Toluca Lake Magazine Issue Archive
Winter 2022
This issue rings in the festive season and highlights the many ways in which the community can shop, give and celebrate locally. We continue our tradition of showcasing our favorite artisan goods, gourmet treats and stellar services from neighborhood businesses in our annual gift guide, created to inspire your wish list and support the merchants that play such an integral role in our community. We’ve also got a simple, cozy bread-based recipe from Random Acts of Breadness, provided by baker–owner Randall Michael Tobin, who shares how learning to make sourdough at home for Christmas gifting launched him on the path to opening his own bakery. Plus, we caught up with our very own honorary mayor Fritz Coleman to discuss his latest project, Media Path, a podcast he co-hosts with fellow broadcast veteran Louise Palanker that explores entertainment, pop culture, history and more.
2022 Holiday Gift Guide
Delight your loved ones, support neighborhood businesses and keep your shopping close to home with this list of favorite finds from local vendors.
A Toast to Giving
Learn how holiday home baking inspired Randall Michael Tobin to open Random Acts of Breadness, his artisan sourdough bakery on Magnolia Boulevard.
A Path Into Podcasting
Fritz Coleman’s latest project is a weekly podcast called Media Path, where he explores entertainment, pop culture, history and more with longtime friend and broadcast veteran Louise Palanker.
Recipe: Breadness Artisan Sourdough Cheese Melt
Random Acts of Breadness baker and owner Randall Michael Tobin shares this bread-based recipe that's perfect for a quick and cozy lunch or a comforting dinner side during the hectic holiday season.
Plein-Air Perspectives of the Neighborhood
The unique charm and character of Toluca Lake and its environs are a source of constant inspiration for local artist and animator Michelle Lin.
Gifts From the Heart of the Neighborhood
In the last two winters, my messages focused on finding comfort amid the pandemic. But this year, as we feel the familiar rhythms of community life stabilizing and strengthening, my focus is simple: joy and gratitude.
Harmony Toluca Lake
Pastor Mark Stephenson and the Harmony Toluca Lake congregation have spread goodwill throughout the neighborhood by contributing to and supporting the community in countless ways.
A Tradition So Good, It’s Scary
Creepy creativity once again oozed out of Toluca Lake this October during the sixth annual Halloween House-Decorating Contest, sponsored by Tina Smith Homes.
Toluca Lake Harvest Festival
The third annual Toluca Lake Harvest Festival was packed full of entertainment, as residents enjoyed live music, face paintings and fun raffle prizes while showing support to the community’s small businesses.
Garden Club Cheers 75 Years
The Garden Club celebrated its 75th anniversary with a tea on September 8, toasting the commitment of members past and present to beautifying Toluca Lake.
Featured Pet: Theo
This Cavalier King Charles spaniel loves strutting up and down Riverside Drive, visiting his favorite local spots, Sweetsalt and Captain Jack’s.
Featured Pet: Marty
Marty is a large-and-in-charge long-haired chihuahua. Even at 16 years young, he’s always ready for a snack, a nap or a weekend getaway to Palm Springs.
Featured Pet: Vesper
Meet border collie Vesper, who celebrated her first birthday on January 21. She enjoys walking the neighborhood and playing with her many furry friends.
Featured Pet: Jade and Coco
Twin 2-year-old Malshis Jade and Coco enjoy going to the park and taking long summer evening walks on Kling Street and Ledge Avenue.
Featured Pet: Milo
A scruffy terrier mix around 12 years of age, Milo is a well-traveled rescue who has made his home in Toluca Lake.