After a 2 year hiatus, the 6th Annual Turkey Trot returned with a roar, (Or should I say Gobble!) attracting runners and local families to partake in the festivities. Hosted by the Toluca Lake Homeowners Association, it was decided all proceeds would go towards the East Valley PALS program. East Valley Pals is a non-profit booster organization for the North Hollywood Division of the Los Angeles Police Department. They provide financial support for the men and women of the LAPD. It often comes as a surprise to the average Angeleno how difficult it is for the city to pay for some essential equipment, training, and special events. PALS attempts to bridge that gap. The North Hollywood Police Dept. has always been there to support Toluca Lake, so this was an opportunity to give back.
We were fortunate to have with us David Ono, Multi-Emmy winning News Anchor for ABC7 Eyewitness News as our Master of Ceremonies. Festivities kicked off (Literally) with a choreographed demonstration by KMA Martial Art kids. Next, trainers from the Toluca Lake Tennis and Fitness Club led the runners to an arsenal of stretches to prep them for the run. .
A special sentiment of gratitude goes out to the Turkey Trot Committee, led by Ryan Kugler, who brought immeasurable experience in organizing race events. Dana Boyd and her team were responsible for the Sponsors, which is the heart of the proceeds raised. Beth Eras, Susanne Hayes, Kari Negri, Steve Hampar, Jon Mukri, Mary Vossler, Pam Scharlach, Robyn Allyn and Dianna Buck rounded out the committee. Of course there was Board Member Bob Wexler, our illustrious Turkey Mascot, who seemed to be everywhere during the event. It was possibly the only Turkey Trot in history where the turkey led part of the race on a Segway!
The event could not have been possible without our generous Sponsors who have donated money, coffee and food. They include NBCUniversal, Craig Strong, Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce, Toluca Lake Tennis and Fitness Club, Malbec Restaurant, A5 Events and Hampar Properties. Thank you Councilmember David Ryu and Alice Roth, and Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian for your support and helping to coordinate with the City. Thank you Chase Bank for hosting the event. Thanks to Officer Rob Benavidez, Officer Barbara Galicia, and the cadets for making it a safe run. You are appreciated!
The Toluca Lake Turkey Trot was originally conceived by Toluca Lake resident Piper Welch in 2011, and ran and promoted through the TLHOA. We hope to see you next year as the tradition continues!
