, call 949-470-3045 or click on the animal services link at www.cityofalisoviejo.com.

The City of Aliso Viejo, which incorporated July 1, 2001, encompasses approximately 7 square miles with over 46,123 residents. The City's annual budget is approximately $21 million. The budget is available on the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com. The City supports a thriving business community with companies such as Pacific Life Insurance Co.; United Parcel Service (UPS); Clarient; Valeant Pharmaceuticals; Q-Logic; Lennar Homes; Buy.Com; Fluor Daniel; Pepsi Bottling, Inc.; Shea Homes; the Renaissance ClubSport Hotel; and Bausch and Lomb. Aliso Viejo has 23 parks, vast open space and top-notch amenities including the Aliso Viejo Ranch and the City's new Conference Center and Aquatic Center. The City of Aliso Viejo, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2011, welcomes you to "Experience It All." For more information, visit www.cityofalisoviejo.com.

Register your telephone numbers to be part of the Alert OC system

Register with AlertOC to be included in 2nd annual regional test
More than two million Orange County residents will receive a call at 5 p.m. on October 20 to test the county's regional mass notification system known as AlertOC. This is the second annual regional test of the system and will include 29 participating cities - including Aliso Viejo - and the county's unincorporated areas.Residents are encouraged to self-register their cell phone numbers and other alternate numbers to be a part of the regional test. Aliso Viejo residents can do so by clicking on the AlertOC link at www.cityofalisoviejo.com. The City launched the program in 2009.The key feature of AlertOC is the ability for residents to register more than one contact method at a specific address. Registrations of cell phone and alternate numbers increase the potential of reaching the greatest number of community members as rapidly as possible. This enables landlines, cell phones and e-mail addresses to be incorporated into a single notification system.The regional test will be held in conjunction with the Great California ShakeOut earthquake drill. The AlertOC drill on October 20 will replicate a large scale, multi-jurisdictional emergency requiring thousands of numbers to be called simultaneously across Orange County's entire region. The phone message will urge residents to prepare for real-life emergencies by registering their cell numbers, text numbers and e-mail addresses at www.AlertOC.com for the best chance to receive vital, timely information when away from home. Emergencies can happen at any time. A wildfire could spread or a flood could close the roads to a neighborhood while residents are away from home. In these instances, AlertOC is a critical link for residents to immediately learn of any required actions. For more information or to register alternate phone numbers, visit www.cityofalisoviejo.com and click on AlertOC. The City of Aliso Viejo, which incorporated July 1, 2001, encompasses approximately 7 square miles with over 46,123 residents. The City's annual budget is approximately $21 million. The budget is available on the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com. The City supports a thriving business community with companies such as Pacific Life Insurance Co.; United Parcel Service (UPS); Clarient; Valeant Pharmaceuticals; Q-Logic; Lennar Homes; Buy.Com; Fluor Daniel; Pepsi Bottling, Inc.; Shea Homes; the Renaissance ClubSport Hotel; and Bausch and Lomb. Aliso Viejo has 23 parks, vast open space and top-notch amenities including the Aliso Viejo Ranch and the City's new Conference Center and Aquatic Center. The City of Aliso Viejo, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2011, welcomes you to "Experience It All." For more information, visit www.cityofalisoviejo.com.

Aliso Viejo Library Helping to Make History!

Local readers could help make history October 6
The City of Aliso Viejo and Aliso Viejo Library on October 6 are participating in a national effort to break the world record for the most number of children reading the same story on the same day.Jumpstart's Read for the Record, in partnership with the Pearson Foundation, allows people nationwide to demand that all children receive the quality early education they deserve. This year, the group hopes to set a new record with more than 2 million people reading "Llama Llama Red Pajama" by Anna Dewdney.Families are invited to enjoy an afternoon of snacks, crafts and reading at the Aliso Viejo Library at 1 Journey beginning at 3:30 p.m. The fun continues at the City's Iglesia Park Community Center at 7 p.m. The community center is located at 24671 Via Iglesia.

Italian Festival coming to Laguna Niguel this weekend!

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Birra Moretti Presents
La Dolce Vita Italian Festival!

Benvenuti alla Dolce Vita!

