Vote for wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:24 PM:Vote for Olga Diaz and Richard Barron!!

The Very Best Candidates to bring real change to the city! Change that will benefit the majority of the citizens!

Olga & Richard - the best and strongest!

Rock the Vote!

Translator wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:09 PM:THIS SPEAKS VOLUMES:

Virtually all of Abed's money this period came from people living outside Escondido. On Friday, he said virtually all of those donors own businesses or real estate in the city.

"They don't live here, by they have a strong interest in a prosperous city," he said.

Citizen's Translation: Abed is super cozy with developers and business owners! Meanwhile, the ACTUAL CITIZENS OF ESCONDIDO ARE 2ND ON THE LIST OF IMPORTANCE AND PROSPERITY!

Abed is all for 12 of 20 top-paid employees of the city living outside the city limits!

Abed is all for giving $18.9 million dollars in taxpayer money to campaign contributing hotel developer applicant, C.W. Clark.

Ever heard that phrase: Scratch my back and I'll scratch yours!

VOTE NO ON ABED - HE DIDN'T FIGHT FOR MORE FIREFIGHTERS EITHER - WATCH THE MAY 14, 2008 CITY COUNCIL MEETING ONLINE - ABED WAS ALL ABOUT FUNDING THE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION (A GOOD CAUSE, BUT NOT AT THE COST OF FIREFIGHTERS)

AGAIN...ABED DID NOT FIGHT FOR THE FIREFIGHTERS!

AS FAR AS THE POLICE OFFICERS'S ASSOCIATION ENDORSEMENT: Not worth it's weight...(at least) 119 OF OUR POLICE OFFICERS LIVE OUT OF TOWN - so how much is the endorsement really worth (well, it's worth a future pay raise, I guess).

VOTE NO ON ABED - He doesn't believe the "poor people and Latinos" should be exempt from the laws. (What a bone-headed thing to say - thanks Abed).

VOTE NO ON ABED

Replace both incumbents in November!!

To the City Council wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:21 PM:Is it a conflict when a developer (who has a project on the table) gives an incumbent a campaign contribution?

Is it appropriate for a council member (who is currently running for re-election) to be a part of the process (which has the authority to approve the hotel) to be involved in the actual council session that votes on the project?

I think that incumbent Abed is navigating that "SLIPPERY SLOPE". Clark did not give donations to the challengers - only to the guy that can actually help get the project approved!

Where's the INTEGRITY???

Escondeeter wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:36 PM:David has apparently been confused by the mass of misinformation the fire union has been circulating. The number of personnel assigned to the city's engine companies has been three for many, many years now. Nobody has changed engine company staffing and nobody is proposing to.

The change involves only one piece of apparatus, the truck company. It is the least used piece of line apparatus in the department. On the less than one half of one percent of responses where that piece of apparatus is actually used, the fourth staff member will be arriving on a different piece of equipment instead of riding on the track. There will be no change in the number of people on the fireground.

The truth about the fire union's actions is that they were counting on getting dues from nine new members so they could use them to try to buy influence with politicians. The city doesn't have the money so they're only getting two new members this year. Their whole campaign has a lot in common with a three year old who didn't get his way, so he's throwing a tantrum. They need to 'man up' and get back to doing the job they get paid to do before the taxpayers start asking questions about some of the other, lower hassle, options for providing fire protection.

bryan wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:56 PM:Olga is against the license check points that are turning this city around. She is for open borders and wants escondido to be a sanctuary city.

Escondeeter wrote on Oct 25, 2008 12:23 AM:Please forgive the back to back posts, but it's time to make something clear about this fire union issue.

When the city's budget committee was hashing out the 08-09 budget in the numerous public meetings it had, it became clear that there wasn't enough money available to cover the 750 thousand dollars in additional yearly labor costs associated with the new fire station. The most obvious solution was just to hold off on staffing it for a year. But, the station addresses an on-going response time issue in the area it serves, so other options were sought that would increase public safety while still meeting the city's budgetary needs. The fire union had the opportunity to help craft something, but their only response apparently was 'take the money from someone else', so the Chief was left to work out a solution. What he came up with was the best possible choice under the circumstances.

And how has the fire union responded? They've threatened elected officials, called the Chief a traitor, and begun a campaign of half truths aimed at panicking the public. Knowing that the budget was approved by a majority vote of the City Council, they have nevertheless engaged in a campaign of retribution aimed at intimidating any other elected official who has the temerity to vote in the best interests of his community instead of in the financial interests of the union. No amount of Mike's tap-dancing, and claiming to be concerned about finances while at the same time opposing any solution, can disguise that.

