Clean it up wrote on Jun 29, 2008 8:52 PM:"Looking for work is not a crime". OK. Ms. Martinez, brilliant response. Peeing in public certainly is, loitering certainly is, littering certainly is.It is disgusting over there, unfortunately it will only get worse as long as Escondido continues to turn a blind eye to the problem. Why many complain that the Arts Center should go, why don't we hear about getting rid of that rat infested flea market? It just may help clean up the area a bit.

Poncho wrote on Jun 29, 2008 9:00 PM:Flores, against deporting criminal illegals, should take this group to Quince and help find them jobs. He is absolutely destroying community relations with his personal agenda. Just what is on his mind? If he is on Olga Diaz election committee, it will be the kiss of death for her election. He does not have a good reputation with the CITIZENS OF ESCONDIDO.

Tom wrote on Jun 29, 2008 9:14 PM:I wouldn't target the guys waiting for work. I would find anything and everything to cite/arrest the people trying to pick these guys up. These are most of the time greedy contractors trying to get away with paying lower wages and no workers comp.

Karekare wrote on Jun 29, 2008 9:47 PM:What will happen when ,due to our declining economic prosperity in the USA, there is actually no more work for these "day laborers"? They will all be here unable to find work because the ones who were hiring them are out of business? What are we going to do with all these people? What are we going to do with ourselves? Every day I hear of another business going under. Its getting really scary.

Day laborers... wrote on Jun 29, 2008 9:57 PM:causing traffic problems and interfereing with corner businesses vs. drivers liscense/insurance check points are a huge difference, EPD conducting liscense/insurance check points doesn't involve any profiling, and takes unsafe drivers and vehicles off of Escondido's and North Counties roadways, keep up the good work EPD....too bad other law enforcement agencies don't have the time and rescources to conduct these kind of operations more often...

Mexicat wrote on Jun 29, 2008 9:57 PM:I don't think they are targeting Latinos, they day laborers just happen to be Latino, the activist talk a lot of crap and like to stir the pot.
Want to know something, I am proud of my ethnicity, but sometimes the Latino community embarrasses me. No wonder white people don't like us, look how some Latinos behave, and then we demand respect. Act with class you morons. Unfortunately, the people who should be reading this article don't.
To Latino activist, look at the community itself and fix it.

Jill wrote on Jun 29, 2008 10:06 PM:If it were up to Flores and his latino activist group there would be absolutely no laws for anybody.
Just because EPD is enforcing the laws, that just so happen to be the laws that latinos (illegal) are breaking, does not mean they are targeting latinos.
Once again Flores and his gang just flapping their lips without any resolution to the problem. Useless.

To Tom wrote on Jun 29, 2008 10:11 PM:Guess again, its greedy homeowners who don't want to pay the contractors because we have to pay fair wages, insurance payroll taxes and yes worker comp. It's cheaper to pay the street guys $10.00 an hour (yes, they will not work less than $10. hour)for a half a..
job than pay a contractor to do the job.

Tuck wrote on Jun 29, 2008 10:56 PM:Whenever a law is enforced these clowns cry prejudice by the police department. Everyone is not the victim of some evil plan. You break the law, pay the price. Stop acting like school children and own up to your offense and pay the fine.

Herb wrote on Jun 29, 2008 11:53 PM:Hey Chief - how about building a better relationship with me and doing your job! Do those people have a permit to congregate? Target any vehicle that stops to hire them. That person is breaking federal law, and don't tell me you don't have the right to arrest law breakers. And they, when the activity moves to another place in town show up there. The businesses have a right to complain about people disrupting their business, and you should be using every law on the book to assure that they get the benefit of the law, which they are not getting. I know because I wont stop there for a morning breakfast biscuit as I use to, because of the illegal activity going on there. I am going to pay particular attention to the corner on the way to work and I would like to see the police there and making arrests.

Yo wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:48 AM:Bill Flores wants us to "stop enforcing immigration law." Which law does he want to dismiss next? Someone get this guy out of here.

Dman wrote on Jun 30, 2008 1:24 AM:I was bum rushed (no pun intended) by 15 "day laborers" (pc term for illegals) last month while turning into Starbucks parking lot. I called the Escondido PD, and amazingly enough, an actual person answered the phone!

