Now there is a milestone wrote on Nov 8, 2008 3:01 PM:It is not enough that she is Hispanic, now she is the first fluent Spanish speaker.

Maybe that will be a good thing after all, as now she can simply tell the Illegal immigrants that it is wrong and illegal to drive without a driver's license, registration , and insurance. They will understand, and the problems will stop.

Viva Olga!

Speaking of Potholes wrote on Nov 8, 2008 3:07 PM:Is that code or something?

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaragosa spent Monday morning filling in the city's one millionth pothole on patrol with Operation Pothole.

Since he has been in office the city has averaged filling about 5,000 potholes a day, for 2 years. Yeah right.

Nothing New wrote on Nov 8, 2008 3:24 PM:Same old, same old. It's the Rady Council again.

By the way, Abed has 1100 more votes than Diaz, not 950, and his margin continues to grow.

Bravo Olga wrote on Nov 8, 2008 3:33 PM:This family supports Olga.

Great Jog Olga.

Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

EscondiÃo wrote on Nov 8, 2008 4:27 PM:Way to go, Escondido, for choosing pluralism and giving a chance to a less repressive approach to your own population. Olga Diaz is honest and earnest and qualified. The town has just rejuvenated itself... sort of like the country itself. There won't be any miracles but there will be more humanity.

Solution Guy wrote on Nov 8, 2008 4:56 PM:I am calling it now so write it down. No way is Olga re-elected in 2012. Anybody but Olga.

Get down to the business wrote on Nov 8, 2008 6:46 PM:I'm glad to see the new council apparently wanting to focus on the real issues they're there to handle. We need a new general plan, we need to plan for our water and sewer capacity and we need to think about making Escondido competitive for retail businesses and employers. The other issues have been important to improve living conditions in the city for all, but now's the time to focus on the real issues that only a council can do. Best wishes to the new council as it goes forward on behalf of us all.

Of course shes up to the task wrote on Nov 8, 2008 7:17 PM:what kind of an idiotic issue is it that Olga Diaz might "struggle" between her business and her kids and the council? Abed has children, so does Holt - Pfeiler and so does Waldrone. Good things are going to happen to the city with the bloc of 3 split up. Just watch them go - and move away from making controversial (and dumb) decisions. Go get 'em, Olga.

Objectivity wrote on Nov 8, 2008 7:37 PM:What's so liberal about fixing potholes and sewers? If Diaz can get the Counsel to focus on local government issues instead of using the Counsel Seat as a launching point for higher policital ambition, I will fully support her.

You Go Girl!

Dennis wrote on Nov 8, 2008 7:40 PM:for lack of anything better to say, she didn't get my vote then she still won't firefighters (Those she lured) well, Hope it works for you. I know I'm a bad word now but I still voted for my party.

Frida wrote on Nov 8, 2008 7:56 PM:OMG Abed, you can't be serious. The Escondido City Council is notorious for being extremist, and anti-immigrant, and terrible to the poor communities of Escondido. You should learn by now that your old ways of governing have been failures. One would would think you would have learned about your divisive and costly mistakes of the past. Don't repeat the mistakes! Welcome to the Escondido City Council Olga!! Don't lose your integrity while you are there. Stand us for those of us who have been ignored for so long.

Danny P wrote on Nov 8, 2008 8:02 PM:great times are at the door for Escondido and we have to work together to reach better things for our city. it's time to stop the isolation of our residents and explote the great potential of every person in this city. I'll be glad to serve at the pleasure of God and this council. I thank every member of the council for the willingness to work with council woman diaz; now I ask the police department to do the same and work towards a better Escondido. united we stand, divided we fall!

Sarah wrote on Nov 8, 2008 8:02 PM:"Since Abed was elected to the council in 2004, the panel has been criticized for damaging the city's reputation with mean-spirited legislation aimed at making Latinos feel unwelcome in Escondido." - DAVID GARRICK from "Diaz expected to make City Council less conservative" Saturday, November 8, 2008

You call this kind of juvenile name calling journalism? Enforcing the law is "mean-spirited"? So much for objectivity.

And the tax paying, law abiding citizens of this city WANT the day laborer issue dealt with. We want them off our street corners. We don't want to be harassed and stared down every time we go to Lowes or Home Depot. I guess OUR opinion doesn't count anymore. Illegal immigrants get more priviledges, free-be's, and rights than us. Wanting the law enforced is "mean-spirited."

Come on wrote on Nov 8, 2008 9:18 PM:NTC start showing some class and publish the many negative blogs about Olga. It's time to stop promoting and protecting her.

bryan wrote on Nov 8, 2008 9:46 PM:Even though obama is going to give US citizenship to all the illegals. I think we should still do the license checkpoints looking for valid licenses and insurance. Since esconido has highest rates of hit and run accidents and pedestrians hit by cars.

MVet wrote on Nov 8, 2008 9:52 PM:How does Olga really feel about DUI and Driver's license check points? If she reduces them in frequency and the accidents go up, will she then at least feel responsible? We want our laws enforced without the double standard rhetoric.

There have been a few suspicious accidents in Escondido lately, where there have been deaths. I figure not much has been said about them because of all the hoopla about the elections and all of the B.S. over the unions.

So now that is time to get to work, how about it. What will the city's official policy be concerning Driver’s License Check Points and DUI check points?

Until it gets better, I think we need more.

Sylvia wrote on Nov 8, 2008 9:58 PM:RE:Tuesday, November 4, 2008, his southbound sport utility vehicle veered into the northbound lane on North Centre City Parkway near Deer Springs Road and collided head-on with a minivan

>>>

There is more to the story. Did he have a flat tire? Was his car in good mechanical condition? Did he fall asleep? Was he reaching for the radio or a drink? Was the driver licensed and insured?

