State and Church cannot be trusted to protect right to life

The unalienable right to life is the fundamental teaching of the Church and also the foundation of the Declaration of Independence. This God-given right requires eternal vigilance by we the people; government officials and Church leaders alone cannot be trusted to protect it. In 650 BC, the city-state of Sparta-the dominant power in ancient Greece left ailing seniors and infants on hillsides to die. Today advanced nations also officially restrict life-giving treatment to the aged, the disabled, the terminally ill- and some infants. George Wesolek, director of the Archdiocesan Office of Public Policy knows this; yet he accuses opponents of the so-called Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of bad theology and partisan political activity. (CSF Dec.10)

This 2000 page act is a soulless assault on the unalienable right to life; it was passed unread, pushed by a partisan Speaker Pelosi and signed by partisan President Obama. Catholic clergy and lay leaders who advocate this womb to tomb takeover of America’s health care by 100 bureaucracies, boards and commissions should know that health coverage does not mean health care. In 2005 the Supreme Court of Canada ruled; “Access to a waiting list is not health care.” Every year over 200,000 patients from Canada and European Union countries with government health care seek treatment in the U.S. that they cannot get in their homeland. Catholic leaders also know in Great Britain the National Health Service determines treatment based upon patient age and condition- Quality Adjusted Life Years. Britain and other E.U. nations also deny renal dialysis and certain drugs to elderly patients and the terminally ill. In the Netherlands the Dutch permit lethal injections on newborns diagnosed unable to have a meaningful life.

America’s seniors soon will find the $500 billion cut in Medicare will cut diagnosis and treatment for cancer and heart disease. The White House special advisor for health policy has said: “Whether to save one 20 year old who could live 60 years or three age 70 years who could live only 10 years; we recommend prioritizing younger people for the greater good.” (Ezekiel J. Emanuel, MD, Lancet, 2009)

George Wesolek acknowledges this act has fundamental flaws and hopes the new Congress will clarify it. America’s aged, disabled and terminally ill deserve more than such feeble hope from Catholic leaders. The majority of Americans demand this immoral intrusion be rewritten to protect the unalienable right to life. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and every diocesan office of public policy should lead the demand to protect the fundamental teaching of the Church..

Mike DeNunzio

Obama Care Denies Right to Life

To: Editor, CATHOLIC SAN FRANCISCO

George Wesolek, director of the archdiocesan office of public policy accuses opponents of the 2010 federal take over of America's health care of using bad theology and partisan political rhetoric. He is wrong to say this just as Nancy Pelosi and Bark Obama were wrong to foist this soulless sham on America.

Catholic leaders-clergy and laity alike-have a responsibility to inform the faithful that governments cannot be trusted to protect the inalienable right to life. In 650 BC -for the common good- the Spartans left ailing infants and seniors on hillsides to die. Today- for the common good- every country with government health care officially restricts medical treatment of the preborns, frail newborns, the aged, the disabled and terminally ill. The examples are chilling: Great Britain uses Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY) to determine care based upon a patient's age; it also denies renal dialysis to patients over age 65 and certain drugs to terminal patients. In the Netherlands the Dutch permit lethal injection of newborns diagnosed as unable to have a meaningful life. Catholic leaders, including doctors and religious nurses know that every year thousands of patients from Canada, the E.U. and other countries with national health care seek life-giving treatments in the U.S. that they cannot receive in their homeland.

George Wesolek admits the so called Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has fundamental flaws regarding abortion, conscience rights and immigrants; he hopes the new Congress will clarify it. Concerned Americans, especially frail seniors, the disabled and terminally ill deserve more than feeble hope from Catholic leaders. They want this cradle to grave intrusion on Americans –that exempts Congress- repealed and re written to protect their unalienable right to life as endowed by the Creator and demanded by the Founders in the Declaration of Independence. It is a fundamental Catholic principle.

Mike DeNunzio

(Mike DeNunzio is a California Commissioner on Aging)

Letter to SF Examiner 12/3/10

To: Editor, S.F EXAMINER

The Examiner headline December 3 warns of "workers we can't afford" and the cost for current and retired city employees will increase $100 million and the City deficit will be $375 million.

Don't blame city workers for this plunder of tax dollars. The workers San Francisco truly cannot afford are the eight consecutive Democrat mayors since 1964- and the Democrat supervisors who have controlled City Hall for the last 46 years. They and the Democrat voters that elected and re elected them are totally responsible for this fiscal malpractice. It is virtual white collar crime.