To my pleasant surprise, the operator was extremely helpful. I asked her if there were any laws forbidding loitering, and she said "Loitering is absolutely against the law in Escondido".

I also complained about the aggressiveness of the "day laborers" and their incessant surrounding of every vehicle entering the parking lot, and she told me she would send a patrol car right over; the police were on scene in less than 5 minutes.

More than half of the "day laborers" disappeared immediately. The other half were dispersed by police.

It was a beautiful thing. If you want to stop this ridiculous and unlawful activity in our city, you have to be vigilant. If you see these "day laborers" gathering, it is against the law! Call the EPD, they are on our side.

Local wrote on Jun 30, 2008 1:58 AM:We should all welcome the negative impacts that these mostly latino day laborers have on the city. Once Del Mar, RSF, La Jolla et al see how tolerant we are to these wonderful folks, they will come here in droves to partake of our Grand cultural offerings. Isn't that the plan? Only good spin on negative reality. Lawlessness is good. It proves we aren't racist...just stupid!

To Tom wrote on Jun 30, 2008 5:04 AM:I agree with you on that. It's time we went after the people that hired immigrants illegaly.I'm tred of these greedy business owners reaping profits while breaking tax laws and encouraging entry into this country illegaly. They are breaking the laws and makeing it easier for immigrants to be here illegaly. Another thing we can do is to volunteer to help out a fellow citizen with work so they wont have to hire an immigrant.It is the best way to be patriotic and help our country out.

Has the Day Laborers wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:12 AM:heard of temporary emploment offices or use the Interfaith? Now we have day laborers starting to move now they are hanging out at Grand and Juniper in downtown Escondido.

With more and more wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:14 AM:Ameiricans being laid off from jobs, we are going to see more strife as Americans compete with people that are breaking American law by being in the United States illegally.

Gringo wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:15 AM:Nice choice of words local. Bravo!

Call the Police and wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:16 AM:report either loitering or an unlicensed assembly.

John wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:32 AM:What would happen if a couple of well-placed ICE buses were left parked in plain view? Think that the "day laborers" would be in the area? Maybe someone needs to call ICE on this, and make a request?

Randy wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:48 AM:Escondido Police Department should focus on homicides, not jaywalking.

Target wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:54 AM:those picking up the workers then the activist can't complain. Better yet how about Consuelo and Bill give the "day laborers" their address so they can stand in front of their yards and urinate in their bushes, block their driveways etc. I am tired of stopping for coffee and having these people rush my truck. I am tired of getting out and smelling sewer from them thinking every bush is their toilet. You want to act like TJ, go back to TJ!

Jon wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:01 AM:I wonder why no one has reported this nuisance to I.C.E. ? Most of these people are not day laborers, their Illegal Immigrants and need to be sent back south on a bus.

Lee wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:17 AM:I am an older senior woman, who was swooped on by illegals, when I drove in to buy a coffee at the Starbucks on Mission and Quince. I felt that my safety might be in jeopardy, so I left and bought my coffee elsewhere.
How many more potential customers avoid that Starbucks because of the illegals who hang out there?

Get a grip contractors....
You are ruining this business.

Illegal Activity wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:31 AM:A casual laborer employed for one hour may be considered an employee. Employers who fail to pay unemployment insurance on such casual labor may be criminals. http://www.edd.ca.gov/taxrep/de231k.pdf A day laborer may be an independent contractor. In Escondido, an independent contractor must have a business license. Without business license, a day worker must be an employee. Escondido should investigate the day worker activities at the corner to insure that worker and employers are not engaging in tax evasion or unlicensed business activites.

a working taxpayer wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:34 AM:United We Stand-Divided We Fall
We all need to work together on the same playing field. If I pay taxes, you pay taxes. If I can't sell my goods on the street corner, you can't sell yours either.
Oh so Sorry Efrain-you have concerns about lack of work...My freinds are ALREADY out of work and getting laid off. Times are tough, go home.

To Mexicat wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:42 AM:White people like latinos, blacks, asians, indians, and every American in between. We even like Mexicans. We are vigorously against the fable of California once being part of some mythical Aztlan. Anti-American socialists are using that fable to delude illegal immigrants into believing they have been wronged by the 'gringos' and 'gabachos'. Under the theories of activists for illegal aliens, an alien from Mexico illegally crosses the border, and instantly, that alien is the victim of decades of racism and discrimination by whites.

