City Manager's Message

The New Year is upon us. I hope you were able to join us for the 12th Annual Family and Friends New Year's Eve celebration. The City would like to thank the sponsors for their generous support of this fun community event. It's a great way to finish the old year and ring in the new.

This month we recycle our Christmas trees and start thinking about the year ahead. Once again, AARP will be offering free tax preparation services this spring for qualified residents of all ages. Appointments can be made beginning January 9th. Spring cleaning is around the corner so watch for the free e-waste event coming soon. Also look for the new Community Living Magazine to reach your mailbox in late January. Visit the City's website for more information about exciting news and events happening this year in our community.

On behalf of the City Council and staff, I wish you and your family a very happy New Year.

Sincerely,

Jennifer M. Cervantez

12th Annual Celebrating Family and Friends New Year's Eve

A Big THANK YOU to Our Sponsors

Free Tax Preparation Service

Appointments Can Be Made   

Beginning January 9, 2013

The City of Rancho Santa Margarita and the AARP Tax Aide group will be conducting the "Tax Preparation Assistance" program from February 6 through April 16, 2013 by appointment only. Appointments are scheduled for Wednesdays only between the hours of 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

The Tax Assistance Program provides free assistance in filing federal and state income tax returns for low and moderate-income taxpayers of all ages. This service is free to eligible residents of Rancho Santa Margarita.

SCE Infrastructure Improvements  

May Impact Traffic Through January 

Southern California Edison (SCE) is installing new underground conduit and underground structures in the streets of Santa Margarita Pkwy, El Paseo, El Portal, La Promesa, Coto de Caza, Alma Aldea, Plano Trabuco and Via Pajaro.

The project started in mid-December with surveying and utility verifications, and will take approximately 110 working days to complete. To minimize impacts to traffic, businesses, and residents, SCE will be doing the majority of the work at night.

Circle Time with Miss Wendy         

This parent/child program is designed to encourage your child to participate in a wide range of youth development activities, with an emphasis on transitions, through use of finger plays and song. Children will have the opportunity to socialize with a variety of activities including beanbags, prompted dance, scarves, and more. 

Wednesdays, January 9 - February 13, 10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m.  

Ages 1.5-5 years, $68 / 6 classes   

Preschool Drawing               

Participants will draw fun pictures from astronauts, spring flowers to tree houses. Kids will work on fine motor skills, listening, staying on task, organization, and patience.       

Tuesdays, January 8 - February 5, 2:30 p.m.-3:15 p.m.      

Ages 3.5-5 years, $69 / 5 classes

Karate             

Ages 6-12 years, $98 / 8 classes

Photography Fundamentals            

Ages 16+ years, $63 / 6 classes

Investment Strategies for Your Future

Are you worried about your retirement nest egg? Learn how the fixed income market works and how to make money in it. Learn about mutual funds, buying and selling individual stocks, and all types of retirement accounts. This class also covers annuities, long term care, and estate planning. Participants will not be solicited for business.

Ages 18+ years, $38 / 3 classes

Zumba Gold             

Zumba Gold is a low impact Latin inspired fitness class tailored to participants 55 and older. The easy to follow choreography incorporates salsa, cha cha, merengue, flamenco, and more. Zumba Gold is designed to help participants improve balance, strength, heart health, and most of all it's fun!     

Wednesdays, January 30 - February 27, 9:00 a.m.-9:50 a.m.

Ages 50+ years, $33 / 5 classes