Stop the madness wrote on Nov 1, 2007 9:55 PM:Why is this news? Who gives a hoot about these folks. I'm an immigrant. I learned the language, EARNED citizenship, take care of my family and pay my fair share. These people want a free ride.

well wrote on Nov 1, 2007 10:07 PM:cry me a river. They can ask questions all they want, it doesn;t change the fact that this is more anti-white man bias veiled as "Immigrant rights" concerns. Makes me sick. Get a life, your race bate tactics are getting old fairly fast.

EthnicStudent wrote on Nov 1, 2007 10:19 PM:One the three points made: 1.)Illegal immigrants may have been afraid to leave their homes because U.S. Border Patrol agents were used to help evacuate some neighborhoods. - Duh, they weren't supposed to be here in the first place. If you are committing a crime, of course you're going to be afraid around cops. 2.) Farmworkers were exposed to dangerous levels of smoke by employers who did not stop work during much of last week. - This isn't a racist thing, it's an employee/employer issue. I had to go to work last week as well as my father. 3.) Emergency shelters were poorly equipped to help people who did not speak English. - Since when is it required that we provide that type of service? If I were in Mexico or Japan, they would expect me to speak the local language. If I needed someone who spoke English, I'd go to the Embassy. Not our fault that they can't speak the local language.

Are you kidding me wrote on Nov 1, 2007 10:20 PM:My heart pumps Kool Aid for these people. Hey wasn't 99% of the looting done by illegals...If you are "ILLEGAL" you have no rights.

Dennis A wrote on Nov 1, 2007 10:32 PM:Right on with "Stop the Madness" that say's it all in a nut shell. My mom's side of the family all had to come thru Ellis island. The 14th ammendment say's "The children of an Legal citzen will not , and does not have to go back anywhere, and is a Leagel Citzen also" Notice how the word "ILLEAGEL" isn't used.

Tim wrote on Nov 1, 2007 10:40 PM:There is really no "there" there to this story -- a bunch of anonymous complaints, with perfectly reasonable responses from those accused of wrongdoing or insensitivity. Border Patrol agents shouldn't be used to alert those in danger because they might scare illegal immigrants? Come on.

To Dennis wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:01 PM:Damn, Dennis learn to spell and then learn to read. The 14th Amendment states that ANY PERSON in the jurisdiction is entitled to life, liberty, property and equal protection under the law. The word illegal is not used because NO HUMAN BEING is illegal. What do you mean your "mom's side of the family all HAD to come through Ellis Island" Who made them come here? Oh yeah the land of opportunity did, hhhuuuummmm

K.A.L wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:03 PM:How distasteful is this comment "Border Patrol spokesman Matthew Johnson said he was unaware of that problem. "Any criminal should be afraid of law enforcement," Johnson said. "I would assume most people would be thankful that we were out there." Could the BP's not find someone with a little more decorum to represent them. Geez they already look like insensitive bullies why would he make matters worse?

John wrote on Nov 2, 2007 1:09 AM:Why wasn't BP or ICE picking them up from the shelters and deporting them?

dave from oceanside wrote on Nov 2, 2007 5:30 AM:The illegal's themselves chose to hide from scrutiny and by this action denied themselves food and shelter just to prevent deportation. When the border patrol pick up illegal's, they always provide the basic human needs until the illegal's are shipped back across the border.

geesh wrote on Nov 2, 2007 5:34 AM:Now I think I've heard it all....give me a break. If they want to complain, go back to Mexico and take these activists with you. Get a life.

Jake wrote on Nov 2, 2007 5:38 AM:The help offered during the fire was for those affected by the fire. If ID's aren't checked, anyone could take advantage of the donated goods. Not exactly what was in mind for those who donated goods, services, money, etc.

This is why wrote on Nov 2, 2007 5:42 AM:Legal Immigrants need to learn english as soon as possible. In times of emergency, it is impossible to give instruction to illegal aliens in 26 different languages. I noted when the police were giving evacation orders, there was no press 1 for english, press 2 for spanish. La Raza and these other pro Mexican illegal groups, need to realize they are not the only illegal aliens in our country.

I would say that wrote on Nov 2, 2007 5:47 AM:their concern over the fire emergency should be monetarily dropped as they have more worries than that. More and more states are forced to deal with illegal immigration, thus forcing thousands to flee. I guess the states are doing the job the feds just don't want to do. And I noticed that the politicans dems and reps are staying out of this issue, oh yeah I forgot this is an election year.

cadiver wrote on Nov 2, 2007 6:37 AM:Border Patrol spokesman Matthew Johnson was perfectly right in his statement. Illegals are illegals, they break the law and as such are criminals. Why should we stop using the border patrol to help legal residents and citizen just because criminals complain, what's next, stop using police officer because criminals might be afraid too?

Misunderstood wrote on Nov 2, 2007 6:40 AM:The Illegel Aliens broke the law when they came accross the border. They created thier own problems.

Tiger! wrote on Nov 2, 2007 6:55 AM:We are the U.S the greatest country on Earth, by far. Let’s give all our money away to law breakers. I would gladly trade an illegal-immigrant for an ACLU lawyers, any day of the week!!! Hey, did you hear about those Americans trying to get to Cuba, floating on a tire? Neither did I!!!

