The Day of Shadow and Light
By Kathy Blavatt
Monday, November 24, 2018 was an ironic day.
Mel Shapiro San Diego’s longtime civic activist passed away.
On that same day, death was averted for the last of the largest “Saratoga Torrey Pines”.
History was made as OB’s elder was granted a city reprieve.
The woody comrades of the historical pine had been cut down.
Much like the caring activists who gave their souls for this town.
Extraordinary people branch out and touch the sky.
Mel’s rays lit the dark shadows with a “Sunshine Act.”
Near in age are the man of light… and the Torrey grand.
Their roots are strong… their seeds expand.
Weathering adverse conditions built their strengths.
Cold winds and stormy climate strengthened their character.
Brown earth and warm sunrays keep the tree in tact.
The ethical “man of light,” gleans transparency through the “Brown Act”.
For their strengths they have our respect.
In making a better world they have our love and admiration.
Now, the day of life and death is gone.
The two are one, eternal life through the sun.
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Activist should think about attending Mel’s Memorial. Some of the activist speaking at include: Nancy Cassady, Democratic Party; Donna Frye, Former Council Member; Michael Aguirre, Former City Attorney; Scott Andrews, O.B., Public Land Activist, Kathleen Blavatt; Ocean Beach Activist; John McNab, Public Land Activist, and others.
Hear why so many longtime activists honor Mel for his many years being a top watchdog and activist.