People just don't veer out of their lane and strike and kill someone?

Is the public going to find out or will this story being buried like so many others? From what I have read so far the woman who was killed did no wrong except be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Skip wrote on Nov 8, 2008 10:13 PM:Remember that story a few years back in the NCT that said Illegal Aliens Cost the State of California 9 Billion Dollars a year. Now adjusting for population increase and inflation the cost of providing services for Foreign Nationals (New P.C. Word) is about 12 Billion dollars a year.

Does anyone want to take a guess at what the financial deficient of California is right now? Anyone? Is it any different for the cities?

http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2004/12/06/news/top_stories/19_56_5812_5_04.txt

BROCK wrote on Nov 8, 2008 10:18 PM:Diaz will be to Escondido what Aguirre was to San Diego, BAD.This city wants and needs Abed and Waldron,that's why we keep voting them in.Diaz hi jacked the election with the fire union.Let's not let her dirty politics work in our city.EPD we're with you all the way.Where can we donate, so more officers can take cars home,it's such a non issue.Diaz is already stoking the activist fires.

Come on NCT wrote on Nov 8, 2008 10:45 PM:Come on NCT is there more stories out there other than Ms. Diaz? Oh that's right, you can't wait for the fireworks to start so you'll have something to write about other than a dead fish at Lake Wohlford. Garrick move on, if you need more to write about look at all the empty stores on E. Valley. Oh I'm sure Ms. Diaz will take credit for that too.

BROCK is right wrote on Nov 8, 2008 11:04 PM:It's up to us to not let Olga hijack this city. What is up with all the talk about Diaz singlehandedly ending checkpoints and subverting our safety? Let's not forget there are four other votes on the council, three of whom are up for reelection next time around... Let's keep these others in tune with the majority of citizens. And if they don't listen, lets not lollygag around in lining up a good replacement, so that we won't have a vote split. Don't let Diaz (and Danny P and Bill Flores and whoever else rides in with her) govern like she has some kind of mandate.

Local wrote on Nov 8, 2008 11:09 PM:I predict that it won't take 4 years for Escondido to want Gallo back. But there goes EMPAC's demand for term limits. Olga can't escape karma. The chickens will come home to roost.

Speaking of infrastructure wrote on Nov 8, 2008 11:22 PM:Is there any way our overworked sewer, water, and streets have been affected by multiple families occupying single family homes? Isn't a city's infrastructure engineered to match the expected population level? I believe it is. So wouldn't restricting people from parking ten or so cars around a single house also ease the load on that home's sewer, water, etc? So was the decried former majority really so far off by addressing the overcrowding in this city?

Hey Garrick, not only was the past council criticized for damaging the city's reputation, they were also commended by many for taking decisive steps to reverse the decline of this city. Thanks for the balanced reporting here (rollseyes).

jvc wrote on Nov 8, 2008 11:37 PM:As long as the clergy, policeman, teacher and politician is driven by self-interest, we will never be less
conservative! It is only liberals who
think in terms of the greater good that make for a more just and fair society! Reagan's ME society is still very prevalent!

Response to Skip wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:21 AM:Illegal aliens actually bring in more money than they take away from social services. Most illegal aliens work, contribute towards the economy through consumerism, and pay taxes(to have a better chance of becoming a citizen one day). I am writing this as an informed legal citizen.

Voted for Olga wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:04 AM:Voted for Olga and proud of it!!!

You can still find her campaign sign in my front yard - that way anyone that passes my house knows that my family supports Olga and we are Proud of it!!

One of the funniest things about these naysayers posting here is that not one of them had the guts to run for council. Wouldn't it be fun to pick apart their lives and their words.

Olga is a great business woman and a warm-hearted and KIND human being!!! We know she will make an excellent councilwoman.

Two Thumbs Way Up for Olga!!

Citizen Jane wrote on Nov 9, 2008 3:50 AM:Say it ain't so! That has to be the understatement of the century! This taxpayer will relish showing olga what it is like to be on the 'hot seat.'

Concerned wrote on Nov 9, 2008 6:42 AM:Escondido residents:

You must speak up. Olga is in but it's not over. If you don't like what she does let her know about it. E-mail her at City Hall, call her personally or better yet attend a council meeting and call her on the carpet. These are the same tactics Abed, Waldron and Gallo have put up with from Olga's camp for years. Give her a taste of her own medicine.

The way wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:13 AM:Olga has acted in this election, as to her first run for council run with all her anger outbursts, looks like she has taken an anger management class. Let's see if this holds up when she joins the city council.

To Brock wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:19 AM:If you say Olga Diaz hijacked the election because she had the support of the Firefighters than you have to admit Abed did the same thing. Was he not backed by the Firefighters as well? Also who cares how many more votes old Sam gets over Olga Diaz that does not change the facts. She is the first fluent spanish speaking person to be elected to the City Council in a City where they wish to outlaw the spanish language. Good job Olga you do speak for me in English or Spanish. I voted for Olga Diaz and I am Republican so Sam Abed analogy regarding Olga's win is flawed not only Democrats voted for her the people did and the people spoke.

Observer wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:27 AM:My bet is that Diaz will get plenty of mail and support from the people who are not supposed to be sending her mail because they are not citizens. Any attention paid to people who are not citizens by a public official is theft of their time. I think Diaz should publicly support, right now, the continued use of sobriety checkpoints to ensure the safety of all, and that includes illegals. I doubt that that will happen.

Jaque wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:43 AM:.......but more combative....