Average Joe wrote on Nov 2, 2007 6:55 AM:I have always appreciated and liked the hard working/Family value culture of the Mexican immigrants in San Diego County. Unfortunately over the past few years a new group of bitter, selfish, arrogant and quite mean group has been emerging. They don't want to be Americans so why should they have the same rights as Americans. There are exceptions to this and those Immigrants who are willing to become Americans and teach there children to respect fellow Americans should be allowed to stay. I believe that there were a handful of Mexicans that took advantage of the evac centers and made it look bad for the rest of them.

14th Amendment wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:09 AM:The person who wrote the 14th Amendment meant it to cover Indians and Blacks. It was not meant for people who steal into the country, or their children. The amendment is being perverted by criminals for criminals.

Misunderstood is Correct wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:13 AM:If you break the law by sneaking into this country, or break any law for that mattter you have to accept the consequences of your actions. Where has common sense gone these days? Not to worry illegals, if Hillary Clinton is elected President you can expect amnesty and no comsequences. You will get the special treatment you think you have a right to.

Robert24 wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:14 AM:Another "Fast Eddie Sifuentes" sob story, trying to drum up support for the illegal crowd. 17 posts so far, and not a single supporter! Get a clue, Ed; illegals are unwanted, and the majority of legal US citizens want them to go back home. They are welcome back once they come legally, learn the language and assimilate. They are no harder working or nicer people than any other immigrant that wants to be here. I don't press 2 for Chinese, and I shouldn't have to push it for Spanish either. We are sick and tired of hearing that there wasn't enough Spanish speaking support or that they were afraid to seek help. That is their own fault.

To: NCTimes wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:29 AM:Just so NCT knows, I no longer read any story with a headline involving "rights" for illegal aliens. Just so NCT knows, I no longer read any story authored by Eduardo Subversive. Just so NCT knows, I have not read this article.

Tom wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:39 AM:Many of those who have written with at best indifference, and in many case out right malace, toward the people who were denied services or harassed, profess to have religious faith, which is founded on the sanctity of human life and the inherent rights of all human beings. Is the humanity of a person worth less than the lifes of domestic pets and barnyard animals, that were given shelter at taxpayer expense ? For example, the media and many others lament the costs of helping illegal immigrant burn victims. How is it that apparently a disproportionate number burn victims are illegals ? This fire was not about immigration or race. It was about a natural disaster which threatened all living beings in its path. Maybe, as human beings, we could set aside our distrust and hatred for just a few days, under such circumstances, and help and protect one another, regardless of the politics of what we look like or where we are from. There will always be plenty of time enough to go back hating,distrusting and exploiting one another.

Roberto1 wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:42 AM:People sneaking around working...illegal alians etc...Really something we should concentrate on. How about helping the poor who work and get over your paranoia?

Just a matter of time wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:50 AM:That the Race card would be used. I found about fifty illegals in a parking lot in Oceanside. I ask them if they had somewhere to go, They where afraid to go to El Toro Because of the Border check point. I sent them to a local shelter where they where taken care of. I reached out to them as humans in there time of need, During the fires citizenship was not important. Then I hear that... Some illegals where stealing supplies from Qualcomm. Now they claim racism! That did it for me, some Hispanics actions during the SD crisis shed some light on what people have been trying to tell me about illegals.. I feel like I have been slapped in the face by them. I will have to think a little harder before I reach out like that again to an illegal. For the ACLU to defend their behavior! Remember the A in ACLU is for American! Not Illegals!

to Dennis A wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:50 AM:If your grandparents came through Ellis Island you should know how to spell legal by now, and you should know that the 14th Amendment says anyone born in the U.S. is a citizen, regardless of whether the parents are legal. BTW, coming through Ellis Island was no big deal. Until 1924 the only restrictions were communicable disease, mental retardation, and a criminal watch list. Only 2% were turned away. If you could buy a ticket on a boat to the U.S., you were a legal immigrant. Today there is no way poor Mexicans can come here legally unless they have a qualified family member. It's very complicated and very restrictive.

Heard it all before wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:56 AM:Why can't the NCT start reporting articles of fact rather than opinion based reheortic. This story is something you might read in a "You Tube" blog and not a newspaper. The author or should I say "rumor mongering trouble- maker" of this article should reserach the facts before offering his "biased" opinion.

Pluto wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:56 AM:To Are you kidding me @10:20pm: I suspect that's all your heart pumps - kool aid. No, 99% of "the looting" (what looting?) wasn't done by illegals. And "illegals" DO have rights under the Constitution which protects "persons", not just citizens. You are both heartless and ill-informed.

To Roberto 1 wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:59 AM:if you are a man stand up if not sit down.Thanks for having a seat.

To Tom wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:04 AM:Tom, maybe if we didnt have to rescue or save ILLEGALS then we couldve done more for the people who have EARNED the right to be in America.

tom wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:06 AM:Are we talking about immigrants or ILLEGAL immigrants?

Pluto wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:07 AM:To: NCTimes @ 7:29am illustrates the anti-immigrant mentality by openly refusing to read things he/she might disagree with. That doesn't stop them from commenting, however. It amazes me that people are so proud to be heartless (first 2 comments & others) and uninformed.

ok now wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:14 AM: If the illegals don't like how we do things here they can shut up and go home.

