Mike DeNunzio's Blog

22,272

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 20:14:00 +0000

“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'

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 05:15:00 +0000

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/

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 22:45:00 +0000

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.

RESULT of ONE PARTY COMPASSION

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:58:00 +0000

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.

Massachuesetts election not a rejection of health care

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:03:00 +0000

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.

ABOUT SPEAKING CLEARLY

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 01:21:00 +0000

SENIORS SAY: "First Do No Harm"

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 23:43:00 +0000

“Whether to save one 20 year old who might live 60 years, or three 70 year olds who could live 10 years is unclear. We recommend the "Complete Lives System" that prioritizes younger people. Reform must redefine doctor’s ethical obligations for the greater good.‘

This ominous prognosis for America’s seniors was co written by the distinguished bio-ethicist, Ezekiel Emanuel, MD, PhD in the British Medical Journal, January. 2009. Doctor Emanuel is Special Advisor for Health Policy to the Office of Management and Budget--his brother is Rahm Emanuel, President Obama’s Chief of Staff. Ezekiel Emanuel supports “the 2009 Health Choices Act" (HR3200 it includes: Advance Planning Consultation for End of Life Services; and a “Center for Comparative Effectiveness” to base treatment on cost and patient age. (Section (Sect.1401) Seniors are greatly troubled by HR3200 –Republicans, independents and Democrats.

“Why are we making bad decisions for the sake of passing something on a self imposed deadline. I don’t know why our Senators -Feinstein and Boxer allowed it to happen.” Willie Brown, former Mayor of San Francisco asked this question in his column in the S.F. Chronicle, Dec. 27, 2009. Most seniors agree with “Da Mayor: Senior’s don’t buy from people in a hurry to sell something they won't buy for themselves. Americas seniors do not want their intelligence insulted: They question why Congress exempts itself and 2.4 million federal employees from HR3200. They also ask why a reform to reduce health costs excludes mal practice lawsuits that increase costs $200 million a year; and why health care leaders endorse a bill they never read. HR3200 will take over one sixth of the US economy and affect 300 million Americans from womb to tomb,

America’s forty million seniors age 65 and over, and fifty million “boomers” 50 to 64 are active, accomplished and informed: Millions work, run businesses, serve on boards, donate funds and volunteer hours valued at billions. They read, watch, listen and discuss health issues; half are married, own homes, assist their families- including aged parents. Eighteen million are veterans, and eight of ten votes regularly. Many face health and financial challenges and require costly assistance; two of ten live below poverty. They helped pay for and create a health care system that is the envy of the world. Medicare is not charity - seniors have earned it-and they don’t want it cut.

In 2008 both parties called for reforms to make health insurance and health care more affordable and available and America agreed, especially seniors. Today over half the nation opposes HR3200, and seniors oppose it most: Seniors know good intentions can cause harm; they remind proponents of HR3200– First do no harm”--the caveat of Hippocrates- the father of western medicine: HR3200 harms seniors; it cuts $500 billion from Medicare’s hospital and home care, nursing facilities, hospice, rehab, Medicare Advantage Insurance and especially the aged, disabled and terminally ill. HR3200 also increases taxes $400 billion; they include medical devices, stints and wheelchairs; and increases insurance premiums and total health costs.

Seniors ask why the American Medical Association, the American Nurses and Hospital Associations, and the AARP and PhARMA endorse a bill that cuts their Medicare. They’ve learned these health care leaders negotiated self serving deals: The AMA to protect certain billing rights; the AARP to protect sales of insurance; PhARMA to restrict drug imports; the Hospital Association to get insured patients, and the Nurses Association for pro union legislation. The AFL- CIO and SEIU and the American Bar Association also endorsed HR3200- but they don’t take care of the sick and never took an oath to ”do no harm.” Seniors now know eighty percent of America’s 800,000 doctors do not belong to the AMA -and most oppose HR3200, and over 60,000 members have quit the AARP since June..