Day Worker Crackdown wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:44 AM:A person cannot do business in the City of Escondido without a current business permit!!! Do the day workers standing around in Escondido have a business license? Not likely. The City is a hypocrite by complaining about the Feds not enforcing the law, and then not enforcing their own ordinances. EMC 16-17 "(a) No person shall transact and carry on any business, trade, profession, calling or occupation in this city without first having procured a license from the city to do so or without complying with any and all applicable provisions of this article. (b) No license shall be issued unless the applicant is in compliance with all applicable laws related to the business, trade, profession, calling or occupation of the applicant, including without limitation, zoning, building or similar laws applicable to the use or occupancy of the location, building or structure where the business is conducted or activity is proposed to be conducted." Also, the City cannot issue a business license to an illegal alien. 8 USC 1621(c). Note that employers who fail to comply with "all applicable laws" cannot get a business license.

To randy wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:44 AM:Guess what? 2 homicides in 2 days, solved both solved with the bad guys in jail THE SAME DAY. WAY TO GO EPD! Police cant MAKE people not kill each other...but they can sure catch the guys that did it and make em go to the chair!

Julie wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:45 AM:Don't blame it on the licensed contractors, they can't risk hiring these untrained careless workers that have nothing to loose. It is the unlicensed with fake license numbers that are hiring their own kind off the street, and the homeowners that think that it is cheaper to hire off the street, than to choose an experienced contractor.

El Grupo wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:48 AM:Just who and what, exactly is El Grupo? It appears to be a forum for radical Latino activist Bill Flores whose hate for our laws which apply to all persons, causes him to seek special exemption for his Latino bretheren. If this isn't the epitome of arrogance, then what is? What kind of a person would disparage police chief Maher and our city council members Abed, Waldron and Gallo for trying to make Escondido a safer place to live and conduct business? Chief Maher and the City Council have the overwhelming support of law abiding residents and if anything, we want them to INCREASE their efforts at enforcing our laws for the safety and benefit of all. We suggest Flores and his angry crowd take their divisive and hateful tactics elsewhere, like Mexico, where they might be able to really help some people. PS...It's laughable how this paper, which is fit for the bottom of a bird cage, runs like a little boy to mommy, everytime there's an issue w/illegalaliens. What? Is he some god like authority on all these matters? Puh...lease...give us a break!

Foreclosure Mess wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:53 AM:I would not be surprised if most of these day workers have subprime mortgages.

Save America wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:01 AM:It is up to the citizens of this great country to save this great country.

Do your part!

Stop hiring illegals directly or indirectly.

Report problems to the police immediately. Don't wait and let someone else voice their concern.

Voice your concerns to our "leadership" by mail, phone fax and E-mail.

Government will only act if the people are about to revolt.

Roger wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:15 AM:Perhaps they could turn the California Center For The Arts buidings and bushes into a hiring center?

a working taxpayer wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:17 AM:Search the internet in any city for:

10 MOST WANTED

what do you find?

Dude wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:41 AM:Oh, and by the way NCT, your imahe verication is acting up again (3 tries)

Get it cleaned up wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:45 AM:I have gone through carls jr. drive through and have had day laborers jump in the back of my truck! I'm female, and white. That is just too scary to have men jumping in my vehicle. I won't go back there again.

El Grupo wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:47 AM:Blogger Poncho is right, Bill Flores is a trouble maker and is not well liked nor wanted in Escondido. He and Olga Diaz (remember, she the explosive and agressive person who wants a seat on our city council this fall...DISASTER!)don't care about the safety of legal residents. They seem only to care about Mexican illegals and the rest of us be damned. These two are angry at EPD and Chief Maher for trying to uphold the law and clean up and dangerous situation. Imagine what they'd do if they got in power. Yikes!

The dragon is waking up wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:57 AM:In these hard economic times. people are going to fight for jobs. Americans are not going to allow illegals to continue to FREELOAD off the American tax payers.

The fence is being built, BP is way up in hirings and Americans are winning in this fight against illegal immigration.

We are tired of hearing this is Mexico and we are taking it back, we are tired of the gangs, graffiti, we are tired of illegals taking our jobs, using are schools and hospitals. We aren't going to take it anymore.

So , Mexico better start being part of the solution and not the problem, Cause we are taking our country back !!!!!!

