It's been too long since I have sent an eLetter. Please accept my apologies. We took a much needed vacation to Canada and New England. On purpose, I left my laptop at home. The best vacations are those that are just long enough to be wonderful while they are happening. But, at the end you are ready to come home. Our trip was wonderful but we were happy to return to Eagle Rock.
A Morning at City Hall:
Classical music, croissants, cantaloupe and coffee were being offered as I stepped onto the 3rd floor rotunda area of City Hall last week. The mid-morning refreshments were in recognition of Congresswoman Diane Watson's retirement after her three decades of government service.
In the midst of a campaign season, our political sensibilities are dominated by negative campaigning. My visit to City Hall was virtually an "out of body" political experience. Entering the spectacular rotunda of City Hall, in the midst of such a festive event, for the moment overshadows the negatives that regularly define our political landscape today. City Hall is a magnificent building, clearly a monument to a great city. The acoustics in the rotunda are superb. If you have never visited Los Angeles City Hall, I strongly recommend that you do so. The Los Angeles Conservancy offers guided tours of City Hall once a month. Reservations are required. Make a point to visit your city hall. The building is an architectural gem that exudes the feeling of an optimistic Democracy in the best sense.
In City Council Chambers, another extraordinary space, Diane Watson received accolades for her many accomplishments of 30 years. It was so refreshing to see a politician honored rather than vilified, especially prior to their demise. I hope all who give so much in service to the community, those with whom I agree and those with whom I don't agree are similarly commended for their years of service.
Music Festival Award:
My personal reason for being at City Hall had nothing to do with coffee and croissants. I was there to participate in the presentation of an award to the Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock. The award recognized the success of the 2010 Music Festival and the dedicated Center Staff that made it happen. The number of Music Festival attendees is estimated as high as 100,000 this year. Staging this event is a huge effort. Julia Salazar, Executive Director and Renee Dominique, Development Director, supported by a small enthusiastic and youthful staff, pull off this signature event year after year. Eagle Rock's "place on the map" is significantly strengthened because of this event.
Most of the music is appropriately and wisely not to my taste. Just look at my photo in this eLetter; no further explanation is necessary. The goal of Brian Martinez, Director of Events, is to feature emerging groups at the festival. It is not unusual for some of the featured groups to grow in popularity and ultimately become seriously established in the music industry. I hope you were one of the many attendees this year. A big thanks to the Center for the Arts for their many contributions to our community.
State of the Town Meeting:
The annual State of the Town meeting was held a couple of weeks ago. It was a rainy night which probably influenced attendance. However, almost all seats were full. José Huizar, our Councilmember for the 14th district provided an extensive overview of the status of Eagle Rock. The best news was that crime statistics continue to decline in our community. As compared to State of the Town meetings in the past, there were relatively few follow-up questions for the Councilmember. In response to a question, Jose reported that several parties had expressed interest the purchase of the abandoned lofts project on Colorado, close to Eagle Vista. In order to encourage buyers, the Council Office will attempt to expedite the process of acquisition and resumption of construction. This stalled project has been a major Eagle Rock eye sore for too long.
Interestingly, one attendee suggested that the Councilmember explore attempting to enact a blight penalty regulation. This potential regulation would assess fines / liens against abandoned projects that create community blight. This solution would increase a developer's commitment to the completion of projects. It could also facilitate the city's ability to ultimately take control of the property as liens against the property accumulated. I have encouraged the Councilmember to further consider this suggestion.
I will send a link to the video of this meeting as soon as it is available.
Membership Has Benefits:
Welcome to a new supporter, La Fuente Restaurant at 2256 W. Colorado Boulevard. If you haven't been there recently you will be surprised by the expanded dining area and full bar. Equally impressive is their extensive offering of Mexican standards as well as some very special dishes you won't find elsewhere. Show your current membership, get 10% off all food, and drink (daily specials excluded).
Discounts for TERA Members at the following participating merchants:
- 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
- La Fuente
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://www.tera90041.org/join-paypal.htm and begin enjoying the merchant discounts.