The health care and government officials who endorse HR3200 know health budgets of countries with “government care” prioritize lower costs over patient care. Canada and European Union nations uses fewer MRIs, CT scans, advanced drugs and fewer beds per capita. They also report higher mortality for cancer and heart disease. In the EU the death rate from cancers in Great Britain is second only to Denmark, and only the German regions of Saarland, Bremen and Rheinland-Pfalz have a higher death rate from heart disease. Britain’s National Health Service also uses a system called “Quality Adjusted Life Years” to determine treatment based on cost and patient age; and it restricts renal dialysis for the aged, as do other EU nations: In Belgium and the Netherlands, euthanasia is legal; the Dutch also permit neo natal intensive care units to give lethal injections to newborns diagnosed unable to have “meaningful relationships. The entire EU invests only 16% of the world's biotech research; the US invests 78 percent for new drugs and technologies that save lives worldwide. Every year thousands from Europe seek treatment in the US; last year 39,282 came from Canada where the Supreme Court ruled: “Access to a waiting list is not health care.

Seniors know Medicare’s greatest costs are in the final years of life. they are wary of a “Center for Comparative Effectiveness” to recommend treatment based on cost and age. They also oppose federalized "Advance Consultation for "End of Life Service."(Sect.1233) Seniors have caring families and trusted advisors; those who need assistance can receive it at no cost; Every state has agencies and protective laws for Advance Directives -like California Probate Code 4700, and the national hot line (800-222-1753)

Seniors and most Americans now know the “47 million” reported to lack health insurance includes ten million who are not US citizens. The uninsured citizens include nine million that earn over $75,000 and eight million over $50,000. Another ten million citizens are eligible for insurance but not enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid, S-Chip, veterans or employer’s plans. The ten million Americans who need assistance can be insured with patient centered options that preserve choice. They include; portability, interstate sales, group purchase, cash subsidies, risk pools for pre existing conditions, and tax exempt medical savings accounts.

Congress is buying the votes and will change anything to pass HR3200- and “fix it later.” Seniors know they will be first to lose most care -and the most years of life: They don’t want health policies for the “greater good,” from countries with moribund populations rampant with and anti life pathologies: The average “population replacement rate” in the EU is 1.5 per couple, and suicide, abortion and substance abuse is record high. The EU defense budget to protect its population is a telling 1.6 percent of GDP, and Canada is 1.1 percent. The US expends 6.1 percent of GDP to protect American lives- and Canadians and Europeans.

The 1991 national best seller “Parliament of Whores” by P.J. O’Rourke was hailed a “perceptive indictment of Congress.” A 2009 version could be titled “Parliament of Charlatans,” and indict health care and government officials that support HR3200. The Surgeon General should declare them "Dangerous to America's health." America's Senior’s will remind them 21st century America is not 8th century Sparta where ailing seniors and sickly newborns were left on a hillside to die: In America the right to life is inalienable, America is not the EU- “first do no harm.”

SENIORS WANT HEALTH CARE -NOT SPARTA CARE

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 01:00:00 +0000

SENIORS WANT HEALTH CARE-NOT “SPARTA CARE”

“Whether to save one 20 year old who might live another 60 years or three 70 year olds who could live only 10 years is unclear. We recommend the complete lives system-that prioritizes younger people for the greater good.”

This ominous prognosis for America’s seniors in the British Medical Journal January, 2009 was co written by the distinguished bio ethicist, Ezekiel J. Emanuel, MD and PhD. Doctor Emanuel is special advisor for health policy to the White House Office of Management and Budget; his brother is Rahm Emanuel, President Barak Obama's Chief of Staff. He received his MD from Harvard Medical School and PhD in political philosophy from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government.

Prioritizing younger people “for the greater good” is instinctive; In 650 BC the Spartans left ailing seniors (and weak infants) on hillsides to die; as did primitive nomads. America's Founders understood this primal instinct; they declared the right to life is “unalienable for all men.” Today many health care and government leaders do not believe unalienable means "that which cannot be taken," nor that–"all men"-includes aged, disabled and terminally ill.