Mike DeNunzio San Francisco

Some GOP leaders & Willie Brown agree -but both wrong

11/14/10

Editor Former Mayor Brown and some Republican leaders oppose the plan by the Governor and Legislature to sell and leaseback the Gov. Edmund Brown Building on Van Ness," and the San Francisco Civic Center Complex which houses state offices on Golden Gate Ave, and the Supreme Court on Mc Allister St.. Their opposition does not require much expertise; most sale-leasebacks stem from a financial crisis and a need for immediate cash; the leaseback often costs more than the sale price. The plan to sell these three building and eight more in four other California cities is the consequence of irresponsible Democrats in Sacramento.They approved excessive health and pension benefits for themselves and the state employee unions that funded their elections. These benefits are unsustainable; they equate to a virtual bribe, they plunder the general fund and are an abuse of the taxpayers. California now has a $25.4 billion deficit and the worst credit rating of fifty states. It cannot continue to spend, borrow and tax. The state owns and maintains 22,272 buildings and structures, the business of the state is to provide services-not manage property, more state buildings should be sold, including the crime-ridden Cow Palace. Mike DeNunzio President, S.F. Building Authority Chairman, S.F Republican Assembly

Remember Veterans Day

We've seen this before- its always important to see again-- and again

Its the Veteran, not the reporter who has given us freedom of the press.

Its the Veteran, not the poet who has given us freedom of speech.

It’s the Veteran not the politician who protects our right to life liberty and pursuit of happiness.

FREEDOM IS NOT OURS BY INHERITANCE.

IT IS NEVER MORE THAN ONE GENERATION FROM EXTINCTION

IT COMES ONLY ONCE TO A PEOPLE

AND EACH GENERATION MUST DEFEND IT -RONALD REAGAN

Mike DeNunzio, Chairman

San Francisco Republican Assembly

Proof that liberalism is a mental disorder.

Editor, In November 2 the Democrats lost over 60 Representatives, six Senators, 11 Governors, 19 State Assemblies and 680 State Legislators. On November 10 Speaker Nancy Pelosi will hold a reception to honor the accomplishments of the 111th Congress and conclusively prove liberalism is a mental disorder.

Mike DeNunzio Chairman San Francisco Republican Assembly

The First Tuesday Ritual

Einstein defined insanity as "doing the same thing over and expecting different results." In San Francisco perfectly sane voters do the same thing every first Tuesday of November: They continue to "stay with" progressive (liberal) candidates, and like battered women who stay with their abusers, the result of their loyalty is always the same; MORE ABUSE: (crime, deficits, debt, taxes, mandates, fees,. etc.)

The ritual of uncritical voting in San Francisco is attributed to three somewhat harmless mental conditions:

1Liberal Guilt, 2Cognitive Dissonance, 3Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

1Liberal Guilt is acute among socially advantaged voters who feel responsible for evils they had nothing to do with‐like Slavery. "LG" sufferers TRY to expiate their guilt with support for underprivileged minorities like Mumia Abu Jamal‐(the cop killer.) They preface their opinions saying: "Speaking as a caring (3rd, 4th) generation San Franciscan," then bash Sarah Palin viciously for not aborting her child with Down's Syndrome: "Isn't that what abortion is for?" ‐ they whisper to a red faced dinner partner.

2Cognitive Dissonance is harmless when vegetarian airheads wear leather mini‐skirts. It's deadly serious when caring Moms vote to oppose parental notification of a minor's abortion, and patriotic Dads oppose JROTC. Most sufferers of "CD" are religious leaders, educators, and high school dropouts.

3Obsessive Compulsive Disorder occurs when irregular flow of the brain chemical serotonin sends a false danger signal. ("GERMS") This triggers uncontrollable repetitive behavior sufferers imagine will protect them. (excessive hand washing.) Liberals with OCD fear being wiretapped when calling their Republican stockbroker to buy Exxon. Moderates with OCD fear taking a position on issues. (Can't we all get along.) The greatest fear of conservatives with OCD is their Dominatrix will raise her fee for spanking.

PROZAC is a common medication for OCD; however a side affect diarrhea affects quorums of the Democrat Central Committee, and reduces attendance at SFSU pro Hamasanti Israel rallies.

