Beginning in November, the stretch of Riverside Drive between Camarillo and Hollywood Way will be adorned with colorful banners sponsored by local businesses and residents in celebration of the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce’s 85th birthday this year. “The anniversary banner campaign started from our desire to celebrate the Chamber’s history in a way that’s both visible and meaningful to everyone in Toluca Lake,” president Taylor Montana says. “We wanted to honor our past while showcasing the vibrant community we have today.”
That vibrancy is thanks in no small part to the Chamber itself, which has been working to support a thriving local business community since its start in 1939. The group’s founding president was real estate professional M.A. “Andy” Vargo (aka “Mr. Toluca Lake”), who worked at The Bogy Company–Insurance Brokers and helped develop the community by bringing more homeowners to the area. Together, he and a board of dedicated local businesspeople, stakeholders and residents formed the Chamber with the mission of preserving and enhancing the competitive economic climate of the neighborhood. The all-volunteer nonprofit organization promotes and assists area businesses, builds relationships with residents and other civic groups, and supports programs and charitable activities to strengthen and grow the community as a whole, hosting annual events like the Holiday Open House and the Old-Fashioned Pancake Breakfast as well as monthly mixers and neighborhood cleanups.
Looking back at the Chamber’s long history, Montana notes, “One of our major accomplishments has been our continuous advocacy for small businesses, especially during tough times like economic downturns and the recent pandemic. We’ve organized events, networking opportunities and campaigns to encourage residents to shop locally and support our community.” After all, Toluca Lake’s unique stores, restaurants and services help define its special character and make it a sought-after place to live, work and shop. “Growing up here, some of my fondest memories involve local businesses,” he shares. “Getting coffee with my dad at Priscilla’s, checking out the car show at Bob’s, birthday dinners at Don Cuco — these places are a big part of my personal history.” The Chamber ensures neighborhood destinations can play that distinctive role in enhancing the lives of generations of residents and visitors.
The Chamber has served as a consistent connection between the community’s past, present and future, simultaneously furthering commercial progress and welcoming new businesses into the fold while keeping longtime establishments thriving to retain the village charm Toluca Lake is known for. “The neighborhood has changed in many ways — generational shifts, new developments — but the Chamber has always been a constant advocate for our businesses and residents,” Montana explains. “Celebrating 85 years is significant because it reflects the enduring relationship between the Chamber and the Toluca Lake community. This milestone highlights our resilience, adaptability and commitment to fostering a thriving local economy. It’s also a chance to honor the people and businesses that have shaped Toluca Lake into the special place it is.”
That’s why the group prioritized neighborhood engagement when deciding on a way to mark this anniversary. Inspired by last year’s centennial celebrations, they chose the banner campaign to keep the momentum going and involve the community in the effort. Montana worked closely with longtime resident and artist Stephen Cargile on the designs to capture some of the major elements that make Toluca Lake unique: the local film and TV studios, small businesses, midcentury charm and rich history. “We’re really excited for everyone to see them,” he says. “The anticipation is building, and we believe they’ll spark a sense of pride and connection in the community. It’s a great way to celebrate where we’ve been and where we’re headed.”
The banners will stay up for a full year, extending the festivities into 2025. “We want to make sure there’s plenty of opportunity for the community to join in and celebrate with us throughout next year,” Montana notes. He adds that the Chamber’s annual membership meeting in November will be another key part of the commemoration, looking back on the organization’s history and recognizing members who’ve made crucial contributions to its success.
The Chamber is also looking forward to one of its signature annual events, the Holiday Open House on December 6 — a personal favorite of Montana’s. “It’s a time when the whole community comes together, and it really shows how connected and supportive Toluca Lake is.” He says neighbors can expect a lower-key event after last year’s centennial spectacular but no shortage of festive feeling, including decorations, musical performances, kids’ activities and plenty of treats. “Each business along Riverside Drive will have its own unique way of celebrating, and we’ll have more details as the date gets closer,” he promises, adding that their goal is to connect the Burbank and L.A. sides of Toluca Lake to make certain the whole neighborhood is included in the fun.
Looking further ahead, Montana says one of the Chamber’s main objectives for next year is to modernize and enhance its website and social media presence, as well as expanding its programs. “We aim to grow our membership, deepen our engagement with the community and adapt to the changing business landscape while keeping the unique spirit of Toluca Lake alive,” he says.
Reflecting on the 85th anniversary, Montana is filled with gratitude for the support he’s received as a Chamber leader and the continuous collaboration that has made such a milestone possible. “I just want to thank everyone in the Toluca Lake community — businesses, residents, all of you who’ve been part of this journey. The Chamber exists because of this incredible neighborhood, and it’s been an honor to be part of it. As we look to the future, we’re excited to keep working together to make Toluca Lake the best it can be.”
Read reflections from longtime Chamber members in “Chamber Memories.”