You know, I always looked up to those in the fire service, considering them examples of committment, courage, and integrity. The actions of NYFD on 9/11 just added to my level of respect. The union has pretty much managed to destroy that esteem by their actions over the last three months. What they've managed to create, instead, is the image of a pack of greedy, self interested, bullies. It's going to take them a long, long, time to regain any claim to my respect.

Wonderer wrote on Oct 25, 2008 1:21 AM:I wonder who these donors from "outside Escondido" are.

I bet "they have a strong interest in a prosperous city".

Coincidentally, the council approved an extension on the $18.9 million dollar gift to the OUT-OF-TOWN hotel developer.

Wait! What's that old saying...there are no coincidences!

A REAL REPUBLICAN wrote on Oct 25, 2008 2:49 AM:for less interference of city council in our lives and a real Republican.
vote for Dennis French the candidate that cares.

everybody but Abed and Gallo wrote on Oct 25, 2008 3:04 AM:we have great choices this year and it's time to make this city better and stop the hate that Abed and Gallo started

I dont think so wrote on Oct 25, 2008 3:24 AM:in one term Abed was able to loose so much tax dollars; go and play with your own money.bye Abed and take Gallo with you

new council needed wrote on Oct 25, 2008 3:43 AM:French ,Diaz or Barron are the best choices; you pick your two!!!

No Way wrote on Oct 25, 2008 4:16 AM:how come Abed is not supported by locals? I'm sure that he has a lot of money from special interest groups.
we need honest people in office; French and Diaz are my pick

Native wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:29 AM:Olga Diaz wants to turn Escondido into a sanctuary city. There is a good reason why the police department did not endorse her, even though her husband is a cop. Olga Diaz is a liberal, vote for Ed Gallo and Sam Abed!

50000 wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:29 AM:Mike Diaz, president of the firefighters union says " the union plans to spend more than $50,000 trying to persuade voters to choose" on a negative campaign. I say No to president of the firefighters union and the firefighters for being Negative, Negative, Negative

Dishonest wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:32 AM:"Olga Diaz said she has had very little contact with the firefighters union" Ya Right.... Ms. Diaz I believe is being Dishonest and we can see that.

To Olga Diaz wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:37 AM:If you are a real leader "Say No" to the Firefighters Union that is running a negative campaign like Sam Abed did. Or are you just as negative?. Only time will tell. What will you do...

Why Why wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:46 AM:Why is the Escondido Firefighters union supporting Diaz? “BUT” the Escondido Police Union that Diaz husband is a LT on does not??????? Does the Police Union know something that the firefighters do not?

How do you Believe wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:49 AM:Mike Diaz, president of the firefighters union or Vic Reed one of the most respected chiefs in the county.

My vote is the Fire Chief

Bad for public safety. wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:58 AM:Mike Diaz, president of the firefighters union and his firefighters members with their negative campaigning are “Bad for public safety” and “Bad for our city”

Did you know wrote on Oct 25, 2008 8:03 AM:Did you know that most Escondido Firefighters do not live in Escondido. They just want our money and Olga Diaz would give it to them. That is why they are supportting her. The city would have to raise taxes if Diaz gets in. Just say no to Taxes and Diaz

Take them down wrote on Oct 25, 2008 8:13 AM:Firefighters union take down your Negative signs if you really care about Escondido.

To Why Why wrote on Oct 25, 2008 8:13 AM:Because we have been around Olga Diaz

LOYAL LATINO AMERICAN wrote on Oct 25, 2008 8:21 AM:Eliminate bigotry. Vote Diaz and Barrack

Police Union wrote on Oct 25, 2008 9:08 AM:Diaz can't vote for any raises for cops - because she' married to on. The cops need council members in place that will sign blank checks for them.

Vader wrote on Oct 25, 2008 10:05 AM:It's good to see Abed has the Citizens best interest involved with the majority of his contributions coming from outside the city. What a hack!

QUALITY OF LIFE wrote on Oct 25, 2008 11:21 AM:Ed Gallo and Sam Abed are proven in public governance. They care about Escondido quality of life and are straight talkers. They want what is best for Escondido's citizens, taxpayers, employers and property owners. Gallo and Abed are helping to save Escondido from misguided socialist policies of the past, policies which have burdened Escondido's infrastructure and stymied quality growth.

no Abed and Gallo wrote on Oct 25, 2008 11:27 AM:enough is enough, it's time to find people tha really cares for this city; I rather give my vote to thepeople that have no money from special interests.

