We love the strong sense of connectedness and community in Toluca Lake, and reader Basia Durnas’ story about a local business owner’s act of kindness truly illustrates this quality. “This year has brought many health challenges for me,” she told us. “Due to a tumor and subsequent metastasized cancer, I have been unable to work, so finances have been very lean. I was losing hair and desperately needed a cut but just could not afford it. Although it was uncomfortable to ask for help, I stopped in to see Tony at Altieri Brothers and told him of my challenges. Without hesitation, he put me in the chair and gave me a great haircut that is helping my hair to regrow and has given me a boost in my confidence and appearance. I am so grateful for his generosity and wanted to share this. From his heart he gave unconditionally. Thank you, Tony Altieri, for your kindness.”