Italy is coming to Laguna Niguel on
Friday, Sept 30th 5pm to 10pm and Saturday, Oct. 1st 10am to 10 pm Join us for Great Italian Food, Amazing Italian Entertainment,
and Il Mercato featuring the finest of Italian style vendors.
Free Admission and Free Parking –Fun for the whole Family.

Endorsed by the City of Laguna Niguel

Italy is coming

Image yourself being transported across the ocean to the land where La Dolce Vita means enjoying everything life has to offer. Italians know how to enjoy and celebrate the finest things in life. But if you can't go to Italy this fall go to Laguna Niguel and share in the joy and excitement of living La Dolce Vita.
Delight in the amazing food like pasta, pizza,, and gelato. Have a "Lucy" moment in the grape stomp. Feel like "Lady and the Tramp" in our Spaghetti eating contest, or just stroll through the festival enjoying the breath taking art work of I Madonnari! Bring your kids to play in Il Giardino while you sip on Italian Wine and Beer while listening to great Italian Performers! Plus, don't forget to shop till you drop in our showcase of the finest Italian Vendors in Il Mercato. All day and night entertainment and keep your eye out for the Italian celebrities.

Event Sponsors

Save the date for our Founders Day Fair on Oct 15th

Save the date for Aliso Viejo Founders Day Fair Oct. 15    

Celebrate the City of Aliso Viejo's 10th anniversary at its annual Founders Day Fair on Saturday, October 15.

This spectacular "Day at the Ranch" is from noon to 6 p.m. at the 100 Park Ave.

Strolling the grounds of the old Aliso Viejo Ranch is a once-a-year opportunity to experience a glimpse of Aliso Viejo's history and heritage. This unique fun-filled event will feature free rides and attractions in the carnival zone, live entertainment by Southland Mega Groove, panning for gold, a rock climbing wall, dunk tank, Ferris Wheel and inflatables along with pony rides, a petting zoo, delectable food and much more. Fair-goers will enjoy a puppet show, interactive exhibits and other demonstrations in the historical area to learn about Aliso Viejo's past.

Market Update for Aliso Viejo 8/20/2011 to 9/20/2011

Current inventory is shrinking... We have 220 Active listings on the market.
180 Listings are in Back Up or Pending Status.
We sold 60 Properties in the last 30 day period.

Currently we have 56 Leases available in Aliso Viejo.

This information comes from the MLS data available to Realtors.

Discount Dog and Cat Vaccine Clinic on Sept 24th

Pet and Vet Clinic Sept. 24   

The City's Family Resource Center and Mission Viejo Animal Services Center are teaming up to host a low-cost Pet and Vet Clinic on Saturday, Sept. 24 at the Iglesia Park Community Center.

The cash-only clinic will offer vaccinations and micro-chipping at discounted rates along with dog licensing from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Vaccines for cats and dogs will range from $7 to $28. Dogs must be on leashes and cats in carriers. The Iglesia Park Community Center is located at 24671 Via Iglesia, near Moulton Parkway and Calle Cortez.

For more information, e-mail gduran@cityofalisoviejo.com or call 949-425-2519. Detailed vaccination information is also available on the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com.

Looking for something to do Saturday?

Volunteers sought to participate in Aliso Creek Clean-up Day Saturday, Sept. 17       Families, students, associations, clubs, churches, businesses and others are sought to help remove trash and debris from local creeks, trails and neighborhoods on Saturday, Sept. 17 during the 15th annual Inner Coastal and Neighborhood Clean-up Day. The community-wide event is from 8 a.m. to noon near the Aliso Viejo Ranch at 100 Park Avenue.  The City of of Aliso Viejo is teaming up with the City of Laguna Woods to host the event along with support from Moulton Niguel Water District, Doctor's Ambulance, and CR&R. Cleaning the creeks and watersheds that drain to the ocean keeps trash and debris from ending up on local beaches. Doing so also helps to preserve the beauty of pristine trails and the community as a whole. Residents can also collect trash and recyclables from their neighborhoods and bring those materials in bags to the clean-up site. Participants are encouraged to wear sunscreen and dress appropriately with hiking shoes, hats and gardening or work gloves. Complimentary refreshments and water will be available. For more information, contact Moy Yahya at 949-425-2538 or myahya@cityofalisoviejo.com.