RESULTS OF THE FIRST TUESDAY RITUAL IN SAN FRANCISCO:

Record homicides, crime, homeless, STDs, drugs, Pot clubs, broken streets, dirty parks, bad transportation.

A $6.5 billion budget larger than 20 states, a $500 million deficit, 27,400 overpaid employees (1:28 residents.)

A $4 billion unfunded liability for health benefits; loss of good corporate citizensChevron, Bank America, Charles Schwab, small businesses and jobs and tax revenues. Young families that leave for affordable housing, better schools, and safer streets. AND more "safe seat" Supervisors who never met a payroll and call for more taxes, fees, mandates and regulations that ultimately hurt vulnerable seniors, handicapped and the poor.

(SC #2209)

Govt Healthcare Morally Deficient

In Guest Commentary: “Health care reform: A Catholic priority.” George Wesolek, archdiocesan director of Public Policy writes: “It is a scandal 45 million Americans have no health care coverage, or inadequate coverage and access” (CSF, Oct. 9) Indeed health care is a Catholic priority, and Catholics deserve an accurate account of this moral imperative. Numbers are instructive: The cliché that 45 million Americans lack health insurance is incorrect. The U.S. Census Bureau reports nine million uninsured earn over $75,000 and eight million earn over $50,000 but do not purchase health insurance. An additional ten million are eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, S-CHIP or employer plans, but are not enrolled. The nine million (or more) Americans that need financial assistance can be insured via options that will keep America’s health care the best in the world: Vouchers for low income persons; group plans, portability, inter-state purchases, tax deductions, medical savings accounts and risk assignment pools for pre existing conditions. Another ten million uninsured in America are not U.S. Citizens; none can be denied treatment in a U.S. Hospital, nevertheless they also could have access to health insurance, and helped with vouchers, etc. This will require comprehensive immigration reform that will end illegal sanctuary policies that subjugate undocumented persons to exploitation by violent criminals, unscrupulous employers and worse; self-serving political and social demagogues. Mr. Wesolek reports the Catholic Bishops and Archdiocese of San Francisco are calling for universal health care that protects life from conception to death as a “moral imperative;” and it certainly is. However, the Second Vatican Council reaffirmed that “error has no rights, but humans do.” All Catholics have a right to be wrong about universal health care controlled by government. It has proven morally deficient; it makes the fatal error of dismissing the ”inalienable” right to life. Every country with universal health coverage admits it restricts or denies medical treatment to certain elderly, disabled, terminally ill and newly born. Great Britain and other single payer nations use the “Quality Adjusted Life Years” system (QALY) to determine treatment based upon cost and patient age; renal dialysis centers in these countries send patients over age 65 home to die. In the Netherlands neonatal intensive care units permit infanticide by lethal injection. In 650 BC. Spartans used a simpler system; they left frail elderly and sickly infants on a hillside to die. Every year thousands of sick people leave Canada, England and E.U. countries to seek treatment in the U.S. Last year 39,282 came from Canada where the Supreme Court has ruled; “Access to a waiting list is not health care.” These wealthy single payer nations have less doctors, less MRI and CT scanners, less beds per capita, longer waits for diagnosis and treatment and higher mortality rates for cancer and heart disease. In Italy health officials criticize their government for not investing in modern drugs and equipment. The entire European Union with wealth greater than the U.S. accounts for only 16% of the world's biotech research; the U.S. invests (risks) 78% for new drugs and technologies that save millions of lives, especially in poor third world nations- this is a moral imperative universal health care ignores. All Catholic advocates of universal government health care should heed the wisdom of Pope Benedict XV: “We do not need a state which regulates and controls everything, but a State that supports social forces closest to those in need. The State that would provide and absorb everything into itself becomes a bureaucracy incapable of the very thing the suffering person needs most: loving personal concern.” Benedict rejects statist demagogues; everyone should. Mike DeNunzio is a California Commissioner on Aging and former San Francisco Commissioner on Aging Adult Services.

