Toluca Lake Magazine Issue Archive
Fall 2023
As our community marks its centennial, there’s always more to discover about Toluca Lake’s bygone days and how they continue to resonate today. In this History Issue, we bring you the story of Ollie Vick, a longtime resident who celebrated her milestone 100th birthday in June. We spotlight a pair of landmark places with an article about noted L.A. architect Robert Byrd, the homes he designed in Toluca Lake and the famous families who were lucky enough to live in them. Our story about five pioneering female flyers who lived and worked around Burbank in the 1930s shows how the powerhouse local industries of aviation and moviemaking intertwined to put this area on the map and capture the public imagination. And finally, we bring you the tale of the man who created his very own mobile monument: the California Fantasy Van, a singular spectacle that delighted, fascinated and sometimes baffled residents from the 1970s to the 1990s.
Amazing Aviatrixes
In the 1920s and 1930s, a number of daring women seized new opportunities in the fields of film and flying that thrived in Burbank and the surrounding areas, becoming the pilots of their own lives.
The Toluca Lake Homes by Robert Byrd
Two examples of notable, beautifully designed Toluca Lake houses can be attributed to one renowned home designer and builder, Robert Byrd.
The California Fantasy Van
Anyone who spent time in the Burbank area between the late 1970s and the late 1990s might remember spotting a one-of-a-kind van on the road.
A Milestone Birthday
Amid 100th anniversary commemorations for Toluca Lake, the community celebrated another centenary this summer — that of longtime local resident Ollie Vick.
Wellness Services Resource Guide
With physical and mental health a chief concern for many people, it’s important that our community knows who to turn to for reliable care that helps them feel their best, inside and out.
Ask Adelita: How Do I Teach My Dog Self-Control?
Impulsive dog behaviors such as jumping up onto people, puppy nipping, getting into the garbage can and even running out the door are all reasons to teach your dog how to have self-control.
Honoring Our Landmarks
The 100th anniversary of Toluca Lake reminds us how fortunate we are to live and work in a place where close neighborly bonds and reverence for our rich local history are fostered and cherished.
Toluca Lake Marks a Banner Year
In honor of Toluca Lake’s 100th anniversary this year, local residents, businesses and community groups spearheaded a banner campaign that fostered a strong sense of unity and pride around the neighborhood.
Mayor Visits Toluca Lake to Show Support for Local Businesses
Toluca Lake was honored to welcome Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for the signing of her executive directive aimed at promoting business creation, attraction and growth.
Block Party Bonanza
The second annual Neighbor2Neighbor block party brought community members together to celebrate the centennial, make connections, share food and more.
Fourth of July Stars, Stripes and Smiles
For many in Toluca Lake, the Fourth of July is an opportunity to come together as a community and pay tribute to our freedom with a spirited parade.
A Centennial Celebration
The TLHOA and SKY Properties held an exclusive party in honor of the neighborhood’s 100th anniversary and the grand opening of the Centennial Apartments building.
NHIFP Celebrates 40 Years of Feeding Community
The North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry (NHIFP) celebrated its 40th anniversary with a gala on June 4 at First Christian Church in Studio City.
A Local Gardener’s “Exuberant” Creation
Tracey Andruscavage’s knowledge and love of plants has grown throughout her life, blossoming into the spectacular garden she now cultivates at her home on Valley Spring Lane.
Joan Duffy
Toluca Lake–based realtor Joan Duffy has carved out a niche for herself in the local real estate market thanks to her expertise, knowledge of the community and charismatic personality.
Featured Pet: Mr. Miyagi
Mr. Miyagi works hard at the Ramsey-Shilling office every weekday and enjoys lunchtime walks through the neighborhood, often accompanied by an entourage of real estate agents.