GARDEN FANATIC: Political signs pop up like flowers

From hard-carved urns to whimsical gnomes, gardeners have sought to differentiate their landscapes from their neighbors’ for 2,000 years. And every two years, the campaign sign becomes a garden ornament — possibly overused and silly as any other artificial element in the garden, depending on your political leanings.

Walking through my neighborhood this weekend, with Buster and Blondie, I counted a 65-2 advantage for Sen. Barack Obama. That may fill my heart with optimism, but I am still disappointed that his campaign selected a plastic sign (even though it is said to be of recycled materials and union made). It just doesn’t appear to be eco-friendly.

Nevertheless, Obama’s sign promises, like his persona, a new beginning, a sun rising appropriately over a field of red, white and blue. The message is so important that after little deliberation, Catharine and I placed two of these beautiful ornaments in our garden.

“Equality for All” is the message espoused by No on 8. It is impossible to ignore this assertion, particularly in Laguna. The sign’s green hue harmonizes well in any garden, as well as rights should flourish everywhere, in California and beyond.

Cheryl Kinsman has sworn her love for Laguna prior to and since becoming a council member. Her sign may not be garden cool, but her no-nonsense fonts represent her competence and organizational skills on the City Council. I have found that hardy and dependable perennials, like the daylily and forget-me-not, are complementary to Cheryl’s signage.

Optimistically forecasting sunny days ahead, Jane Egly’s sign symbolizes a verdant Laguna, adjacent to the blue waters of the Pacific. Her council service indeed represents the entire community.

The iconic poster art of Verna Rollinger’s campaign sign reflects her longtime residency. The palm tree is a nice touch and adds a subtropical touch to any garden.

No dirty political tricks in our neighborhood this silly season. Obama and Sen. John McCain signs remain side-by-side and undisturbed on the corner. The three City Council candidates’ campaign signs coexist and remain in close proximity. Finally, and unanimously, No on 8 reigns supreme on our end of the street.

My best to all the politicians — and don’t forget to take the signs down on the fifth and get those holiday lights up for Christmas. See you next time.

STEVE KAWARATANI is married to writer, Catharine Cooper, and has one cat and four dogs. He can be reached at (949) 497-8168, or e-mail to plantman2@mac.com.