GUEST EDITORIAL IN SF CATHOLIC

FAITHFUL CITIZENSHIP CALLS FOR STATE STEWARDSHIP Mike DeNunzio http://www.catholic-sf.org

"The poor must be spared." San Francisco Archbishop George Niederauer has reminded the Governor and the Legislature that any increase in taxes or cuts in services to balance the $20 billion deficit must be fair and responsible. He calls for courage to protect the future of the state and not give in to special interests. The Archbishop also knows these leaders are not solely responsible for the deficit, they did not seize power; they were elected by "we the people" –including some Bishops. If voters continue to elect officials who fail their stewardship of tax revenues California will have more deficits, and the poor will suffer most. "Faithful Citizenship" the document on political responsibility by the American Bishops gives Catholics and all voters sound guidance; it is based on human reason- (common sense) and foundational American values. The Bishops call Catholics to participate in public affairs with moral convictions- not instructions from any political party. They encourage voters to be active and contact legislators and the media and call for policies that spend tax revenues with prudence to protect all persons- especially the poor: End spending that exceeds population and inflation rate; correct unsustainable benefits that plunder the general fund; ease regulations that drive out business, jobs and the tax revenues that caused the budget deficit-and hurt the needy most. The first responsibility of the State is to protect people–not buildings: California owns 22,272 buildings and structures. (Yes 22,272) They include the Los Angeles Coliseum, the San Francisco Cow Palace and numerous facilities for education, health, public safety, etc. The state can sell and leaseback some to reduce costs and protect services -as other states and the federal government are doing. California also has 240,579 state employees with the highest salaries in the nation- they total $19 billion a year. A four-day week could save $4 billion a year to protect vital services. This 20 percent cut is far less than 100 percent cut faced by two million unemployed in the private sector. The $88 billion state budget funds 500 departments, agencies and commissions; they all can reduce costs to help protect vital services: (The Community Colleges offer free classes that include ballroom dancing; while the Department of Health and Human Services must cut assistance to disabled and home bound elderly) This is disgraceful stewardship of tax dollars- and morally wrong. Faithful Citizenship urges Catholics and all voters to become informed and address social needs with human reason-"not feelings:" Increasing taxes when unemployment is 12 percent will not help the needy. More taxes will drive out businesses, jobs and the tax revenues needed to fund human services. California taxes are among the highest in America, the state is ranked worst to do business and has the lowest credit rating. Increasing taxes is economic folly and ideological lunacy. The Catholic Bishops are Americans, they teach Faithful Citizenship knowing that no other nation or economic system has done more to help the needy or to build a safer, just world. They also know that last year–Americans -individuals, businesses and foundations- contributed $307 billion to religious, health care, educational, social and environmental causes. Every dollar came from profits earned by risk takers and businesses competing in America's free market capitalist system. Faithful Citizenship strengthens the foundational values of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness that makes social justice possible. NOTE: Mike DeNunzio is a California Commissioner on Aging and past San Francisco Commissioner on Aging-Adult Services He is President of the San Francisco State Building Authority, Chairman of the San Francisco Republican Assembly, a Communications Surrogate for the California Republican Party and past Chairman of the S.F. Republican Party.

CA's Budget Deficit

SF EXAMINER PUBLISHED AN ABBREVIATED VERSION OF THIS LETTER TODAY EDITOR To balance the $20 billion budget deficit California must adopt responsible fiscal policies that include: An end to spending that exceeds inflation and population; reform of unsustainable defined benefits for 240,000 state workers, and change in regulations that drive out businesses, jobs-- and tax revenues. California also must audit its 500 departments, agencies and commissions, and the use of 22, 272 state properties.(Yes- 22,272!!!) Why do Community Colleges offer free continuing education classes that include ballroom dancing. It also must reform Assistance for Needy Families. California has 12% of the U.S. population but 36 percent of the nation's welfare recipients. The state also is ranked worst to do business of the fifty states and has some of the highest taxes in America. Increasing taxes during a recession is economic lunacy- they will will cause more businesses to leave and take jobs and tax revenues with them. MIKE DENUNZIO CHAIRMAN S.F REPUBLICAN ASSEMBLY

No Apologies!

