history major wrote on Jul 25, 2007 11:23 PM:This country is a nation of immigrants. Some came over on the Mayflower, others were packed like cattle into steerage on overcrowded ships with poor food and sanitation. (This isn't counting those who were brought here in chains but that's another issue that hopefully we're moving past.) There have been groups of "natives" who have opposed pretty much any group of newcomers from the Irish to the Italians to the Chinese. The bottom line is that all these groups have worked hard to better their lives and in turn made America a better place. Can we say trans-continental railroad? The Chinese immigrants helped us build that despite some pretty brutal laws and discrimination. The Irish were also treated as scum and uneducated job-taking foreigners. Yet now people are proud of their Irish heritage and we hold parades for St. Patrick. Every new wave of immigrants has taken criticism and worse but has risen to the challenge and become a positive contribution to our great nation. There's no way we're going to solve this problem through hatred and fear. The Berlin Wall wasn't that long ago. Didn't we learn that lesson already?

Truth wrote on Jul 25, 2007 11:35 PM:Ouch! It is true. Almost all day workers are illegal aliens working the underground economy of tax evasion, etc.

Jimbo wrote on Jul 25, 2007 11:38 PM:Thanks for the newsflash

Catholic Bishops Letter wrote on Jul 25, 2007 11:58 PM:In 2003, as part of a 'Justice for Immigrants' campaign, the Catholic Bishops of Mexico and the United States issued A Pastoral Letter Concerning Migration from the Catholic Bishops of Mexico and the United States. The Pastoral Letter is a script for the arguments of pro-illegal immigration advocated (yes, the Letter uses the required labels of 'racist' and 'xenophobic' in paragraph 80) . The letter clearly requests legalization of all illegal immigrants: 'Legalization represents sound public policy and should be featured in any migration agreement between the United States and Mexico' (paragraph 70). Every American against illegal immigration must review this letter (it is on the internet). Nations that follow the advice of the Catholic Church are often the very nations whose people are fleeing those nations. Americans would do well to more aggressively learn about and oppose the Catholic Church's position that includes legalization of illegal immigrants.

Enforce City Ordinances wrote on Jul 26, 2007 12:13 AM:Most of these day workers are working as independent contractors. In most cities, independent contractors must have a business license.

Deport Em wrote on Jul 26, 2007 1:42 AM:Thank you Minutemen for helping to rid these unemployed, loitering, unchecked illegals from our parking lots. I never thought I would live in Mexico, but it sure feels that way sometimes. We don't need these workers. Do your own gardening or hire a Marine at HirePatriots. Lets take back our towns and cities!

borderraven wrote on Jul 26, 2007 3:45 AM:America is a nation built by people who emigrated from one country, with the intent to settle in the USA, and become citizens. Those who came were educated, skilled, and they followed the laws, of the time. Today we have millions of people who have been standing in line for years, who are willing to obey our laws and contribute to our society. Yet, today we see evidence of a demographic, who have not emigrated, but have migrated here in violation of established laws and procedure. They have skirted our safeguards of health and criminal background investigations, they are mostly uneducated, unskilled, and untrustworthy. They stand out, on street corners, parking lots, wherever they are placed by their distributors, and they beg for work, so they can contribute to the costs, of living in multiple tenant housing, or an illegal campsite, under unsanitary conditions, where health problems multiply. They are brought into your neighborhood, to see your wealth, your spouse, and your children. Their ailments are vectored directly to your neighborhood, to expose your family, to diseases thought to have been eradicated long ago, after a long and costly battles. They are hired, by unscrupulous or unaware, greedy employers, who want to exploit this "new wave" of slave labor, where a day's labor can be paid in abandonment, kidnapping, beatings, or death. Employers who hire illegal aliens avoid paying taxes, which would normally go to the state treasury, to recycle back to our community. I have witnessed, an young Mom, hiring illegals, as her young toddler sat strapped in her child seat, in the family SUV. I was stunned, she would endanger the life of her child, and place her family in so much incalculable risk, over a few dollars. Illegal aliens prefer the informal employment, because they can negotiate from $10 an hour, up to $20, before you can get them out of your home or car. They also avoid all of the deductions withheld by a legitimate employer, thus boosting their take home pay. America is a nation of laws. It is illegal to hire an illegal alien, a felony. It is illegal to transport and illegal, a felony. It is illegal to aid and abet a felony, a felony. To solve the problems of illegal immigration, we must all accept personal responsibility for the problems, since we voted for the politicians. We must accept, we are responsible for defending our nation, until the local or state government can arrive and properly relieve us, as per Article IV Section 4, of the US Constitution. We, the American citizens are the "ultimate first responder", in the defense of our nation, and our community. Those proud patriots you see protesting illegal alien day laborers are the embodiment of the spirit of the Minutemen of 1776. Proud patriots, men, women and children, who bravely stand up, to oppose the illegal invasion, our failed government has allowed. What say ye, Americans?

Escondodo wrote on Jul 26, 2007 4:03 AM:Read between the lines. The percentage statewide might be small but the point is that the vast majority are impacting us locally in San Diego County. A proper study needs to address impacts of these people and not just their numbers. I see nothing positive in this situation. We need to demand more accurate studies on the costs to local taxpayers and the social impacts. And as for Claudia Smith, she seems to have gone off the deep end.

Taxpayer US Citizen wrote on Jul 26, 2007 4:51 AM:At least this study did not cost the American tax payer a single cent. We all got to enjoy it for free.