Did I miss something wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:15 AM:Where is the Mexican government money to help their own. That's right they could care less. They only want the money that is sent home. Again, why doesn't these activists, the ACLU and the 20 million illegals that are here go back to Mexico, revolt and get rid of the corruption etc. Even the Venezuelans have the guts to stand up for their freedoms. No wonder Mexico controls their Southern border with their Army. They don't want anyone in their country that has the guts to stand up for what's right. The Activists are talking to the wrong country. To bad they don't have the guts to go and stand up for the illegals where it really would count, Mexico. In the end, all a bunch of sheep being led to slaughter by the corrupt Mexican government and no one does anything but watch these poor people suffer because of their ignorance.

VILLAHERMOSA MEXICO wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:26 AM:I do not read anything written by Sifuentes especially if ACLU is part of the whining. Just read about the floods in Mexico...NCtimes should send him on assignment to see how well this is handled...pay for ACLU to go with him and see if they can get more money for their law suits.

inky wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:29 AM:So, should we also not have the police or sheriff's departments help with evacuations because they might discover a meth lab or other illegal activity? As for languages and discrimination, one could consider it discriminating to have only English and Spanish speakers available, and not Vietnamese, Tagalog, Japanese, Arabic, or any other languages that might be spoken by residents. Has anyone reported the tomato farm or others who admit to illegal hiring practices? I don't understand the point of making laws if we are not planning to enforce them. Or why we make some folks go through the expensive and time-consuming process of immigration, and allow others to skip the process. Now that is discrimination!

To Pluto: wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:33 AM:I think you meant to say "anti-ILLEGAL immigrant". I don't see one comment that is spewing ill will toward legal immigrants. But it seems easy for you to twist peoples words so they can fall under your "heartless and uninformed" label. Look at you...apparently you are totally informed and you are still supporting something that is illegal...

Yep. wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:36 AM:Lots of problems and no solution except to send them all back.

Concerned-1 wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:37 AM:The thing that sticks me about this story is that all these "immigration rights" groups are big on complaining but rather transparent in trying to mitigate the situation. If there was a void in help for the "immigrant" community then why didn't they organize some help. As much as I'm opposed to illegal immigration and these racist-hate groups on the fringes, I certainly wouldn't object to centers helping these people in a disaster such as the fires of last week.

Concerned-1 wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:45 AM:On a lighter note: Isn't it amazing that Edward Sifuentes only writes from one point of view? I've yet to read a story by him that isn't about the plight of illegal immigrants. I'd love to be a fly in the wall when he turns a story into the editor. "He, he, he, this one is really going to shake them up! He, he, he..." Happy Halloween!

Racism on display wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:46 AM:Robert24 @7:14am proves that pure racism is behind many of these comments. Why blame the reporter for the story, and why be so disrespectful toward him? Because his name is Sifuentes, not Smith or Jones. It doesn't make any sense to trash a reporter sent to report a story. He isn't responsible for what people at a press conference say, but he gets trashed again and again on these blogs. Some people hate anything and everything Latino. They apparently live on these blogs, checking tomorrow's paper before going to bed at night, and writing the first comments. Sad, ignorant, hateful, racist.

Jennifier wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:48 AM:First off, I think it's quite funny that when there is a language barrer between immigrants (Legal or not) that need help it's ALWAYS our fault for not haveing a Spanish speaking person available to them at all times. Now where did I see it written in the Constitution or the Bill of Rights that stated "Thou shall always have a spanish translator available in times of crisis". Umm.. NO WHERE! Secondly, what about the other minorites that have called the United States their home? You don't hear the Korean's, Filipino's, Japanese, Chinese, German, Russian.. etc. complianing about the fact we didn't have a translator available to them. And do you know why?! BECAUSE THEY LEARNED ENGLISH!! It maybe broken english and a bit hard to understand sometimes, but they made a very big effort to learn!

K.A.L. wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:54 AM:How generous of those who wrote the 14th to put in there to protect the "indians and Blacks after all they stole the land from the Indians and they brought the Blacks here against their will. Anyway the 14th Amendment does not say that and now it extents to ANY PERSON in the jurisdiction so give them their farging rights already.

To Tom wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:55 AM:Unfortunately now it does not matter if you are here legal or not. If you are brown it is best to assume you are an illegal immigrant.

Love it or leave it wrote on Nov 2, 2007 9:14 AM:I am the very proud daughter of Mexican immigrants. They were poor when they arrived here. They learned the language. They worked hard, put 4 kids through school and did not receive any hand outs. They are living the American dream. I have never heard them EVER complain about being singled out for being Hispanic. It is exhausting to read articles regarding certain minority groups who have the “victim” mentality. Use your own resources people! Quit your whining. If you don’t like it here and think things are that rotten in this country, go back to your own OR see if you can find another country that allows ILLIGAL aliens the rights we all have here. The choice is yours. Those who complain the most are those who are sitting around for things to be handed to them on a platter. Enough already. The ACLU should pick and chose their battles better.

Americans have wrote on Nov 2, 2007 9:44 AM:concerns also, that is why a radio station is compling a list of illgal encampments that have illegal campfires and forwarding the information to the proper authorites.

