Ladera Ranch Gall Nature Walk So you're probably asking what are galls?  Galls or cecidia are outgrowths on the surface of plants and other lifeforms caused by invasion by other lifeforms, such as parasites or bacterial infection. Plant galls are abnormal outgrowths of plant tissues and can be caused by various parasites, from fungi and bacteria, to insects and mites.  The size and shapes of galls vary and many are surprisingly beautiful.  Learn about the intriguing world of galls from guest naturalist Lois Taylor. Don't miss this great opportunity to see our local Conservany and learn about these gems of nature. When:   Saturday, June 18th 9:00am-11:00am  Where:  The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy Cost:  $10/adult; $5/child (6-18); Free/Conservancy Members  Info & Registration: ... 05/25/2011

 Ladera Ranch Toy Town Ladera Ranch is a city that was designed to combine old town feel, with modern amenities.  Located in the heart of Ladera is Mercantile West, a shopping center that caters to its residents with a mix of restaurants, shops, and eateries.  One of the corner stones of shopping, is Toy Town.  Toy Town is an old fashioned toy store that caters to kids of all ages.  Toy Town carries a unique variety of toys that can only be found at specialty stores like Toy Town.  What really separates Toy Town is the customer service and the personal attention you'll receive from owners Josh and Irene Vecchione and their staff.  In a bind, call Toy Town, let them know how much you want to spend, age of the child, and what your looking for and the crew at Toy Town will have it wrapped ... 05/24/2011

Ladera Ranch Rattlesnake Workshop Snake Lovers Wanted...Warning, Not for the Faint of Heart!!!  Learn about Orange County rattlesnakes: how to identify them, where they live, and what to do if you encounter one. Local herptologist Steve Bledsoe, a member of the North American Field Herping Association (NAFHA), will do a power point presentation about these unique creatures. Afterwards, enjoy Q&A with NAFHA herpetologists, as well as several species of live snakes on display.  Don't miss this event, space is limited so sign up soon.  When:   Wednesday, June 8th 7:00pm-8:30pm  Where:  The Reserve Presentation Center Cost:  Free (Donations Welcome) Info & Registration:  Reservations required at theconservancy.org Thinking of moving to Ladera Ranch to take advantage of our awarding winning ... 05/23/2011

Ladera Ranch Little League UCI Game Come join the Ladera Ranch Little League families and players Sunday May 29th at 1pm to watch UCI (University of California at Irvine) play its final season game against Long Beach State as they get ready for the NCAA tournament.Before the game everyone will get a chance to support the lucky LRLL players who won the chance to participate in the pre-game ceremonies.  So be there early to cheer on your fellow LRLL players. This promises to be a fun way to get together with other LRLL players and families and a great game for our young players to experience. So, mark this date on your calendar, this is a great event! When:  May 29th Sunday 1:00pm Where:  Anteater Ballpark, UCI Campus Irvine, CA Cost:  Free to all Ladera Ranch Little League Families Think... 05/22/2011

 Ladera Ranch Technology Workshop The Microsoft Store in The Shops at Mission Viejo is very proud to be the Technology Sponsor for LARCS (Ladera Ranch Community Services).   As Ladera Ranch's partner in technology, the Microsoft Store is offering a free educational workshop series to all Ladera Ranch residents. The first workshop is on June 9th, space is limited, so reserve your spot by sending an email to mscmv@microsoft.com and indicate which of the workshops you will be attending. Workshop Description Windows 7 - Thursday, June 9th, 6:30pm-8pm   With Windows 7, everyday tasks are easier, your PC works the way you want, and you can do new things. In this workshop, we'll show you tips and tricks that will get you up to speed and using your PC like never before. You'll learn how to get ... 05/20/2011

Ladera Ranch Astronomy Night Enjoy an evening outdoors at the Richard & Donna O'Neil Conservancy gazing into the heavens, learning the constellations, and peering through telescopes.  The stars are considered heaven's guideposts.  Observers looked to the night sky to predict everything from a weather change to a change of leadership.  The Conservancy's volunteer astronomers will guide the group on a short walk and then explore the heavens.  Don't miss this great opportunity to see our local Conservany at night When:   Saturday, June 4th 8:45pm-10:45pm  Where:  The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy Cost:  $10/adult; $5/child (8-18); Free/Conservancy Members  Info & Registration:  Reservations required at theconservancy.org Thinking of moving to Ladera Ranch to take advantage of our a... 05/20/2011

Ladera Ranch Aquatic Park Ladera Ranch is loaded with parks, pools, plunges, and many other amenities.  Without a doubt, the most unique amenity available to Ladera residents is the Terramor Aquatic Park.  Many cities have pools and community centers, but Ladera Ranch has a full water park with the giant water bucket that drops water on the waiting children below...just like you'd see at major water parks like Soak City.  The Aquatic Park also has picnic tables, barbecue grills, a bike course, & 3 reservable covered picnic areas The bad news is the park is only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day...the good new is Memorial Day weekend is a week away! Location: 26281 O'Neil Drive-Ladera Ranch               (near the intersection of Sienna & O'Neil) Cost:      Free to all Ladera Residents... 05/19/2011