Mike wrote on Jul 26, 2007 5:05 AM:History Major 11:23 PM seems to have missed the distinction between "Immigrants" and "illegal aliens". Have to wonder what the Berlin Wall has to do with this, as well (is Mexico building a wall to prevent Mexicans from escaping?). This issue goes beyond xenophobia. Look at the numbers involved.

To Major History wrote on Jul 26, 2007 5:48 AM:Can you spell/say ILLEGAL ALIEN INVASION??? Immigrants NOT!!

Big Richard wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:02 AM:To History Major, The purpose of the Berlin wall was to keep people in not to keep people out. it's not the same thing.

Mary wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:04 AM:History major: you are not too up on your history apparently. There is a difference between legal immigration and illegal immigration. The United States was not a sovereign nation until 1776, so there was no legal nation before that so there were no illegal immigrants before that, just immigrants. Coming over on the Mayflower, etc., is totally irrelevant, as well as most of your argument. In the case of illegal aliens, history of that movement is not relevant. The United States cannot have open borders and let the rest of the world live here as they chose. If we decide there is no longer any concept as an illegal immigrant and we let anyone in no matter what, that means we no longer have a sovereign nation. You can't discriminate and say we will only let in illegal Mexicans to do our grunt work but we will not let in illegal educated Russians or Indians or other highly educated immigrants because they may take our jobs. If we let in illegal hispanics (including South American, etc.) then we must let in ALL illegal immigrants from every country in the world. They may want to just work here also and if they are highly educated they will get some great jobs. We would not have to worry about border patrols or even having a border, if we no longer have a concept of illegal alien. Why do we have a H1-B program that only lets in a limited number of highly educated non-US citizens who want to work and live here and who obey the laws and go through the hoops to come here, but we want to let in ALL the illegal aliens who want to come here? Why, because people like history major are racist elitists and want economic slaves to do "the work Americans supposedly don't want to do. That is the real reason pro-illegal immigrant activists want the poor, uneducated to come here; to basically do their elitist grunt work.

Billy: wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:09 AM: So, less than one percent of our national work force. That count includes CEOs, stock brokers, clerks, construction workers, etc. I don't believe it - somebody is cooking the figures. To show you how out of balance with reality these figures are, compare them with the thirty percent illegals in CA prisons. And, They are about 98 percent of the people standing on the street looking for work. It don't jive. Go buy fast food. Want to hear something strange - I bought fast food in a drive-through yesterday and a blonde girl waited on me. (That is not to say that she wouldn't spit in my food.) Look at construction workers. Talk to unions. somebody in this article is lying.

To history major wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:11 AM:It’s about time that someone actually posted something intelligent without bashing a group of people. I understand our current problems with the immigration system and the frustration that some of our citizens are faced with, but I urge everyone to speak to their elected officials to find a way to fix these issues and not take it upon yourselves by turning into a specific group of human beings. I am from Mexican heritage and I hate it when people categorize me due to my appearance.

To History Major wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:14 AM:When the Irish and others immigrated into Ellis Island, any who were sick or weak were turned back, any who came into the country were on their own. No one cared who immigrated because there were no taxes spent on supporting immigrants legal or otherwise, now everyone who pays taxes is affected and the illegal sends money out of the country and doesn't pay taxes. You also did not see the Chinese or Italians or Irish demonstrating in the streets demanding better free services. I dare say if they had received the same privileges as the illegal immigrant of today they surely would have believed that America was paradise.

To History Major wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:21 AM:The Berlin wall was for keeping people in, not out. Get facts right.

Dave wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:22 AM:Ok Sifuentes 1% of what the entire U.S.A? Then it is possible but certainly NOT 1% of California or the North County! Try maybe 40% plus is the composition of the workforce of illegal immigrants in California. Look at the whole picture don’t try to deceive the reader with this less then 1% street corner stuff.

Claudia Smith is right!!! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:24 AM:This is an all out assault on the people with brown skin. Unfortunately our history has a way of repeating itself. We are going throuh an isolation mode at this time, hopefully we come to our senses before we are forced to pay reparations to this group of individuals. Our legislators need to stand up and make some hard decisions before the crimes against these men continues. I think it is sad.

Ray Carney is true to form!! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:33 AM:Of course old Ray has to question the report, because it does not fit in his neatly packaged idea of the day laborers. "For every study you present, I can give you 10," said Ray Carney," of course he can if they don't have one than they will just have Lou Dobbs or Bill O'Reilly announce that one has been done that will defend their position. Let me see today I think uuuummmm the illegal immigrants are responsible for Global Warming and that is the reason it is so hot outside. I think I will go picket a day labor site because of the hot weather! Oh yeah Ray, I don't take any credence in what some Ph.D. right but we should take credence to a whole bunch of under educated Americans, huh? I must say that it is horrible that you and your ilk don't find something more construction to do. I doubt if the IRS is really going to come down hard on a guy who earns $260.00 a week. My teenage son earns more than that working at his weekend job. Find a more noble and worthy cause this is not a good thing you are doing.

John wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:38 AM:DUH !!! How much did this report cost?

Oh brother. wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:39 AM:Claudia Smith just lost any respect I had for her with that silly comment of hers. She just lowered herself down to the level of the SDMM. Great job.