Angry Little Girl wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:16 AM:Olga will be poison to the community. You got what you asked for voters. We will all regret the day Olga was elected.

Hank wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:01 AM:More sobriety checkpoints. More safety. How about it, Diaz?

Great wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:14 AM:Now we have local leader with a priority
of potholes and street lights and a national leader that wants to take the money from those who work hard and give it to those who sit home waiting for the check to arrive in the mail.

Senior citizen wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:29 AM:I have lived and worked in Escondido for 15 years. I voted for Olga and I support the new coucil as they work toward solving MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT issues pushed aside by the previous council majority. Olga Diaz is a person of integrity, a successful business owner with an excellent education who will work in partnership with the other Council Members on helping to move foward on issues such as the City budget, Center for the Arts, fenced up failed or half built developer projects, water and sewage, and of course potholes. We can all be proud to live in Escondido City of Choice rather than Escondido City Divided.

Perfect Timing wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:33 AM:We have an opening in the Council committee that is working to sort out the Art Center finances, and we now have a self-professed genius in all things financial on the Council. What an opportunity!

Ray wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:36 AM:I knew when someone tried selling me a dead chicken on the corners of Quince and Mission, it was time to move and I did after twenty years in Escondido. As long as Escondido fails to deal with the problems that keep people from living in the city like quality of life, safety and other key issues, Escondido is doomed. It needs to get a mayor who actually can do the job. And as for vitalizing Escondido, hundreds of new taco shops will not draw people to the city.

What is good for the goose wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:46 AM:Let's all show up at city hall and treat Olga the way she and her supporters have treated the council the last couple of years. Let's see if Olga can take what she and her cronies dish out. It is going to be a long four years Olga.

Olga Obama wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:59 AM:With Olga and Obama, all will be utopia. The sun will shine brighter and the birds will sing louder. We are all safe now.

not impressed wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:04 AM:I do not believe Ms. Diaz has the experience and maturity to work on the city council to the benefit of all Escondido. Her oubursts at city council meetings shown on tv, particularly regarding illegal immigrants and their effects on our community, whether positive or negative, showed to me that she is just not what it takes for any intelligent change in this city. She will be a divisive force in Escondido. Not what this city needs to oversee it through what will prove to be a very difficult time ahead. There is an angry, antagonistic air about her that needs to be watched. She has no interest in Escondido as a whole. She has very definite interest only in what Olga wants. Be careful city council.

Put the heat on Pfeiler and Diaz wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:27 AM:(and Daniels too if he needs it).. But let's do it respectfully. Let's show up to council meetings in force, but let's remember the bad taste Diaz and Co. put in our mouths. Let's not use her name-calling and irrational outbursts, just hit them with the facts and in '10 and '12 hit Pfeiler and Diaz with our votes.

Give Her A Break wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:31 AM:She hasn't even taken office yet and the naysayers are already spouting off hate. Give her a break! Republicanism is dead as we know it in this country due to taxing us to death and spending out of control. Spending on worthless projects, lawsuits, wars, and getting us to a near depression. Get use to the country moving left. The voters have spoken by getting rid of the most controversial conservative council member and will get rid of the next "Abed" if you are not careful. I look at the Republican Party as a bunch of old people. In the next few years more of you dinosaurs will have died off and there will be less of you voting. I went to the Republican Party office here in Escondido three times this year and only saw old people. While the Dems office on Grand had a large number of young people in their twenties and thirties with a good number of other age groups represented as well. The Dems are connecting and you are not. Your negative comments on here are further proof of how old and out of touch you are. The Dems now have the next generation on the council. Republicans have the dinosaurs. Change or die Republicans.

For the record wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:37 AM:I attended those council meetings and also viewed them afterwards on tv. The majority of people shouting down speakers and trying to intimate attendees were those supporting Waldron, Gallo and Abed. It was Waldron who brought the Minutemen Organization into Escondido and all those who spoke that didn't even live in this City. I even remember them booing the late City Council Member Ron Newman as he was trying to speak and voice some reason during the first of those council meetings about the proposed rental ordinance. Abed, Gallo and Waldron are the ones who have fostered ignorance and hate in this community not Olga. With Gallo voted out there is hope for more thoughtful and productive City Council Meetings.

senior wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:39 AM:That's senior as in age not senor. When was it said we wanted to ban Spanish? All this country wants is to promote English. We are after all kinda, sorta, still the USofA. The Escondido City Council, which will definately become very liberal next month, has done great work in correcting overcrowding and unsafe living conditions to the benefit of all. To JVC why didn't you include firefighter union in your comment? Talk about a special interest group. I don't understand how upholding the law is devisive or mean spirited. Why can't we all just get along, do whatever you want, pay no heed to law and order because someone might be offended. We reap what we sow.

To Give Her a Break wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:43 AM:You are a great spokesman for the Democratic party and the reason why the democratic party's popularity wave is short lived.

Wow wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:47 AM:The current council WAS working on the basic issues of cleaning up the city, graffiti removal, sewer capacity and zoing. Just because the newspaper highlighted the controversial issues doesn't mean they weren't doing the other things. I can't stand when people brush aside the achievements of this council with a wide brush like that. They have been focused on the business of the city, including potholes and revitalizing older neighborhoods. Look at Los Arboles, the Westside, Mission area, etc.
That has been a priority. That will continue and no credit to Olga for that.

Give Her A Break wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:01 PM:Better short lived then dead. That's all you got. Your a sorry excuse for a spokeman for the Republican Party.