Ladera Ranch Bluebird Nature Talk Attention Nature Lovers...Don't pass up this opportunity to learn about one of Southern California's local birds, the Bluebird.  A nature-themed lecture will be held in association with the monthly meeting of Caspers Park Preservation Foundation (CPPF) volunteers.  Learn more about the Southern California Bluebird Club's Recovery Program. Club members Sully Realon and Jim Semelroth will describe how members create artificial habitat to help bluebirds, which are cavity nesters, improve their chances of successful breeding.  When:   Saturday, June 4th 10:00am-11:00am  Where:  Visitor Center of Ronald Casper Wilderness Park             33401 Ortega Highway - San Juan Capistrano Cost:  Free (Donations welcome)  Info & Registration:  email CaspersParkFoundat... 05/18/2011

Ladera Ranch Summer Basketball Camps  Team Nikos Basketball Acacdemy in conjunction with Ladera Ranch National Junior Basketball presents its 4th annual Ladera Ranch Summer Basketball Camps.  Come learn the game of basketball from former Division 1 players, local high school coaches and current college and high school players. This is the 4th year running and each session gets full fast so sign up early.   Don't miss out there'll be Surprise Special Guests!  The Camp focuses on Team Work, Confidence, Leadership, Games, Ball Handling, Passing, Footwork, Shooting, and Offensive Moves.  All campers will receive T-shirts, games, instructions, and a lot of fun! REGISTER:  Resister Now LOCATION: Ladera Ranch Middle School WHEN:       Jun 27 - Jun 30(early registration ends Jun 12)Jul 11 - Jul... 05/17/2011

Ladera Ranch Teen Leadership Council Ladera Ranch has many clubs and organizations that are available to its residents.  The Teen Leadership Council of Ladera Ranch is a group made up of a cross section of 7th- 12th grade students and consists of 9-15 members.  The goal of the council is too have an immediate and positive impact on the Ladera Ranch Teen Community. The council is hosting the American Red Cross Certified Babysitting Class on May 19th.  For more information about this event, click the link to my recent post, Ladera Ranch Babysitting Training Class .    The council is a great way to obtain service hours, learn about & be part of the local government, and it's great on college applications and resumes.  To join the Ladera Ranch Teen Leadership Council, visit  LaderaLife or t... 05/15/2011

Ladera Ranch Clubs Ladera Ranch in south Orange County Caifornia is a fantastic community that has many amenities and programs for its residents.  Presently Ladera Ranch has 76 Ladera Ranch Community Services (LARCS) recognized clubs.  There is literally a club for everyone, from Mother's groups, to the Poker Club, to religious clubs, sports clubs and even a wine tasting club.  Local clubs use Ladera Ranch's official website LaderaLife as a spot to post events and information.  Interested prospective club members can browse the list of clubs on the site and decide which club they would like to join.  Each club has their own page to join, register, and post events, pictures, etc. Ladera Ranch is a great community to be a part of, especially if you want to interact with other neighbors an... 05/14/2011

Ladera Ranch Yoga in Nature The Richard & Donna O'Neil Conservancy is one of Orange County's most beautiful natural habitats.  Enjoy the peaceful early morning hours out in the Wildlands with "Yoga in Nature".  There will be a short walk to the"Mother Oak" and to a shady Oak Woodland where Mary Musetti, the guest Yoga instructor, will teach yoga stretches, breathing, and relaxation exercises. Please bring a towel and water. Don't miss this great opportunity to exercise in our local Conservancy  When:   Sunday, May 28th 8:30am-10:30am  Where:  The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy Cost:  $10/adult; $5/child; Free/Conservancy Members  Info & Registration:  Reservations required at theconservancy.org Thinking of moving to Ladera Ranch to take advantage of our awarding winning schools a... 05/13/2011

Ladera Ranch - LRES Beautification Day Grab your garden shoes, gloves and trowels!  Ladera Ranch Elementary School (LRES) is looking for volunteers to help with school beautification day on Saturday, June 4th from 8am -12pm.  Come for an hour or come for the day.  This is a great (and FUN) way for the whole family to show their school pride.  Volunteers will be trimming the shrubs, removing dying plants, adding new plants and mulch to the beds.  Please bring any equipment that you may have: shovels, wheel barrows and rakes (make sure your name is on all your equipment).  If you can't join LRES on June 4th please consider making a donation to LRES so that they can buy some plants and add some color to the campus.  Finally, LRES is looking for a few generous souls that can meet twice duri... 05/12/2011

