I'm sure that you can all recite the mission of TERA, but just in case it's not rolling of the tongue, here are the basics:

"The broad mission of this organization is to work for improvement of the quality of life in the Eagle Rock Community in Los Angeles, California, by providing research and education about Eagle Rock, participating in land-use planning activities, and promoting positive community growth and beautification." You can read the entire mission at: http://www.tera90041.org/teramiss.htm.

As I read the mission, I'm proud to say we are staying true to it. What we will not do is business as usual for the simple sake of doing it just as our predecessors did it. Here's what we've been up to:

1. Our Home Tour, led this year by Rich Puz, educated the public about preservation and restoration not just through the homes but by artisans along the route. From a mansion to a small cottage, preservation proves to be very important at all levels and all sizes in order to maintain the character of our community.

2. The Community Garden, under the tutelage of Master Gardner Mary Tokita, is expanding and building 10 new beds to increase the number of gardeners it can accommodate and thereby building a growing gardening community. Of great importance is the recent success in getting lighting for the garden.

3. Preservation, Planning and Development Committee - Thanks to Frank Parrello, board vice chair and committee chair, land-use issues are followed carefully and until fully implemented or defeated. An important element often overlooked in land-use is following through on projects and Frank and his committee are doing a great job. Recent developments include:

-- Ridgeview RV Garage: The committee's review of a massive RV garage on Ridgeview that would have changed the character of the neighborhood, led to a committee recommendation to the board to oppose the project, which the board voted to do. While we are sensitive to the rights of the homeowner, we must also weigh the rights of the neighbors and in this case it was appropriate to oppose the proposed structure. Frank testified on behalf of TERA at the hearing.

--Months of review and meetings regarding the cell phone tower atop Bilo Market and the proposed co-existence of another one by Verizon, led to an appeal by neighbors in the near vicinity to be granted.

--In a prior e-letter I had mentioned that we requested a clarification on the height variance to the proposed mixed use project at the corner of Colorado Blvd. and Eagle Vista. I'm happy to report that our position was accepted and the variance that was granted will be contingent on the project being completed as proposed, or the variance becomes null. This is a project we will continue to monitor to make sure it is built as proposed.

4. We are working with Helen and David Gustavson on completing the Wiota Circle Project which in a few more months should be a beautiful welcome to all entering Eagle Rock from the east. Their tireless dedication to turning a spot that was blight on the community into what will be a gracious monument and native plant garden shows true community spirit.

5. A new project under the guidance and hard work of Pauline Mauro, will soon take center stage in our efforts to continue the beautification of Eagle Rock. A project with the support of The Chamber of Commerce, Eagle Rock Community Preservation and Revitalization Corporation, and the Kiwanis Club will soon take center stage. We are waiting to see if our application for a Neighborhood Beautification Grant is approved before we fully unveil it.

And there is much more to come with the addition of two new board members, a future membership survey, and some strategic planning to set a course for the future that will surely lead to another 20 years of TERA.

As you dig your heels deep into holiday shopping, remember that you don't have to travel far to purchase great things…just down the street here in Eagle Rock. Happy shopping!

And my ever pesky reminder: if you haven't renewed your membership, or are not yet a member, please do so right away. It's a great investment in your community. Also, I've been lonely lately without any e-letter responses from you. Let me know what is on your minds!.