Mike wrote on Nov 2, 2007 9:51 AM:Enjoyed Matthew Johnson's: "Any criminal should be afraid of law enforcement". Were this anybody but Edward Sifuentes writing the story, they would have conceded right there and walked away.

Kim wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:03 AM:3 key points -- 1) If illegals were afraid of the BP agents it means they shouldnt be here in the first place - GO HOME 2)Farmworkers being exposed to smoke, what about the firefighters, police, national guard, utilty workers ect. did they quit working because of smoke? Quit whining and again GO HOME 3)No spanish speaking people to help translate for them - Easy fix Learn ENGLISH you are in the US or go home to mexico and you can speak all the spanish you want.

No Racism on display wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:17 AM:"pure racism is behind many of these comments" typical liberal response! You libs can't handle an open and honest discussion on rule of law. Maybe you're all hung up on the spelling. What is it with libs? They either call you a racist or point out spelling mistakes. The reality is that we're sick of the drugs and the criminals and tuberculosis coming across the border along with all of the illegal workers that line the pockets of big business. They clog and close down the ERs, they steal affordable housing from the working poor and they suck down welfare dollars. It's not racist, it's reality. Where's your lib environmentalist outrage at the pollution of land by the illegals on coyote routes? We're sick of the corrupt country south of the border. Nobody has a problem with immigrants as long as they're legal. The ACLU and the libs can't stand legal immigrants because they can't be 'used' to forward their radicalized anti-America agenda. We see through your elitist talking points. Nobody is listening anymore while you brand retractors as racists or go berserk over spelling mistakes. when you talk all we hear is blah, blah, blah racist, blah, blah, blah, spelling mistake.

Ken wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:17 AM:ILLEGAL ALIENS are here breaking our laws and using up our resources that should be for only those that are here LEGALLY! Those that are complaining, should return to their own country and start complaining to their own government. I am getting sick and tired of ILLEGAL ALIENS expecting rights that are given to those that are here LEGALLY! If those ILLEGAL ALIENS want all of the rights that are given to American citizens, then they need to come into this country LEGALLY! ILLEGAL ALIENS are NOT wanted in this country! Please return to your won country and fight and demand your rights to your own government.

Lothar wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:18 AM:You cannot assimilate into the USA and your community, if you do not know the language. You will always be on the outside looking in. The situation that came out due to the fires only shows you that communication is critical. I would rather have an emergency worker assisting me because he is the best trained emergency worker, not because he is the only bi-lingual available in the area.

Kris wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:23 AM:Instead of worrying about who was evacuating them, they should have left. If they don't have the brains to leave, well then that's on them. When did our concern become criminals over non-criminals. These immigrants are plan and simply criminals. They have no rights, deserve no rights, and should not ever get rights. They need to do things properly, and then they can earn the rights they want. Why should our government spend money on these freeloaders? When did illegal immigrants start getting more than our citizens? Here's an idea: If they hadn't been here illegally they would not have been in the fires path! Go back to Mexico and come back as a citizen!

Brad wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:35 AM:If we're talking about ILLEGAL immigrants then they have no rights in this country! What part of ILLEGAL do you people not understand? They should all be rounded up and sent home! ILLEGAL Immigrants are overpopulating our prisons and schools. They're sucking on our economy by not putting their (often untaxed!) income back into it - they send their (often untaxed!) money out of this country as soon as they get it. How does this help us and how is this right? This is a great country, it's true, but no other country would even be debating this - certainly not South and Central America and Mexico where all of them come from! No, this is not racist, predudicial, or hatred. Just a logical (and LEGAL!) fact.

It makes you think wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:36 AM:the ACLU is on retainer to the Mexican government. They sure spend a lot of money defending the illegal alien activities. Also makes you think these Activist groups are on the Mexican governments payroll as it seems they have a lot of time on their hands and don't have real jobs. Maybe the people complaining about the treatment the illegals got should advertise their homes as shelters then they can be assured the illegals would be treated "right". Sure didn't hear any of them offering up alternatives. Very easy to complain when you don't have a solution.

Mary wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:37 AM:Jeesh, even our citizens do not know about the 14th Amendment. It DOES NOT apply to ILLEGAL immigrants. Please read it. (Unfortunately, it does apply to children of illegals born in the US.) Amendment 14 - Citizenship Rights 1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.

Hey Ed wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:39 AM:Give it a rest. Nope; didn't read the dribble you wrote; I've read it all before, its all the same editorial; not news; were just tired of seeing it. I see your name; I don't read a word. I know you are too scared to print this; your editor might see; but at least you see the truth. Have you tried covering real news? Maybe you can cover sports?

Brad wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:44 AM:If we're talking about ILLEGAL immigrants then they have no rights in this country! What part of ILLEGAL do you people not understand? They should all be rounded up and sent home! ILLEGAL Immigrants are overpopulating our prisons and schools. They're sucking on our economy by not putting their (often untaxed!) income back into it - they send their (often untaxed!) money out of this country as soon as they get it. How does this help us and how is this right? This is a great country, it's true, but no other country would even be debating this - certainly not South and Central America and Mexico where all of them come from! No, this is not racist, predudicial, or hatred. Just a logical (and LEGAL!) fact.