Wel.. wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:58 AM:If these were prostitutes... "just looking for work" you can bet there would be a hundred times more police officers in that area. But here we have a bunch of illegals, littering, urinating in public and working under the table not paying ANY taxes.. and the police and city are on the fence about this? Street soliciting for work needs to be stopped NOW.

Jaque wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:09 AM:Check out Home Depot's parking lot during the am hours

yea right wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:29 AM:My wife used to stop for coffie there but will not any more. it is because of it being scary to get out of your car. so lets clean it up. Don't complain about race. Its not related.

Taxpayer wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:53 AM:The way to solve this problem is to target the employers. They are making money by using cheap labor.

bogie wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:57 AM:a working taxpayer @ 8:17 AM:

I could only find San Diego County 10 most wanted. It's a real eye opener.

Cry me a river Mr. Flores wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:10 AM:You are amazing!! I don't believe the EPD is only ticketing Latinos that jaywalk. I believe anyone that jaywalks is fair game for a ticket.

If certain Latinos are breaking the law then yes they should be ticket, etc. That would not effect the law abiding Latinos just like when the police ticket a Caucasian person for breaking the law, that doesn't effect me.

And to be against traffic stops for licenses is just out right stupid- We Must All Have Licenses (but apparently you feel Latinos are somehow above that law?) Amazing!!

Good job EPD!!!! Keep it up!!

Damn business owners wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:32 AM:Stop placing all the blame on the immigrants.We need to go after the companies that hire undocumented immigrants and fine them a hefty sum. I think a better solution would be to confiscate a business if it has more than 5 undocumented workers. The business owner should get at least 1 year in jail as well. It's the business owners that draw the illegal activity to our cities. Stop using the immigrants as an excuse for your anger and hate. It's time some of you grew a spine and went after the business owners..I dare you !!!

We do go after business wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:49 AM:owners, we report them all of the time. But you have to realize this is a hugh problem, you don't call ICE one day and expect ICE on their doorstep the next. Won't happen there has to be investigations done first, then it is SUPRISE, guess who is knocking on the door?

Terry wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:53 AM:I am latina - but first and foremost I am an American. My grandfather and grandmother, who raised me, came from Mexico, worked hard and paid taxes. I respect ANYONE who comes to America to better themselves and be a part of the solution not the problem, like paying taxes. Unfortunately -- even I will NOT solicit those businesses because I don't feel comfortable driving through the area. You cannot tell me that if you have your papers that you cannot get a job somewhere doing something, it may not be doing exactly what you WANT to do or getting paid what you THINK you're worth but it's something and it's part of being American. Paying taxes. I saw my grandfather work very hard and I learned about hard work from him, which is exactly why I bust my backside to be a contributing member of society - so that I can make the Latino community proud by what I contribute, to be a good example. I'l bet those businesses LOSE A LOT OF MONEY because patrons refuse to spend their money there - money they could be using to hire some of those people.

Roger wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:23 AM:The 10:32 AM poster has a valid point. Don't acctually need any new laws, just need the executive branch of the federal government to enforce laws which are already in place. This hasn't happened for 7 1/2 years.

Oceold wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:50 AM:I would like to see stories, comments, sensible talk about Mexican millionaires, billionaires, and public welfare in the glorious socialist country of Mexico. Our local agitators promoting illegal immigration should tell about these matters.

to taxpayer wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:50 AM:cheap labor that is what you said..
i don't see you saying that when you sit and eat your dinner....
because many of theese people that you call "cheap labor" take the job that people like you don't want to take...
let me tell you something they are just looking for a job that will bring food to the table i'm pretty sure you do that too, i don't see nothing wrong with that.put yourself in their shoes. and yes i am a latina and proud of it!!!!!!!

Sleeping but awake wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:55 AM:Day Laborers looking for work in a known congregation point. Wow, what a suprise, lets call the President. Geesh, such a non-story, give me a break. Also, don't blame the workers blame the lack of enforcement against people who hire them and often expolit them to make a few extra bucks versus paying a living wage to a citizen.

Law Abiding wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:05 PM:Notice the Bill Flores quote that states the way for the EPD to endear themselves to the Latino community is to stop enforcing laws that take criminals of the streets because they may catch Latinos also? I guess we all know the type of America El Grupo is committed to bring about.

