The end of the year is always a time for reflection, when people gather and remember those that are important in their lives. The same is true in neighborhood politics. Whatever differences or drama occurred during the past year is forgotten and the positive strides are remembered.

Case in point: At the last neighborhood Community Council meeting of 2010, the good citizens of Pacific Palisades gathered not to debate, but to celebrate the close of another year of service to the community. In that holiday spirit, the crowded dining hall at Temescal Gateway Park enjoyed a large and varied potluck dinner while honoring three noteworthy locals, and, like the civic coven they are, the group conjured up the spirit of a long-deceased sage to provide guidance for the coming year. Then, they cast the ghost back to the astral plane of which it came, and adjourned the meeting until their next gathering on the 13th day of January.

The souls being honored: Sigrid Hofer, Arnold Hofer, and Andrew Frew. The team of Hofer & Hofer is known locally for their three-decades worth of support for various performing arts institutions, including the Palisades Symphony and Theatre Palisades. (In fact, their sons, Manfred and Tom, longtime graphic artists at the Palisadian-Post, are musicians who once played in the now-defunct post-punk band The Leaving Trains.) 

Likewise, the nimble Frew (known as "Spider-Man" to friends) was recognized for his work behind the scenes (and up in the rafters) at Theatre Palisades, Movies in the Park, and the Chamber of Commerce Teen Pageant.

Not only did this lucky trio receive beautiful glass trophies, along with the praise of the neighborhood council for their work enriching the cultural life of the Palisades, but they were also the recipients of certificates of commendation "for making Los Angeles a better place to live, work, and play" from a representative of the office of Bill Rosendahl of District 11 (which includes the Palisades). Sadly, this representative began his speech with an apology concerning the quality of the certificate, due to budget cuts. (Apparently, the documents received by past awardees were much more impressive.) Regardless, Sigred Hofer exclaimed that she was "honored, and surprised" since she had not realized she was even nominated for this prize. 

Call it a "very special episode of Community Council," for, once the photo-ops were over, the Council introduced the "ghost" of Charles Dickens (portrayed by an actor). Although it may be fitting that the author of ghost stories that center around Christmas would make an appearance during the holiday season, his connection to the Palisades was never really explained (despite his amazing knowledge of local current events). One would think that the proud Palisadians would have conjured up one of the many famous authors that lived within their boundaries. Wouldn't the Council be curious what the deceased Raymond Chandler (whose "Lady in the Lake" was set in the holiday season) might say about the Palisades today?

Then again, maybe Chandler's ghost would have ruined the otherwise polite affair. Regardless, Dickens told a series of jokes, sang some songs, and delivered prophecies for 2011 that seemed to pander to the senior citizens in the crowd. (In other words, he was a hit!)

By evening's close, Dickens led the council in a sentimental, Palisadian version of "Auld Lang Syne," all while playing his acoustic guitar (yes, Dickens plays guitar!). Will the old acquaintances in that room that night be soon forgot? Let's hope not.