To Brad wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:51 AM:Couldn't agree more!

matt wrote on Nov 2, 2007 11:14 AM:it is ridiculous to think that any of our safety personnel did'nt help those in need because they were immigrants. IF someone is scarred to accept help, it is on them, period.

Californio wrote on Nov 2, 2007 11:53 AM:is California an English word? is San Diego an Englsih word? was the help only meant for the english decedants that came to America and the slaves they brough and yeah whatever was left after the extermination of the indians....

Diane wrote on Nov 2, 2007 12:04 PM:Yeah, illegal immigrants want everything given to them free, yet continue to have us pay for it. There is a 15 year old boy in the burn unit fighting for his life, his father is dead, they have no insurance and health care isn't going to pay for his costs. Yet, UCSD has ELEVEN burned illegals that are getting care????????? BACK THIS TRAIN UP AND GET OUT OF OUR COUNTRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Madam Patriot wrote on Nov 2, 2007 12:12 PM:Well at least this article doesn't mention that the (illegal) immigrant rights activists were whining about journalists being denied access to Qualcomm. They must have realized that there were almost more reporters (local, national and international) than evacuees at the stadium. Now I’m sure that the illegals were scared seeing the border patrol as well they should be, but during the firestorm the border patrol were there to help people in need and provide some security to try to stop looters. If the illegals were just trying to flee the area they shouldn’t have had any problems. It’s ridiculous to say that the border patrol should not be out in force during a disaster either in the field or at evacuation centers because someone who already violated the law is afraid of them. We needed all the help we could get. Getting caught is a risk they run for breaking our laws. Now regarding the management of Leslie Farms having ‘workers’ pick tomatoes in hazardous conditions, my comment is what did you expect? You have an ‘employer’ who’s obviously willing to hire an illegal workforce for their own benefit. Shame on the employer for doing it, but this is the exploitation that comes from being undocumented. Please leave and come back the proper way; the legal and honest way.

So Cal Native wrote on Nov 2, 2007 12:12 PM:You will all go to hell on judgement day for your rash of statments. LET IT BE WRITTEN.

Sick of it... wrote on Nov 2, 2007 12:25 PM:These so called complaints were most likely pre-conceived and may as well have been filed by the complainers before the fire to save time. I am sick of demands that American society bend over backwards for any immigrants who refuse to assimilate into American culture. What we end up with is little Mexicos, Vietnams, Iran's, etc. that have no respect for American law or culture. And BTW - Go sneak into Mexico and see how you get treated there.

Danny at the Escondido Shelther wrote on Nov 2, 2007 12:38 PM:in the Escondido Shelther we were around 50-100 volunteers during the first 5 days working 10-15 hrs. per day and I proudly can say that 75% to 90% of this volunteers and close to 50% of the donors were from the Hispanic community serving their own community. Escondido is showing that the Hispanic Community is ready for integration; "our rigths through our obligations". I thank all our brave fire fighters and law enforcement agencies for the response and care that they showed to all of us with-out seing color or race. it is time to learn that we need to stand together instead of dividing our society.together we stand strong but divided we are weak. God bless all of you and I hope that we learn to work together as a society. at least in the Escondido Shelter we did!

WTF wrote on Nov 2, 2007 12:39 PM:What idiot decided this was a Top Story? The illegals and employers of illegals are responsible for the harms on them from the fires not our local, state, or federal government. I can only imagine what foreigners are going through trying to survive in mexican floods right now.

dave from oceanside wrote on Nov 2, 2007 12:41 PM:"So Cal Native 12:12pn" Go preach to the hand, hell your quite delusional.

Concerned-1 wrote on Nov 2, 2007 12:45 PM:Racism on Display? It's a funny thing about racism because it's a two-edged sword. Take your post at 8:46. You rant about people taking exception with Edward Sifuentes reporting because he has an Hispanic last name. I would be just as critical if his last name was Smith. However, his last name is Sifuentes and ... he writes about is the plight of the poor (illegal) immigrants. Might that not be considered a form of racism? Or is racism a word that can only be applied to people with non-minority names? Think about it before you pull the race card again. The minute you pull it, you are a racist in my book.

JB wrote on Nov 2, 2007 1:02 PM:If someone was fleeing the fire and needed aid then it should be given to them no matter if they were legal or illegal. However, if someone was trying to take advantage of the situation to get some "free" stuff, then that is definitely a problem. I'd like to see these groups address the issue of the reports of illegals showing up a the Q and trying to take away truckloads of supplies. And why is it Latinos feel they should get preferential treatment in having evacuation orders broadcast in Spanish? What about all the other nationalities? The differenece is that all those other make an effort to learn English.

Peter wrote on Nov 2, 2007 1:05 PM:Illegals are illegals and if this means I'll go to hell on judgement day, so be it!! It just might be the heaven everyone speaks of!

Oh Brother... wrote on Nov 2, 2007 1:12 PM:Puhleez stop playing GOD and telling others who will and will not be in Hell with you.

Jerry wrote on Nov 2, 2007 1:21 PM:If they were not here illegally it wouldn't have been a problem now would it?

To So Cal Native wrote on Nov 2, 2007 1:22 PM:The American people are already living in hell. Thats why we want our government to enforce their laws!