Come on Consuelo... wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:31 PM:I myself drive by the Starbucks on Quince and Mission everyday. I see people who are looking for work chasing the cars as they drive into the Starbucks parking lot. I see that quite frequently, and that's why I don't go there. So...you can't tell me you've NEVER seen anything inappropriate. Come on Consuelo.

Carlos wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:38 PM:Let me see if I got this right...
Stoping cars and acking for a driver's license is racist or otherwise targeting the Latino community?
The last I'd heard, you needed a license to drive, regardless of your race.
I'm all for the checkpoints. It rids the roads of unlicensed drivers, REGARDLESS of race.

To Terry wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:41 PM:I am truly thankful that you can understand what the others can't, we are AMERICANS all of us, this is what makes the American people unique.

Robert wrote on Jun 30, 2008 1:08 PM:Wow, take a look at the comment from Terry at 10;53 am. She gets it! Why is it so hard for some of the rest of you? America will welcome you with open arms if you do things the right way, and contribute. She will also kick you to the curb if you try and just take from her. Great post, Terry! You, and your family before you, are part of what makes this Country great!!!

Reardon wrote on Jun 30, 2008 1:08 PM:Roger: I participated in the 1986 Reagan Amnesty by taking two amigos through the system, trusting that the clause that the border would then be sealed would be enforced. Neither Democrat or Republican presidents, nor Democrat or Republican Congresses have kept that promise in the intervening 22 years!

Down in the Valley wrote on Jun 30, 2008 1:39 PM:Thank you for your post Terry! You are a great American, and as others have mentioned - are welcomed with opened arms.

US American wrote on Jun 30, 2008 2:26 PM:It is downright scary this Flores character was actually a sworn peace officer in the United States.

To F and M wrote on Jun 30, 2008 2:43 PM:To Flores and Martinez: Please read the post by "Terry" at 10:53 AM. She is the kind of Latina we non-Latino citizens respect and want as neighbors. We are FED UP with YOU anf YOUR KIND making excuses for illegals and their "in your face" attitude.

Reardon wrote on Jun 30, 2008 2:44 PM:US American: "Was" is the operative word. Ramsey Clark WAS the US Attorney General under Carter; Gen. Wesley Clark WAS the head of NATO under Clinton. Bill Flores WAS a sworn police officer. Perhaps there is a reason he "WAS" and not "IS."

Hatch wrote on Jun 30, 2008 3:14 PM:Terry, I want to echo the praise towards you. You are a great American. God bless you. In less than 9 months, I will call another great American of Mexican decent my daughter-in-law. She, like you, is what gives this nation reason to be proud.

EscoWatchDog wrote on Jun 30, 2008 3:40 PM:It's funny how anytime there is a word of "immigrant and Latino" in a NCT story, you have the racists come out and start the reactionary rhetoric. Notice this in their choice of words by talking about an "invasion" "tijuana" "illegals" "your kind". Can these people be more dehumanizing? So now they all smell like urine (because they are dirty inferior people) and they "swarm" to cars like bees (because they could not possibly be human.) Right? This is your underlying message.

All you people that claim to be Latinos or Patriots or Americans and use these types of words to dehumanize any human being is unethical. There is no justification for your ignorant and hateful language. You talk about breaking laws and yet you don't care if you violate the constitution. It's not illegal for them to stand on public property and ask for work! Now go write congress and have them fix the real problems we are having in this country. Do your part and stop the whining already.

Guy wrote on Jun 30, 2008 4:32 PM:40% Hispanic...LOL!!!

The Right to Work... wrote on Jun 30, 2008 4:38 PM:... is a Human Right.
The EPD continues to tear away at an already fragile relationship it has with the migrant community. This operation only serves to inflate the fears of nativists by targeting those that seek to work in order to feed their families. The EPD should be working towards building community alliances instead of generating distrust of its officers.

Missing the point Terry wrote on Jun 30, 2008 4:53 PM:Terry, although your comments seem sincere, they imply that day laborers aren't also busting their backsides, paying taxes, & working honest jobs to get by. That simply is not true. Have you ever worked alongside a day laborer? Maybe your grandparents would have a better understanding of this situation. Can't you see how those that foment fear use your "story" to project their fears and paranoia?