Seniors expect government to fix what’s wrong and protect what’s right. They instinctively question a 2000 page law that includes "Advance Consultation for End of Life Service, (Section 1233.) and a federal “Center for Comparative Effectiveness” to determine treatment based on cost and age.(Sect.1181)

Seniors will remind health care leaders and government officials what the Founding Fathers told King George in 1776 –“the right to life is inalienable.” They also will remind the AMA: "PRIMUM NON NOCERE." -FIRST DO NO HARM

GOP LEADER APOLOGIZES

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 05:33:00 +0000

Published San Francisco Chronicle, 3/9/09

Editor

        Karl Hodges of Castro Valley wants Republicans to apologize for America’s many problems. (Chronicle March 6th) He is correct; the GOP owes America an apology, and it must also make amends.

    As Chairman of the San Francisco Republican Assembly, I apologize to every man, woman and child in America. We Republicans failed to do our job to defeat the most unaccomplished and unqualified presidential candidate in U.S. history.

    We Republicans apologize for expecting the media to do its job and expose a glib community organizer who never held a real job. We especially apologize for failing to convince rational adults that infantile slogans will not protect life, liberty and property of the American people, and the free world.

    Prudent investors who create jobs know this president is using the economic crisis to impose a radical leftist agenda on America and dismantle the free market. This is why the stock market is falling and unemployment is rising. America’s adversaries know this president opposed the liberation of 25 million Iraqis, and the successful surge, now leads the party of defeat that cried - “this war is lost.” This is why the Russians, Chinese, North Koreans, Iran and Al Qaeda will make the world a more dangerous place for everyone.

    An apology is not enough; the GOP will make amends and work every day to help this president FAIL to bring European socialism and second-rate national health care to America. We Republicans also will tell every American what this president will never say or do: “We will pay any price, bear any burden to assure the survival of liberty,” and -with no apologies.

Mike DeNunzio
http://Speakingclearly.org

UNCRITICAL VOTING

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 19:06:00 +0000

       Einstein defined insanity as “doing the same thing over and expecting different results.” In San Francisco perfectly sane voters, “stay with” progressive candidates, and like battered women who stay with their abuser, the *results are always the same; more abuse: (Crime, deficits, debt.)

      Uncritical repetitive voting in San Francisco can be attributed to three harmless mental conditions: Liberal Guilt, Cognitive Dissonance and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

      1) Liberal guilt is acute among socially advantaged voters who feel responsible for evils they had nothing to do with-like Slavery. Sufferers try to expiate their guilt with highly visible support for underprivileged minorities like Mumia Abu Jamal-the cop killer. They preface their opinions with: “Speaking as a caring (3rd, 4th) generation San Franciscan,” then bash Sarah Palin for not aborting her child with Down’s Syndrome. “Isn’t that what abortion is for?” they whisper.

      2) Cognitive Dissonance is harmless when vegetarian airheads wear leather mini skirts. It’s serious when caring mothers oppose parental notification of a minor’s abortion, and patriotic men oppose JROTC. Most “CD” victims are religious leaders, PhD educators, and high school dropouts.

       3) Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is the uncontrollable repetitive behavior that sufferers
imagine will protect them from harm. It occurs when irregular flow of the brain chemical serotonin triggers a false “danger signal.” OCD includes the chant “Bush lied, people died.” Liberals with OCD fear being wiretapped when calling their Republican stockbroker to buy Exxon/Mobile. Moderates fear taking a position. (“Can’t we all get along? they whine.) Conservatives with OCD fear their Dominatrix will quit, or raise her or his hourly fee.

       A common medication for OCD is PROZAC; however a side affect-diarrhea reduces attendance at Democrat Central Committee meetings and pro Hamas-anti Israel rallies at SFSU and Berkeley.

                       *RESULTS OF PROGRESSIVE GOVERNANCE IN SAN FRANCISCO:
Record homicides, a $6.5 billion budget larger than budgets of 20 states, a $500 million deficit, a $4 billion unfunded liability for health benefits, a record 28,000 city workers. Good corporate citizens Chevron, Bank America, Charles Schwab, and hundreds of small businesses have left the city taking jobs and tax revenues with them, and young families leave to seek affordable housing, better schools and safer streets. AND a majority of supervisors who want to raise taxes and fees.