A local wrote on Oct 25, 2008 11:46 AM:Mr. Abed and Mr. Gallo have lots of local supporters and voters who beleive that these men have the best interests of Escondido at heart.

Unfortunately, all of their local supporters don't have ready cash right now to financially support them.

Apparently, its OK with some Escondido-haters, for out-of-town firefighters to spend money to try to loot City Hall, though

Bjorn wrote on Oct 25, 2008 11:48 AM:"Escondeeter" hit it right on the head.

The fire union truly are a bunch of three year-olds, throwing a tantrum over not getting their way. It's funny how the PD gets all the negative slaps for holding firm to our position, but at least we do it honorably, without having to take ridiculous and adolescent steps like parking a fire rig on Grand Avenue with negative signs posted all over the place or walking the streets with signs in our hands.

Remember who was out on the streets picketing like idiots when the Governor came to Escondido, whining like little brats? Oh, yeah, that would be the Fire Union. Who's engaged in a public smear campaign with fire trucks parked on the street? That would be the fire union. Who's getting several brand new, multi-million dollar stations and state of the art equipment but like a little kid still has their hands out for another cookie? Yeah....the Fire Union. Maybe if this was a large, metropolitan city where the fire department ran calls non-stop and fought structure fires on a regular basis, I could see them deserving more than the cash pot they've already acquired. But in this case, they should be more than happy with what they have.

The PD's request; let us keep our benefits. The fire department's; more money, more money, more money...

I love that Diaz touts herself as the "public safety" candidate. What an utter joke. Yeah, she's so pro-public safety that the PD won't endorse her. Isn't it such in interesting issue that her husband is in upper management with the PD but the PD refuses to endorse her? Makes you wonder, huh?

How about the fact that if elected, Diaz couldn't even vote on ANY issues related to the PD because of the conflict of interest with her husband working there? What's the point of that? How is that even remotely in the interest of "public safety" ?? Her vote would literally count less than a bum from Grape Day park sitting in her seat for that council meeting. Yeah, elect Diaz and your "public safety" candidate will be nothing more than an empty chair. Oh, but wait, she doesn't have any conflict of interest with the Fire Department so OF COURSE they are going to support her and her promises to them and OF COURSE she will gladly accept the thousands of dollars that they will pump into her smear campaign.
When was the last time we had a major structure fire in Escondido? I think it was the new condo development on Escondido Boulevard. What happened? Oh yeah...they all burned to the ground. It would have made such a huge difference had the fire department only had a couple more fire fighters on the payroll right? Once again, you want to talk about waste? I responded to a two car crash the other day with no injuries and there were SEVEN fire personnel, including a supervisor and...me. They were milling around and couldn't get out of there fast enough. Had there only been more fire personnel there we would have been so much better off, right? Laughable. Oh, by the way, the driver at fault was unlicensed and uninsured... Hopefully Diaz can get elected and shut down that license and insurance enforcement soon to keep more of them on the road too...

Yeah, let's get Olga Diaz into office and make Escondido a "sanctuary" city for illegal aliens and shut down the enforcement of unlicensed and uninsured drivers in the city. But of course she has no "racial" motivations behind that, right? I wonder why she doesn't use her husband's last name, in any manner? "Diaz" is much less racially recognizable than her married name, right? Could it be that she is banking on that name for a segment of the population that would be tougher to get with the other? Hmmm.

Olga Diaz; the candidate for "public safety" that will gladly have unlicensed, uninsured illegal aliens driving your streets with your families and a place for them to seek refuge all the while having a voice and a vote for the fire deparment only. HARDLY the choice for much and ABSOLUTELY NOT the choice for public safety.

God help us.

Karl wrote on Oct 25, 2008 12:54 PM:Right on Escondeeter, tell it like it is.

Let's let the unions know that they do not run our city and never will. The council people are elected and the union employees are hired and can't be fired without an act of God. I say instead of replacing Sam and Ed we replace the union leaders. They have every right to campaign against Ed as we should have every right to demand their resignations. If the unions candidates win, fine, if not, please tender your resignations effective 11/5/08.

