text: It's good to see that Ted Sickinger is healthy and back at work, even if it is to resume his somewhat slanted reporting on PERS. One thing comes through clearly, and it should come through for all parties: Honesty is required to address the issues. Honesty is not easy when people are speaking strategically. My read: (1) Governor Brown is being honest about the "pension reform" proposal being hatched by some legislators. It is a diversion. It will not survive the scrutiny of the courts, and it it will not address the issue. The last such diversionary proposal, along with the dishonesty of the legislature, worsened the situation we face now. (2) Sen Courtney and Gov Brown must solve the problem they face about restructuring investment management. Reducing investment costs is a sure way to save, but not if investment is hobbled by the State's notoriously bad laws limiting contract decisions. (3) The voters need an honest account of the situation. Measure 97 at least addresses the issue.