The meeting began with Jane Ellison Usher of the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office setting the context for the discussion by establishing the fact that the City of Los Angeles has taken potentially the most liberal attitude toward the regulations of MMDs in the state. For many of us, that was a revelation. But the pivotal point of interest for all was the enforcement of the ordinance limiting the number of MMDs, on the one hand, or questioning why enforcement was needed at all on the other hand.

Enforcement of the ordinance has been complicated by the ordinance itself. What has become clear is that the ordinance could have been better crafted. Some terms of the ordinance have had unintended consequences resulting in some dispensaries being viewed as operating illegally that might otherwise be viewed as permitted. I felt there was an unspoken agreement on everyone's part that ultimately this needed to be remedied.

As they have the right to do in our democratic process, dispensaries have responded to the efforts of ordinance enforcement by initiating numerous lawsuits. Adjudicating and ruling on these suits have been centralized to one judge of the Superior Court. Until he makes his rulings, the Sheriff's Department and the LAPD are limited in their ability of enforcement to the level many in the community want. In the interim, LAPD has closed several illegal MMDs and has been developing a protocol for future monitoring and closing where necessary, as a first step in training its divisions throughout the city. Once the judicial process clarifies the ordinance, the police departments will work to enforce it more robustly.

Concerns were expressed by some regarding the behavior of MMD patrons in their neighborhood. Likewise, some MMD patrons indicated they were harassed or treated badly by Eagle Rock residents. Ms. Ellison suggested that anyone who has any issues with the MMDs, their patrons, or community residents send an email, detailing their concerns, to atty.medicalmarijuana@lacity.com. Interestingly, we learned that smoking marijuana in public is legal for those with prescriptions as long as it is not nuisance behavior.

After presenting written questions of the audience to the panel, Councilman Huizar opened the meeting to personal comments. Several people shared that they had serious medical conditions for which they received relief with marijuana. The Councilman assured them that no one was out to eliminate all MMDs, merely to manage them and balance their rights and needs with those of the residents in the various communities.

What was accomplished by the meeting? Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council Chair, Michael Larsen and I pondered that question as we were planning the meeting. Communication and dialogue at the community level are critical to the health of any community. Communication is not promise that people will change their opinions; I do not think many minds changed at this meeting. However, differing views are dealt with much more effectively when we understand where the other person is coming from. Thanks to our Council Office for understanding we needed this meeting.

Most important, thanks to all who attended the meeting, Eagle Rock Residents and many non-residents, for letting the conversation happen. Once again, Eagle Rock proved that people of differing opinions could meet and have a dialogue in a civil and respectful manner. It is one of the many things that makes our community special.

Music Festival: Once again, Eagle Rock responded with a "can do" attitude. The economic challenge of conducting the music festival is much greater this year. Responding to the economic downturn, many services previously provided by the City of Los Angeles for little or no charge, now come with fees. The Center for Arts - Eagle Rock, coordinator of the festival, was committed to the preservation of the festival and readily responded to the budgetary challenge. In the midst of a weak business climate, Eagle Rock Merchants responded generously. The list of sponsors includes many first-time participants. The Council Office has provided important monetary and in-kind contributions. Finally, at each access point to the festival, attendees will be encouraged to support the festival by making a nominal contribution of $5. No one will be refused admission because of a lack of funds. Thanks to the sponsoring merchants, Councilmember José Huizar's office, and the individual sponsors for their financial support. See the fliers below for more information. A huge thanks to the management and staff at the Center for the Arts - Eagle Rock, for hanging in there and making this happen. "Can do" is once again the mantra in Eagle Rock.

As usual, TERA will have a presence at the festival. Be sure to visit the TERA booth and say hello to our board members. Rumor has it they will have something sweet for everyone. If you are not a TERA member, you can take care of that at our booth.

Membership Has Benefits: Welcome to a new supporter, Armon's Restaurant at 5056 Eagle Rock Boulevard. They have recently joined the TERA Member Discount Program. Show your current membership, get 10% of all food, and drink (daily specials excluded). Try my favorite, the Spanish Omelette. Thanks to Pat and the wonderful team at Armon's for supporting TERA members.

• Armon's Restaurant and Coffee Shop
• Blue Dot Acai & Yogurt Parfait
• Camilo's California Bistro
• Coffee Table
• Colorado Wine Co
• Four Café
• The Loft Hair Lounge
• Danny Reyes CPA
• Spitz
• Swork

Please patronize these merchants, and show them that you appreciate their support of the community. If you are not a member, please consider becoming a member now. You will know that you are supporting the quality of life in Eagle Rock. Join now at http://tera90041.org/join-paypal.htm and begin enjoying the merchant discounts.