Pink Power Ranger wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:12 PM:I wasn't going to come here and gloat after the election but hey.....you're adults you can take it.
Olga Diaz has taken years of your rude, ignorant , inaccurate ,false ,misleading and untruthful bashing,Those are just the polite words I use in public.
The truth is if YOUR candidate had done a better job he would have won.He lost get over it.Take on a new challenge.
Show others YOU really care about Escondido.Stop bickering.Join a community organization,mentor a child,volunteer to do something that will make you feel good that you contributed. It will take everyone of us working together to improve Escondido.Ignore the negative...stay focused on a better Escondido.

To the haters.Find something you can feel good about.Hate will eat you up & make you ugly.

Pink ;p
*GAG*


Congratulations Olga ...see you Dec.3rd when you are sworn in.

Give Us a Break wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:13 PM:"Give Her A Break" couldn't be a more typical left-winger. Start off by mischaracterizing dissenting opinions as "hate," to bring shame to anyone who dares disagree with Diaz. Then throw in some left field (no pun intended, really) references to war, depression, and "Republicanism" that have nothing to do with the city council. Then wrap it up with some insults and namecalling directed at the opposition. Keep away from substance at all costs. Well this twentysomething-year-old "dinosaur" has no plans to lay down or to die. Welcome to the hotseat Olga...

Disgusted wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:14 PM:"She said she hopes to be a calming influence on the city and the council."
Are you kidding me? Good luck if past confrontations are any indication. I think I may be ill with that statement being put in print and actually being taken seriously.
Only when things conform to her skewed view of the world/city will things be calm and honky-dory.

james baub wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:15 PM:Anybody would be a improvement over Gallo,but Olga is a big improvement over Gallo.Diaz won-Gallo lost,GET OVER IT!!

Vicious People wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:21 PM:Vicious People will reap what they sow.

I support Olga - I know Olga and do not believe one negative word written here!

We'll see who turns up at City Hall - I'll be there to back Olga!!! You can bet on that!!!

I wonder what our neighbors think of all the vicious people in Escondido? I'm guessing they think that it is a city full of narrow-minded, nativistic people.

Unfortunately, for the reasonable and sane people (like myself) we have to suffer the consequences of the filth that comes out of these people's mouths. Our city's reputation is tainted by the likes of these "people".

To the neighbors of Escondido:
Our city is actually a very nice city with some very good people. Fortunately, as time goes on (and as we elect new intelligent people to the council) our city is slowly weeding out the narrow-minded. Praise the Lord. Hallelujah!

Olga Diaz beat Ed Gallo fair and square. These naysayers are just pissed about it. And obviously so is Sam Abed (and he continues to have trouble counting - what is a majority afterall?).

See how that "reap what you sow" thing is already working out. ;-)

To Give Her a Break wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:21 PM:Are you a sophomore?

Fact Checker wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:23 PM:Diaz Beat Gallo

To ALL the HATERS wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:31 PM:Yeah really let's give the council a real beating and keep them from doing anything that will be good for everyone that lives here...just because we love to hate.(sarcastic) NOT NOT NOT!

I bet you are the type of parents that taught your children that winning is everything.At the expense of your child's psychological health.
You probably also yell nasty things to the refs at the kids games.
Blame everything on anyone but yourself.
Flip off other drivers when you are the one cutting others off.
You must be the idiot I see still talking on your cell phone while driving...ohhh you think it's harmless...that law was for other people.
Are you still angry that Mars makes M&M's in pink?

THIS APPLIES TO YOU.

IF you don't like it in Escondido get out! YOU won't help to change things here so go.You won't be happy anywhere.

HPST DAD wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:32 PM:Soldier on OLGA! You can do it.

Give us all a break wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:33 PM:To Give her a break
Calm down, Your rantings in your 11:31 and 12:01 only show that perhaps your type are the ones spouting off hate. Those two posts don't sound like they are written by a rational, well though out person. They only accent the divisiveness that is Olga Diaz.

Benjamin wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:38 PM:It's the economy, Stupi...
Wake Up to reality. The economy is the number one issue for the nation's people.

Olga is good for Escondido.

Time to get the finances in order. Olga will help that.

januaryM wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:40 PM:The entire country took a step into the future and elected Obama.
Some in Escondido cannot let go of their ignorance....it defines them.

Racism is a relic of the past.


Congrats! OBAMA & OLGA

Give Her A Break wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:40 PM:To Dino: What's with the question? You've got nothing.

Reality wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:41 PM:Diaz Beat Gallo

To Give us all a break wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:43 PM:You are not very convincing. Sounds like you have some anger issue you need to deal with before commenting on here.

Bogie wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:44 PM:Congratulations, Olga. You will make an outstanding councilwoman. You worked hard and deserve your new position. You will make a fantastic leader for our troubled city. Congratulations and Stay Strong. Good Job, Olga.

Ditto wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:45 PM:Diaz Beat Gallo

Karl wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:46 PM:Olga is a nice start to solving the problems that have plagued Escondido for years (aka. incompetent council actions).

Olga is the solution Escondido needs!

Scooter wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:50 PM:I am so glad that Olga was elected.

I hope that she can help the citizens of Escondido understand why the council has allocated:

$8 million for capital improvements

and

$19.8 million for a hotel (especially when tourism & hotel occupancy is down).

It is fiscally irresponsible to allocate more to a hotel developer and less than half of that to capital improvements.

Is the city in "business" to develop a hotel or

are they in business to support the needs of the city - such as our INFRASTRUCTURE.

I'm glad Olga got on the council - she will help expose this error in council priorities.

Go for it, Olga - you will do very well.