Editor, Republican leaders should apologize for pressuring Rep. Joe Barton to apologize for his apology to British Petroleum for the administrations unapologetic taking of $20 billion from this legitimate private entity without due process of law. BP has not been convicted of anything; nor is the magnitude of damages known. $20 billion may be too little for BP to pay for its negligence that has caused tragic loss of life, millions of livelihoods, and horrific destruction of wildlife and environment. That's why the Fifth Amendment is wisely unapologetic: "No person shall be deprived of property without due process of law." BP's shareholders are persons and many are U.S. citizens. The only apologies the GOP should have is for not working hard enough to defeat the "Apologizer in Chief." WITH NO APOLOGIES! Mike DeNunzio Chairman S.F Republican Assembly

No on Proposition 14

Editor, THE EXAMINER California's six political parties oppose Prop 14; Democrats, Republicans, Greens, Peace & Freedom, American Independent and Libertarian. So should Jim Hartman- a distinguished Republican spokesperson. Political parties are expressions of the right to free speech and association. They help bring alternative candidates to the voters. In a free society, political parties should be free to decide their rules for nominees; just as newspapers are free to decide endorsements. Prop. 14 also could cause smaller third parties to lose legally recognized status in California elections. It would restrict voters' choice, and prohibit write in candidates. Only the top two candidates in the June primary would be on the November ballot. In urban areas- like San Francisco, it would guarantee two Democrats and in many rural areas- two Republicans. Why restrict voter choice? Mike DeNunzio Chairman S.F. Republican Assembly

Tea Party Rabble-Rousers?

Editor, SF Chronicle "Right-left batter Campbell," (Chronicle, May 6) Staff Writer Joe Garofoli refers to "Tea Party rabble-rousing." It is well- known and confirmed by respected sources that Tea Party participants are American citizens concerned about intrusive government, excessive spending and highr taxes; they don't deserve that smear. When will the Chronicle give readers a political story that is not edited by Nancy Pelosi and the DNC? Mike DeNunzio Chairman San Francisco Republican Assembly

SALE-LEASEBACK OF STATE OFFICE BUILDINGS

DON'T LET THE BEST BE THE ENEMY OF THE GOOD Experience in business and politics teaches that "the best is the enemy the good." Last August, faced with a record $22 billion budget deficit, Governor Schwarzenegger and two thirds of the legislature approved a plan to help close the deficit and protect vital services; it is not the best plan. Its objective is to sell and leaseback 17 office buildings on 11 state properties in five cities, three buildings are in San Francisco. Today some Republicans and Democrats oppose the plan; this is understandable. It rarely is best to sell a capital asset to pay for operating expenses. Most individuals, families, businesses, and states sell and leaseback properties for one reason; THEY NEED THE MONEY! The eight largest of all economies in the world cannot pay its bills. California has a record $22 billion budget deficit and the worst credit rating of fifty states: It needs the money! I accepted appointment to the San Francisco State Building Authority and serve as president to oversee the sale and leaseback of three office buildings because it is a good plan—not the best plan. It can help close the deficit and protect vital services for youth, the elderly and disabled. Californians pay some of the highest taxes in the nation; they expect the state to provide services -not manage property. The state must use some assets; it cannot balance a $22 billion deficit solely with more taxes and cuts in services. This sale- leaseback plan is not a fire sale; the bids must ensure the best interests of tax-payers according to the Department of General Services that oversees sale of state property. It is projected to produce $2 billion to retire bond debt on the buildings and lock in favorable long-term leasebacks for the state- and also net $660 million for state services. These buildings are attractive to investors; there is a limited supply of fully leased, energy efficient buildings certified by the U.S. Green Buildings Council. In San Francisco three are: The Hiram Johnson State Office Building on Golden Gate Avenue, the Earl Warren Building on McAllister where the Supreme Court meets, and the Edmund G. Brown Building on Van Ness which houses the California Public Utilities Commission. Some who question the sale–leaseback plan should first question their own silence and assent to a decade of irresponsible spending in Sacramento that exceeds inflation and population growth and has caused the deficit crisis. Those who have worked for fiscal responsibility need to do more than oppose the plan because it is not the "best plan." That's easy; the harder task is to prepare, present and enact practical solutions to close the budget deficit for fiscal 2010-2011. The best plan will be for Republicans, Democrats and independents to elect responsible legislators who will not sell out to special interests and the state employee unions that plunder the treasury and take vital services from the needy. The best plan will be to end safe seats and to elect a part time legislature at half pay- that cannot take contributions from state employee unions in return for supporting unsustainable state pensions that bankrupt the state. Mike DeNunzio