Greg in Oceanside wrote on Nov 2, 2007 1:27 PM:Why am I not surprised to see Ed Sifuentes, the ACLU, and illegal aliens all mentioned in the same article, spewing their incessant rhetoric? I’m just wondering when we're going to hear more rhetoric and complaints from NCLR, MEChA, El Grupo and Bill Flores. All of these people and groups are Anti-American, counter-productive and do nothing but complain, and many of us hard-working American citizens are tired of hearing it. This thing about people not evacuating out of fear because the Border Patrol was driving around is a bunch of hogwash. We pay the BP to do a job, and if these illegal aliens are fearful, it's a problem they brought upon themselves when they snuck into this country through the back door. And if illegal aliens complain about the language barrier, there’s a simple solution; LEARN ENGLISH. As for looting, there were two men with Hispanic surnames arrested in Calexico. Other than that, I think we can plainly see, our community is a great place to be, which should serve as an example to others facing a disaster of this magnitude.

Tuff wrote on Nov 2, 2007 2:39 PM:Learn English, get a Id. Don't like it, TUFF. Everyone had to show Id, so that the ones that didn't get evacuated take advantage of the situation. Remeber the artcle of the thieves in trucks a the Q. Undocumented. You guys will use anything to complain about. If you spent as much time trying to get citizenship leaglly instead of complaining you would actually really help someone. Next thing you know, you will be asking for the US to pay a rebuild their hutches that got burned.

Press 2 for English wrote on Nov 2, 2007 2:40 PM:Aren't they supposed to be fearful of the Border Patrol?

The NCT is not wrote on Nov 2, 2007 2:59 PM:printing comments that don't agree with Sifuentes!

WhoWhat wrote on Nov 2, 2007 3:02 PM:Come on NCT stop putting editorial articles up as important "news" stories, this was a baseless story with no corroboration. It is propaganda put out by the usual race baiters. 71 posts and counting, all negative.

Wendy wrote on Nov 2, 2007 3:10 PM:Why don't the Americans who employ these illegal immigrants pay for their shelter and assistance during the fire? Surely with all the money they save paying slave wages they can afford it? After all it's Americans who are paying these people to come here. If Americans didn't give them employment to begin with, they wouldn't be here in the first place.

person wrote on Nov 2, 2007 3:11 PM:It is disappointing to read such hatred here. I have lived here over 50 years. Each year crops have been picked by Mexican and other Central Americans. It use to be legal for them to come here to do that (Bracero program and others) but the US changed the laws so now it's not legal for them to do that anymore. If you don't have a US citizen relative it is impossible for someone from those countries to come here legally. That was the US who changed the rules to make it not possible to be here legally, not the crop workers. Give them a legal way to be here to pick crops again and then they can be here legally. They don't have the power to change immigration laws, we do. And over more than 50 years here I've never seen white citizens willing to do that work. Any of you anti immigrant bloggers willing to do that?

To Person wrote on Nov 2, 2007 3:38 PM:Excuse me, but go to the escondido library and you will see, when the farmers needed help the citizens would pitch in and help with the picking of corps, or was that just propaganda?

Citizen wrote on Nov 2, 2007 3:39 PM:Where do I sign up? And I expect to receive reasonable monetary compensation along with health insurance, workers compensation and quarantied unemployment benefits in the off season.

American wrote on Nov 2, 2007 3:40 PM:You people are something else. In the face of a catastrophe, you're still eager to push your own isolationist and racist agenda. I can't deny that undocumented immigrants commit crimes, but it's an exception and not the norm. Many are here to work and contribute to the economy. Many of you cannot get over the erroneous stereotype that undocumented immigrants are degenerate trespassers who are tearing our perfect society apart at the social seams. Isaac Asimov said it best,“The trouble is that racial stereotypes, unfavourable to everyone but white men of northwest European extraction, were completely accepted, and indeed, scarcely noted in those days of only forty years ago [the 1930s] (except perhaps by the members of the groups victimized thereby).”

I am tired of it! wrote on Nov 2, 2007 3:42 PM:Break out the dictionary and find another word for racist, or better yet go back to school and get an education!

Concerned-1 wrote on Nov 2, 2007 3:55 PM:To Person. Good point but off the subject. There should be a way for temporary workers to work in agriculture. Too bad our representatives and senators are hell-bent on letting them run free. If this migration continues, America will be bankrupt by 2020. I would hate that!

true blue wrote on Nov 2, 2007 4:47 PM:What a racket - illegal immigrants complaining about minor issues in relation to the big picture - people losing their homes and everything else. If they don't like it here, they should go back to Mexico!

WhoWhat wrote on Nov 2, 2007 4:50 PM:Something must be done about the Illegal immigration problem, it must stop or the whole system will collapse, even the uneducated would understand that this is bad for everyone, except for the socialists who would love to take over hmmmm.

And for what it's worth... wrote on Nov 2, 2007 5:12 PM:I was evacuated to Valley Center High School along with quite a few families/people who were Hispanic, and every announcement that was made there was done in English AND in Spanish. Where's the discrimination? There were folks of Indian descent there as well - they know how to speak and understand English, and you don't see them demanding messages in their native language.