NCLOCAL wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:41 AM:WOW, how much did this study cost us? Just another example of the RAPE committed by our neighbors to the south.

blunderbuss wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:46 AM:history forgotten wrote: " This country is a nation of immigrants." Yes. LEGAL immigrants. " Every new wave of immigrants has taken criticism and worse but has risen to the challenge and become a positive contribution to our great nation." Until now... because these ILLEGALS don't want to contribute, they just want to take the goodies, and institute their language and culture. Forget it. " There's no way we're going to solve this problem through hatred and fear." Tell THAT to La Raza, MEChA, and the Reconquista movements. " The Berlin Wall wasn't that long ago. Didn't we learn that lesson already? " The Belin Wall was to keep good people IN... the Mexican Wall is needed to keep ILLEGAL RECONQUISTA INVADERS out. Back to school, pal.

Tired, sick and tired... wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:49 AM:Geez, tired, tired, sick and tired of hearing about this... When will our Local, State, or Fed. gov't. wake up and stop treating illegals like they are a distant cousin and look at this from a business sense. I traveled in Europe in 1978. I wanted to find work in Holland...I went and stood in line at the temporary agency...filled out the proper paper work, worked a few days at Oil of Olay. When I went to pick up my paycheck I was told because I am from the United States, not a part of the Common Market, I cannot work. It was simple, understood, and the rules. Companies could not hire me on their own accord!! I did not get special treatment--just because I was an American, a distant cousin of Europe. It is a business, esp. when you are taking money from hard working citizens to accommodate illegals, encourage them to stay, encourage them with our confusing laws.... I had to carry my passport everywhere. Unfortunately, many of us Americans do not want to live with this idea to carry passports, being questioned periodically, but this is the only way a problem of illegals (Mexicans/ Europeans/Arabs, etc...) can be resolved overtime.

Vista resident wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:56 AM:The illegal immigrants should be deported immediately. They are breaking the law. As a citizen of this country, if I break a law, I have to pay the price. Why then do the illegal immigrants get off?

Get a Clue History Major! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 6:58 AM:The Berlin Wall was designed by communists to keep people IN. Border security fences on America's borders are designed to keep people OUT. There is a big difference between the two. If you cannot tell the difference between the two, then you truly are clueless. I suggest that you go back and do some more studying.

TCM wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:00 AM:No new news here. Bottom line, if you want to be truly accepted as a resident of this nation, go through the legitimate process of petioning for legal immigration. Go home.

To History Major wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:05 AM:It seems history major doesn't understand the difference between legal and illegal. The fact is that the US today is much different today especially with it's liberal professors that teach History.

Karl wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:10 AM:Claudia Smith I am appalled by your comment "It is about harassing a 'bunch of Mexicans.'". You are either totally out of touch with reality of intentionally lying to promote your cause. Although I am sure there are some who want to "harass a bunch of Mexicans", the vast majority of folks I know who are upset with the illegal immigration situation are not racist. You should think before you speak.

Ron wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:17 AM:I'll bet it hurt Eddie to write this one. Eh? Ed?

Wow wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:17 AM:This study provided to you by the department of "Duh".

Ridiculous! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:18 AM:This man's 'report' is just a rehash from an old, flawed study in the first place. Why in the world this paper continues to print such immflamatory, non-newsworthy stuff is beyond me? Hasn't President Bush's fake immigration issue caused enough grief and division in our country already?

JR wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:19 AM:Congratulations to history major for the most cliches and tired regurgitations of our politically correct history in a single paragraph.

Robert24 wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:25 AM:Gee, and child molesters, rapists, wife beaters, etc. make up less than 1% of the population, so maybe they're not a problem either, huh Ed? How someone can twist a story to try and rationalize illegal behavior over and over is beyond me. Bottom line: It doesn't matter what job an ILLEGAL ALIEN (from any country, BTW), they are ILLEGAL. Really not that hard to understand at all........

Robert24 wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:29 AM:The difference; history major, is that all the other immigrants came here legally, learned the language, did not expect or demand unearned rights, and assimilated and contributed to this country. We still accept and embrace these types of immigrants. It is the border crashing, WIC accepting, no insurance, falsified drivers license/social security card, non tax paying illegals that we are talking about here. Maybe you can find some history on another group who has abused America as much as this group in one of your books, but I doubt it......

I love these articles wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:29 AM:with the Sifuentes blessing on them. I work in construction and there are a ton of illegal aliens with fake id's working in ALL areas of construction. They are all married with 9 children and pay no taxes. They do shoddy work, show up drunk, or miss work on Monday. They run off any other guys who are not hispanic if they try to work in the industry. Edward Sifuentes you should be ashamed of your blatant support of these criminals.

Tom wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:39 AM:The bottom line is that they do not pay taxes, & they receive undeserved benefits (medical, dental, schooling, etc.)which in turns puts a drain on the legal residents of this state and this country. I am all for allowing people to immigrate to this country as long as they do it legally and they help in paying taxes. I hate taxes as much as anyone, but it is a necessary thing to do. I agree with "history major" that our country was formed and built off the hardwork of immigrants, the cultural diversity of this country is what makes it great. But, the melting pot is full & they need to do it legally.

Fred H wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:41 AM:Fascinating information here. I wonder how many are left-handed, and how many enjoy opera. Just a riveting article here Eduardo. Don't talk about law & order, just babble nonsense and keep us entertained.

Duh wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:41 AM:As with most causes that have been attacked with the term "Racist" or other name calling in attempts to silence their right to protest an injustice, protesting the most public face of the perceived injustice is going to get the most attention. The Minutemen have moved this silent invasion into the spotlight and articles like this only encourage more protests form the sick and tired. ...

law abider wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:47 AM:Hey, History Major, those previous immigrants did not benefit from taxpayer-supported programs like heathcare, AFDC, and school lunch programs. Illegal day laborers and the scum who hire them should be treated the same as hookers and their johns. Where are the sting operations cleaning up our neighborhoods?