9/11 Remembrance Ceremony and Kids Concert

Free Children's Concert Thursday


The Aliso Viejo Community Association (AVCA) will host a children's concert in Aliso Viejo Town Center on Thursday, Sept. 8.

The fun is from 11 to 11:45 a.m. with the Hullabaloo band, which writes songs that make kids laugh, think, sing, dance, clap, and stomp their feet.

The free concert is geared toward children and their parents who will enjoy songs like "Hey, Everybody!"; "Mama Llama"; "Yankee Doodle"; "You are My Sunshine"; and more.

Moms who want to squeeze in a bit of exercise before the concert are invited to come to the park early at 9:30 a.m. for a free one-hour workout pushing their strollers with other moms in the Stroller Strides program.

Aliso Viejo Town Center is at Aliso Creek Road and Pacific Park Drive. For more information, visit www.avca.net.



9/11 Remembrance Service


The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) will host a Remembrance Service to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

In Aliso Viejo, the ceremony will be held at 8:46 a.m. Sunday near the flag pole in front of Station 57. The ceremony ends at 9:10 a.m.

The ceremony will honor those who lost their lives and will pay a special tribute to the following uniformed services:
* 343 fallen members of FDNY
* 23 fallen members of NYPD
* 37 fallen members of the NY Port Authority Police

The public is invited to attend. Station 57 is located at 57 Journey. For more information, visit www.ocfa.org.

Market Update 8/8/2011 to 9/8/2011

234 Current Active Listings on the market
( 117 of them are standard sales)

126 Listings are in Back Up position

53 Listings are Pending

We closed 68 properties in this time period.

We have 42 properties available for lease in Aliso Viejo.

(interesting that last August our inventory dropped by about the same amount)

So this is what all the construction is about!

Lane closures on tap while work on Town Center Loop Pedestrian Enhancement Project continues
Journey at Aliso Creek Road is closed for about 10 days and some lanes will continue to be closed on Pacific Park Drive at Aliso Creek Road while workers install street pavers as part of the Town Center Loop Pedestrian Enhancement project.The Town Center Loop Trail, which essentially loops around Aliso Viejo Town Center, provides the community with another recreational component that promotes health and well being along with supporting the City's goals for a sustainable and "walkable" community. The trail is designed to provide pedestrians with a safer walking path and amenities to encourage pedestrians to complete the roughly 3-mile/5K walk.The first phase of the project was finished in 2009 and included new signage, crosswalks and more. This second phase, which began earlier this month, will complete all enhanced corner hardscape, distance markers, monuments and crosswalks for the trail. The project extends from the intersection of Aliso Viejo Parkway and Pacific Park Drive south along Aliso Viejo Parkway to the intersection of Aliso Viejo Parkway and Aliso Creek Road and then north along Aliso Creek Road to the intersection of Aliso Creek Road and Pacific Park Drive. In future phases, the City plans to add amenities such as seating, trash receptacles, public art, lighting and landscape enhancements.All construction is expected to be completed at the end of September. Concrete paver crosswalks will be installed across Pacific Park Drive at both Aliso Viejo Parkway and Aliso Creek Road. Current lane closures on Pacific Park Drive at Aliso Viejo Parkway will be lifted by Monday. However, lane closures on Pacific Park Drive at Aliso Creek Road will continue for the next couple of weeks. Traffic delays through the construction area are expected and alternate routes are recommended.For more information, call the Public Works Department at 949-425-2530. A map of the project is available by clicking here.