Karl wrote on Oct 25, 2008 12:58 PM:Vote for @ 9:24 PM:

I agree "rock the vote". I will be voting for the two that are solid as rocks.

Go Sam and Ed.

Celeste on Juniper wrote on Oct 25, 2008 1:24 PM:Negative campaigns only make the one's allowing the ads look like loosers themselves. Shame on the negative campaign signs around town. I vote for the removal of all signs. They don't make me vote any different. But I now know who endorses negative campaigns and looks to discredit our citizens who chose to serve. I thought just as much and now I know for a fact. The negative signs say it loud and clear.
I asked a time ago who the PD and FD were supporting and someone answered that support from such folks should not sway our votes. Now I see that someone has "FLIP FLOPPED" her thinking in hopes that it will sway our votes. Come on, were smarter than that!

to escondeeter wrote on Oct 25, 2008 2:27 PM:You sound uninformed, but post as if you are well award of the situation. Are you sure that only 1 piece of equipment will be affected by the change? What about the ambulances? I think you selectively forgot about those. Can you discuss all the changes and the impacts they will have? Not good for residents.

To Escondeeter wrote on Oct 25, 2008 2:54 PM:The fire union is not asking for raises or bonuses. They simply want staffing adequate enough to maintain response times and keep fire staff safe in dangerous situations. The police plain straight want your cash! They want raises and car allowances and overtime and more more more!
Both agencies do good work, but both don't have the public's safety at heart.

Escondeeter wrote on Oct 25, 2008 4:21 PM:To "To":
If you'll review the article, you'll see that I was responding to the union's claim that staffing on engine companies was being changed. That claim is not true.

There is a change in the staffing of the city's ambulances. The change will result in the city having four Advanced Life Support ambulances instead of the three it now has. In other words, an ALS ambulance is being ADDED.

The majority of care in the current emergency medical paradigm is provided by the paramedic on the engine companies. That policy will remain the same. The ambulances, on the other hand, transport patients once they've been stabilized by the medics on the scene. An ALS ambulance is staffed by a paramedic, thereby assuring that there's continuity of care for the patient at the same level from the initial contact until the patient reaches the hospital. That situation will also remain unchanged.

What's changed is this: In the past, the ALS ambulances were staffed with two paramedics, one of whom drove. This policy is rarely duplicated in other departments, simply because it makes no sense to have a fully qualified, and expensive, paramedic spending his/her time acting as a chauffeur. The change will result in the ambulance being driven by fire department civilian employees who are Emergency Medical Technicians. They will be the drivers, only. Patient care will continue to be done by a paramedic. Serious cases will continue to be handled, as they are now, by the engine company paramedic riding to the hospital with the ambulance paramedic. So, I disagree with your premise. The change in ambulance staffing does not have a negative impact on public safety.

Mostly the impact is a push because the increased staffing for the Advanced Life Support ambulances comes from eliminating the city's BLS ambulances. Those ambulances, sometimes called colloquially the 'drunk wagons' handle minor medical issues, such as sprained ankles, minor injuries and bruises, etcetera. The patients with those minor injuries will now receive a higher level of care during their trip to their hospital. The city has operated one full-time BLS ambulance, and one part-time BLS ambulance. So the net change is one BLS ambulance upgrades to ALS, and the part-time BLS ambulance is retired.

The ongoing problem the city had with operating two kinds of ambulances, was that the ALS ambulance would get to the scene, the crew would decide that an EMT could handle the call, and the BLS ambulance would be called to the scene. This resulted in two ambulances getting sent on one call, and slow response times for BLS patients. That issue will now be resolved. It also, on occasion, resulted in what had been thought to be a BLS patient 'going south' during transport to the hospital with nothing but an EMT to treat him. That won't happen any more because every medical transport will now be done with a paramedic on board.

I hope I've answered your question, please feel free to ask if you'd like any more of my "uninformed" ramblings.

esconhalftruthdeeter wrote on Oct 25, 2008 4:56 PM:as to your second post, can you tell me what new positions you are referring to. You stated there were 2 positions. And input into the new system was given and ignored. It was less costly and removed positions in management that were the last to be added. Cut positions at city hall? No way. Let's cut the 12 hour ambulance and a position on the truck. You know the people who do the work. By the way, does anyone know how long ago this response time study was conducted? Was it 10 years old?