                                                                              (SC #2-2-09)

The World Has Changed

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 22:44:00 +0000

To: Editor, San Francisco Chronicle

“The World Has Changed,” proclaimed the headline on the front page inaugural edition of the San Francisco Chronicle. Indeed it has:

On January 20, 2009 Iran and North Korea ended their nuclear programs, Hamas and Hezbollah recognized Israel’s right to exist and Al Qaeda renounced terrorism. Canadians stopped flooding U.S. hospitals and Mexican immigrants applied for visas. San Francisco ended Sanctuary City status and closed its pot clubs.

Guilt laden liberals, and religious leaders, fulfilled Martin Luther King's dream: They now judge people by the content of character, not color of skin, and the Chronicle puts facts on the front page and its opinions on the editorial page.

The change we’ve been waiting for is here, we hope.

NOT A TIME FOR SUNSHINE REPUBLICANS

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 22:29:00 +0000

December 1776 was a desperate time for George Washington’s Continental Army. The British had routed it in New York and New Jersey, forcing its retreat to Pennsylvania, bloodied, demoralized and ready to quit. But Washington would not quit. On Christmas Day he assembled his tattered troops, many with rags on their feet. He had his officers read a passage from Thomas Paine’s pamphlet, “The Crisis.” Washington then led his men across the Delaware to attack the Hessians at Trenton. Four years later the British quit. Paine’s immortal passage: (Abridged)

“These are the times that try men's souls…The sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink, yet the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.“

Republicans, we have a river to cross. This is not a time for Sunshine Republicans. We face a daunting task: The 2006 and 2008 election defeats will try our Republican soul, and they should. They are deserved, but not permanent, remember: “I am only wounded- I am not slain (St Barton’s Ode)

In 1964, Barry Goldwater received only 38% of the vote; four years later Richard Nixon was president. In 1976, Watergate defeated Jerry Ford; four years later Ronald Reagan was elected. “The Party of Reagan” won five of the next seven presidential elections to 2004, led the defeat of Communism, and launched 25 years of prosperity.

The Republican Party was created for a daunting task; to end slavery and save the Union. Today our task is to END “Democrat lite Republicanism“ and save our Party. Let’s cross that river, take a hard look at our “product” and correct the defects. The CRP officers, county committees and our influential clubs and organizations are the fountainhead for Republican values and issues. IT'S OUR JOB to produce an inclusive “21st Century” Republican product that boldly proclaims the core tenets of our Party. They are canons of belief; not slogans for cheerleaders.

“Government shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned. The government that governs least governs best.” (Thos. Jefferson) “Freedom is never more than one generation from extinction; it must be defended constantly.” (Ronald Reagan)

****

Let’s especially tell the nation and the world that we will never demean the Commander in Chief, or demoralize our military, and embolden the enemy. WE ARE NOT DEMOCRATS! (or Europeans).

Thank you for your support

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 01:27:00 +0000

FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS, ASSOCIATES,
THANK YOU!

I thank all friends, neighbors and associates for their good wishes and financial support of my campaign for supervisor in District 3 and also the homeowner and tenant associations, and other groups that sought my views.

All eight candidates knew the crowded field would impact chances. Yet everyone conducted their campaign with respect and professional competence.

I have spoken with Supervisor-elect David Chiu. He welcomes my views and we will meet to discuss some issues. I’m especially concerned about public safety, planning and development, and the funding of services. (The 2009-10 budget deficit is estimated at $225 million, and it will increase)

Many voters also expressed concern about three election procedures. They said:
1-District Elections “balkanize” city issues. (They do.)
2-Ranked Choice Voting is “confusing.” (It is)
3- Public Financing “takes from the needy.” (It does)

NOTE: In this election the City gave 19 candidates $1.2 million to fund their campaigns, but cut $4.8 million in health and social services.(This is WRONG!)

The local political parties cannot tackle these issues effectively. I encourage all friends, neighbors and associates to join and support the various neighborhood associations. It will require a non-partisan coalition to achieve objectives.

I will to continue to work with individuals and groups for fiscal reforms and policies to protect public safety, the neighborhoods, and city services for everyone.