Soka is seeking usher volunteers for the Performing Arts Center

Volunteers, ushers sought for Soka Performing Arts Center
Soka University is seeking volunteer ushers and patron assistants for its new state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center. The center's premiere season opens Sept. 17 with a black tie-optional concert starting at 8 p.m. featuring Carl St. Clair and the Pacific Symphony, with pianist Horacio Gutierrez as soloist. A champagne reception will follow the grand opening performance in the 1,000-seat facility.Volunteers are sought to usher and assist patrons throughout the season. The concert hall is recruiting Soka students, faculty, staff and residents from Aliso Viejo and surrounding communities. Volunteers should be at least high school age, friendly and outgoing. They should be able to work 3 to 4-hour shifts several times a month and be willing to stay active as a concert hall volunteer for at least a year.Interested volunteers should complete the online "volunteer interest form" at www.performingarts.soka.edu/volunteer or e-mail their name, address and telephone number to volunteer@soka.edu.Orientation meetings for new volunteers are at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 9 and Wednesday, Sept. 14 at the Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive. All volunteers must attend at least one of these meetings.

Weekend of August 20 and 21

This weekend I had the opportunity to attend a couple of great events here in AV. I saw Grease the movie at Grand Park which was really a great experience. Lots of people attended and the screen is huge and easy to see from anywhere. Bring a picnic or buy candy and snacks from the local school kids.. a fun summer evening.

Then there was the Beatles concert in the park on Sunday which started at 530 and went to 730. What an enormous crowd! It was fun and jam packed all the way to about half of the park.. We sat towards the back with the dogs and enjoyed the music. Ran into lots of neighbors and friends and saw so many beautiful face painting creations on the children running about. The band was terrific and the weather couldn't have been better... WE have one more left on the 28th .. which is the tribute to Motown.. Going to have to make a point of getting there!

Aquatic Center to have new Fall hours!

Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center will have extended fall hours, swim program
The Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center will extend its operations through October 2 and feature a new fall swim program that kicks off on September 5.The facility is a resort-style swimming complex at 29 Santa Barbara, near Glenwood and Golf Drive. The center boasts a junior Olympic 5-lane lap pool, recreational pool, children's wading pool, toddler splash pad, adult whirl pool, Oasis Cafe, locker facilities, restrooms, and a patio with an outdoor patio fireplace.The pool is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends through Labor Day, Sept. 5. After that, it will be open for after-school and lap swimming from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends through October 2.Admission for Aliso Viejo residents is $5 adults; $3 youth (ages 2-13) and $3 seniors (ages 60+). Non-residents pay $7 for adults; $5 youth and seniors.The new fall swim program, hosted by Blueray Management, includes Mommy & Me (ages 6-24 months); Pre-School (ages 2-4); Learn to Swim (ages 3-8); and private swim lessons (all ages) that run through September 28.The Aquatic Center is conveniently located near Aliso Creek Road and Glenwood Drive, next to the Aliso Viejo Conference Center.For more information about the fall swim programs, call 949-500-8646 or e-mail dstack@blueraymanagement.com. Information about the Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center is available at www.alisoviejoaquaticscenter.com or by calling 949-425-2559. The City of Aliso Viejo, which incorporated July 1, 2001, encompasses approximately 7 square miles with over 46,123 residents. The City's annual budget is approximately $21 million. The budget is available on the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com. The City supports a thriving business community with companies such as Pacific Life Insurance Co.; United Parcel Service (UPS); Clarient; Valeant Pharmaceuticals; Q-Logic; Lennar Homes; Buy.Com; Fluor Daniel; Pepsi Bottling, Inc.; Shea Homes; the Renaissance ClubSport Hotel; and Bausch and Lomb. Aliso Viejo has 23 parks, vast open space and top-notch amenities including the Aliso Viejo Ranch and the City's new Conference Center and Aquatic Center. The City of Aliso Viejo, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2011, welcomes you to "Experience It All." For more information, visit www.cityofalisoviejo.com.

Grease is playing at Grand Park this Friday!!!

Movie night in the park. Don't miss out on this fun movie outside with friends and neighbors. Should be a really nice evening!

Fall Swim Team Starts Monday at our Aquatic Center

Fall swim team starts Monday
Registration is now available for the fall swim team at the Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center.

The swim team, offered through Blueray Management, takes place on Monday and Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. for kids 8 and under and from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. for children 9 and over.

The team will focus on stroke technique and will give members the chance to improve their individual swimming skills.

Cost is $150. Registration is available at the Aquatic Center, 29 Santa Barbara. The City facility is conveniently located at Aliso Creek Road and Glenwood Drive, next to the Aliso Viejo Conference Center.