EPD Beat Cops wrote on Oct 25, 2008 5:31 PM:Please ignore Bjorn’s comments. They represent a groundless attack against a fine candidate and person. We can only hope the comments do not actually come from a member of EPD. As members of the POA, we can state without reservation that Olga Diaz is a well respected member of our police family. She is married to a dedicated and decorated officer who has served this city with distinction for over a decade. Olga has never been unfairly critical of the police department; she is supportive of our mission and the men and women who serve this city. She is without a doubt well informed on issues of public safety. She knows her way around the PD as well as any one. With regard to the endorsement, Olga struck us as an articulate, intelligent candidate who we would proud to work with if she is successful in her run for office. It is true that one criteria our members consider in the endorsement process is the ability of a candidate to represent the interest of our members in the process of contract negotiations. Olga would not be allowed to participate in this process. Although that is not the sole criteria it is a consideration. We here at the PD and the POA wish Olga the best of luck in her election bid. We know she would serve this city with distinction.
And...we like the Fire guys too. Don't worry everyone: November 5th will be here soon!

Bjorn wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:59 PM:To "EPD Beat Cops"

Very nice. That was a clever post you put up there.........Lieutenant.

You speak so eloquently of your wife, the candidate. Too bad you're completely transparent.

Yes, good luck on November 5th.

Ready for strike two?

To EPD Beat Cops wrote on Oct 25, 2008 8:27 PM:Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

Nicely said and thank you for setting the record straight!

Stay Safe and keep up the good work!

The Difference wrote on Oct 25, 2008 8:39 PM:The difference between the comments about Sam Abed and Ed Gallo ...and the comments about Olga Diaz and Richard Barron are this:

Comments re: Abed & Gallo - bloggers are using FACTS - records on file! The ACTUAL TRACK Records of Abed & Gallo are noted! Their is a paper trail a mile long that reveals the TRUTH about Abed & Gallo!

Comments re: Diaz & Barron - bloggers make up stuff because they do not want Olga or Richard to win a seat on the council. Why? Because these bloggers support Abed & Gallo. Nothing more, nothing less. In order to combat the extraordinary campaigns of Diaz & Barron, bloggers find it necessary to create controversy and so they make things up!

Perhaps the supporters of Abed and Gallo are looking to make this city into a sanctuary city for the rich and (in)famous. Perhaps the supporters of Abed and Gallo are believers in gentrification. Oh, I'm sure many supporters are very good people - BUT the FACT is the incumbents are NOT good Council Members! Period. Period. Period.

Vote for OLGA DIAZ & RICHARD BARRON - check out their websites - pay special attention to their credentials and to their education - both Olga & Richard are INCREDIBLY SUCCESSFUL individuals with a POWERFUL FINANCIAL BACKGROUND!!!

We need financially-gifted council members! We need council members that realize financial visions that actually materialize. Diaz & Barron already have that track record. Electing them...Escondido will be better equipped to handle the financial recession and (near depression) our nation - our city - is experiencing.

I'm gonna ROCK THE VOTE ON NOVEMBER 4TH - I like going to the polls - AND I'M VOTING FOR...

OLGA DIAZ & RICHARD BARRON - TOP NOTCH!!

Bjorn was wrote on Oct 25, 2008 9:14 PM:Bjorn was apparantly Bjorn yesterday!
;-)

Bjorn, Bjorn, Bjorn. Tsk. Tsk. Tsk.

You sound just like that guy Karl and Gringo and Pablo and Paul and Sam and Ed and Jacque who like to attack the "submariner's wife". You know what I'm talking about!

Hey EVERYONE! Guess WHAT "Bjorn" is a cop! He told us so!
GO TO THE NCT STORY DATED OCTOBER 18TH -THE ONE TITLED "Candidates debate take-home car policy for police officers".

Check out the blogs, in it we learn from "Bjorn" (I presume that's an alias - wink, wink) that "he" lives outside the city of Escondido, yet he is an Escondido Police Officer (he enjoys the benefits).

We learn from Bjorn that he does not live in Escondido because he needs to put a buffer between the criminals he arrests (because we all know that the only criminals he arrests reside in Escondido) and himself (aka. he's afraid).

We also learn that Bjorn is quite perturbed that his taxpayer-funded cop car will get taken away.