Ellis Island was "easy"? wrote on Nov 2, 2007 5:18 PM:Hey, whoever you are that responded to Dennis A and wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:50 AM: Just how would you know how "easy" Ellis Island was? If you know where the fountain of youth is, why don't you share it with the rest of us. Otherwise, why don't you find a book in the library that will explain to you the difficulties and tragedies that were a result of immigration in the days of Ellis Island? Besides, America was a whole lot different then - would you prefer we go back to those days and let anybody and everybody become a US citizen, with no background check, and no idea who they are?

Tony wrote on Nov 2, 2007 5:22 PM:The "illegals" got their fair share when they decided to steal water and food and then run from Qualcom Stadium when the police announced they were going to check i.d.'s. I am so tired of the crying from these anti-American groups. When is enough, enough?

La Raza is Hate Speech wrote on Nov 2, 2007 6:11 PM:Illegal aliens are not immigrants, they are two different things because one is legal and the other, yea, you guessed.

You Have To Be Kidding wrote on Nov 2, 2007 6:59 PM:People take risks in life. When you enter a country illegally, you take risks. When you choose to not learn the language of the country where you illegally entered, you take risks. You choose to live in areas prone to fires, you take risks. I'm sorry to all the illegal aliens because I don't have the time to hold your hand and keep you out of all harm since you chose to invade our country. If you want to share in the banquet of those who are here legally, for God sakes, learn the language. Wait, I better translate that for you. Ahh forget it. LEARN THE LANGUAGE

Fidel wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:21 PM:Who cares about Illegals? They are the problem of Mexico, let Mexico feed them and pay for their healthcare and find them jobs...Oh year forgot Mexico is a slum of a country.

Watch Out People wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:29 PM:Watch out peoples because you guys were so cruel to all of us that were picking your tomatoes, lettuces, and all vegetables, well check this out me and my people are going to pee in your vegetables then ship them to the stores. I don't think a little of water will get the smell out of the vegetables. Hahaha. ...

Kevin W. wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:47 PM:I'm glad to see that the majority of the comments left here are by rational people who understand that illegal immigration is a crime and the illegal immigrants should be garnering no sympathy from us folks who are legally here. Boo freakin hoo. You were scared by the big bad border patrol cop who was doing you a favor by warning you of a fire. Cry me a river. Sometimes the police have more important things to do in more important places. The border patrol I believe can do the same job just as well. Again, if you were scared of the border patrol cops, it's your fault for being here illegally. If you would not have broken the law in the first place, where would you be? Somewhere not on fire most likely, and somewhere not in fear of a border patrol cop. Looks like you made the problem yourself and now want public sympathy. Look. We all know that the US is the land where all cultures converge. Our cultural identity is that of multiculturalism. It's fair to say that our culture should not lean so heavily to one side as it is doing along the border with all of the illegal Mexican immigrants. There are rules and quotas for a reason. I have sympathy for any farm laborer who was here legally and forced to work without a mask in the horrible air quality. That isn't right. As for the shelters not being set up in English AND Spanish... first of all, yes they were. Second of all, they should not have to be! English is our language, learn it and get the benefits that come with speaking it, or don't learn it and endure the hardship of not being able to communicate as well. It's your choice.

Vistan wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:13 PM:The U.S. is a most generous nation. It's no wonder that some would feel neglected in getting in on a piece of the action.

blackeye wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:22 PM:Everybody is illegal in California,Texas,Arizona,New Mexico,part of Nevada and some other areasof the Southwest with the exception of Native Americans and Mexicans. If you say that this statement is not true,just tell me if any of you foreigners or your ancestors ever give a drop of blood to gain this land from foreign powers.

Bobby wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:22 PM:Look, can't we just be honest about the illegal immigrants of Mexico and their enablers, LA RAZA, LULAC, and all the rest, "Their whole attitued toward what they are doing is this "We are going to do whatever we want to do, in this foreign nation we have decided to enter illegally, regardless of what the laws are, regardless of what we have to destroy to get here(fences, personal property ) and regardless of what Americans think. Doesn't that about sum up the situation. What else could they be discussing? I'm sure it's not about how to follow the nations laws.

Bobby wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:29 PM:Take a good look at the ACLU clowns in the picture. Do You know what they know, that you don't get yet? Just this. That American citizens are just one big mass of disempowered people. The ACLU proves this to us every single day ,across the nation. What possible good are they to any American citizen. Zero,zilch,none,nyet,nix, nada.

Dennis A wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:59 PM:Hi ya all Once again some one diffited on my spelling. Maybe we could get a job !! Would it depend on the JURISDICITON of delivery or background. You just thank "We The People" when you can and if they spell it right. I thank NCTimes. For the Forum of this, but it's not us one against another please. If you want perfect then clean my type'o's for your pay. My Heart has been Tred-upon to much here latelly. Nobody's MOM was made to come here, when did your's, I have paper work, only on mine. Was it to work? my people come from N-way may be I spelled it wrong get the jest. I'm from the heart not the head that's a human being and obey the LAW no ILLEAGALS of anything name your Crime!!