Sally wrote on Jul 26, 2007 7:59 AM:NCT leads off with this "news" story? Sure says a lot about priorities. Privately funded studies are always suspect and to be treated as fact and news rather than being put on the OP-ED page does a disservice to all readers.

Everytime wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:04 AM:Claudia Smith, an immigrant rights advocate,... "It is about harassing a 'bunch of Mexicans.' If that is what you set out to do, it makes sense to target day laborers because they are the most exposed." Claudia when you and all your friends get your way and the "bunch of Mexicans" are all legal the next wave will be the large numbers of asians coming to America illegally. When people protest them will it be about a "bunch of Asians?" What part of illegal don't you get. The study proves what everyone knows, the majority of day laborers are illegal law breaking wage depressing criminals. America, a nation of immigrants, not criminal aliens!

Mke wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:05 AM:Who would have ever thought day laborers were illegal? Funny how this article ignores the economic drain these "few" illegals pose, like clogging our hospital emergency rooms. Or how many of them end up joining the 30% of our prison inmates who are illegal. Oh, I forgot, they are only here to work and do jobs that Americans won't do. Sorry.

How much? wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:06 AM:How much of our taxpayer dollars was spent, er, wasted on this "study"? Tell us something we don't already know.

It is about ILLEGAL, and NOTHING ELSE!!! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:12 AM:The Chinese came to America LEGALLY, as did the other immigrants mentioned. Many Americans of Mexican birth are opposed to ILLEGAL immigrants. One of the strongest of these in opposition to ILLEGALS was Cesar Chavez.

Who's America? wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:19 AM:Wow, a day laborer makes more per hour, pays no taxes, or social security, gets free education for any children! That is more than you make working at Wal-Mart! That is more than minimum wage even with the recent "generous" increase! So, it is now our working poor who are the exploited, slave laborers. Guess the day laborers are the newbies and haven't figured out that the job security is in construction where they can take the permanent jobs that we're told Americans won't do!

Patriot wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:23 AM:Again we hear the "nation of immigrants" mantra with the first post. History will show that we are actually a nation of LEGAL immigrants and that the level of ILLEGAL immigration during the most recent 25 years is unprecedented in this nation's lifetime. By refusing to distinguish between legal and illegal immigration, activists attempt to bury the negative contributions of illegal immigrants amid the large positive contributions of our legal immigrants.

Concerned-1 wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:23 AM:Why does the NCT keep publishing this kind of dillusionary bunk? Who are they pandering to? Tina Jillings? This latest installment by Mr. Sifuentes is laughable! Seriously guys, the news is how are these illegals interacting with our economy. Are they really a drain? Are they really a strain on our healthcare and educational system? Why don't you report on those real issues? Or maybe you would if the answers suited your agenda.

Sifuentes Spin wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:31 AM:No matter how many obscure studies Sifuentes digs up, human suffering stories he uncovers nor how many articles he writes to con taxpaying Americans that illegal immigrants are a good thing, as long as they are breaking the law and we are paying the bills, his desperate mission is a moot point. As we watch our infrastructure disintegrate, our working poor and elderly being denied the services illegals get for free and our resources strained to the limit, Americans will continue to view articles written by Sifuentes and those with his ideology with the skepticism they deserve.

To the HISTORY MAJOR wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:33 AM:Yes, we have heard that argument a thousand times. And our response is still the same: those Irish and Chinese immigrants came here LEGALLY. These day laborers are here ILLEGALLY. Why can't you and the people who agree with you understand that very simple fact? I think it is because you lack a good, logical argument supported by facts that states that illegal immigrants are making this country better. Quite the contrary my friend; illegal immigrants have been proven in a number of studies to have a net negative effect on in this country on everything from social services to traffic. Just log onto the Center for Immigration studies and you will see. So basically in order to cover for your emotionally-charged circular logic you try to blur the line between illegal and legal immigrant and call me a racist or xenophobe. You know, the sign of a pathetic argument is name-calling. History major? You might want to get your money back.

Employment Verification Crimes wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:33 AM:It is unlawful to hire any individual for employment in the United States without complying with employment eligibility verification requirements. Requirements include examination of identity documents and completion of Form I-9 for every employee hired. Employers must retain all I-9s, and, with three days' advance notice, the forms must be made available for inspection. Employment includes any service or labor performed for any type of remuneration within the United States, with the exception of sporadic domestic service by an individual in a private home. 'Day laborers' or other casual workers engaged in any compensated activity (with the above exception for sporatic domestic service in a private home) are employees for purposes of immigration law. An employer includes an agent or anyone acting directly or indirectly in the interest of the employer. For purposes of verification of authorization to work, employer also means an independent contractor, or a contractor other than the person using the illegal alien labor. The use of temporary or short-term contracts cannot be used to circumvent the employment authorization verification requirements. If employment is to be for less than the usual three days allowed for completing the I-9 Form requirement, the form must be completed immediately at the time of hire.

Legal Citizen wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:35 AM:What a bunch of crock, anybody with any level of intellect knows all of this. What a waste of money. ILLEGAL is ILLEGAL period. They need to go back to wherever they come from, and if they want to come here...then by God do it the legal way. Keep printing these articles because you are only making the AMERICAN citizens even angrier, and that's what we need. If our so called government won't take care of business, then WE THE PEOPLE WILL.

