Toluca Lake celebrated the start of summer with a pair of free, family-friendly celebrations held by local organizations and merchants. On June 29, Summertime on the Block drew neighbors to the stretch of Riverside Drive between Forman and Talofa avenues for an afternoon of food and drink, children’s activities, and deals and discounts from participating businesses. Hosted by Artinian Realty Group and showcasing fellow Chamber of Commerce members Pergolina, Generales & Generales, Forman’s Whiskey Tavern, Mailbox Toluca Lake, The Rouge Cosmetics, Cindee Noble Massage Therapy and Spin the Bottle Wine Studio, the event also included hot dog and dessert carts, Independence Day–themed crafts, bubble making, raffle prizes, massages and live music.
The fun continued the next day with the Kids’ Summer Event sponsored by the Toluca Lake Homeowners Association, SRM Real Estate Group, Red Maple and Logix Federal Credit Union (whose parking lot was the site for the gathering). Scott Morris of SRM and the TLHOA, who is part of the leadership team that plans the annual Turkey Trot and Fall Festival, says that event’s growth inspired him to look for additional ways for the neighborhood to come together in an entertaining and engaging way. “Our idea was to create a summer kickoff event for the community,” he explains. “It exceeded our expectations and was well attended. The BeatBuds musical group was a huge hit with the kids. Additionally, we had face painting, arts and crafts, pet adoption, and delicious treats provided by Brian Veskosky, the owner of Red Maple.”