I thank you again for your support and always welcome your views on issues.
Mike DeNunzio
391-9667 or 317-0155.
http://www.competencematters.org

"Wounded - Not Slain"

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 23:19:00 +0000

I’m only wounded, I am not slain. Just lie me down to bleed a while, and I will rise to fight again.” (St. Barton’s Ode)

In 1964 Senator Barry Goldwater received only 38% of the vote and lost 44 states to president Lyndon Johnson. Yet 48 months later Richard Nixon was in the Oval Office. The Republican renaissance can start today with a "21st Century" agenda for national security, energy independence, immigration, taxes, spending, health care, and the environment.

It was evident 2008 would be a Democrat year. Only once in 60 years has a party received a third term, as in ’88 when Bush Senior was elected to succeed Ronaldus Maximus." The Republicans mistakenly abandoned their successful “Reagan product” that won five of the last seven presidential elections and adopted “Democrat Lite.” In return , the voters abandoned the GOP and In 2006 bought the “real thing, " and why not; the Democrats are the experts at wasting tax dollars.

The GOP sealed its fate in 2008 when moderates, laden with country club guilt, nominated John McCain, the GOP’s worst candidate to face a Democrat demagogue. Meanwhile the Democrats, overwhelmed by innate liberal guilt, abandoned their best product- “Clinton Mendacity” and America’s party of tax, spend and surrender nominated the least qualified candidate in U.S. history for President and Commander in Chief.

McCain, the perennial “officer and gentleman” proved the axiom: “You can always tell an academy man, but you can’t tell him much.” He refused to expose Obama for what he truly is, and with prodding of the biased media, the voters elected an inexperienced leftist, with a feckless European worldview. Today, Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, and Islamic Jihad are delighted.

Senator McCain did one thing right - as amply evidenced by the vitriol heaped on Governor Sarah Palin by the media and guilt -ridden liberal women. Sarah Palin was a threat who “connected” with voters and gave McCain a 3 point lead until the September 15 economic meltdown ended the election. (A meltdown precipitated by Democrats, that pushed bad loans, etc.) Yet McCain blamed “greedy Wall Street" and SEC Chair Chris Cox "--not Democrats.

The GOP renaissance must start with county and state leaders, as well as national leaders like Sarah Palin, Bobby Jendal, Michael Steele, etc. who believe in “American exceptionalism.” It has created the most tolerant, generous and successful society in human history.

Meanwhile, Republicans should give President Obama the same respect and support the Democrats gave to President Bush.

SF District 3 Supervisors Forum

noreply@blogger.com (Barb Howey) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 21:21:00 +0000

San Francisco District 3 supervisor candidates took part in a forum at ABC7 on September 10, moderated by Carolyn Tyler. You can watch it by clicking District 3 debate.

Mike's #2 Flyer

noreply@blogger.com (Barb Howey) — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 20:09:00 +0000

Mike Flyer.pdf

Mayor's economic stimulus plan

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 19:48:00 +0000

Submitted to SF Chronicle Friday, 10/17/08

Editor,

The first step in the mayor’s proposed economic stimulus plan for the City should be to remove the $5 million in the budget that is designated to fund campaigns of political candidates. These tax dollars should be used to protect vital human services that face cuts because of the expected losses in tax revenues and state funds. Candidates that take public funds are taking from vulnerable seniors, the disabled and the needy. San Francisco does not need public financing to keep candidates honest, we simply need honest candidates, and they are all honest.

Mike DeNunzio

San Francisco

New "Videos" page on my website

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 20:41:00 +0000

My videos are now in one place on my website. Click Videos to see recent ones:

Comcast Newsmakers interview September 2008

Mike on SFVotes2008 September 15, 2008

D3 Supervisor Debate June 16, 2008

My new flyer

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 20:53:00 +0000

Mike DeNunzio Flyer.pdf

Adults needed in City Hall

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 18:48:00 +0000

To SF Chronicle Editor:

San Francisco is facing cuts in services because of wasteful spending. Meanwhile, instead of calling for cuts in wasteful spending, supervisor Michela Alioto Pier wants to cut former Dodger manager Tommy Lasorda from the Italian Heritage Day Parade. (City Insider Sept 27) San Francisco does not need more supervisors with provincial priorities like Michela Alioto Pier. We need responsible adults in City Hall who can balance a budget and protect city services.