Most day laborers are ILLEGAL-Really! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:35 AM:Some of the activist might want to read this point! They continually report many of the day laborers are legal residents. If they were legal residents they wouldn't be standing on the street or living in our canyons. Having 50 transient, illegal men standing on one of our corners is harmful to our communities' safety and well being.

Taxpayer wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:44 AM:I hope we didn't have to pay for this report. Common sense would give you the same results.

Reardon wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:46 AM:Sorry, History Major, but you have provided us with a benefit analysis and the subject must be addressed as a cost/benefit analysis, As a math and engineering major, let me try. The benefits are tangible for immigrant workers and we should have a method of getting them -- but the costs are socialized because the workers bring their entire families and that is the side on which there are costs. HUGE COSTS. According the NAEP (US Dept of Education Tests), California schools stand in the lowest 10% of states and territories in EVERY category, so our children pay a HEAVY and continuing educational cost. Each illegal immigrant child eats %10,000 per child per year of un-reimbursed taxpayer schooling costs teachers/facilities) on top of the educational costs to our children. Medical care for illegal immigrant families is HUGE, starting from the day a pregnant mother can get across the border and each case takes the time and money from an indigent citizen. Illegal immigrant workers do not join violent gangs (they are busy working), but their family members do populate such gangs in disproportionate numbers. Add to the social costs the police activity just for minor driving infractions, and the loss of life of innocent victims of the cumulative unlicensed/uninsured/DUI accidents and the social and economic costs are STAGGERING! Last year alone, Mexico received $22 BILLION in “remittances” sent to family members – making remittances the second highest portion of the Mexican GDP right after oil – that is money that could have partially offset the costs of education and medical and incarceration of illegal immigrants, but instead was added to the cost, and not the benefit side. As it happens, the study is probably correct, but California already has a large class of undereducated native-born youth. There is no need to import more.

How Goes You? wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:48 AM:Robert24: I lived in towns where Canadian French was still the dominant language spoken and grandchildren had to interpret for their parents and grandparents in the few places where there wasn't someone who spoke French. I hve also lived in neighborhoods, where Portuguese was as prevelent as English--and Cape Verdian grocery stores with goods from "home" dotted street corners. I also know that the Irish, Italian and Eastern European immigrants, were met at the boat by representatives of the political bosses in Boston and NYC, and assisted with housing, relief, employment and social services. All immigrant groups that I know of needed help, and it took about 3 generations for assimilation to be accomplished and about the same amount of time for the decendants of immigrants to glorify their family story and turn on the next wave.

Ron wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:50 AM:Common sense... did anyone buy this idea that "legal" day laborers were standing 30-70 deep along Escondido & Santa Fe in the Von's parking lot? When Labor Ready is only a mile away on Main St.? They knew it, they lied about it, and they will continue to lie about it. It's a political agenda, a movement for power. It's the creation of a more socialist/welfare state, and their willing to import to do it. Remember, Ted Kennedy? "It's the "new" civil right's movement." And I want to address this so-called "nation of immigrants" baloney argument. LEGAL immigrants are good for America. Illegal imigrants are bad for America. Geit it? LEGAL.... ILLEGAL. Clearer now? geez.....

St. Patrick's Parade History wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:50 AM:The first St. Patrick's Day parade took place not in Ireland, but in the United States. Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through New York City on March 17, 1762. These soldiers were against American independence until England lost the war. Unlike the current La Raza crowd, I have not heard the Irish claiming that they did not cross the border, the border crossed them! No desire on the part of the Irish to return to English rule, or to institute rule from Ireland. Further, many poor Irish came to the US as a result of a famine. There is no famine in Latin America. The current invasive wave of mainly Mexican immigration is so dangerous because these mostly uneducated people fall easy prey to the propaganda of socialist Chicanos trying to implement the racist and anti-American Plan of Aztlan.

George wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:55 AM:If you really believe that all the Chinese immigrants who worked on the Railroad, filed for immigration status and came legally--you are nutz. Immigration hasn't always been such a big deal--efforts to control immigation comes in racists waves and we seem to be on the crest of one right now. Immigrants have always made us richer and better and who we are today. Papers were forged in the old country and marriages arranged adn any number of ways to get our grandparents out of Russia or Poland or Sicily to get here. The most racist hater who writes on this column will probably have great grand children who have some Mexican background..just as most of us have some Irish or Italian or German or Polish background.

Randy wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:55 AM:Whatever happened to, "Give me your poor..." inscribed on the Statue of Liberty? Lost to NIMBYism?

Escondeeter wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:55 AM:And the winner for this year's "Captain Obvious" award is... Arturo Gonzalez!

CatBOne wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:55 AM:Enough of the euphemisms! I've had it up to HERE with the euphemisms! These people ARE NOT illegal immigrants! They are ILLEGAL ALIENS! "Immigrant" implies they are here legally, having complied with immigration regulations. ILLEGAL ALIEN tells us that they are here in violation of our laws and are thus properly considered to be CRIMINALS.

Lilathe wrote on Jul 26, 2007 8:59 AM:What a load of drivvle from a San Francisco privately funded study. The rest of the country laughs at any opinions coming from San Francisco these days. At least you waited till the last paragraph to slap the "racist" card on the table.