Robert wrote on Jun 30, 2008 5:52 PM:Do any of you "race baiters" see the irony of your drivel, and how ridiculous it is, after a post like Terry wrote is posted? Do you see the unrivaled support for her and the work her family did to become a part of this great Country? Nobody is bashing Terry for being a "Latina", or telling her to "go home". She is a shining example of what the citizens of America are willing to embrace, and welcome with all of the rights and privileges of America. Sorry to post twice in support of Terry, but I am proud of her and what her family has done, and the fact the she understands that while she is a "Latina", she is an American first. Thank you for your post, Terry. It probably has brought more clarity to this argument than you can imagine!

Greg in Oceanside wrote on Jun 30, 2008 5:58 PM:Wow, according to the NCT, Consuelo Martinez of the Escondido Human Rights Committee says she "drives by the intersection frequently and has never seen anything improper." I wonder if she parks her car and observes what is really happening? Consuelo Martinez and Bill Flores from El Grupo are using flawed logic in their arguments and conclusions. EPD Chief Jim Maher and the concerned Escondido city council members are trying to enforce the laws, improve the business climate and the city's image, and ultimately the quality of life for the people of Escondido. Yet we have Consuelo Martinez and Bill Flores, et.al. complaining that law enforcement measures are specifically targeting Latinos. Let's face facts shall we. First of all, the laws don't target any specific ethnic group and apply to everyone. It just so happens that Latinos are breaking the law and committing a disproportionate amount of crime. If you don't believe me there are countless places to do the research, including the SD Sheriff's Most Wanted link for starters. The term 'day laborer' is really a euphemism for illegal alien, cut and dry, so who are we kidding? If these 'day laborers' were citizens or legal residents they'd be able to find employment in any number of industries just like everyone else. Rather than focusing on 'day laborers' and illegal aliens, why hasn't Consuelo Martinez and Bill Flores stepped up and addressed the pressing issues facing the Latino community like gang violence (which has occurred recently in Escondido), graffiti, crime, high dropout rates and other social problems particularly here in North County? If they have, I certainly haven't seen evidence of it. Instead, they focus on the plight of illegal aliens, who are eroding our quality of life. I'm convinced people like Consuelo Martinez, Bill Flores, Enrique Morones, etc., and groups like MEChA, NCLR (National Council of La Raza), and other open border advocates are trying to turn this country into Mexico. Is that what they really want? As a concerned citizen and hardworking taxpayer I have had enough of the open border, pro-illegal alien agenda, and hordes of unskilled illegal aliens and their offspring who have invaded our communities eroding our quality of life, who have caused a disproportionate amount of crime, disrupted our economic prosperity by sending millions in remittances to Mexico and beyond thus taking resources out of our economy, burdened our schools, swamped our hospitals and clinics, and put strains on our government and social welfare systems. Like many concerned citizens, I support those people who are trying to improve the quality of life for citizens and legal residents by enforcing our laws. I'm also in favor of the construction of an impenetrable wall and fence along the entire southern border, doubling the size of our Border Patrol, and stationing armed troops to control the rampant violence and smuggling that occurs daily along our border with Mexico. As our tolerance for illegal aliens wanes and as jobs typically taken by illegal aliens disappear, I can only hope that illegal aliens are proactive enough to self-deport themselves en masse in a peaceful manner, without resorting to criminal activity as things get increasingly desperate for them.

American wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:27 PM:I'm an American, too, but unlike Terry, I'm first and foremost a human being - who was once "a stranger in the land of Egypt". Some of you treat patriotism like a club with which you do more injury to "the least of these". Your candidates Tancredo and Hunter didn't get many votes among Republicans, but at least the City of Escondido is on your side. And I must admit, you rule these blogs . . for whatever that's worth.

Reardon wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:37 PM:EscoWatchDog: It's called the FIRST AMENDMENT, not "whining." You get to express your opinion, and others get to express theirs. It is you who use the fascist term "racist" in order to diminish their right to speak.

Their rights to express themselves are just as valid as yours. The answer to speech is more speech -- not name-calling.