Mike DeNunzio

Public financing of campaigns is a waste of taxpayers' money

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 21:14:00 +0000

The Examiner, Opinion From Readers, published Thursday, 9/11/08.

Candidates who take public financing to fund their campaigns are taking from the needy.

The mayor and supervisors overspent the $6.5 billion city budget by $338 million. To balance it, supervisors have cut $2.5 million in services for seniors, teens, emergency services and home nursing. But they did not touch $5 million in the budget to fund political campaigns, and the mayor approved the cuts. San Francisco does not need public financing to keep candidates honest, we simply need honest candidates.

Mike DeNunzio
Candidate for supervisor, District 3

DeNunzio wins endorsement of Police Officers' Association

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 21:19:00 +0000

PRESS RELEASE August 1, 2008

DeNunzio wins endorsement of Police Officers’ AssociationCops on the beat want a friend on the Board

One of city’s most prestigious political endorsements was awarded to Mike DeNunzio, Supervisorial candidate in District 3. The 3,000 member San Francisco Police Officers’ Association (POA) announced its support for the candidate making public safety and police morale a centerpiece of his campaign.

DeNunzio was one of three of 12 in the district to win the backing of the Association. “This is a vote of confidence in me from the men and women who protect our city,” said DeNunzio, and along with the endo rsement of former Police Chief, Tony Ribera, it is evident I am law enforcement’s candidate.”

A financial management consultant, DeNunzio said his consistent support for public safety, and help on the recent Deferred Retirement Option ballot measure, and also the merger of airport police pensions with city police pension helped win the POA’s backing. “Our police want deeds not words; I have a track record, and they know they can count on me, said DeNunzio. “Police recruitment and morale is low in this city, and I intend to change it, I’m not a cheerleader, as supervisor I will quarterback real improvements to help our police stay with the city. We need them.”

DeNunzio brings to his candidacy one of the most extensive public service resumes of any candidate for office in San Francisco. California’s Governor and two San Francisco mayors have appointed the popular independent business leader to high-profile posts, such as; the San Francisco Commission on Aging, where he oversaw Adult Protective Services, and also the Mayor’s Council to End Chronic Homelessness, where he worked with former Supervisor Angela Alioto, writing the city’s plan for supportive housing. His appointments have been commended by the City’s elected representatives in Sacramento.

DeNunzio also serves on the boards of directors of 20North Beach Neighbors, The Handicapables, The Columbus Day Committee, The USF Hospitality Management Program, and the American Institute of Ethics with former San Francisco Mayor Frank Jordan, Congresswomen Jackie Speier, and civic leader Alessandro Baccari.

DeNunzio is the former CEO of Community Counseling Service, western division. He has guided community leaders on major capital projects including, Save the Cable Cars, On-Lok Senior Services, BRIDGE-Affordable Housing , and the Archbishop’s Scholarship Fund. A graduate of St John’s University, N.Y. he served six years as a personnel specialist in the U.S. Army Reserves and taught law and economics at McClancy College Preparatory in New York. (END)

Paid for by DeNunzio for Supervisor, 550 Davis St CA 94111, FPPC# 1303336

DeNunzio Statement to Port Commission

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 21:19:00 +0000

July 8, 2008

Good afternoon Commissioners, my name is Mike DeNunzio. My wife Annette and I are residents of Golden Gateway Commons.

For purposes of identification: I’m a State Commissioner on Aging appointed by the Governor. I also served as a City Commissioner appointed by Mayor Brown where I was assigned to review Adult Protective Services. Mayor Newsom appointed me to his Council to End Chronic Homelessness; I helped write the city’s plan for Supportive Housing.

I want to talk about our seniors. This area has the highest percentage of seniors in the City, it also has densest per capita population, the most auto congestion, and the least open space.