Poway resident wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:01 AM: Driving down the road I saw two day laborers urinating on the side of the road. I guess this is OK behavior in Mexico. Just what I want in my community along with their illegal camps that harbor criminals! If they are only working 23 hours a week, what are they doing with the rest of their time? Doesn't sound good to me!

Haha wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:13 AM:You mean that those people aren't highly educated or legal US tax payers? Amazing!!! In other news.... The sun came up today!!!

great, now ICE needs to arrest them wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:20 AM: Thanks for this study! Now the Border Patrol and ICE have published evidence that almost all day laborers are illegal. Let the arrests and deportations begin!!!

911? wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:20 AM:Maybe we should all call 911 anytime there are 1 or more criminals on our corners. According to this study, the average says there will not be a legal citizen until there are about 33 people on the corner. What would happen if people called 911 every time they see a crime being committed?

joe wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:21 AM:no kidding

keciacat wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:25 AM:Tom: "They run off any other guys who are not hispanic if they try to work in the industry". That statement is so true in all of the industries that the illegal aliens are dominating here in San Diego.

curly joe wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:26 AM:hey all you haters! while you hate on workers... bush and his cronies are taking our taxes to bagdad. you're getting swindled by the man you love. JAIL BUSH - CHENEY .....JESUS WOULD!!!!! So keep listening to your false news from fox DOBBS and limbaugh . The history train will run you over!!!!! MORE LIES> WOULD YOU DEPORT JESUS??? Maybe he'll be on a street corner soon. We're all brothers and sisters!!!!

Jake wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:29 AM:A review of all this diatribe reveals no new data or ideas. Keep fighting among yourselves. Maybe you can get a TV reality show.

chatter wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:33 AM:Were not upset about those that come here legally.. Back when the mayflower crossed it was legally to do that. What EVERYONE is UPSET ABOUT IS THERE BREAKING THE LAWS.

Nancy wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:41 AM:So now Claudia Smith knows the motivation of protestors? What a crock. And Sifuentes is her little lap dog. Hey, Ed, How about asking protestors why they oppose illegal day laborers instead of asking the phony humanitarian Claudia what she thinks. You can't write a single article without her input, can you. You are a sorry excuse for a reporter.

2 v8 wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:45 AM:sounds like you had too muck vodka with that v8 this morning.

Miguel wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:46 AM:to Ed Sifuentes, thanks for doing this article. People need to see BOTH sides of this issue from you. Claudia Smith, what a putz.

get involved wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:47 AM:as a person against illegal immigration, what can I do to help or be a positive influence?

No good deed goes unpunished wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:52 AM:No good deed goes unpunished. Here's why I will NEVER hire one; and it has NOTHING to do with immigration status. My friend's mom was burglarized by an illegal worker. He was going house to house asking for work. Being a senior citizen she didn't have a lot of money; but felt sorry for the guy so she hired him for a few hours. During the time he was there working in the garden he entered the house and used the bathroom. He came back the next day; she said she wouldn't have anymore work for him. He kept asking her when he could come back; she told him she wouldn't need him again. A few days later someone entered the back window, stole a bicycle; a suitcase; and the only thing of value the woman had a VCR recorder (which he ripped so badly from the TV that it would be useless if it had been recovered). So from the goodness of this womans heart she was now taken advantage of - in her own home. Yep it IS putting yourself in harm's way.

anon wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:55 AM:I would like to have a foot note on were they got theses numbers, It seems to be a little off.

o2cool1 wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:56 AM:Say how many of those standing around in the hot sun waiting for a low paying,back breaking,dirty job without benefits are white people? Answer:NONE. Seems all this talk about illegals taking jobs Americans would do doesn't quite add up when none of those Americans are willing to stand around in the hot sun waiting for a low paying,back breaking,dirty job without benefits.

American woman wrote on Jul 26, 2007 9:57 AM:To anyone who compliments Sifuentes on this article, please read it again. It's typical E.S. b.s. What some of you may have 'learned' is what anyone with an IQ of over 70 already knows. To those who want folks to believe in the RACIST theory, give it up! The same minimal level of intelligence is required to figure this one out, too. Most anti-illegal alien activist groups are made up of many Latinos and Hispanics, as well as a variety of other ethnicities. What about groups like, YOU DON'T SPEAK FOR ME? The RACE CARD is the only one the intruders and their supporters have to play, assuming that somehow, they will finally convince law-abiding U.S. citizens that we who believe in the Rule of Law and adherence to our existing immigration laws are basing our actions on SKIN COLOR. Please! Claudia Smith has proven herself to be a major xenophobe throughout this challenge to America. The mere fact that Sifuentes uses her in so many of his attempts at "journalism" gives it all away! There just aren't many folks for him to quote, who agree with his own prejudices, other than the select few radical Latino/Mexicano extremists. These are individuals irreversibly entangled with the corrupt, anti-American movement launched by big, big government, both American and Mexican [God only knows what others], which certainly have an agenda that should be a warning to any dedicated American. To the "History Major:" What history do you study? Didn't the Berlin Wall keep folks "in?" There may be a certain level of concern over who to fear and who to trust. As a prominent, dedicated member of a major anti-illegal alien group, I know of NO HATRED!!! We are constantly confronted by those who DO seem to hate us...perhaps out of fear, and that's ok, because the fear is generated by GUILT. Also, there is a segment of the oppositions' communities that are violent, vicious lawbreakers, and THAT is surely a concern. What I DO know is that my collegues within the various groupS that I join hands with on a regular basis, are looking for one thing: U.S. and state/local governments that stand shoulder-to-shoulder with constituents in the belief that the preservation of U.S. sovereignty and the security of our American community are the most important actions we can take for our children and the future strength and success of the country.