The Honeymoon is Over

This was in SFC on March 27- it goes to 85,000 Catholic households in SF, Marin and San Mateo Counties SAN FRANCISCO CATHOLIC- Editor “The Honeymoon is over.” (CSF March 20) The Guest Commentary by George Wesolek archdiocesan director of public policy is welcome news but it prompts some questions about the “honeymoon with President Obama.” On July 17, 2007 then candidate Obama declared to the political action committee of Planned Parenthood: "The first thing I'd do, as president, is sign the Freedom of Choice Act.” (FOCA) Fifty four percent of Catholics voted for Obama, and most continue to support this president who will unleash a 21st century holocaust when he signs FOCA. The “freedom“ to kill the unborn will become freedom to kill the handicapped, the suffering, the terminally ill, and the aged. Catholics also should be concerned about Obama’s health plan; it will promote assisted suicide and it will ration care. Archbishop Charles J. Chaput of Denver expressed these concerns boldly at the University of Toronto on February 23, 2009, excerpts include: “Modern life, including life in the Church, suffers from a phony unwillingness to offend that poses as prudence, but it is cowardice.”… “When it comes to the current administration a spirit of adulation bordering on servility exists among Catholic writers, scholars, editors and activists.” ”Hope” is not an emotional crutch or a political slogan, it is a virtue…”The Latin root Virtus means courage.” “Real hope demands a spine when the answer to hard choices must be: No, we can’t, not Yes, we can. “ Mike DeNunzio

Letters the SF Chron wont print

PUBLISHED MARCH 26 IN "CATHOLIC SAN FRANCISCO"

Editor, The most pro abortion Speaker in U.S. history has led passage of of bill that creates the largest expansion of taxpayer-funded abortion in U.S. History. The most pro abortion President in U.S history signed it and promised an Executive Order to ban abortion in the bill. Mrs. Pelosi said she will "do what's necessary to pass the bill"- and she did. The Speaker knows an Executive Order to ban abortion in the bill cannot change the provisions for taxpayer-funded abortion. In 1952 the Supreme Court ruled an Executive Order cannot change the law. (Youngstown Sheet & Tube Company v. Sawyer, 1) An executive order can be changed by another executive order. It's said an executive order has the strength of gelatin and the life expectancy of a fruit fly.

MIKE DENUNZIO

SENT TO SF CHRONICLE MARCH 26.

Editor,

"Furloughs avoid tough decisions." (March 26) The Chronicle Editorial predicts the 2010-2011 fiscal year will be ugly and it will: The $22 billion budget deficit will continue to devastate education, health care and services to the elderly and disabled.

But don't blame the self serving legislators that sold out and caused this debacle; they did not invade Sacramento and seize power, they were endorsed by the San Francisco Chronicle and duly elected . The result is a decade of spending that exceeds inflation and population growth; burdensome regulations and mandates that drive out business and tax revenues, and a crushing state pension system that plunders tax payers. Until we the people ignore the Chronicle editorial board and make the tough decision to say "No Mas " the fiscal condition of the state will get worse.

MIKE DENUNZIO

CHAIRMAN SAN FRANCISCO REPUBLICAN ASSEMBLY

22,272

Most Californians find it hard to believe as I did-that the state owns 22,272 buildings and structures. They include the landmark Los Angeles Coliseum and Cow Palace in Daly City, and numerous offices and attendant facilities in 58 counties for 237,000 state employees to administer services to 38 million residents.

It’s also hard to believe that the eight largest economy in the world- with some of the highest taxes in the nation cannot pay its bills. California has a record $22 billion deficit and the lowest bond rating of the fifty states. It cannot continue to borrow, raise taxes and cut services; the state must reduce its overhead and find new sources of revenue.

Last June Governor Schwarzenegger and the State Legislature made a good bi partisan decision to start getting California out of real estate. They approved the sale and leaseback of eleven state office properties in Los Angeles, Oakland, Santa Rosa, Sacramento and San Francisco. This plan can produce $2 billion to reduce the debt, save billions in interest and net $660 million for state services. These buildings are attractive to investors; they can sell at high value and secure favorable long-term leases for the state. There is limited supply of office buildings that are fully leased, energy efficient, environmentally friendly and certified by the U.S. Green Buildings Council.

The Department of General Services (DGS) the business manager of the state oversees procurement, maintenance and disposal of all state properties. (www.dgs.ca.gov) The Acting Director of DGS, Ron Diedrich has said: “If we lease these properties, we can predict budget costs, and know the state will not be liable for costs inherent to owning real estate.”