The members of the Golden Gateway Tennis and Swim Club do not qualify for Wimbledon or the Beijing Olympics. Most are seniors, or will soon be, and they will be here a long time; today 60 is 40.

These facilities are vital for the health, recreational and therapeutic needs of seniors in this district, and the entire city. Frankly, they should be expanded, not reduced.

In this 21st century seniors will rely on community based home care services, not distant sanitariums. They will live active lives at home, near friends and family, in walk able neighborhoods with open space, safe from auto traffic and auto pollution.

Commissioners, this facility is open to everyone in the city; it deserves your protection. The first responsibility of government is to protect the health and safety o f citizens. This is about health and safety.

The Coming Geriatric Tsunami & The Ultimate Elder Abuse

noreply@blogger.com (Mike DeNunzio) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 21:24:00 +0000

The Golden State is turning gray. California has the largest senior population in the nation. Almost four million residents are 65 or older and those over 85 are increasing the most. In 2010 the first baby boomers will turn 65 and the state’s senior population will approach six million. Forty percent of the Baby Boomers are Latino and Asian and half are women. California is facing a diverse geriatric tsunami that will hit the state budget, taxes, charities, housing, health care, and more.

Today “60 is 40.” Californians are living longer, healthier, active lives. Many will outlive their resources and also encounter forms of dementia and other age related disabilities. To prepare California for a senior society the State Health and Human Services Agency is developing a “Comprehensive Strategic Plan on Aging.” Two major components of the plan are Elder Abuse and End of Life Care. The plan is monitored by the California Commission on Aging, which is the principle advisory body to the Governor and the Legislature on senior issues.

Elder Abuse is epidemic. Adult Protective Service agencies throughout the state report marked increases and for every case, five are unreported. Elder abuse can be physical or mental but most abuse is financial and committed by a family member. APS agencies are understaffed, they need larger budgets to handle growing caseloads to protect vulnerable seniors.

End of Life Care involves the personal autonomy of dying patients. It now faces demands to legalize physician-assisted suicide which many call “the ultimate elder abuse.” On June 10th, AB 374, “The Compassionate Choices Act” was defeated in the Assembly for the second time. It would permit physicians to prescribe a self-administered lethal drug to mentally competent consenting adults diagnosed to be terminally ill. The American Civil Liberties Union and National Organization for Women support assisted suicide as the “ultimate civil right.” HMOs also support it. They will try again next year. Californians need to know more about assisted suicide and why this bill has failed.

Physician assisted suicide is opposed by over fifty organizations. They include the American Medical Association, hospice and disability rights groups and ethnic and religious organizations. They maintain physician assisted suicide is immoral, unethical and unnecessary. The State Probate Code permits adults to determine their own medical treatment with an Advanced Directive for “provision or withholding of all forms of health care.” This directive can include palliative sedation to relieve pain and hasten a peaceful death. Polls that show 70% support for assisted suicide are misleading because they do not inform respondents of an Advanced Directive. Opponents of AB argued that subtle coercion by family and health professionals can result in chronically ill or disabled seniors to feel they have a "duty to die." They also noted that although the Bill required assisted suicides to be reported, it had no penalty for Doctors who do not report.

The slippery slope argument by opponents is a deadly reality in Holland where physician assisted suicide has “slipped” from assisting the terminally ill, to assisting the chronically ill, to assisting the disabled to assisting the depressed. It gets worse; the Dutch Government’s own studies report doctors “terminate without request” approximately 1,000 patients a year. In Holland a peaceful death for those thought not to have a "livable life" has also “slipped” into the pediatric wards. A study published in the British medical journal The Lancet reports 8 percent of all Dutch infant deaths are from lethal injections and 45 percent of neonatologists and 31 percent of pediatricians who responded to Lancet survey have committed eugenic infanticide.

The proponents of assisted suicide will undoubtedly bring it back next year. If so, it should be decided by ‘we the people” via an initiative, not by a gerrymandered legislature that is unaccountable to voters. (Not one seat in the legislature has changed parties in the last two elections.) Twenty-one 21 states have defeated proposals for assisted suicide. California is the seventh largest economy on the planet. How we decide this life or death issue will resound across the entire nation and the world.

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