Jorge wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:05 AM:To: "get involved," Hopefully, you have a computer...if not, go to the library. They will help you to use one of their computers. Choose your own approach by typing-in, ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION GROUPS or maybe, INFORMATION ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION. Or go to [Web site]

NC Resident wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:06 AM:The comments left for this article make me ashamed to call myself a North County resident. The main point of this article is not to say that most day laborers are illegal immigrants, but to argue that they make up a small portion of the working population and that they shouldn't be a big concern to California residents. The reason why this is news is simply because there are so many people in this county who believe the contrary.

Join SDMM wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:12 AM:According to the Southern Poverty Law Center there are approx. 270,000 illegal aliens living and working in SD Co. That's right, over 1/4 million illegals living in our canyons, standing on street corners, working in restaurants and other slave labor jobs with their rare diseases and criminal records. The problem is way out of control. We need strong ICE enforcement now and a secure border. Wanna help? Join San Diego Minutemen. Check out our website and get involved now, before its too late! Over 600 county residents have. We're growing rapidly and we are taking back our country the right and legal way!

Alf wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:15 AM:It is truly too bad that there is no local real anti-illegal alien organization that works WITHIN the system, WITHIN the laws of common decency, WITHIN the law, FOR enforcing the immigration laws. Alf, a Libertarian.

OBSERVATION wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:22 AM:history major wrote on Jul 25, 2007 11:23 PM: The Berlin wall was built by the Communists to keep the East Germans in. The fence is advocated to keep invaders out. The Irish were not illegal immigrants. They came here legally in great distress and did suffer discrimination in the USA. They also rose up the ladder in a short time. But, they were legal.

Really? wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:23 AM:Wow....I don't think Californians needed a study to know this.

Concerned-1 wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:24 AM:I hope NCT editors are reading this blog today. Great point by Reardon. NCT needs to look at the economics of this issue. As I previously stated: what IS their impact? If it is positive let's hear it. I'm all ears Edward...NCT.

To a Hispanic Minuteman was attacked!! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:29 AM:"Harassing a bunch of Mexicans"? That makes no sense since many of the Minutemen are Hispanic and I have many Latino friends." Well the only thing the above remark makes very clear is that the minutemen ARE racists!!! Lets keep it real. As long as a person is willing to be hateful, racist, rude and disrespecful they can be a minutemen. If this issue was really about "law and order, nothing else!" Why do they cause such horrible chaos where ever they go? They are everything but demonstrating law and order!! Racism comes in all colors. If you didn't know this you can be racists against your on national origin. You prove nothing by having brown skinned people in your group. I wonder if you have checked the legal status of those you are embracing in your hate group. Why do you guys hate these people so much, really they just want a better life, kinda like one of you members, you know Michael Spencers wife Claudia. She did what she had to do to get here at any cost. Lets keep it real. I too am a realist!!!!

CR wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:31 AM:To "get involved": When you hire day laborers, use an employment service that checks their legal status. The same goes for hiring cleaning or yard services. I agree that everyone has to earn a living, and that most illegal immigrants come from horrible conditions. The problem is that these immigrants use a large amount of resources that are paid for by American tax payers. The most noteworthy are educational and medical facilities. A significant number of immigrant children do not speak English. Teachers are obligated to adjust their curriculum to account for non-English speakers. This uses considerable resources and puts an enormous strain on school budgets. As most illegal immigrants are uninsured, the services provided to them end up costing taxpayers and other patients more. This is not only the fault of the illegal immigrants - drug and insurance companies are certainly to blame. I have no problem with immigrants arriving in our country, not because it's a part of our "historical heritage' but because it enriches our country and I think people everywhere deserve a chance to succeed. I do think that the government should make the immigration process easier for unskilled workers to come in to the country. If they obtain honest (tax-paying) work, I'm willing to bet that their income will still be higher than it was in their native country. I don't claim to be an economist, but this solution seems to make better financial sense than kicking everyone out and letting no one in.

To I coulda had a V8 you need an enema!!!! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:33 AM:I think you need a soul cleansing. Your remark should never had been posted. I don't see how this added to constructive, intelligent conversation. These are the rantings of a lunatic and I think it is disgusting.

Clyde wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:33 AM:OK boys & girls. An "alien" is any person, not a citizen of the United States. The Beatles were all aliens. There are two distinctions of aliens too. Immigrants & non-immigrants. A person here with a passport and a B2 visitor visa is a non-immigrant, documented legal alien. In other words, someone, who after seeing Disneyland & Sea World plans to return home. The people we are talking about here (yes, they ARE people) are typically undocumented illegal aliens who have no intention of returning to their respective countries of origin. And we really don't know who they are! Again, a matter of law & order not xenophobia. We must elect officials who will fix this mess and dump any elected official who will not. The insanity must stop!

Really? wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:33 AM:Eleven an hour is higher than a lot of legal citizens make. When you throw in free healthcare, subsidized housing, WIC, social security, and unemployment benefits that could work out to another 10 to 15 bucks an hour tax free. I can see why they come here. If Mexico offered that I would be an illegal immigrant down there.

To 02cool1 wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:35 AM:You are wrong....they do get benefits. The problem is that illegal immigrants don't pay for their hospital bills. We taxpayers do! Get a clue...

