Monday, Aug. 28, 2006 | I am appalled at the verbal attack on Diann Shipione. I have known Diann for many years and have followed the San Diego Circus (aka city government) even though I no longer live in San Diego. For Councilman Jim Madaffer to say she “got lucky” is like saying Woodward and Bernstein “got lucky.” Diann has perservered when most people would have thrown in the towel. Why? Certainly not for the wonderful press she receives from you. Perhaps in today’s world it is hard to comprehend that someone would have the strength and convictions to stand up and do what is right. Diann didn’t cause the mess the city is in, she just had the skills and guts to be the messenger, and instead of applauding her and thanking her the city wants to discredit her.