For more information, e-mail avaquatics@kempersports.com or call 949-425-2559. Information about the facility is available www.alisoviejoaquaticscenter.com.

What are they doing to the street now? Aliso Creek and Pacific Park?

What is most amazing is how busy the street is. When I moved here in 1991 I could count the cars go by on Aliso Creek Road. I lived right below it in the Applause Tract.

Please watch out for your pets!!! Coyotes are out there.

Pet owners should beware of coyotes


After recent coyote attacks in surrounding cities, Mission Viejo Animal Services, which serves Aliso Viejo, is warning pet owners to beware of coyotes. Call 949-470-3045 immediately if any of the following occurs:

· Your pet is attacked or killed.

· Coyote is on your property or living close to your property.

· Coyote is acting unusually aggressive towards someone.

· You have been bitten by a coyote.

· Coyote is injured or appears sick.



Animal Services takes these situations seriously. Each report will be evaluated to determine if the coyote is behaving in an unusual manner or is a threat to human safety. Further action - including removing the animal - may be required.



People should always be aware of the presence of coyotes living within the community. Pet owners are encouraged to follow these safety practices and precautions:



· Be aware coyotes are more active in the spring, when feeding and protecting their young.

· If followed by a coyote, make loud noises. If this fails, throw rocks in the animal's direction.

· Do not leave small children or pets outside unattended.

· Do not allow cats outdoors to roam (day or night).

· Do not use a retractable leash - a leash should be no more than 6 feet. This allows you to be in control of your pet and ensures it's close to you at all times.

· Trim ground-level shrubbery and clear brush near your home to reduce places where coyotes live and hide.

· Keep pet rabbits in suitable cages.

· Keep tight covers on all trash containers, and put trash out on collection day at the latest opportunity.

· Never leave water or pet food outside.

· Never feed coyotes.

· Never attempt to touch, pet or capture wildlife. These animals will bite to protect themselves.



Remember, coyotes are hunters seeking a food source. By nature, they are fearful of humans, but if coyotes have access to human food and garbage, their behavior changes and they can lose caution and fear.



For more information or to report coyote incidents, call Mission Viejo Animal Services at 949-470-3045.


There was one on my lawn the other night.. 10:45 at night. If I had walked out the front door with the dogs, not sure what would have happened.

National Night Out Tuesday, Aug 9 at Target Center

Don't miss National Night Out Tuesday


The public is invited to attend a National Night Out event, "Celebrate National Night Out for Safety," on Tuesday, Aug. 9 at the Aliso Viejo Target Center.


The family event - hosted by Aliso Viejo Police Services, Laguna Hills Police Services and Target - is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the shopping center at 26932 La Paz Road.


National Night Out will feature free child fingerprint kits; child safety games; Sheriff's Department Search & Rescue Bloodhounds and a patrol vehicle; an Orange County Fire Authority Station 57 fire truck; and Aliso Viejo Family Resource Center referral services. It will also boast family safety, crime prevention and emergency preparedness booths, along with free raffles and prizes. Child face-painting and free food will be available during the event.
National Night Out is a nationwide community-building campaign designed to generate participation in local safety and anti-crime programs and to strengthen police-community partnerships.

For more information, contact Aliso Viejo Crime Prevention Specialist Margo Beauchamp at 949-425-2563.

It's Movie Night this FRIDAY! Toy Story 3 and concert in the park this Sunday!

Public invited to enjoy movie and concert in the park


Bring your blankets and low-back chairs and enjoy a movie in Grand Park on Friday and a concert in the park on Sunday.

The events, hosted by the Aliso Viejo Community Association (AVCA), kick off with a Movie in the Park from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 5. Visitors will enjoy the PG-rated "Toy Story 3," which starts at dusk. The film welcomes Woody, Buzz and the whole gang back to the big screen as Andy prepares to depart for college and his loyal toys find themselves in daycare.



Then on Sunday Aug. 7, AVCA will host a live concert featuring "Elton in the Early Years" at the Grand Park/Town Center Amphitheater. The Elton John tribute band will perform from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.



The Aliso Viejo Town Center is off Aliso Creek Road.