Three of the eleven buildings in the sale-leaseback plan are located in San Francisco: The Civic Center Complex-Hiram Johnson State Office Building on Golden Gate Avenue and Earl Warren Building at 350 McAllister- where the Supreme Court meets, and also the Edmund G. Brown Building on Van Ness Avenue which houses the California Public Utilities Commission. They are leased by the Department of General Services through the San Francisco State Building Authority.

The sale of public, historic or religious properties always brings philosophical and financial questions; the Archdiocese of San Francisco faced both when it sold church buildings in the nineties. Today, some in both parties, including former members of the State Building Authority question the sale-leaseback plan-that is their luxury. They do not have the responsibility to balance the budget, and also protect education, public safety, health care and human services. Many have been silent during a decade of irresponsible spending by Sacramento that exceeded inflation and population growth and has caused the budget crisis. Few ever opposed the self-serving political class that has sold out the state to unrelenting greed of the public service unions that plunder California taxpayers and drive business- and jobs out of the state.

The sale-leaseback plan of state properties is bipartisan, prudent and necessary. Those who question it should offer responsible alternatives to balance the budget and protect vital services -or be silent.
///




Mike DeNunzio is president of the San Francisco State Building Authority

“The senator who dared believe in 'paygo'

Debra Saunders’ column in the S.F. Chronicle, March 2 about the lone stance of Senator Jim Bunning on unemployment benefits reminded me of the opening line in Rudyard Kipling’s classic poem: “IF”

“If you can keep your head when all about you men are losing theirs and blaming it on you."

This excerpt from Ms. Saunders column says much about men who are losing their heads, She writes:

"In January, the Senate joined the House in passing "pay-as-you-go" to require Congress to pay for new discretionary spending. On Feb 12, President Obama signed the bill. "Now Congress will have to pay for what it spends, like everybody else," Obama crowed. But just two weeks after it became law, the Senate passed a $15 billion jobs bill exempt from paygo. A month later, Obama and fellow Democrats are demonizing a lone senator for pushing Washington to spend responsibly. Brian Riedl of the Heritage Foundation said,"paygo" exists as a talking point to create the illusion of fiscal responsibility. It's designed for TV ads. It seems this administration is for fiscal restraint - as long as you don't mean it.

SEE DEBRA SAUNDERS FULL COLUMN at: http://www.sfgate.com/

SPEAKING CLEARLY presents PERSONAL views of Mike DeNunzio: They do not represent opinions or recommendations of commissions or other public or private organization of which he is a current or past member. He is Chairman of Development Services Group, Inc.-consultants to health care, educational and social service non profit organizations. He has guided clients throughout the U.S. and in Canada, Europe, Central America and Asia. He serves on the board of the American Institute of Ethics and The Handicapables. Governor Schwarzenegger appointed him to the California Commission on Aging. He is a former San Francisco Commissioner on Aging-Adult Services, appointed by Mayor Willie Brown, and reappointed by Mayor Gavin Newsom. He also is a thrice elected past Chairman of the San Francisco Republican Party and current Chairman of the distinguished S.F. Republican Assembly.

"ONE PARTY" COMPASSION

RESULT of "ONE PARTY" COMPASSION Mike DeNunzio Unemployment in San Francisco is near ten percent; yet City Supervisors refuse to schedule a hearing on a plan to stimulate jobs, instead they will discuss a ban on feeding ducks in city parks. These supervisors, and too many like them, were elected by voters of the ONE PARTY in San Francisco that has controlled City Hall and determined public policy since 1964. Members of this ONE PARTY truly care about The City; they extol San Francisco “values“ and self congratulate their compassion for the needy. (incessantly) The progressive “SF WEEKLY” recently reminded members of the ONE PARTY what their compassion has caused; it mildly suggested they take responsibility for what they have done: "San Francisco is...arguably the worst-run big city in America. I have never heard anyone say: If only [our city] could be run like San Francisco. Other liberal places wouldn't put up with the dysfunction in San Francisco; says urbanologist, Joel Kotkin." (SF WEEKLY, Jan. 14, 2010, by Benjamin Wachs, Joe Eskenaz.) The well informed voters of ONE PARTY in San Francisco readily "put up" with mismanagement, deficits, debt and a civic ideology that borders criminality: Sanctuary policies that led to murder; social policies that foster homelessness, drugs and crime. Fiscal policies that created a $6.6 billion budget and 27,801 city employees with 8,000-almost one of three paid $100,000. The voters from this ONE PARTY support elections that permit city unions to finance campaigns of mayors and supervisors- who then repay the unions with mismanagement of parks, MUNI and City funds. The result is a $4 billion unfunded liability for retirement benefits that takes current funds from needy children, the aged and disabled. In November voters of ONE PARTY will elect another tax and spend mayor and supervisors financed by municipal unions. San Francisco will see more mismanagement, more deficits, debt, taxes, fees, failed policies and more extortion from unions. Einstein said: “Insanity is doing the same thing over and expecting different results." The voters of ONE PARTY will continues to prove Einstein is right.