Enough wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:42 PM:Enough with the race card already!! It's absolutely disgusting how quickly it changes from violator to "fill in the ethnic blank". Thank you, Terry, for stating the truth!
People should not have to put up with their vehicles being rushed. This nonsense is happening in other cities as well. I know a business owner who figured he was losing thousands of dollars a month due to the vagrancy and loitering in front of his business. Then, a couple of officers started focusing on the area, issuing citations for city ordinance violations, illegal parking, sidewalk obstructions, deporting certain individuals, etc., and business boomed. Customers began returning once they saw the changes. For the record, not all of the day laborers who loitered there were of Hispanic decent, and they were all treated the same and told to move on... Time to wake up to reality folks; the law applies to ALL ethnicities!

EscoWatchDog wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:09 PM:American, you are right about the "patriots" or whatever they call themselves do rule the blogs. This is a tactic of many of their supporters. They have the luxery of being online all day not like many of those people who work outdoors, instead of comfy offices with air-conditioning and internet access.

People like Bill and Consuelo never labeled themselves Latino or immigrant rights activist, it is the media and others who assume them to be that. Bill Flores' group is called El Grupo and Consuelo Martinez's group is the Human Rights Committee, no where in their organization's titles does it say anything about Latinos and immigrants. The media and other groups place these labels on them because they are Latinos. These days, you can't be an activist who is Latino standing up for any cause because many will only view you as a supporter of Latinos only. This is not the case. Good job Flores and Martinez, keep up the good fight. On the blogs they may seem like a majority, but we know that this is not the majority opinion of san diegans. Don't let them fool you. You have many fine citizens who support your cause for human and civil rights.

Prophesy wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:07 PM:It is written in Holy scripture that when a great nation like ours forgets about God, It will be overcome by aliens, and all sorts of other problems until that nation repents or is ruined.

Freddy wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:49 PM:It's not a "race" thing, it's a mere fact that there is a huge exodus from Mexico filling our streets with third world activity. Citizens who work in construction can tell you their livelihoods have gone down the drain. I see transient Mexican fellows urinating anywhere and everywhere on a regular basis, even when a restroom is within walking distance. Let's face it, this country is on its way out. We are not merging with Canada, we've gone the other way, and we're merging with the third world.

bryan wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:28 PM:EPD and city council doing a wonderfull job. We are behind you 100%, actually we legal citizens want you do much much more. I also have had the experience of someone almost jumping in the back of a pickup I rented at the UHUAL down the street.

Group of Bigots wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:18 PM:El Grupo is an bigoted organization that gets its energy from calling Americans racist!

Taxpayer wrote on Jul 1, 2008 12:02 AM:To "to taxpayer" You are clueless. If these employers are not looking for "inexpensive" labor then why are they cruising these sites? And when have you ever seen me eat my dinner? I am vegetarian and don't eat meat. Also I am a paraplegic and I don't go out to eat. You say you are a latina. What is that? I am a legal U.S. citizen and taxpayer. MY mother is native American. I can't work at those jobs due to physical disabilities but I do work in the computer field. You should read what people say and think before you start disrepecting others.

Capitalist wrote on Jul 1, 2008 12:11 AM:We need to stop blaming the illegal immigrents for all of this. They are just trying to make money outside of the system. Look at wall street, learn from them. We need to have millions of imigrants here building cardboard shanties wherever they can so that the economy can simmer down to a slower pace. Then when the whole thing collapses we can have a revolution and start all over again.

Dman wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:01 AM:If you see illegals congregating like that... CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY.

Greg in Oceanside wrote on Jul 1, 2008 4:25 AM:EscoWatchDog, Bill and Consuelo may have not labeled themselves as 'Latino or immigrant rights activists,' but many people consider them as such. It's high time Bill and Consuelo start acting like responsible Americans and address the plight of our citizens, and not championing the causes of law-breaking illegal aliens. In case you have't been reading the news a vast number of Americans are focusing their attention on illegal immigration and are against it, plain and simple. And yes, I am a red-blooded American patriot, if that's what you want to label me and others who care about what is happening to this country.

What everone seems wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:05 AM:to be missing is the ECONOMY, less work for everyone, why do you think day labor Efrain Espinosa (picture and caption above) is complaing? It is lack of work, it is starting to hit everyone.

Roberto wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:13 AM:To American from fellow American...It would be really nice if the xenophobes traveled around the world. They obviously don't comprende economics 101. Of course they (day laborers)should not be hanging out on a corner becoming a nuisance and need to be somewhere to fill an economic necessity....but the phobic obsession is over the top on da blog.