For more information, visit www.avca.net.

City gives green light to improvements at sports parks

Much-needed improvements will be made at local sports parks under a plan the City Council unanimously approved last week.

The improvements include new shade structures at Woodfield Park and Aliso Viejo Community Park and lights and a restroom at Foxborough Park. The community improvements stem from an extensive effort by the City's Recreation Ad Hoc Committee, led by Mayor Pro Tem Donald Garcia and Council Member Phillip Tsunoda.

"While it's been a very labor intensive six to eight months to get to this point, I'm very happy we are here," Council Member Tsunoda said. "I'm even more excited that within the next several months the community will actually get to feel the benefit from these improvements."

The overall cost of the improvements, which will be funded through the City's Enhancement Fund, are roughly $949,000, with the City covering 75 percent. The remaining 25 percent of improvement costs will be shared with the youth sports groups most associated with the fields.

The agreement specifically calls for a prefabricated restroom and sports field lighting for the entire complex at Foxborough Park, which is primarily used by Aliso Viejo's AYSO District 889. The agreement includes installing 12 shade structures over bleachers at the six baseball fields at Woodfield Park, which is mainly used by the Aliso Viejo Little League. Six shade structures will also be installed over the bleachers at the Aliso Viejo Community Park, which is mostly used by the Aliso Viejo Girls Softball organization.

"The City is being extremely proactive with making improvements to our sports fields that will benefit our youth for many years to come," said Mayor Pro Tem Garcia. "I am thrilled that we have been able to work with our local sports groups to identify these improvements and make them a reality."

"This is a much needed improvement and about time. I only hope they put the shade structures up high enough so kids cannot access and vandalize. I personaly think our goal should be to have bathrooms at all of our city parks."
Theresa

Market update for June 25 to July 25, 2011

The data remains relatively consistant.

267 Active Properties for sale.

123 in Back up position
58 Pending properties
(Total of 181 properties currently with offers on them)

59 Closed Sales for this time period
57 Properties are available for LEASE

Phase 2 of Town Center Loop begins August 1

Second phase of Town Center Loop Pedestrian Enhancement Project begins Aug. 1

Work is expected to begin Aug. 1 on the second phase of the Town Center Loop Pedestrian Enhancement Project.

The Town Center Loop Trail, which essentially loops around Aliso Viejo Town Center, provides the community with another recreational component that promotes health and well being along with supporting the City's goals for a sustainable and "walkable" community. The trail is designed to provide pedestrians with a safer walking path and amenities to encourage pedestrians to complete the roughly 3-mile/5K walk.

The first phase of the project, which was completed in 2009, consisted of new signage, enhanced hardscaping and pedestrian crosswalks along Aliso Viejo Parkway and Aliso Creek Road between Enterprise and Pacific Park Drive and along Enterprise between Aliso Viejo Parkway and Aliso Creek Road. Phase 2, which is about 1.2 miles, will complete all enhanced corner hardscape, distance markers, monuments and crosswalks for the trail. The project extends from the intersection of Aliso Viejo Parkway and Pacific Park Drive south along Aliso Viejo Parkway to the intersection of Aliso Viejo Parkway and Aliso Creek Road and then north along Aliso Creek Road to the intersection of Aliso Creek Road and Pacific Park Drive. In future phases, the City plans to add amenities such as seating, trash receptacles, public art, lighting and landscape enhancements.



Construction is expected to be completed at the end of September. Most of the work along Aliso Creek Road and Aliso Viejo Parkway will take place on the sidewalk and across business driveways with little impact to traffic. Alternate business access may be required at times and signs will be posted as necessary to facilitate any detour. Concrete paver crosswalks will be installed across Pacific Park Drive at both Aliso Viejo Parkway and Aliso Creek Road. The work will be completed in three phases in August and will require lane closures on Pacific Park Drive. Traffic delays through the construction area are expected and alternate routes are recommended.



For more information, call the Public Works Department at 949-425-2530. A map of the project is available by clicking here.

Walking Program Starts Tonight!