Bjorn, Bjorn, Bjorn. Wow! Man! Did you think twice before you posted your comment? That's one road I would have never, ever traveled down! You can't take it back - it's called "Power of the Pen".

p.s. I guess Sam Abed didn't make Escondido safe enough for Super Brave Bjorn!

p.s.s. Go Check out the anti-fire-fighters union signs (I vonder who is behind those...hmmm...could it be GALLO).

p.s.s.s. (if there is such a thing)...I had to send away that obviously paid for solicitor when he tried to put an Abed flyer on my door - I GUESS he missed the huge OLGA & RICHARD SIGNS IN MY FRONT YARD - when I spoke to him, he didn't have a clue! Hmmmmm....personally visitied....right.

If I could save time in a bottle wrote on Oct 25, 2008 10:02 PM:If Abed plans to personnaly visit 1,000 more homes before election day...

then he better get to walking.

In three hours, my spouse and I (volunteers for the best candidates, Barron & Diaz) managed to walk approximately 100 homes in 3 hours.

Let's do some quick math (no, not the Abed School of Dysfunctional Math-uhh-matics), but the proven kind.

As one individual who PERSONALLY covered ~50 homes in three hours it would take one individual 60 hours to cover 1,000 homes!

Don't believe it? Here it is:
180 minutes (i.e. 3 hrs) divided by 50 homes equals 3.6 minutes per house.

3.6 minutes multiplied by 1,000 homes equals 3,600 minutes.

3,600 minutes divided by 60 minutes (i.e. one hour) equals...drum roll please...60 hours!

Abed better get to walking if he plans to PERSONALLY visit 1,000 more homes before election!

Wink. Wink.

Naughty Naughty wrote on Oct 25, 2008 10:17 PM:It's HYPOCRITICAL to say that the firefighters union is being negative with their anti-Gallo signs and THEN suddendly there are anti-firefighters union signs.

I wonder if Gallo & his side kick Abed will say these signs are negative and if Gallo & Abed will criticize these signs.

Wait! First we may need to identify the individual/group that created, printed, paid for and distributed (posted) the anti firefighters union signs.

Let's all put our minds together and see if we can figure out who is behind these signs. HMMMM...I Vonder. I Vonder. No...it couldn't be "him" THAT would be stupid - noone is THAT stupid.

To Celeste wrote on Oct 26, 2008 1:01 AM:I smell a story.

So, Celeste. You now vote huh?

Not too long ago (just stories ago) you were complaining about all the signs. You said that you weren't going to vote for anyone when it doesn't do anything for you.

I smell a story. Are you a storyteller, "Celeste"?

Bjorn Who wrote on Oct 26, 2008 12:49 PM:It seems to mee that Olga hasn't taken anything from you. It's all about money - tax money. The city is broke. The city can't keep it's staff. The city can't fund it's current obligations. Tough financial times call for true fiscal conservatism - ironically, the liberal girl is the only one watching out for taxpayer cash. I just might have to vote for her. I never thought I could, but I just might have to.

Bjorn Whoever wrote on Oct 26, 2008 3:24 PM:It's all about priorities. Read the Constitution. What is the purpose of government according to that document? To establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, and provide for the common defense all make the first line... Hmmm, sounds like what cops do.

As an Escondido resident I don't want our already understaffed PD to lose any officers in a time when well qualified candidates are so hard to come by. I have a cop friend in Riverside who tells me how hard up they are for good people. He says they are using people with less than 2 years as training officers.

So I'll gladly stand in longer lines at City Hall or wait longer for messages to be returned or whatever it takes to keep good cops here. Olga strikes me as bitter and willing to say whatever it takes to be elected, not as a fiscal conservative.

Whoopty Doo wrote on Oct 26, 2008 8:58 PM:So What! Bjorn Whoever is willing to stand in longer lines....blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.

I guess you are not aware that "good cops are not here" (not that all of them are "good"like every other career). The majority of Escondido's cops are living in other cities - - -like Bjorn who has to live in another city because he needs a buffer zone! Bawk, Bawk, BAwk.

I'm for fiscal responsibility - something Abed & Gallo are oblivious to - just look at the $9.8 Million dollar Revenue SHORTFALL for 08/09FY (all while waiting for their (the council's) recent raises to kick in).

Yank the cop cars from out of town cops - make them drive their own vehicles! SAVE THE CITY MONEY IN THESE ECONOMIC DISASTEROUS TIMES!! AND...

REPLACE THE INCUMBENTS IN NOVEMBER!!

Bjorn Cont... wrote on Oct 26, 2008 9:53 PM:"Hmmm, sounds like what cops..." should do. Instead, they hire a cut throat attorney to gouge the city for all it's got - nice guys huh? The funny thing here is that Ms. Diaz is taking heat for find a way to cut 150,000 from the budget while the cops are playing heros - ready to rob City Hall. Bully's with gun belts - take your experience to Riverside.