Jaque wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:27 AM:Greg, although there might be a hole or three in your post, it's sentiment is shared by at least myself and probably many others. Thanks...

To Capitalist wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:55 AM:No, they need to build thier cardboard shanties on yours and your friends land. So hop hop start building those shanties and they will come.

What part of Illegal dont people understand wrote on Jul 1, 2008 8:07 AM:I am the great,great, great grandaughter of an Irish immagrant, who came to this country looking for the land of the free. He worked his butt off, did everything he had to do to become a citizen of the great USA. I still to this day get nothing handed to me. I still have to work, I have to pay taxes, I have to spend hours in an overcrowded emergency room etc. My friend came here from Mexico 20+ years ago, he worked in the fields, got his citizenship, now he travels between Mexico and USA freely. He goes where there is work and he pays his taxes.
Why don't people get the word ILLIGAL. If people from other countries want to live here, then they need to do it legally.Get citizenship, get legal, pay taxes etc... I have to live by the laws, If I worked under the table, I would get an IRS audit. Get it? Get legal

sally wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:21 AM:Get a clue to what illegal means people. Once you understand that you've come a long way. Ask Flores to explain it. He will tell you no rights in the USA.

esteban wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:43 AM:And once again, I've been censored by the Flores loving NCT. Careful if you criticize their hero Flores, or they'll blacklist you. If the editor has the guts to respond to me and tell me what was wrong with any of the comments I tried to post, I'd love to hear from him/her.

Illegal.... wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:04 AM:...should be economic policies that generate poverty and economic disparity. Illegal should be the multinational agreements that displace workers in their home countries, and create the conditions for people to migrate. Illegal should be the free rides and welfare kick-backs that corporations get in billions of $$$. Human beings cannot be illegal. Let the workers work so that they can feed their loved ones.

Why is it wrote on Jul 1, 2008 11:18 AM:that every time an attempt is made to clean up an area of this fine city, some "grupo" screams that latinos are being "targeted"? What is racist about wanting to live in a safe, clean city where cars cannot be parked in front yards, drivers must have a license and insurance, and you can get a cup or coffee or a burger without being aprehensive about who is hanging out there? If everyone who lives in Esco abided by the law cared about what this city is turning into (a slum) we might be able to save it before it's too late. ocbx2

Prophesy wrote on Jul 1, 2008 12:18 PM:But you don't hear me though! Lamentations 5:2

To estban wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:14 PM:BOO HOO.

Reardon wrote on Jul 1, 2008 7:57 PM:To Illegal: Just working to feed the family is the excuse of every thief, bank robber and second story man in the history of the world. This country needs temporary workers in a number of fields, what it does not need is hordes of illiterates -- we have a sufficient number of home-grown illiterates -- many of whom have California high school diplomas!

The problem is not illegal alien workers -- the problem is illegal alien worker FAMILIES. It is true that the workers come to work, but their families come for a free good education for their children, and free health care -- both education and health care far above their native countries' capabilities.

The workers do not join gangs, but their children do. We need an unaccompanied work force. Our soldiers, sailors and marines deploy without their families -- if it is good enough for them it is good enough for the foreign workers!

to Reardon wrote on Jul 2, 2008 11:27 AM:A temporary worker program is not the solution. While not a good parallel, many military are subject to the poverty draft, and would prefer to be with their families. The solution is looking at the root causes of the problems, such as the inherent problems with NAFTA, and not regurgitating nativist rhetoric that dehumanizes people and offers no constructive dialogue about the issue.

borderraven wrote on Jul 8, 2008 11:46 AM:I see no racism by persons who oppose illegal alien day laboreres, who are Latino. The day laborer and his supporters represent their race. If illegal aliens, loitering on sidewalks, public drunkedness, gambling in public, and urinating in public, are how Latinos want their race judged, then I will.

bobby wrote on Nov 6, 2008 7:40 AM:whats the big deal? the article states there has been no violence so why is everyone so scared? its obviously racial. this is the first time ive heard of someone getting a jaywalking ticket. what a joke. and as far as carls jr, they get lots of business from the laborers every day. i know i live in the apts right there. trust me the homeless population is pissing much more on the streets than the laborers. one laborer was probably caught so they assume they all do it. i think every man has pissed in public at least once in thier life. every real man.