Lace up your tennis shoes, grab some bottled water and join City staff members for Aliso Viejo's Summer Walking Program, which continues tonight along the Aliso Creek Trail. The program embraces Aliso Viejo as a "walkable" community and is designed to promote fitness and good health. The walk is from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., and participants are encouraged to park and meet at 5:45 p.m. in front of the Aliso Viejo Ranch at 100 Park Avenue.

The goal is to give people an opportunity to explore and enjoy the scenic trail, get a healthy dose of exercise and make new friends.

Directions from Aliso Creek Road. Turn on Windsong (down the hill towards middle school) go to the end of the street and make a right and follow around to the Ranch Entrance on your left.

Harry Potter Die Hards camping out in Grand Park

Oh, to be young again!

Market update for June 12, 2011 to July 12, 2011

We have 275 Active Listings on the market

We have 164 Listings in Back up or Pending Status

We have closed 69 homes and condos in the time period.

There are currently 52 properties available for lease in Aliso Viejo

Summer concerts in the Park have begun!

Hopefully you didn't miss this past Sundays concert at Grand Park. Fun for the whole family, bring a picnic or support our local food and restaurants.

The next 2 scheduled are:

Journey Tribute on 7/24/11

and Elton John Tribute on 8/7/201

Concerts are from 530 to 730pm

Come and join the fun and meet your neighbors!

Are you thinking of adopting a PUPPY?

Puppy Party Saturday features cuddly canines at discounted adoption rate


The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is hosting a "Puppy Party" Saturday, July 9 featuring an array of adorable puppies available for a special adoption rate. The facility has served Aliso Viejo since 2009.


Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG), the nonprofit organization that provides medical care for the animals at the center, will cover a portion of the adoption fee for people who adopt a puppy on Saturday. That means the fee, which is normally $180, will only cost $115 to welcome a new canine member to your family. This includes the $50 spay/neuter deposit, which is refunded once the pup has been spayed or neutered.


All puppies will be vaccinated and microchipped. Dedicated foster families have been caring for the little pups, so they are well adjusted, playful and affectionate.


The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is at 28095 Hillcrest. For more information, call 949-470-3045 or visit the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com and click on Animal Services.

Pls remember that getting a puppy is a huge responsibility and requires patience and training. Choose your breed wisely.









The City of Aliso Viejo, which incorporated July 1, 2001, encompasses approximately 7 square miles with over 46,123 residents. The City's annual budget is approximately $21 million. The budget is available on the City's website at www.cityofalisoviejo.com. The City supports a thriving business community with companies such as Pacific Life Insurance Co.; United Parcel Service (UPS); Clarient; Valeant Pharmaceuticals; Q-Logic; Lennar Homes; Buy.Com; Fluor Daniel; Pepsi Bottling, Inc.; Shea Homes; the Renaissance ClubSport Hotel; and Bausch and Lomb. Aliso Viejo has 23 parks, vast open space and top-notch amenities including the Aliso Viejo Ranch and the City's new Conference Center and Aquatic Center. The City of Aliso Viejo, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2011, welcomes you to "Experience It All." For more information, visit www.cityofalisoviejo.com.

Movie night at Grand Park Tonight!

This Friday night at Grand Park, come with the family to see "How to Train Your Dragon." A very good animation movie about a young boy who attempts the impossible and succeeds. He overcomes the image that others have of him and he changes the image of the dragon that invade his village. Come by on Friday at 7:30 p.m. to enjoy. Some snacks available plus a raffle

I spent my 4th of July in Boulder Colorado this year

What a great town. So much open space and lots of biking and hiking trails throughout the community. Boulder has installed these bike stations throughout the downtown area to encourage walking and biking. You can pick up a bike for a small fee per month and return it to any of the stations. We saw several of them. Here is what they looked like. I hope some cities here adopt this idea where we could use them year round, not sure what happens in the winter there.


Payment and info area in Boulder Colorado

 




This was the wall of people in Aliso Viejo





Bikes for rent in Boulder

Saw a really great firework show in Louisville over a golf course.
It was a high level show, which I hadn't seen in ages.. we have low level
fireworks in Aliso Viejo. It was a mellow crowd, very much like here in AV, the
only difference is that cardboard from the fireworks lands on top of the crowd and grass!
Very unusual indeed.
I heard we had a record amount of people at Grand Park this year!