Hello All wrote on Oct 26, 2008 10:50 PM:what a bunch of whiners and fighters.. Shes not even in office yet and were already at each others throats...Vote someone else...The fact is this city has big problems, it not race, its not the guys in office. It just us. Try having a good day huh.. I say this to Olga, and Richard and those that fight for them.. Take a surf lesson and chill out.. You are all too wound up..Vote someone els and lets end the bickering .. Thanks!

to KARL wrote on Oct 26, 2008 11:10 PM:Solid what??? You should bring in someone that REALLY cares about the people in Escondido and the area. Hes has served in the military and has shown that he cares for us here.He is a republican so that for me is a plus alone. He is a down to earth family man and put his time in the field instead helping instead of watching from a tv at home. He has come to many events and was part of the city rather then a 5 minute mission to say hi, show his face and leave just because he had to. He has honor, integrity and ethics. Last night coming hime from the mall, I saw him with his green truck putting up 2 apponents signs that were on the ground. That is honesty. He had sign on the truck that read French on it. This morning I read up on him through smartvoter and found out quite a bit.. Where has this guy been??? We need him here..In this city/// These guys are few and far between that really get out and do something rather than shoot their mouths off with broken promises and statements of I'll see what I can do. This guy does it! There are other article too through SDUT form the fire period and I think I saw him giving water and other supplies out at KC to the firefighters. PEOPLE OF ESCONDIDO.. VOTE FOR FRENCH. He has a real compassion for people. Obvious with the size of family he has. 9 kids. Thats amzing itself. Tough guy. My VOTE is for French. By the way.. Why is it he only is using $500.00? I will find out tomorrow and I'll be back.

Cliff wrote on Oct 26, 2008 11:26 PM:Sad times with a lot of sad commentary from a lot of bitter people.

I don't care what you think, the police should be supported at all costs. They are our last line of defense and give their lives and sacrifice their families for OUR safety. Maybe my convictions on this are felt in a different way, being a veteran that fought for the freedoms our police uphold for our society, but I see a lot of cowardly people in here that would readily bash a police officer's actions before they would ever do their job.

Freedom and security have a feeling those who fight for it can never describe and those who won't fight for it will never understand.

As a resident of this city and a business owner, I have contact with the police department every so often and one thing I will say is this, we are darn lucky to have the men and women we do on this police force. They do an amazing job each and every day and for what they put up with on a daily basis, as briefly evidenced here in some of these postings, could never be paid enough if you ask me. Serving the public is a special calling and one that somebody never takes on for the money. Should they be well paid for what they do? You're darn right they should. I don't understand how the police department seeking a raise is any different than anyone else who works hard in their profession. If this town was overrun tomorrow by terrorists or widespread violence, we'd all be clinging to our families and boarding up the doors. These officers would be hugging their kids and kissing their wives and going out to confront the violence and protect us all. Am I ready and willing to pay for that service and "insurance" - you better believe it. This society and our twisted and weak way of thinking has got to come to its senses.

My sincere thanks to the Escondido police department for doing what you do. Far too few of us support you and that just goes to show the slow decline of this country. Nothing pains me more than to see where we're headed, locally and nationally.

Thanks to wrote on Oct 27, 2008 12:28 PM:Thanks to Politicians...

Politics is Ugly!

Some politicians feed the frenzy, feed the monster of fear.

Some politicians play on hot button issues or popular initiatives in order to get elected.

Some politicians stand idly by while others adopt the language of prejudice, as these politicians have themselves used the same language.

Some politicians gather money and favors from speculators and questionable sources.

Some politicians make "promises" to "supporters" at the cost of the residents/citizens.

Some politicians will say whatever they need to say depending on the audience.

As a result of the actions and non-actions of Politicians...the people are fed up!!!

We are STANDING UP and DEBATING AND DISHING IT right back!! I try to keep things fact based - but, sometimes I am provoked to get snippy with some of these bloggers. For me: It's all about the Elections right now. I imagine that these bloggers will retain their prejudices and current beliefs.

The point is: Politics is Ugly!

Unless the average citizen gets INVOLVED the status quo will remain the same! The rich get richer and the poor get poorer - see it here locally. That "plan" will just not work!!

Vote for Change!