Gringo wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:52 PM:I support Olga!

what about the kids wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:52 PM:As Sarah Palin was criticized for not being home with her children, shouldn't Olga Diaz be home with hers? How can she run a business, be on city council and change the world, and not expect her family be neglected. It isn't possible. Just like Sarah Palin , Olga Diaz should be home with her children too. Oh and by the way, thats a pretty snazzy looking outfit she has on. She's just a little too fashionable.

Question to NCT wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:56 PM:Does Bill Flores have something to do with screening the blogs? Flores an advocate for open boarders, discontinue check points, against deporting criminal illegals, etc. and worked closely with Olga in her bid for the first election and silently on her successful bid in the last election. I'm sure this has been brought up in the blogs but will not be printed by the NCT.








nothing that has to do with his name

The Three Amigos wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:57 PM:Diaz Beat Gallo

Oscar wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:59 PM:Somebody called Olga the
"Iron Butterfly"

It truly fits her.
Congrats! Olga you did it!

Wizard of OZ wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:02 PM:pppssst!
TOTO we arent in Kansas anymore!


SHE WON.....COOL!

Change Is Here wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:08 PM:Congrads Olga! I am so happy you got elected. Things can only get better now. Maybe now the infrastructure of our city will get the attention it needs. Lets get the storefronts on Grand filled again.

Im biting my cussing tongue wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:08 PM:TO:
what about the kids
[-] wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:52 PM:
______________________________________
YOU must be really old!
Most families co parent today.Unlike the old days when all parenting feel to the Mother.
Most families have two wage earners also.

I am old enough to remember when the Jaycee's would not allow women in their organization to hold office or vote.
Do you know there was a time in this country hwen a woman could get placed in an asylum just for speaking out or talking back?
Fast forward to 2008......women are equal!
12:52 return to your cave

Not Aunt Bea wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:11 PM:I'm feeling faint.
Bogie & Karl.....you're making my head spin.
:::applause:::

Just Call me a Realist wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:15 PM:Don't call me a racist. Don't call me ignorant. Don't call me Hateful. Don't call me a bigot. And please do not even try to tell me that Foreign Nationals are not a tremendous drain on our City and state resources. For all you Liberals who are blowing smoke on the issue and then trying to shut down all rational discussions by calling names, the American people are smarter then that. There is absolutely no doubt that Foreign Nationals are bringing mass amounts of poverty and illiteracy with them and that is causing a social decline. My children now attend private schools, where there is just as much diversity as in the public schools, with one big exception. All of the students speak English. Now after you absorb all that, let’s sit down and talk.

Blind Tree Frog wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:17 PM:It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood.


just leapin by

:::high5:::: OLGA!

The Real Gringo wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:22 PM:For what its worth. I don't support Olga!!

Give us all a break wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:22 PM:To the "to give us all a break post at 12:43, I wouldn't expect to be "convincing" to some. I'm not trying to convince either. But I can betcha there are plenty who agree. Again, calm down and stop calling everyone haters every time you haven't convinced them. Don't be so obvious in your leanings. Keep 'em guessing. It keeps it interesting. Relax

Marilyn wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:23 PM:How ever did Abed get re-elected?
Firefighters should not have endorsed him.
Oh well,next time we take out three.

God bless, Olga Diaz!

To what about the kids... wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:23 PM:Unbelievable! Go back to watching the Father Knows Best reruns you are obviously out of touch.

taco Shelly wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:29 PM:GO Chargers! GO Olga! Go Escondido!

RE To what about the kids... wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:35 PM:probably has a Nanny.

But then her husband could take a leave of absence and be a stay at home dad.

Mr Potato Head wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:36 PM:So you are saying Marie Waldron and the Mayor are negelecting their children too?
Or is it just Olga?


hint*
open mouth insert leg...that was a Gallo problem...are you next?

Joe The Plumber wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:44 PM:I am not rich enough to vote Republican. I only own one house, so I won't qualify for the Republican't party any time soon. I am a white guy, but need to be at least over 65, so maybe in 35 years I will be ready to vote for a Republican. Then again will the party exist in thirty years is the real question.

Go Olga!

Pink Power Ranger wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:50 PM:You need to learn time management.It's kinda like money management...ohhhh you are like the Gallo & Abed Council....spend it ,just spend it.
Ever hear of Day Care?
Co parenting,Grand parents, Aunts Uncles...probably not...you have no time for family when you sit behind your monitor screen and throw rocks at others....
makes me wonder what type of life you really have.

I've seen Olga with her children all over town.I've even seen the entire family at the Pet store.
There is no negelect of children in that family.So stop the gossip.Didn't your Mother teach you anything?

Pink ;p
Proud Mother of 2 wonderful human beings.Proud Grandmother of two incredible Grandson's ,#3 arrives June 09.

For What it Is Worth wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:55 PM:I do not expect Obama to try to give amnesty during his first term.

The last two Amnesty freight Trains were stopped by the people.

With unemploymment levels at historic levels, why would anyone want to turn out millions of people into the job market.

Nope, not going to happen.

jan wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:59 PM:TO IMAGINE IS EVERYTHING!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

She imagined she could win.
She worked to win.
She won.
We the citizens of Escondido are the benefactors of this intelligent wonderful woman.
NCTimes these are beautiful pictures of Olga.Thank you.

one step foward..... wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:59 PM:ten steps backwards.

Father Knows Best wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:59 PM:Always beginning with a seemingly menial problem and ending with a tight, conclusive solution, Father Knows Best has remained a part of American culture since 1954. Seen as a typical mid-western family of the 50s, it was led by insurance salesman Jim Anderson (Robert Young), who was always stern, fair and wise. His loyal wife and three maturing children were constantly willing and ready to go to their father for help and advice

This happened during the last terms Where is the Outrage wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:26 PM:ESCONDIDO ---- It doesn't take more than a short stroll through the streets of the Mission Park neighborhood to gather a feel for the challenges facing this central Escondido community and the city leaders trying to improve living conditions.