Here are some photos from the 4th of July in Aliso Viejo. It is a great family event and good firework show!

Pie Eating Judges in Aliso Viejo

 

The crowd in Louisville . Colorado





Fireworks in Colorado



My brother with things that hit him from the sky!



4th of July Festivities!

Fourth of July fun at the pool


Spend the Fourth of July at the Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center and you'll enjoy $3 entry, fun-filled free activities throughout the day and chef's specials from the Oasis Cafe.

The City is gearing up for Independence Day, offering the public the perfect "in-town" holiday getaway.


The facility at 29 Santa Barbara will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will feature relay races and pool games; a hula hoop contest; and water balloon toss.


Guests to the Aquatic Center can enjoy recreation and lap swimming; pool parties; daily lunch specials at the Oasis Cafe; cabanas; and lots of fun activities. The popular venue offers fee-based swimming programs, a swim team, activities and more.

The Aquatic Center is conveniently located near Aliso Creek Road and Glenwood Drive, next to the Aliso Viejo Conference Center.

Tree down on Wood Canyon near Westridge

Wow!  A huge tree was blocking the street this am. I hope no one was injured. We have a few of these trees that are leaning a bit and need to be removed or something.

Wingspan Park #20 of 21

Wingspan Park is off of Aliso Creek Road in the Pacific Ridge neighborhood. It is in between Westwing and Eastwing.

It is mainly a passive park, with some sport fields (soccer) and portable toilet facilities.

Market update for 5/23/2011 to 6/23/2011

Today we have 278 Active Listings on the MLS in all of Aliso Viejo

179 listings are in Back up or Pending Status

We closed 63 listings in the time period.

There are currently 47 Rental properties listed on the MLS.


(the only thing that skews this data is that some listings that show active really have offers on them but are Short Sales and the agents don't take them out of Active status. This has been going on for quite sometime.)

The market appears to be stable and hasn't changed all that much. We continue to have moderate inventory and about the same amount of homes keep selling each month.

Summer Walking Program is starting soon!

Grab your walking shoes!

City's Summer Walking Program begins July 11



Community members are invited to lace up their tennis shoes, grab some bottled water and join City staff members this summer for an evening walk along the Aliso Creek Trail.

The City's Summer Walking Program embraces Aliso Viejo as a "walkable" community and is designed to promote fitness and good health.


The program will take place from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. July 11, 18 and July 25. The goal is to give people an opportunity to explore and enjoy the scenic trail, get a healthy dose of exercise and make new friends.


Participants are encouraged to park and meet at 5:45 p.m. in front of the Aliso Viejo Ranch at 100 Park Avenue.


For more information, call the City's Community Services Department at 949-425-2519 or e-mail gduran@cityofalisoviejo.com.

If you have never walked, ran or biked on the Aliso Creek Trail.. it is really beautiful and natural, with lots of little critters to view along the way.

Celebrate Independence Day at the pool

Spend the Fourth of July at the Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center and you'll enjoy $3 entry, fun-filled free activities throughout the day and chef's specials from the Oasis Cafe.


The City is gearing up for Independence Day, offering the public the perfect "in-town" holiday getaway.


The facility at 29 Santa Barbara will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will feature relay races and pool games; a hula hoop contest; and water balloon toss.

Guests to the Aquatic Center can enjoy recreation and lap swimming; pool parties; daily lunch specials at the Oasis Cafe; cabanas; and lots of fun activities. The popular venue offers fee-based swimming programs, a swim team, activities and more.


The Aquatic Center is conveniently located near Aliso Creek Road and Glenwood Drive, next to the Aliso Viejo Conference Center.


For more information, visit www.alisoviejoaquaticscenter.com or call 949-425-2559.

The pool is so nice. Try to visit it sometime this year. You will love it!!!

Aliso Viejo Park Information

Westridge Park #19 of 21 Parks

This is the park near where I live. I go there a couple of times a day with my dogs. It is mainly a passive park with lots of open space , a very nice tot lot and has great views of the laguna wilderness areas. We sit high on a hill and get some interesting weather patterns up here.