Pink Power Ranger wrote on Oct 27, 2008 1:43 PM:excuse me....I SUPPORT THE EPD!
I also know when someone has stayed at the fair too long.It's time for new.
Pfeiler 16 years on council
Waldron 12 years on council
Gallo 8 years on council
Abed 4 years on council
Daniels 2 years on council
This city didnt get this way over night.
Now if you think we can take years more of mismanagement of MILLIONS you vote to keep them.
Me...I see the "handiwork" of this entire council everywhere I look in Escondido.I am sick and tired of the waste!I want better for myself and everyone that lives here legally.
Do not believe the baloney you've heard about Olga Diaz.When the incumbents cannot defend their mismanagement of Escondido they target Olga with immigration issues.*Bulletin* incase you do not know it.Immigration is NOT under the JURISDICTION of ANY city council! So the smoke and mirrors games the others play is just that..smoke to cloud the real issues.
$9.8 MILLION deficit
$ 18 MILLION to a wealthy developer for HOTEL we cannot support nor do we have a need for it.
School's in disrepair.
Your children's education short changed.
Streets in disrepair.
1700 Homes in Escondido in foreclosure
this council gave developers the OK to build build build...waived millions in fees to them......not only have homeowners walked away from their responsibility so have the developers example the Paramount Project. $250,000.00 for an un needed stoplight.
increased the fees on 170 services
cannot hire more police
cannot hire more firefighters
sewer near capacity
100 year old dam ready to burst...you live in a flood hazard now...increasing your homeowners insurance.
we have to go begging to cover the police services for events like the Parade,Fireworks etc.
1207 City Employees....and they cannot even fill a pothole.But they were given a $2000.stipends(gift),gas allowances,cell phones etc.
You want more of this? re elect them.

You want to put an end to this?
Vote for new council members.
2 Nov 4th
3 Nov 2010
Begin the BIG ESCONDIDO CITY HALL CLEAN OUT NOV 4th VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE
I'm voting Diaz & Barron I know they will hear me.
Pink :p

Not Aunt Bea wrote on Oct 27, 2008 3:00 PM:I love the picture on Olga's website.
Stand tall....you rock girlfriend!
Now Bjorn...didn't we have a little chat on another board about your behavior? Must I remind you again?
Karl at 67 you are too old for me to remind you to behave.bryan...please stop posting lies.Olga has NEVER said sanctuary city/open boarders...if you have proof she has ,produce it or shut up!Native.....same for you.
Why why...
do you enjoy getting the shaft from the incumbents?
Olga Diaz is a fine young woman who has the best interest of Escondido in the forefront.
As for the incumbents, their "report card" is everywhere you look in this town.If you cannot get out just open your homeowners insurance,you now live in a flood hazard area...100 year old damn..in dire need of repair.Open you water bill...rates went up! 170 fees increased by the incumbents.
$8.9 MILLION DEFICIT....that a minus folks.Yet they GIFT $18 + MILLION to a hotel developer...go figure...oh the figures do not add up...imcumbents mathematics are off AGAIN!
SHOW US YOU CARE ABOUT ESCONDIDO NOV 4th

VOTE OLGA DIAZ & RICHARD BARRON

IF you have the Cotton Ballz be at the Forum tonight at City Hall 7 pm and ask the hard questions yourself!

wow wrote on Oct 27, 2008 5:29 PM:go epd!

Write In wrote on Oct 27, 2008 10:01 PM:Is it too late to do a "write in" on the ballot?

I vote for "Cliff"

Todd wrote on Oct 28, 2008 8:01 PM:If Olga Diaz was against illegals in Escondido I might vote for her, but she's not, so I won't. I forgot, I have another reason, she won't even take her husbands last name during her campaign, explain that Olga?!

Ruben wrote on Nov 1, 2008 3:27 AM:These council members can't do anything about immigration. They could have done something for the homeless when they were cold. They voted to let them freeze. I donated 100.00 the day after out of sadness! It is easy to think only for ourselves and ours. These homeless people didn't ask for help? Many are veterens who put their lives on the line for yours. Sam and Ed think we've done enough for them!

Pink Power Ranger wrote on Nov 10, 2008 11:36 AM:TOOOOOOO:
Bjorn
[-] wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:59 PM:
Ready for strike two?
______________________________
After reading your posts here I am wondering if YOU are the type of person we should have on our Police Force.YOU need some serious counseling Bj.

Pink ;p