Most of the families are poor, do not speak English and are immigrants. Over the last seven years, Escondido has funneled nearly $9.2 MILLION into housing assistance, language, child care and other programs in the neighborhood.

http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2006/07/02/news/inland/20_03_527_1_06.txt

Keeps coming back wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:30 PM:"One Step Forward, Ten Steps Backwards." I told Gallo this slogan would not work for his campaign. It is still haunting him. Oh well, I hear plumbing pays good.

Illegal is against the law wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:40 PM:City council has not been anti-Latino. Some have been anti ILLEGAL immigrant, you know... like anti ILLEGAL drug dealing. What do you mean? Do you mean that all Latinos are illegal immigrants? That's silly. Obama legalize the criminal immigrants? If we all do enough meth, do you think Obama will finally come around to making it legal? LOL

9.2 Million wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:48 PM:...that went to non-citizens and now we're fretting about fire station staffing, taking benefits from our underpaid cops, and wondering how we got here. Sounds like Pfeiler can answer for that in '10..

To Im biting... wrote on Nov 9, 2008 3:01 PM:Please do not assume the What about the kids person is old. They are just out of touch, bitter about Olga winning, and could be any age or gender.

To This happened wrote on Nov 9, 2008 3:10 PM:Sure. The city has put $9million plus towards lower income neighborhoods

you just forgot to add:

the city did so because they are REQUIRED to do so!

The city IS required to put a certain percent (15%) towards low-income redevelopment.

$9.2 million in 7 years is about $1.3 a year - a far cry from the $10mill/yr Abed says the city spends on low-income (or in Abed's dictionary: illegals).

It's pretty sad that you seem to begrudge the fact that the city IS helping the low-income neighborhoods. I guess you just want to keep them down, ehh?

Hmmm.. wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:02 PM:Kudos to Diaz for her defeat over Gallo! I'm sure many of you Escondido residents are afraid of change, this is natural. I am sure it is even more troubling that she is a Latina, who actually speaks Spanish. Nonetheless, she is an educated woman who apparently is raising a beautiful family. Look, I attended Central Elementary, Hidden Valley, Del Dios, and San Pasqual. I am a product of Escondido, and now I am a senior attending UC San Diego. I am also Latina, and my first language was Spanish. I hope that does not shock you, because Latino's also have brains.
I agree with Pink Power Ranger, stop complaining and instead become a volunteer at the library, or at schools. Become a mentor to a child, and you will realize that they are missing love, attention, and support.
I love my city, and am a supporter of Olga Diaz!

Side note:
We are afraid of what we do not know, but we are all humans, and what we need the most is unconditional love.

Raul wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:33 PM:I want to attend Escondido Council Meetings and hope that Olga is the next Cynthia McKinney. Thank you.

Mexicat wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:40 PM:NCtimes, you shouldn't have mentioned the fact that she speaks Spanish, it only angers the bigots, I mean bloggers.

Pedro wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:58 PM:Escondido will continue its slide into a lawless ghetto.

what about the kids wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:00 PM:To all the biting your cussing tongue,(ouch that hurts!) Mr. Potato heads, Promise me you weren't gleefully riding the bash on Sarah Palin train. Never a comment came from your left lips about how inexperienced ,neglectful of her children, Caribou Barbie, you name it "hateful" comments that were lobbed in Sarah Palins direction. None of you participated in that right? No not at all.Never. Your too smart for that.

Submarine Man wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:17 PM:I love Sam and Ed.

MVet wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:23 PM:Helping low-income neighborhoods is not the issue.

Spending millions of dollars supporting Foreign Nationals at taxpayer expense is.

TO To This happened wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:35 PM:In all, 16,500 people ---- nearly 12 percent of the city's total population ---- are squeezed into the 1 1/2-square-mile area bordered by Lincoln Avenue, Ash Street and Valley and Centre City parkways.

What about the rest of the people in Escondido. This area represents such a tiny area of Escondido.

At that rate 10 Million a year would be cheap.

Colonia Escondido wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:40 PM:If there is a five million dollar depict now, the only way to make it up would be to cut spending or raise taxes. If you raise taxes then the large segment of Escondido’s population who does not pay any taxes would not be affected. Thus the middle class and business would be left to pick up the burden. Pretty soon what is left of our tax base is going to voting with their feet.

Forget the Marriott; we will have more fast food restaurants and swap meets.

Family responsibilities Everyone does it wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:45 PM:As far as this election in Escondido, the person joining the council has two young children and a husband to co-parent with. Most of our households have a shared responsibility when it comes to our families. There is also her family living here in town. Who doesn't depend on the entire family to raise the children these days? Don't feel that a women can not pull everything together. We are multitasking champions. Now maybe we should ask the males in positions of power if they could possibly remember to: pick up the kids at 2:00 the other at 3:00, drive to piano, run to Vons while you wait, complete the weeks shopping, put gas in the car, pick up from piano, make dinner, run to soccer, complete the science project, attend the council meeting, tuck little ones in, wash the dishes and get ready for tomorrow. Super MOMS? No just getting everything done for the family. Everyone does it.
I didn't vote for her but don't trash her ability to continue to raise the family she and her husband have. Enough of people trying to make that an issue. Grow up ...

CONGRATULATIONS OLGA wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:48 PM:I am so happy you won, girl!! People are saying some mean things about you but don't worry about they are just haters. You did it!!! So as they say stay ANGRY girl and go and kick so butt in those City Council meetings and in Escondido. YIPPEE!!!! Change is a comin' in Escondido. Woo Hoo!!! I am one happy Latina voter. See at your swearing in Olga, great job. You should be so proud mostly because you got so many people riled up. You must be doing something right. Keep up the good work.

Esco Local wrote on Nov 9, 2008 6:20 PM:We had a disfunctional, tax-and-spend City Council, voting for millions in free cash for developers, another million bucks to attorneys, etc. while our reserves were being depleated. You'd think they had won the magic lottery with all the crazy spending. I don't care what party they were, this was insane. By getting an accountant and businesswoman in office we will hopefully get our City turned around.

Dave Thuleen wrote on Nov 9, 2008 6:35 PM:Congratulations, Olga, and thank you for your willingness to take on a thankless job.

And to the citizens of Escondido, thank you for keeping a liberal and generous spirit alive in our city.

Pink Power Ranger wrote on Nov 9, 2008 6:48 PM:TO:
Hmmm..
[-] wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:02 PM:

:::high 5:::
Not just because you agree with me.Because of what you are doing with your own life.
Knowledge is power.
Best of luck to you.

Pink ;p
just PROUD

Frank wrote on Nov 9, 2008 6:52 PM:Mrs. Diaz’s election success does not reflect liberalism or conservatism. Rather, it reflects an onset of illness in the Fire Department. Fireman on public salaries are not paid to organize as a political arm to run the city. Will taxpayers next be burdened with excessive salaries and benefit, like the City of San Diego? Perhaps we should no longer give overmuch honor to public employees who are just doing their job and who view such honor as an invitation dominate the political process.

Im biting my cussing tongue wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:06 PM:The word "old" was as nice as I am going to get.I would much rather have used this ,you chauvinist pig.
I'm 60 and even I know parenting is not left to just the Mother any longer.
Society has progressed. What about the kids at 12:52 has not.
Women are equals. ...

leo wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:18 PM:Diaz's primary goal is to protect the rights (?) of illegal immigrants,that everybody can agree on.Even the weak minded and weak willed people that voted for the activist will tire of this.There is a sleeping giant that has been woken up and i believe every radical word she speaks will be challenged.Don't go soft council,stay fierce.the giants with you and waiting.

To Raul wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:23 PM:The fact that you have mentioned Cynthia McKinney you have already made your judgment and nothing Olga does will be right in your eyes. I feel bad for you. What a sad life you must lead.

Hot Potato wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:29 PM:Stick with the issues...
She won because she focused on the real issues.Issues that the Council has jurisdiction over.She wasn't pandering just to get a vote, then pull the OOPPS!
game...
Escondido's Council and their Staff have become accustom to this way of doing business.Mr.inEppness can't put decimal points in the correct place...ooppss! costing tax payers millions....ooppss ooppss ooppss!

as in...we will have new firestations...oopppsss we forgot to tell you we are'nt going to hire any staff to fill them.

We could do better hiring Mike Aguirre
at least he knows when things smell rotten.
WAY TO GO OLGA! ROCK THE CITY!
GO OLGA!!!!

Shiver wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:42 PM:ummmm I think I may have said ,Sarah threw her teenage unmarried pregnant daughter under the bus.It was not typed in a gleeful tone.I found it disturbing .Had it been my daughter I would have passed on the offer to run for VP .A pregnant unmarried very young daughter needs you more than the country did...that's my opinion. Since I was a pregnant young unmarried daughter once...I have the knowledge of that experience.That was on another board.
Not local politics.

Less conservative wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:42 PM:is one thing, but it sounds like this change could result in the council becoming even more rancorous. Hope not.

Mr.Potato Head wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:47 PM:I never said anything about Sarah Palin.
I blog about local elections .
Get a grip...she lost,relax.Have a latte enjoy the evening.
Do we need to send you a para/emt?
oops..sorry none available thanks to the Council.

Shiver wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:56 PM:The ad in the NCTimes from a private citizen showing what we pay City Hall Employees. Shocked me.
For the quality of work those people do that's just too much money.
We need a Staff turn over at City Hall.
Hire people with qualifications & a verifiable history of exemplary work if they want to earn top dollar.Not the hacks we have now.
I went with Olga and Barron.I was really concerned to see that Abed was elected again.More wasted space at City Hall.

Karl wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:03 PM:You are the bigot here Mexicat
[-] wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:40 PM:

grrrrrrr wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:07 PM:...............
indicates NCTimes has altered your submittal

..>/ is another symbol of altered submittal

POTHOLE wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:10 PM:YOU should make note of each pothole in Escondido,call ,email or? this info to the City. Photos with dates are good too.Let's see who gets their's taken care of first.Even if you only have one.
Potholes are dangerous.So that goes under public safety.

Wizard of OZ wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:16 PM:Shiver,
That ad was genius!
Right on Jerry Lenhard.

Like PPR says,knowledge is power.

Reality Show wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:24 PM:This is great! We have our own little reality show right here in Escondido.
Can't wait for the next episode.
GO OLGA!!!!

Stop with the Non-Issues wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:28 PM:How quickly commenters around here get side-tracked; the NCT reporter makes some oddball reference in his piece to Diaz' ability to balance family and work. He probably did it hoping to stir up some of these pointless discussions. Nobody in the campaign process and nobody here made any issue of her raising kids while on the council. It's a total non-issue. Someone made a tongue-in-cheek comparison to the heat put on Sarah Palin for being a mother in office, and now you all have imagined some nonexistant attack on her parenting abilities. David Garrick brought it up, not Olga's opponents.

And nobody but nobody ever objected to having a latina in office. Several have praised her ethnicity/gender as if it matters (it doesn't), but no one has used it against her. Abed is from the Middle East and is not a native English speaker. Waldron is a woman. ???? Big deal!!

Stop this childish bickering about imaginary issues. I understand it helps you Olga supporters move the focus off the real issues, but knock it off.

Syl wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:46 PM:RE: Stop with the Non-Issues


Very Well said.

Sometimes I wonder if there are children on here, or as you say they just want to do anything to distract from the real issues.

We will see.

Mexicat wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:22 PM:To Pedro, it will only become a ghetto if the city council and the citizens of Escondido let it. It's people like you that bring down the city's image. Go move to Temecula.

Donny Lagoon wrote on Nov 10, 2008 8:01 AM:Give her a chance. I'm sure she has good intentions. Hopefully she realizes that that immigration and crime is a concern of the Escondido residents, as with most all Americans.

What would be a breath of fresh air is unbiased journalism. Geesh, this election has put the left favoritism in the spotlight and it's sad. More than that, it's close to criminal. What has happened? The papers are like the politicians (both parties) self serving. Where is the accountability? History has shown you can't trust the inmates to run the prison.

jvc wrote on Nov 10, 2008 10:36 AM:At least we know Olga is not beholden
to any special-interest!

Karl wrote on Nov 10, 2008 11:42 AM:jvc @ 10:36 AM:

"At least we know Olga is not beholden
to any special-interest"!

Oh yea? How do "we" know that? Wasn't she endorsed by Bill "let em' all in" flores?

citizen wrote on Nov 10, 2008 12:01 PM:Time for this town. To meet with Flores........... Give him our point of viewwwwwwwwwww. What do you say people????????? Hes always telling us. Why not get it out in the open Bill? You too are invited NCT...........

Not Aunt Bea wrote on Nov 10, 2008 12:25 PM:to Karl at 11:42AM

...and I thought you had come around.
Karl some times we are exposed to others during our lives,just people in the community.Does this mean we support every cause each of these people support?
Of course not.It won't hurt you to just listen.Weather you agree with them or not.Listening does not mean youv'e joined the club.
While getting to know Olga I've learned she listens and observes.Traits of a smart leader.
Karl if you were so hot for Gallo to win why were'nt you out on the street corner with him waving his sign? Gallo out there alone said volumes.
Karl, show us you are a good sport.Take this loss like a man.Stop making things up and spreading lies.

Jane wrote on Nov 10, 2008 12:56 PM:Anybody But Olga

Mary Jane wrote on Nov 10, 2008 12:56 PM:Anybody But Olga

Hey Citizen wrote on Nov 10, 2008 2:37 PM:That sounds like a threat!! If you want to make threats why not send a letter and identify yourself to Bill Flores. What makes you think Bill Flores is interested in hearing your point of view? I will await your written open invitation to Bill Flores but I doubt it will ever come because you are too afraid to face the man anyway.

TO Jane Mary Jane too wrote on Nov 10, 2008 3:13 PM:You are too late ladies.She won.
It's fantastic!


HPST MOM & HPST DAD

To POTHOLE wrote on Nov 10, 2008 3:14 PM:POTHOLE
[-] wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:10 PM


GREAT IDEA.

TO wrote on Nov 10, 2008 3:18 PM:one step foward.....
[-] wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:59 PM:
ten steps backwards.
_________________________________
OopS!
you should have watched that first step...you fell into a pothole!

TO leo wrote on Nov 10, 2008 3:30 PM:leo
[-] wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:18 PM:
----------------------------------
Dude, You've been on the Abed Gallo delusional tour too long.

Stop drinking that poisoned kool aid.


It's a new day leo, join the rest of the world and work toward a better future .

TO TO TO wrote on Nov 10, 2008 3:43 PM:To jvc sounds like your self interest is collecting from others efforts.
To January M If someone should disagree with Obama will that make them a racist. He will be our President for all americans you should get over his race.
Why such dislike for older people, cool down you will be one quicker than you know.

To Mexicat wrote on Nov 10, 2008 3:57 PM:If no one has noticed this city already is a ghetto. I'm sure if our property values ever go back up, several people WILL be moving out of this armpit.

PUHLEASE wrote on Nov 10, 2008 6:40 PM:Ms. Diaz has been and will continue to be a controversial figure, most notably for her vehement and most vocal stance for Latino illegal aliens. She and local gadfly Bill Flores seem to think Latino illegal aliens should be exempt from the same laws you and I are bound by. The Truth is that the tens of thousands of illegal aliens in Escondido and their supporters are the ones who have sullied our fair cities' reputation and caused a major rift between law abiders and law breakers. So get real and tell it like it really is minus the illegal alien sob stories and disengenuous 'spin.' Ms. Diaz is also on City Council TV tape where she can be seen and heard bashing and lashing Ed Gallo, Sam Abed and Marie Waldron. Should be interesting to see how and if they 'work together.'

To Puhlease wrote on Nov 10, 2008 10:59 PM:Hardly.

The truth...you wouldn't know it if it bit you in the bottom.

You need to get over it...you little troika (that is NO MORE) stuck their noses where it didn't belong and they were smacked down in court.

That's the TRUTH. Use your head ... regardless you exaggerate and you have ABSOLUTELY nothing to back up your smack (talking).

The truth...ha ha ha - not from your mouth!!!

p.s. I've watched the tape - you got "nada"!

Happy Here wrote on Nov 12, 2008 7:57 AM:I am so glad my vote counted! I'm glad to see Ed Gallo out and can't wait for Abed to be out as well...You go Olga Diaz!