 Ladera Ranch-Sierra Sage Late Spring Walk Join the Sierra Sage chapter of the Sierra Club to enjoy the beautiful, natural earlyafternoon scenery of The Conservancy on this slow-paced walk.  The Sierra Sage chapter is committed to protecting the natural environment ofour world and taking a special interest in the natural environs which still existin and around Orange County. The chapter promotes the environment byproviding fun, interesting, and informative outings that encourage anappreciation of nature. One of the best ways to encourage people to take astand in defense of nature is to expose them to its beauty and the manyways in which our lives are dependent on it. Don't miss this great opportunity to enjoy our local Conservancy  When:   Sunday, May 22nd 2:00pm-4:000pm  Where:  The Ri... 05/12/2011

Water Awareness Day The Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) is proud to hold it's annual Water Awareness Day, Saturday May 14th, 2011.  The Santa Margarita Water District is the second largest retail water agency in Orange County.  The SMWD supplies clean, affordable, reliable water and wastewater services to more than 150,000 residents and businesses in Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita and the unincorporated areas of Coto de Caza, Las Flores, Ladera Ranch and Talega. Water Awareness Day in honor of Water Awareness Month is a family fun event designed to educate local communities on important issues such as water supply and reliability, conservation and urban runoff prevention.  Activities include crafts and activities for children, water conservation and gardening tips, music, f... 05/10/2011

Ladera Ranch Trail Clearing and Weeding Looking to give back and help our local conservancy thrive? Volunteer to spend a few hours in beautiful surroundings helping to make Conservancy trails accessible for their visitors. Join the dedicated crew by protecting food plants of our native wildlife by eliminating weeds, those pesky botanical invaders. Your volunteer efforts will make an impact! Drinks and snacks provided. When:  May 14th 8:00am-11:30am Where:  The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy For more detail and to register, please visit theconvervancy.org Thinking of moving to Ladera Ranch to take advantage of our awarding winning schools and all Ladera has to offer...please contact me or use the links below to learn more about Ladera Ranch Properties              Search Ladera Pr... 05/09/2011

Ladera Ranch - WiFi Hotspots Ladera Ranch residents can take advantage of a number of WiFi hotspots throughout our community at specific LARMAC facilities.  Getting access to WiFi is relatively easy as long as you know your primary Cox email address and your password.  Below is a list of Hotspots in Ladera Ranch provided by Cox: Oak Knoll Village Club28192 O'Neill Dr. Avendale Village Club1 Daisy Covenant Hills Club1 Covenant Hills Dr. Flintridge Village Club28112 Roanoke    Terramor Village Club26281 O'Neill Drive Cox Sports Park27623 Crown Valley Pkwy   The service is free to all Ladera Ranch Residents, once again, just enter your primary Cox login ID and password and you all ready to start browsing. Thinking of moving to Ladera Ranch to take advantage of our awarding winning schools ... 05/08/2011

Ladera Ranch Chaparral Country Fair Come on Down to Chaparral Elementary School in Ladera Ranch for the Chaparral Country Fair & Silent Auction.  Great fun for the entire family.  Country music, cake walks, panning for gold, Nerf Bow & Arrows, Hula hoops, square dancing, watermelon eating contest, obstacle stampede, Country line dancing, and lots more.  Arrest your classmates and teachers.  Take Western photos in the photo booth or take you chances at the midway games to win a prize.  There'll be plenty of good grub for sale for all the Cowboys & Cowgirls.  Help support Chaparral by making a bid in the Silent Auction.   Don't miss this great event When:  May 20th, 2011  3:30pm-7:30pm Where:  Chaparral Elementary Ladera Ranch Cost:  No cost to enter - Costs vary for food and some games  ... 05/08/2011

Ladera Ranch LRES Spring Luau  Ladera Ranch Elementary School (LRES) PTA is proud to host its first Spring Luau May 20th, 2011 Aloha Ladera Residents-the first Spring Luau will be held be great entertainment for the entire family.  Enjoy a deliscious Hawaiian themed Dinner.  Learn to hula, make a lei and walk the cake walk.  Face painting, games, and music are part of the celebration.  There will also be a silent auction to benefit LRES featuring items from local businesses and our wonderful LRES teachers When:  Friday May 20th, 2011 Time:  5-8pm Where:  Ladera Ranch Elementary School Ticket Info: Three Ways to Buy Tickets1)  From Wed. April 27th through May 14th Purchase dinner tickets at Game On for $3 each2)  On May 4th, 9th and 12th purchase tickets in the front of LRES after schoo... 05/06/2011

 Ladera Ranch Reptile and Snake Workshop Join The Reserve for an exciting presentation by herptologist Steve Bledsoe of the North American Field Herping Association about local herptofauna. Steve will give a power point presentation on Orange County snakes, frogs, newts, skinks, slender salamanders, alligator lizards, and other fabulous ectothermic (cold-blooded) creatures. Live snakes and reptiles will be on display and local herptologists will be on-hand to answer questions. Space in limited, so sign up now! When:   Wednesday, May 11th 7:00pm-8:30pm  Where:  The Reserve Presentation Center Cost:  Free (Donations Welcome) Info & Registration:  Reservations required at theconservancy.org Thinking of moving to Ladera Ranch to take advantage of our awarding winning schools and all Ladera ... 05/06/2011