Fed Up wrote on Nov 3, 2007 6:56 AM:These illegals are ruining this country. Our country is on it's way to bankruptcy. Bush does not want to close the borders as he is pusing fhro the NAU and THE NEW WORLD ORDER. Watch Endgame by Alex Jones. Every American needs to see what our gov't is up to. If you are not informed you will be lead to slaughter like a sheep. Vote for Ron Paul as he is the ONLY honest politician who can save our country. Iraq is the least of our worries. Don't wake up after it's too late!!

FedUp wrote on Nov 3, 2007 11:43 AM:If Ed Sifuentes is so broken hearted about how the ILLEGALS are being treated, then he should take them into his home where he can feed them, clothe them and in return, have his lawn cared for, house cleaned, etc, etc. Ed and his cohorts like to talk the talk but fail to walk the walk.

American wrote on Nov 3, 2007 1:11 PM:Racist myopia at its finest....you people are one of a kind...

Bobby wrote on Nov 3, 2007 4:08 PM:Sure American, that's a great argumemt, "racism". The answer for all ills. The liberal elixir that is guaranteed to win all arguements. Most intelligent people are tired of it. It's transparent and not very effective.

Reardon wrote on Nov 3, 2007 4:40 PM:Bobby: The other vastly oversued, all-purpose liberal word is "hate." It ranks just below "racist" and ahead of "heartless."

Bobby wrote on Nov 3, 2007 5:37 PM:Reardon, I agree. In fact, we should make up an expanded scale of words that are in the "liberal/progressive" bible. I say bible, because their various programs are like a religion. Utter dogma, their right, everyone else is wrong. For any given argument just turn to the page,.. well whatever page "hate", or "racist" is on and proceed with the advice given.

Chris wrote on Nov 5, 2007 5:35 AM:And if one of these illegals starts an inferno while cooking over his woodfire in his encampment in the trees, does he still escape responsibility for being here illegally? While those who lost everything in said fire, have to rebuild their lives within the constraints of following the laws of the land.

Observer wrote on Nov 5, 2007 1:25 PM:I noticed that this was "obviously" a staged event.Everybody was told to show up in dark clothing (symbolizing sadness). The participates should have at least had the courtesy to iron or press their suits as both suits worn by the men in front are wrinkled. Poor old Christian Ramirez, has he ever smiled?"

True American wrote on Nov 5, 2007 4:15 PM:If you choose not learn or speak English that's fine. Speak Martian or pig latin for all I care. But remember this, hire yourself a translator and keep him on retainer That way if a natural disaster hits, you'll survive. If you choose NOT to learn English, it is NOT my fault. I shouldn't have to pay for the ignorance.

Jodi wrote on Nov 5, 2007 5:58 PM:I gather from these comments that none of the posters has actually bothered to read the ACLU's [San Diego] report, which is available ... [online]. Most of the comments here assume that the report is claiming that illegal immigrants should have gotten some special treatment not available to others during the wildfires. That is wrong on two fronts. First, the report deals with the problems encountered by people who appeared to be Latino or Hispanic (whether they were or not), were presumed to be illegal immigrants (whether they were or not), and were denied services or were accused of wrongdoing. Second, the report primarily deals with the fact that these residents were denied basic emergency services and were treated poorly, not that they should have gotten special treatment. For example, the report includes a number of incidents that were personally observed and reported by volunteers at Qualcomm and Del Mar (including American Red Cross volunteers) of incidents in which law enforcement harassed and even evicted peaceful, legal citizens who were seeking shelter following evacuation from their homes. The report also includes witnessed incidents in which law enforcement accused Hispanic families of "stealing" goods such as water and diapers, while not questioning white families carrying out the same quantities of the same supplies. (Volunteers had encouraged families to take supplies with them -- of which there were plenty -- in case they returned home to find lack of water or damaged homes.) It is unfortunate that the NC Times news article did not give a more thorough representation of the ACLU report (which, by the way, is very respectful in tone and extremely complimentary of the government handling of the wildfires in general). It is even more unfortunate that so many people have such strong hostility toward their fellow human beings that they are willing to make sweeping, unsubstantiated generalizations and assumptions about their moral character and citizenship status.

Marco wrote on Nov 7, 2007 7:06 AM:What a touching story...I was especially moved reading how these poor immigrants where afraid to move about because the BP was used to help evacuate. Or how there where not enough spanish speaking volunters...heartbreaking. That said, let me say this...get out. Get out of the US now! I am sick and tired of people writing this pro-mexican propoganda while slaming whites and calling us racist. So again I say, GET OUT OF THE US and take a friend with you! As for the writers of this garbage, join your oppressed brothers in thier exodus and start writing about the corrupt govt that has failed them! Offcourse you run the risk of long prison sentences, as there is no 1st admen. there! Get Out!...

esteban wrote on Nov 8, 2007 9:38 AM:What's next...can prison escapees complain because they can't walk around town to do some shopping because there are too many cops around? Incredible. I now only give this country 20 years before we implode.

le cat wrote on Nov 8, 2007 11:17 AM:...it seems that there are way too many 'advocate rights groups' with maybe only 1 or 2 'members' or ...opps.....I mean 'chairpersons' making a bunch of noise and getting way too much publicity from the NCT. Maybe these 'groups' need to be audited and looked into and maybe then we'll get a decent and gripping news story from the NCT.