RESULT of ONE PARTY COMPASSION

Unemployment in San Francisco nears ten percent; yet our city supervisors have refused to schedule a hearing on a plan to stimulate jobs, but they will discuss a ban on feeding ducks in city parks. These officials did notinvade City Hall and seize power; they were elected by voters of the ONE PARTY that has controlled City Hall and has set public policy in San Francisco since 1964.

Members of this ONE PARTY extol "San Francisco values;" (fifty pot clubs in 49 sq miles, and bussing students to acheive racial diversity.) They exalt (incessantly) their “compassion” for the needy. AKA liberal guilt epidemic among San Francisco educators, religious leaders and women who envy Sarah Palin for giving birth to a child with Downs Syndrome. In January “SF WEEKLY” published a 4,700 word indictment of the members of this ONE PARTY for what they have done and suggested they take some responsibility:

"San Francisco is...arguably the worst-run big city in America. I never heard anyone say: If only [our city] could be run like San Francisco. Other liberal (cities) wouldn't put up with the dysfunction in San Francisco; says urbanologist, Joel Kotkin." (SF WEEKLY, Jan. 14, 2010, Benjamin Wachs, Joe Eskenaz.)

The voters in this ONE PARTY knowingly have "put up" with mismanagement, deficits and debt, and repeatedly elected candidates who support policies that border on criminality: Sanctuary policies that led to murder; social policies that foster homeless and crime; failed transit policies, and fiscal policies that include a $6.6 billion budget, 27,801 employees- 8,000 paid $100,000 plus benefits. These voters of the ONE PARTY are solely responsible for a $4 billion unfunded liability for retirement benefits that takes funds from needy children, the aged and disabled.

Einstein said: “Insanity is doing the same thing over and expecting different results." In San Francisco the voters of this ONE PARTY continues to prove Einstein is right -liberalism is a mental disorder.

Health Care Reform

Editor,

The election of Scott Brown was not a rejection of health care reform. In

2008 both candidates called for reform, and America agreed. The message from Massachusetts to President Obama is to tell Speaker Pelosi and Leader Reid to reach across the aisle and include patient centered options that preserve

choice: Vouchers, portability, group purchases, interstate sales, medical savings accounts and subsidies for pre-existing condition. A bi partisan plan also must include reform of the excessive mal practice lawsuits that add $200 million a year to costs.

America does not need a cradle to grave government take over of one sixth of the economy to make health insurance more affordable and available. Canada and the European Union have that, and very year thousands from these countries came to the US for treatment that is delayed, restricted and denied in these countries -especially to the aged and disabled.

Mike DeNunzio San Francisco

Massachusetts election not a rejection of health care

The election of Scott Brown was not a rejection of health care reform. In 2008 both candidates called for reform, and Americans agreed -the US needs to reform its health care. The message from the Massachusetts election for President Obama, Speaker Pelosi and Senate Leader Reid is to reach across the aisle: A credible plan to make health care and insurance more affordable and available must consider patient centered options that preserve choice: They include vouchers, portability, group purchases, interstate sales, medical savings accounts, subsidies for pre-existing conditions, and rules to protect the unborn, the aged, disabled and terminally ill. Moreover, Americans do not want their intelligence insulted; any plan to reduce costs must reform the excessive mal practice lawsuits that force defensive medicine and add $200 million a year to health costs. America does not need or want intrusive bureaucratic government health care; Canadians and Europeans have that and every year thousands come to the US for health treatments that are delayed, restricted or denied in their countries.