Albert Vera Relying on memory without consulting records can be perilous, and we proved it again yesterday.
Indeed there is precedent for a City Councilman serving two terms, bowing to term limits and returning.
Albert Vera, arguably the most loved, colorful and memorable Councilman in Culver City’s 98-year history.
He won his first two elections, in 1992 and 1996, sat for two years, and then was coaxed into running again in ’02. He won from here to LAX.

A number of City Councilmembers have served more than two terms.
But the most difficult challenge in politics is leaving and trying to return.
Back alleys are littered with such failed bodies, some carrying supposedly magical names like Romney and Clinton.
In Culver City, Councilman Andy Weissman and Vice Mayor Mehaul O’Leary will be term-limited next year.
While Mr. Weissman is expected to depart and not return, Mr. O’Leary has made sounds about moving on to Los Angeles politics. Will he?

A drastic change in environment and attitudes of those around you is not unique to politics.
Whatever your profession, leave for two years, travel the globe, return and see how dramatically differently you are received, by co-workers and others – whether you are in charge or an underling.
The rhythms of our lives change regularly.
Many of us are so tightly locked into routines that subtleties of the differences initially may escape notice until it is too late.

The accents of change in politics are more pronounced, partially because politics is a public exercise.