Toluca Lake, CA – May 11, 2024 – The Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce the successful return of the 16th Annual Old-Fashioned Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser, held on May 11, 2024, at Fire Station #86. After a hiatus due to the pandemic, this cherished community event made a triumphant comeback, bringing together residents, local businesses, and community leaders for a morning filled with delicious food and heartfelt connections.
The event, which ran from 9 AM to 1 PM, welcomed hundreds of attendees who enjoyed a hearty breakfast of pancakes, eggs, sausages, fresh fruit, and beverages, all prepared by local firefighters and volunteers. This year’s fundraiser was particularly special, with several new features and activities that set it apart from previous years.
Photos courtesy of Steven Sherman Photography
Highlights from the event included:
- Fire Station Tours and Fire Apparatus Exploration: Attendees were given an insider’s look at the daily operations of Fire Station #86 and had the opportunity to explore firefighting equipment and vehicles.
- Kid’s Zone: The fire-themed play area featured a bouncy house, a slide, and an arts & crafts station where children could paint their own fire trucks.
- Special Guests: The event was graced by the presence of LAFD Fire Chief Kristin Crowley, who surprised attendees with an impromptu visit. Chief Crowley shared a few words, mingled with guests, and even took a turn flipping pancakes on the “M.O.A.B” (Mother of All Barbecues).
The most poignant moment of the morning occurred when firefighters lowered the flag to half-mast and observed a moment of silence to honor fallen firefighters. Additionally, our local NBC Channel 4 news team stopped by early to promote the event, highlighting the community’s enthusiasm and support.
“We were thrilled to bring back the Pancake Breakfast after such a long break,” said Taylor Montana, President of the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce. “This event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of our community spirit and an opportunity to support our local heroes. The turnout and the support we received were incredible.”
The Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser aimed to raise funds for the Widows, Orphans, & Disabled Firemen’s Fund, as well as support the local heroes of Fire Station #86. Attendees also had the chance to bid on a variety of items in the silent auction, including a 75-inch TV, gift certificates, and exclusive packages from local businesses.
None of this would have been possible without the dedication of the Pancake Breakfast Committee, led by co-chairs Brian Veskosky, co-owner of Red Maple, and Tim Hawkins, a longtime Toluca Lake resident. Their hard work and coordination were instrumental in making this event a success.
“We’re grateful for the incredible support from our community, volunteers, and sponsors,” said Veskosky.
The Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated, and volunteered. Your participation and generosity made this event a resounding success, and we look forward to continuing this beloved tradition for years to come.
On August 24, 2023, Richard Krum Bogy passed away after a brief illness at the age of 62. He was larger than life in every way. A man of limitless energy and passion, he was unfailingly generous, and possessed an immense heart and a huge infectious laugh. He was the greatest of friends, a tireless civic, community and business leader, and a relentless advocate for Los Angeles, especially Toluca Lake. He will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touched.
Though the nearby Southern Pacific Railroad station was known as Lankershim Station, they had named the line the Toluca Flyer for its better known destination. Forman claimed the word Toluca was a Paiute Indian word he selected meaning fertile valley. The Toluca Lake Park venture was abandoned as quickly as it had been created, but then resurrected by a new group formed under the name, The Toluca Lake Company, dropping the word Park from the name. 