To female against day labor wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:39 AM:Hey honey, I am Chinese and my grandparents have told me many stories of the treatment they and their parents received as immigrants. Please do not try to dismiss this as a "they deserve this bad treatment" My ancestors lived it. Guess what all the things you are saying about the Latinos was said about us also. Different century, different people group, same false accusations.

DW wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:40 AM:To the editor - how can you defend the statement `a new statewide study suggests that public attention on this matter is out of proportion'? I dare you to say that with a straight face to the parents of Amy Kortlang! Out of proportion??? Remember the public outcry that led to the defeat of Senate Immigration Bill? Sifuentes is just a mouthpiece for the pro-illegal camp and your papers' position on this matter is why I stopped my subscription to this paper!

BETH LOVER wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:54 AM:WE'RE SCREWED I MEAN REALLY SCREWED THANK YOU USA

l wrote on Jul 26, 2007 10:58 AM:lol

American wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:00 AM:This is for the Poway Resident,I have seen the same thing, except they were two strong healthy american citizens standing in the Welfare Line, waiting for free money, free food, free health insurnace.Maybe they should stand in the day labor corners to,instaed of using my earned taxes.

get real! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:13 AM:Illegal alien lawbreakers are not supposed to be in our Country at all. So they should be picked up and deported. What don't you understand about the law?

Brown Granny wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:14 AM:I was speaking to a construction worker and he was talking about how larger companies can bid lower because they can pay laborers/operators $12 (illegals) an hour and honest union type companies have to pay their legal workers $30 an hour. And these illegals are not taking jobs from Americans? I know of a few illegals working under the table while their wives get free medical and food for their children. Remember we are talking about "illegal" immigrants not immigrants. Why do people try and bunch them together? It makes the "illegals" sound like they aren't breaking any laws and make it sound that we (anti-illegals) are against any type of immigrants. Oh yeah, I am of Mexican (brown) descent and do not feel targeted Ms Smith. All my Mexican (legal and of Mexican descent) are all against illegal immigration. It has nothing to do with what country or color you are, there are laws that are there for reasons.

Right to stay wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:14 AM:I guess most of you don't have a life or a job. Whether peolple like it or not: Illegal immigrants are here to stay.

What??? wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:15 AM:You mean to tell me those people are here illegally? How did this happen? We should do soemthing, like secure the borders or something? WHERE'S THE FENCE??

Bob wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:16 AM:Duh. You people are all sheep. Don't you realize you're playing right into the NCT's hands? The more comments they get, the more people they can show are reading this rag. That means more money from advertisers, which means more BS stories from our buddy and illegal alien sympathizer Slick Eddie Sinfuentes. Hmmm, wonder if this comment will be published.

To history major? wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:19 AM:If you are really a history major you would know that the Berlin wall was used to keep people IN, you know like a prison. We want a fence to keep illegal aliens out. We want good law abiding immigrants to come in. You pro-illegal alien supporters use the words hate and racist to hide behind the fact that you have no legitimate argument. Uphold the laws of the USA!

Hey! What wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:20 AM:You probably have employed a couple of them to do your lawn or do your housekeeping!!!!!!!!

OK! wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:22 AM:Border Patrol and ICE, you now know where you can pick up illegal aliens in one place. Do it!

Miguel wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:22 AM:I agree that the article was written in a manner to make us believe that the Illegal Immigrant issue should be minimized, that isn't working. What is funny, is that the information they use to try and redirect our attention is the same thing we have all been screaming for over a year. Maybe this is their way of admitting things in a way that isn't obvious?

Miguel wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:31 AM:to Alf....Your point about a LEGAL institution to address the Illegal Immigrant issue is good. The only group right now is ICE and Customs. We must keep the pressure on Washington to stop trying to find a way to legalize these CRIMINALS and implement a couple of very simple fixes. 1)Amend the 14th Amendment to resolve the "born in USA" via illegal alien issue and 2) Implement an ID/SS verification system for employers that detects questionable or illegal documents on a real-time basis. Employers will be held accountable for hiring only legal employees. No jobs, no reason to stay. Also, implement a guest worker program that must be signed up for in their own country at US Embassies only. We get our taxes, no more stolen ID's, no more stolen citizenship, our veggies get picked, construction and manufacturing jobs go back to Citizens. With ID, they can get temp licenses to drive when they show proof of insurance. It all works. Even now, our legislators are trying to sneak a deal through for the Ag workers. What are they thinking? When will they learn to listen to us?

Why post at all? wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:34 AM:It’s about spending power. Illegals have twice as much spending power as the average American. For example: If I have $50. in my pocket to spend; I had to earn $100. to net $50. after just employment/income tax; (not even counting health insurance, union dues, etc.) BUT…If an illegal has $50 in their pocket; they had to earn $50. to get it. Unfair? You bet it is. Does it matter? No, not to anyone..

Question for History Major wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:41 AM:How many illegals can this country absorb? Do even you have limits on immigration? What do you suggest we do when we reach even your limit? Would you then start deporting illegal aliens?

Now that You've Identified them as Illegals... wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:45 AM:GET THEM OUT OF HERE!

Rose D, wrote on Jul 26, 2007 11:45 AM:Those of us who live in Escondido don't really need all the studies. We see what's going on when we drive around or shop in the stores. We have portions of our City that look like Tijuana. I went to two stores yesterday, the clerks and the customers were all speaking spanish. In my area they are scrawling graffiti on the walls and stop signs. Deport!

Vistan wrote on Jul 26, 2007 12:00 PM: