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Latin Americans Upset Over Commissioners Comments Save Email Print
Posted: 10:34 PM May 5, 2008
 Last Updated: 10:34 PM May 5, 2008
 Reporter: Christine Kennedy
111 comments
A | A | A

Latin Americans marched to the Beaufort County Commission steps in protest of comments made by a commissioner Monday.

Dozens of Latin Americans took to the streets to in an effort to show commissioners they're feelings about Commissioner Hood Richardson's remarks. Commissioner Richardson says he plans to use Spanish surnames to identify undocumented immigrants using county health services. Richardson's approach to detecting illegal immigrants has the Latin American community upset.

Commissioner Richardson says majority of illegal immigrants have Spanish surnames and he has no intentions on changing his approach to finding illegal immigrants.
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Posted by: joesixpack Location: williamston on May 11, 2008 at 04:27 PM
Beaufort county resident... I work two jobs and attended BCCC to learn a trade. I paid for the tuition out of pocket and with the help of my GI bill from serving in the Marine Corp Infantry for 6yrs. So contrary to what your implying..no I don't receive food stamps. By the way our Governor would like to pay out with our tax dollars..(assuming you also work) to allow people here illegally to have the opportunity that many Americans do not. Is cheap farm labor worth giving up your country? Brush up on your Spanish. Think about that!~habla???
Posted by: anonymous Location: nc on May 11, 2008 at 02:28 PM
Hey spanish guy he is not a cowboy and this is not his ranch he represent us the county tax payers so he does what we say or he is out in NOV It is profiling what this close mided guy is trying to do with the spanish surnames and can be held accountable ever herd of the ACLU I think he has, so Mr hood Chill out and look for another way to get you information do not profile and dont insult the legal Citizens and beaufort Co.

Slightly Edited

Posted by: Beaufort County Resident Location: Washington on May 11, 2008 at 07:44 AM
joesixpack..so you would move to Washington just to give him your vote,oh wait, or perhaps you would lie about your address, like most people who are getting food stamps, medicaid,and "A CHECK" each month. HUMMMM on their same level. I guess that the only support Hood Richardson is getting. On a another note.....I know for a fact that there are illegals here who do in fact pay their taxes each paycheck but can not file taxes because they are afraid of getting caught. I ask the gov't ....where is all that money going? I know several farm workers who should by my calculations receive 2k back from the gov't but guess what they dont file. They say there are 11M illegals here so lets see that is like trillons of dollars out there not being claimed that the gov't is drawing interest on, but yet, we are in a recession. Think about that?
Posted by: Lendon Location: Washington on May 10, 2008 at 09:43 PM
Most people don't understand how hard it is to come to the United States "Legally" from Mexico. Most people here legally have spent ever dime they had to do so. If the process was resonable everyone would be here legally. Don't be so quick to judge other people when you havent walked in their shoes. There are people here illegaly that pay taxes every year. The government don't mind taking there tax money, but don't ask for help with your citizenship.
Posted by: joesixpack Location: williamston on May 10, 2008 at 05:12 PM
Way to go Commissioner Richardson! If he ran for president he'd get my vote. We need someone to take a stand in office to protect the soverignty our country. Too many weasle liberal politicians selling us out on the immigration issue like soon to be former Gov Easley!
Posted by: spanish guy Location: ENC on May 10, 2008 at 12:24 PM
hey, this the spanish guy again. this is not about loyalty or lack of, this is about law and order. right or wrong, illegal vs legal. we have border patrol agents and ICE for a reason; to enforce and control. it is an illegal act to cross the arizona, texas, california or new mexico desert in to the UNITED STATES in an illegal way. Its tresspassing at the very least. the state government facilitates their stay here and thats why they are where they are at. Most of them know where they are headed even before they cross. and by the way, my mother (and father) all agree on this issue with me. we have not been affected by all these liberals that attempt to influence our way of life, our judgement, etc. I do however feel that this county commissioner is going about it the wrong way. thats called profiling, this is the USA and he cant use that profiling tool. at least not say that he is. But again, he is a cowboy and this is his ranch.
Posted by: Brownie Location: Kinston on May 10, 2008 at 11:30 AM
You hit the nail on the head. Big brother pays you not to work! It's a proven fact welfare breeds welfare. So why work?
Posted by: Praying for Peace Location: washington on May 9, 2008 at 09:45 PM
I can tell you that the Americans do not, and will not work, much less work in 100 degree heat to pick the bell peppers, cucumbers and sweet potatoes that are placed in our stores. They would rather sit on their behinds and "draw a check" because the gov't makes it too easy for them to be lazy. I understand if they are TRUELY disabled and can not work, yes give them a source of income and assistance. Do you honestly think the gov't is going to make anyone work???? HA HA HA....The illegals will come and work for little of nothing ($5-$6/hr) and work sun up to sun set and never complain. Americans complain when it rains. Come on. Have you ever been in Wal-mart on Sunday afternoons? If you have you have seen the illegals buying groceries and such with CASH and not a EBT card. Then there are the lazy Americans who go in and receives, yes receives, a porter house steak, ribs and chicken and uses his EBT and uses it with a SMILE. GO FIGURE!!!

Edited

Posted by: concernd american Location: nc on May 9, 2008 at 01:09 PM
all this hate going on toward a certain type of human being, Reminds me of my grandfather teling me this ugly stories of a cetain place in Eaurope I belive it was called Germany in the 1940s that hated and slaughterd alot of innocent people that just went there to do better for themselves and live peacefully (how sad)
Posted by: Maria on May 9, 2008 at 08:59 AM
ups!! sorry Hope!! I was thinking in Nascar ha ha ha.. But the good think is that you got the idea.. Im learning !! Thank you!!!
Posted by: N k Location: wahington on May 8, 2008 at 09:44 PM
Hello everybody!!Are you having a good day ?? I hope so.All I want to say is why dont we let god take care of this and everybody, be happy that you are doing the right thing and worry about you and if you have kids teach them to have love in their lives, if you feel you are doing and saying whats right, go for!!!One thing is true only jesus is perfect and even when he was about to die he ask for forgiveness for the ones that misstreat him, so who are we to act the way we do are we perfect like him and never done somethig bad.Don't let all of this make you be somebody that you are not and start worrying about whats really important ther is so many tragedies going on right now that is sad that we are focusing on this only, If it was true that this will make us happier human beings ok go on.God bless you.
Posted by: Hello Location: NC on May 8, 2008 at 05:48 PM
Thank you, Hope! You, I, and others who abide by the rules understand your comments. Those who have never had Social Security, Medicare, Federal Withholding, and State Withholding income taxes deducted from their gross salaries cannot begin to fathom the percentage removed from every single pay check--for instance...I am paid monthly and from that, $168.39 is taken out for Social Security, $39.38 for Medicare, $334.89 for Federal Withholding, and $158.00 for State Withholding; ABOVE & BEYOND those deductions, $687.76 comes out to cover dental insurance for me and my husband (my son is under 1 year of age & hasn't been added yet!) and health insurance for me and my son...cannot afford health insurance for my husband, he has his own individual health insurance policy.
Posted by: hope Location: NC on May 8, 2008 at 05:07 PM
Maria, Am I to assume you are calling me a racist? "stop been races" ?? Where have I heard that before? The state & federal taxes skimmed off the top of a salary are kept on record for all those with Social Security #'s. Follow the rules of the land. The mother of Jesus had to return to her land of origin for the census. I ADMIRE people willing to work and get ahead. Come to America, PAY TAXES, obtain citizenship, LEARN ENGLISH. If you don't like the process GO BACK HOME. You may be surprised to find out just how much in taxes you will pay as a working American citizen. You are right about one thing, God will provide. Put your trust in him, not man.
Posted by: Maria Location: Washington on May 8, 2008 at 04:40 PM
Hey hope and David..and others. Im tired of this ,could you please stop been races . We all pay taxes , even more when you apply for a citizenship or residence you have to prove to immigration that you are been PAID TAXES for ALL THE TIME that you live here. otherwise you cant be elegible to obtain a residence or citizenship. If you ask any H&R block or Liberty Tax Service you will LEARN that our community pay FEDERAL AND STATE TAXES. Dont said what you dont know. First document yourself to talk. We just need a legal opportunity to became LEGALS and not to take nobodys jobs. just to live here and raise our americans kids like yours. We hope that for a moment if you go to church like most of the people here, think about what Jesus teach us, to be equals and to love each others no matter what. religion, color, ORIGIN, nacionality. Just think about it and help your brothers and sisters in GOD. Thank you!! Have a Bless Day!!!
Posted by: Hello Location: NC on May 8, 2008 at 03:39 PM
If the illegals do not pay income taxes on the money they make, then they should be charged. The state and federal governments should not have to provide any public assistance to them. Legal residents are charged with state and federal tax evasion if it is discovered that income tax does not get paid on the wages they receive.
Posted by: FED UP Location: WITH ILLEGALS on May 8, 2008 at 01:23 PM
To the economist and all the others who like the illegals begins here because you say its best for the economy. Here ya go... let the poor helpless (NOT) people who mooch yes MOOCH off of the welfare do those jobs. Make them work! The prisoners who are on work release make them work! How many people do we have in this country drawing unemployment now? HMMM make them work! WE DO NOT NEED THESE ILLEGALS HERE. If the government would make all of these SORRY A** Americans who live off of the government work we would not so callingly need these illegal people here at all.
Posted by: hope Location: NC on May 8, 2008 at 12:14 PM
Spanish Girl, I forgot to mention. Spanish Guy was born in a Latin country. His parents brought him here to be raised. He is one of us now & honors his parents by being all that he can be. OoRah!! You rock Spanish Guy!! Thank you for the sacrifice.
Posted by: David Location: Manteo on May 8, 2008 at 12:08 PM
To NK of Washington - Everyone is given a fare shot at becoming a LEGAL US citizen. If not, they would have been shot on the spot. For those who feel the need to sneak across the border are I guess given the benefit of the doubt that they will do the right thing and register once they are here. Hood is talking about those who sneak over and never register. If you are expected to arrive by the US government before you come to the US then you are NOT considered an illegal. That means doing the proper paper work before crossing the border. But for those who sneak across, NO they were not expected by the US government and they have no intentions of living by the same rules and regulations as a citizen. Which include, paying taxes. So stop acting as though we owe you something when in all reality, illegals owe it to us to register and earn their way like the rest of us. If you want to be treated as an equal, THEN REGISTER TO BE AN EQUAL! Thats all we are asking of illegals.
Posted by: hope Location: Nc on May 8, 2008 at 12:08 PM
Spanish Girl, Maybe the people in your country could UNITE together and force change. Who knows, if you do, in about 200 years (or less), we may be clamoring over your borders!!
Posted by: hope Location: NC on May 8, 2008 at 11:59 AM
NK HOW do people coming over the borders, being paid under the table, pay taxes??? (I am speaking about those individuals that are not supposed to be here and do NOT have SS#)I know they pay sales taxes when US goods are purchased. I am referring to state & federal taxes that are taken off the top, you know, BEFORE they are paid. Please respond and thank you for speaking more clearly in your last post. Oh, and the point you make about the ads. I have never noticed them. If a farmer, or any employer, can get away with paying someone less than the minimum wage most will do it. Tell your friends to get their citizenship papers. I admire people willing to work hard! Key word being WORK. Not all Americans are drug dealers &/or hang out at the Welfare office. The large majority work & pay taxes. I have seen many Latino's in the Welfare office though.
Posted by: Spanish Girl on May 8, 2008 at 11:12 AM
Hey Spanish guy!!!.. How proud are you of your roots???... That your mom knows that you wrote this... Will be a good mothers day present for her.. Shame of you!!! Just because you were lucky and come to this country legal dosen't mean that you are better than others. Help your people instead that attack them.. You were a soldier and you left your own people behid.. Double Shame of you!!. And NC is not a Santuary . Illinois is a Santuary OK!!
Posted by: N K Location: Washington on May 8, 2008 at 10:55 AM
Just think for a moment about this article: Many seasonal small businesses across eastern Carolina, like the rest of the country, say they face the possibility of closing this summer. It's all due to a change in a legal way those businesses were allowed to hire temporary foreign workers. The goverment its no helping their own country providing visas to the people who can do this jobs. And where are the AMERICANS with legal documents to filling out this possitions....??? at the welfare or filling out applications to obtain the dissability, or at the corners of 7th street in washington selling drugs or stealing. You Americans think the you all are perfect and the immigrants without documents are NOBODY just because we don't have papers or we don't speak perfect english. If the lawmakers give us the opportunity to fix that. I will assure you all that everybody will learn your language and better that those who were born here. And by the way we all pay taxes even without a S.S. NUMBER.
Posted by: here Location: here on May 8, 2008 at 08:29 AM
N K please learn the English language. I can not believe the poor English I see written on these blogs everyday. I realize that blogging is an unformal way to communicate, but sometimes the writing is so bad I can even understand what point people are trying to make.
Posted by: N K Location: washinton.nc on May 8, 2008 at 07:36 AM
to hope..im a us ctizen....but am i saying something that is not true??? ok mr farmer how many calls so far???? why is there so many adds in the news paper and even here looking for people to work is it because the hispanics dont know how to read eanglish and wont read it?? is that why americans havent apply yet?? you all worry about them stilling our jobs or not??so tell yors friends that do pay taxas before some that does speak and reads eanglish get the job i meant a mexican since somebody is wiiling to pay low $ or you dont worry about jobs in the office?? well once they r legal here thats whats going to happen and then why r u all going to be unhappy or u wont???to the spanish guy mmmmmm nothing ichange my mind!!!jajaja
Posted by: a spanish guy.. Location: kinston on May 8, 2008 at 12:05 AM
I'm hispanic, born in a latin american country but raised here in the US. i served in the USMC honorably for 22 years. i am 100% against these illegals being here, but some of you need to recognize some facts and factors: NC is an illegal alien sanctuary.for the state, (government) it pays off to have them protected, have them working here in agriculture, pig farms, turkey farms, etc. work them to death, pay them $200.00 a week and they'll be happy. the nc dept of agriculture will make sure the local farmers have their cheap labor. farmers are very powerful. their political connections influence other governmental agencies such as DMV, Community college system, administrative office of the courts (AOC), social services, attorney generals office and the governors' mansion too. some of you are very passionate about this, either way.we all have our reasons and beliefs. remember this: they are here because the state government facilitates if. NC has looked the other way for too long.
Posted by: american Location: nc on May 7, 2008 at 11:13 PM
stop the winning boohoo boohoo and stay in school and of the cigarrets and cheap liqour and no illegal alien will compete for your high paying job and then you wont be woried about competing for a $6.50 or watever the minimum wage is this days
Posted by: hope Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 10:43 PM
N K are you legal? You seem very amused by this.
Posted by: hope Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 10:27 PM
A social security # is needed to pay taxes right? Our system can not continue to exist with people consuming its resources and not paying into it. Hospitals are being forced out of business because of the increasing number of uninsured people. School systems are overburdened... People coming over the border illegally are willing to work for less than the minimum wage, and as a result, they ARE putting Americans out of work. They are paid under the table and don't pay taxes. Some here have stated they do the jobs that no one else wants, yet people desperate for work will do these jobs. With the shape our economy is in many of us may be begging for these jobs in the future. Come to America, LEARN ENGLISH, obtain citizenship , PAY TAXES!!
Posted by: N K Location: washington nc on May 7, 2008 at 09:28 PM
Hey Mr farmer, how many calls??????i bet a lot of american peaople has call you...jajaja hurry up guys before the mexicans get your jobs.to the one that has nothing to eat here is a chance to work an eat better!!!! sad story even worst than the mexicans...just one think you never know when you r going to be where you think you wont..get it?? im just having fun seeing this is so easy to express your self here where they dont know whats the point just letting out of you???? well i like to be justlike you all for one day, so unhappay but i cant i will just keeep having fun whit you all....
Posted by: Douglas Location: Kinston on May 7, 2008 at 08:48 PM
Thank goodness for the people in the fields, without them us sorry Americans would never get any fresh produce. Who cares if they are legal or not at least they are willing to work. Like someone else said how many whites or blacks do you see in the fields today?
Posted by: kinston Location: nc on May 7, 2008 at 08:09 PM
All of you idiots with such great hearts, keep on with your way of thinking, next thing you know, we the Americans, will be in worse shape than we are. It is time to start taking care of ourselves. Go, David and tell it like it is. Be kind to everyone but kinder to your fellow American. It is time that we take a stand on the working tax payers. Most I see at my job have very nice big vehicles, but no NC drivers license. Of course that means they drive with no insurance and no drivers license. They cant even speak our language. Go Home! I feel no sympathy for you if you are not willing to follow our laws and language. You can't even shop in peace for the likes of the non speaking English people hovering in the isles.. why? Because they are not in a hurry. they have no job to get back to! And the people that hire the illegals are just as bad. You are promoting this country's downfall.
Posted by: N K Location: washington nc on May 7, 2008 at 08:08 PM
Where is my comment???????? Editors comment: Please refrain from using all caps when posting. Your comment will be automatically deleted.
Posted by: Brandon Location: 465 blake st on May 7, 2008 at 07:25 PM
Immigrants are working hard to help their families from their native countries with some money. the immigrants are trying to follow the laws but the current president won't do anything about this situation.
Posted by: BIG J Location: SNOWHILL on May 7, 2008 at 06:46 PM
You go David of Manteo.You are so right.It is about time someone tell it like it is.I am also tired of Washington and N.C. taking and taxing me to the poor house and giving the foreignor a pile of Food Stamps.They buy pork chops and steaks while i buy a can of Beans and if I have enough after that I May get some Rice to go with the beans. Come American,,I was born here ,,,,I went to war,,Gave you a arm and a leg.When do I get Mine.Now I pick up the phone to make a call and it saids {PRESS 1 For English] I was born here ,,,,yes I want English.Come on now,,,WAKE UP American. And I am with he Washington SHUT! Every time you open your mouth you take from me and give it to someone else.I worked hard for what I Got.As little as it is.Leave me alone.
Posted by: Confused Location: Albertson on May 7, 2008 at 06:36 PM
Yes, a lot of money has been spent on none English speaking people, look at us Americans, welfare, disability and umemployment! Like the farmer said he has work available. Everyone knows you're better off not to work because big brother pays you not to! If the free money would stop you would see a lot of Americans in the fields working.
Posted by: kat Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 06:19 PM
To David in Manteo: Crime is not increasing. From the Department of Justice: "Since 1994, violent crime rates have declined, reaching the lowest level ever recorded in 2005." Here's a chart showing the crime rate falling: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/glance/viort.htm
Posted by: Brownie Location: Kinston on May 7, 2008 at 06:06 PM
One reason the illegals are getting the jobs is because some many Americans are on welfare or disability! The latest cause is anxiety attacks. How many white folks or black folks do you see in the fields today? Americans have put theirselves out of jobs.
Posted by: kat Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 06:00 PM
1. Illegal immigrants do not qualify for "welfare" or any public benefits except emergency room care. Even legal immigrants do not qualify for public benefits the first 5 years they are here. 2. It is exceptionally difficult to enter this country legally, and for millions of people there is no path to legal citizenship at all. 3. The harsh immigration laws we have now did not exist when our parents, grandparents, and other ancestors came. Many of them were passed in 1996, making it much more difficult for people to come. 4. Everyone who participated in Monday's event was a legal immigrant. 5. Everyone in this country has the constitutional right to freedom of speech. Please get your facts straight before you make hateful comments like the ones below.
Posted by: keke Location: trenton on May 7, 2008 at 05:47 PM
They need to go back to where they came from. They get anything they need over here dont nobody check their credit, social services love them they give them $600 in stamps and they have about 1000 people staying under 1 roof. Can someone expain please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I guess I need to be one of them.I would be livivng large
Posted by: David Location: Manteo on May 7, 2008 at 04:59 PM
America is known as "The Land of Opportunity" but at what cost? For years, we have spend tax dollars upon tax dollars catering to none English speaking people. Businesses throughout the country are having to hire translaters. Phone companies are changing phone systems to suit them. I for one, am tired of going into a store and seeing a foreignor using foodstamps and driving a brand new American vehicle. More and more jobs are moving over seas for cheaper wages and the crime rate has been on the increase since the gates were lowered years ago. Foreignors are taking the American dollar and sending it over seas to help out their countries. While we are falling to our knees, other countries are getting richer from OUR money. When will it be our turn? When will the American people come first? What do we have to do to get any respect in OUR OWN COUNTRY? Oh and "friend - Washington," SHUT UP! You are probably one of those Hood is talking about!
Posted by: farmer Location: east carolina on May 7, 2008 at 04:44 PM
all right i need 20 "great us citizen Americans" that cant find because an illegal took it from you 10 hour shift 6 days a week in 90degees plus weather pay is whatever the employment comission payscale is.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: nc on May 7, 2008 at 04:36 PM
God helps those who help themselves! Problem is illegals are doing a whole lot of helping themselves to "FREE" money that HARD WORKING AMERICANS actually WORK for. If they would follow the laws there would be no problem. I do however have a problem with illegals coming over here and driving drunk, getting in wrecks, and killing INNOCENT people that follow the laws. Then they are deported and are back over here before the paperwork is complete. THATS WHAT I HAVE A PROBLEM WITH. I am not calling out "Mexicans" but did you ever hear of MS-13 before illegals started coming over here? NO! They were gangs before they came to the USA, but since they have come Gangs are taking over. If you dont see that you got blinders on. I like the answer to send them all to Iraq, and let them earn their citizenship. GOD BLESS!!!
Posted by: Anna Location: Washington on May 7, 2008 at 04:35 PM
For those who are against the immigrants..see this article The Daily Reflector Tuesday, May 06, 2008Immigrants will have an increasingly important role in our nation's future to offset problems arising from an aging baby boomer generation, James H. Johnson, Jr. said.Johnson, a distinguished professor of management at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, presented his research on the economic impact of immigration at the "Latino Immigration: Myths and Realities" program Monday at the Murphy Center.Greg Eans/The Daily Reflector James H. Johnson Jr., a professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, speaks about the economic benefit the state has seen from Latino immigration. Johnson spoke at an event Monday at the Murphy Center on the East Carolina University campus. "Today, there is not one North Carolina county left untouched by Hispanic immigration," Johnson, a native of Pitt County, said. To see the article and stop been ignorant go to www.reflector.com
Posted by: Hello Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 04:21 PM
Tobacco (not "tabacoo") is not "cut" - it is pulled from the stalk either by hand or machine. No, you normally do not see “Americans” harvesting the crops - tobacco, fruits, vegetables, etc. Machinery is used whenever possible and it is operated by both legal and illegal humans. I would love to be paid in cash by my employer and not have to report that I am being paid. This is how illegal AND some legal residents of North Carolina and the United States are able to apply for and receive public assistance to help buy groceries, pay for education, health care, day care, etc. Those of us who are honest and pay taxes have to manage without public assistance and do not have cash on hand to spend at our leisure.
Posted by: tired on May 7, 2008 at 03:52 PM
Yes of course the illegals are the ones doing those jobs, but that's only because they are cheaper labor. Believe me I know plenty of white people that worked in those fields, and I can guarantee that the only reason you may believe they do not is because the farmer has found cheaper labor and taken advantage of that. Therefore, illegals are still STEALING people's jobs.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: ayden,north carolina on May 7, 2008 at 03:31 PM
while most americans are at home watching tv, most immigrants are at work.how many times have you seen a american in the field cutting tabacoo?lets see..........not very often.cause most of the time you see immagrants cut it for all you white smokers.and i bet most of you think most vegtables and furits come in a can all ready.but guess what they dont.and who do you think plants,and harvests all this?immigrants.also most of the buildings are made by illegel immigrants.so if when were not here none of this would be.so dont hate.
Posted by: Friend Location: Washington on May 7, 2008 at 03:25 PM
Almost a 100% of this commentaries come from ignorant people, frustrate people because they can'not with the hispanic or latino people. We are praying for them because they need Jesus in their hearts.
Posted by: tired on May 7, 2008 at 02:34 PM
It's not so much immigrants bothering people as illegal immigrants and them not being willing to learn the language of the country. I'm sorry but I whole heartedly agree with sending illegals back. They take the jobs, and before someone says they take the ones we do not want, look at the amount of the country unemployed when you say that. I'm sure an unemployed person would gladly take one of these jobs over nothing at all. They will not learn English, they want options for their language on phone systems and signs, etc. It's not right for us to accommodate them when we do not accommodate all the other languages. After all the only people not from an immigrant family or an immigrant themselves would be some american indians. I say if they are not willing to go through the legal channels to get here, then they should not be here.
Posted by: K Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 02:24 PM
Where did the surname "Richardson" come from? I think all our ancestors came from another country to USA to have a better life. My grandparents are Polish, came to the US on a cattle boat to free themselves from persecution. They had to learn to speak English, get their citizenship, and obey ALL of our laws or they would get deported. I think the same should apply to the Mexicans. Please note that the Beaufort Observer is biased!!!
Posted by: John Location: Williamston on May 7, 2008 at 02:12 PM
Wait until you or someone in your family cannot get a job because of the illegals, then you people who support them will change your mind. At the present they are taking jobs away from young men in construction. I know this for a fact. Have a friend who had been working (4 years) for a masonry contractor until they discovered cheap illegal labor. He was told he was no longer needed. Forty-five percent in Detroit and twenty-five percent in Washington DC of young black males are unemployed and this is the direct result of illegal immigration.
Posted by: Think about it Location: Ayden, nc on May 7, 2008 at 01:54 PM
We no longer hava a work force willing to slave away in the heat of the day and do the hard back breaking labor necessary to build cities and roads so who should do these jobs? Better it should be someone willing to and able and pump dollars back into the economy, regardless of where they come from. Do you want to pick tobacco or put in sidewalks????
Posted by: mjb Location: windsor on May 7, 2008 at 01:47 PM
To someone who cares: Nobody said the doctors wouldn't treat them. Doctors don't take vowels, they take oaths.
Posted by: cickie Location: belhaven on May 7, 2008 at 12:32 PM
keisha.......... you don't have to tell me what was done to the native american.... i am part cherokee so i know very well. but if you come here illegally then you can expect to get sent home. it's hard yes to get papers if you are here illegally but it's not impossible. i know of several people who have done it!
Posted by: Hello Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 10:28 AM
If employers take out, report, and pay taxes on immigrants' income and then the immigrants file yearly tax returns like most of us do who work, that's fine. Most immigrants are paid under the table and report no income because they do not want to draw attention to themselves. This is equally detrimental to our economy.
Posted by: anonymous Location: nc on May 7, 2008 at 10:07 AM
Supply and Demand that is a big reason why people are coming in if the jobs were not available people would stay or find somwhere else to survive I only see (fear) on all those negative comments towards hispanics, its the diversity and the unwilling to give any human being a chance for a better life thanks ask yourself this ?????WHAT WOULD JESUS DO??
Posted by: Economist Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 09:48 AM
Do you people realize what would happen if we got rid of all the illegal immigrants? Inflation would sky rocket and our economy here in NC and across the county would tank 10 times worse than it is now. Key businesses in NC, like construction and agriculture, rely on immigrant workers to survive. Without them, these companies would be short hundreds of thousands of workers and would all go out of business. Personally, I'm thankful that so many immigrants want to come to our great state and keep our economy thriving.
Posted by: Hello Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 09:23 AM
Violating Constitutional rights should not even be an issue. The Constitution of the United States should not apply to people who are in the U.S. illegally/undocumented. Thankfully, N.C. DMV no longer issues or renews driver's licenses without proper documentation of citizenship. Other state and federal agencies should also require proper documentation of citizenship before providing assistance to anyone. Yes, this will open the doors for fake documents to be presented when seeking assistance, driver's licenses, etc. but that has been going on for years.
Posted by: Jessica Location: Raleigh on May 7, 2008 at 09:15 AM
This story missed the critical point that those who spoke to the commissioners on Monday were all legally present in the United States. Mosts were U.S. citizens, some were legal permanent residents. Many were born in the country and not Hispanic at all. Even an Asian fellow from the Philippines (NOT Latin America) spoke. Please check articles at the Beaufort Observer and Washington Daily News for a more accurate account of Monday's meeting. Please stop thinking that all people with Spanish surnames are here undocumented. It's just not true, and that's what Monday's message was.
Posted by: Mary Location: Snow Hill on May 7, 2008 at 08:57 AM
Who are they to protest?!?!? What voice or rights do they have...NONE. Sounds like a good opportunity to check illegal versus legal status was missed. It is about time someone stood up to these people. They come here illegally which is the first law they break..they disobey our laws that apply to driving and insurance making them a danger to everyone they pass on the road. They refuse to learn our language and they abuse our welfare system. We all know the people that hire illegal immigrants. Search the businesses - fine the owners - round them up and send them back to Mexico. They are a drain on our society, our welfare system and our school systems. Oh, and as far as them being the only ones who want to work...Greene County has at least two prisons - I suggest we put them on work detail. We can put them on a bus and let them do some work for a change...Deport Deport Deport - Thank you Mr. Richardson!!!
Posted by: do what Location: nc on May 7, 2008 at 08:29 AM
whatever joe from greenville, maybe you could house a few...mmm
Posted by: Joe Location: Greenville on May 7, 2008 at 01:50 AM
Most of you that have posted comments, make them based on your biased and unsubstatiated truths. We let the best of our emotions (fears) get the best of us. I urge you to contact Homeland Security and find out how easy it is, as many of you assume it is to "become a citizen"( it is almost impossible). Instead of hollowering "Go home" try contacting your goverment representatives and ask why they don't support helping people become legal. Where are those voices? You want people to "pay taxes, speak & learn English, become citizens" then extend the Christian hand and help. The flaw in the commisioners logic is that anyone with a Spanish surname will be discriminated not just the "illegals". You can not make Hispanics second class citizens because some of them are undocumented. Discrimination is against the constitution of this nation.
Posted by: William Location: H. on May 7, 2008 at 01:41 AM
Kudos on your reporting of election resualts on your web-site.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: NC on May 7, 2008 at 12:51 AM
Illegal immigrants come here with there sad stories that they want to better themselves,People say americans don't want to do the work illegals do but, that's not the case, there just cheap labor for awhile and then they learn about our wonderful welfare system and don't need to work anymore. So when they are working, how is there low,low wages helping our economy? Employers don't want to pay the americans good money so they hire illegals (cheap labor). Illegals can't live off that pay for long either. So now we are paying for them too.
Posted by: Cactus Location: Strabane,NC on May 6, 2008 at 11:42 PM
To Katie of Greenville: How about the envision of England by the Poles via France. 2008. England is lost and gone forever never more to return. My problem is if Obama becomes president will he opt to become part of the EU.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 6, 2008 at 10:43 PM
What gives them the right to protest if they are here illegally. Where are our police officers to arrest the ones that are illegal.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 6, 2008 at 09:59 PM
The only ones protesting this is the guilty ones! If your not guilty, then you shouldnt have anything to worry about. If you are here illegally, go back to your own country or register to be a US citizen and pay your dues like everyone else. David couldn't have said it better myself!!!!
Posted by: yea! on May 6, 2008 at 09:41 PM
Alright Commissioner Richardson! ...Wish Pitt County would do the same thing.Maybe then I could get a closer park at the Walmart on the weekends!!!(LOL).
Posted by: Cactus Location: Strabane,NC on May 6, 2008 at 09:24 PM
Latin Americans: How about the US begin to base your imigration into the US based upon your on contries rules and laws for imirgration. Would that be fair? I think so. I can hear you yelling how unfair that would be.
Posted by: chris Location: greenville on May 6, 2008 at 09:10 PM
BOO HOO, The Mexicans are mad. If you don't like what Hood has to say, it is a hop, skip and jump to go back where you came from. Here's a clue, we don't want usted aqui. HOOD FOR PRESIDENT '08. Adios Mexicanos(wishful thinking)
Posted by: JJ Location: Eastern NC on May 6, 2008 at 08:59 PM
I heard someone say to bring our troops home and send the ones that are here illegaly. Give them the choice to go to Iraq with a gun and some ammo to get a US citizenship, or just go to Iraq empty handed. Then the ones that cross the border get a one way ticket over there. After they are gone gas prices will come down. So it is a WIN WIN. HAHA
Posted by: JAMES Location: Manteo on May 6, 2008 at 08:01 PM
Every person who is not supposed to be here in the USA should be tracked down and deported.They should not recieve any assistance,and those who employ them should be treated as drug dealers are. Take the employers properties and assets if found guilty of employing illegals. Also our American children are being forced by school systems to learn spanish.
Posted by: Katie Location: Greenville on May 6, 2008 at 07:25 PM
Hmm. East Europe, 1940?
Posted by: John Location: Washington on May 6, 2008 at 06:09 PM
Keep up the fight Hood. Just one question.Why didn't the law pick them up when they were protesting? Give em Hood
Posted by: David Location: Manteo on May 6, 2008 at 01:35 PM
Another thing that is ruining our country and should be stopped is foreigners who are working in the United States and are sending American money home to help their families over seas. That is hurting our country and should be stopped! Why aren't these news stations investigating this? We have Russians, Mexicans, etc... here on the Outer Banks who come here to help support their families over seas and I feel it is not right. We aren't getting any help from other countries, what makes them so special? If we are going to fix issues in the United States, lets fix them right, all at one time. Stop the illegals, stop the American dollar from going over seas in supporting those families and lock down all borders from allowing illegals to pass over. Its not America's fault they are in need.. We are in need as well but we aren't getting the help we need. Why should they? And why are they?
Posted by: David Location: Manteo on May 6, 2008 at 01:28 PM
To Laura, if your parents pay taxes and are legally allowed to me here, then no they have every right to remain in the states but they not, they yes they should be forced to back to their country. We have enough going on in our country, we should not have to lose what is left to illegals who are only here for the money. Everyone who is in America, should have to pay their dues just like the rest of us. We work hard for what we have. Should illegals have the right to just come here and take it all away? NO! Its bad enough our American companies are moving to Mexico for cheaper wages. America is falling to its knees and we need to do everything we can to stand it back up right. The only ones protesting this is the guilty ones! If your not guilty, then you shouldnt have anything to worry about. If you are here illegally, go back to your own country or register to be a US citizen and pay your dues like everyone else.
Posted by: do what Location: nc on May 6, 2008 at 01:11 PM
i totally agree ned! excellant comment !
Posted by: Kisha Location: Newport on May 6, 2008 at 01:00 PM
Laura of New Jersey I most certainly agree with you. Cickie- Last I remember the 'legal' immigrants you speak of came over to America and forced the Native Americans out. That my friend is Stealing. Then they turned their back on their mother country and founded the United States of America. Stealing and Treason are both illegal activities but that is what it took to create the country that you love so much today. Most Americans get past all the hoops you have to jump through to become a citizen and yet we expect foreigners to. No one is forcing you to learn spanish and I wouldnt expect you to as you obviously have not mastered english yet.
Posted by: Every legal citizen Location: NC on May 6, 2008 at 12:57 PM
Get over yourselfs and get out!!!
Posted by: Brian Location: Bath on May 6, 2008 at 12:45 PM
Hurray for Hood!! As he stated, he has no problem with legal citizens. Those who marched the other night, are a speck of the legal/illegal aliens here and more coming because we are nice folks. SERIOUSLY, it's time for a round up....WARNING please learn english, take the citizenship test or go home(wherever).Enough is enough, and if the Federal Government can't do it, we best start at the local level.....Hurray for Hood...and others that follow in his foot steps. MARCH ON....back home!
Posted by: alex Location: vancbor on May 6, 2008 at 11:50 AM
the latin americans didn't seem to be upset when an illegal was caught driving drunk. they didn't seem to be upset when an illegal committed murder here in Vanceboro. They weren't even upset over the number of illegals showing up for free medical care in the Emergency Room looking for a treatment for a head cold. seems to me they need to be deported & muted.

Slightly Edited

Posted by: John Location: Chocowinity on May 6, 2008 at 11:45 AM
I certainly do not claim to have the answer to our proper response and action needed to deal with our country's overall immigration situation. I do have strong feelings of how we should treat all people, based on our Christian responsibility. We should not, and by our Constitution legally may not, categorize in an effort to discriminate against anyone based on gender, race, religion, etc. Any consideration of grouping individuals based on their surnames certainly seems to me to fall within this category.
Posted by: Mark Location: Bath on May 6, 2008 at 11:40 AM
The last thing this country needs is people who only want to work hard and make their lives better. Oh wait . . .
Posted by: Holly Location: Dallas on May 6, 2008 at 11:18 AM
I think America needs to leave Mexican/Latino alike alone. They are not at threat to American what so ever. America it was the Arabians who attached America they are the ones who hate America they ran America's plain into the Twin Tower not the Latinos.Are you people for real they do the jobs no American will do and you know this America so back off of these People they work very hard to get very little pay and all we show them is Hate. America what is wrong with this country don't we know good People when we see them anymore. They just want what the people before them wanted and still do a better life for them and their children. America go live in Mexico or other Latin countries so you to will apprieciate America more and will start to show the Latino's more repect. Walk in their shows for awhile and see if you too will not be tring to cross the border just the same as they do. They are people too they feel just like you do they bleed like you do so stop being such a jerk about it.

Minor Edit

Posted by: AS Location: Greenville on May 6, 2008 at 11:01 AM
To Laura...if your parents are here illegally then YES they should either have to apply for legal status or go home. I realize that our country was founded on immigrants and people should be allowed to immagrate to the US, learn the language, pay taxes(not just their employers), and contribute to society, but there are guidelines for such things and so why not start off right..do it all legal.
Posted by: cickie on May 6, 2008 at 10:31 AM
if you are here leglly wy wouldthis bother you. this country was and is made up of immigrants... legal one. get legal or go home. and i for one am not going to lera to speak sanis. your in amrica speak eglish. oh and like someone else sad pay your car insurance( my dad was killed by a uninsured driver, with no dirves license. neverspent a day in jail) i have to py mine!!
Posted by: SC Location: Greenville on May 6, 2008 at 10:26 AM
Hood Richardson needs to run for President! We need more people in government seats that will finally stand up for the American people. And if these people that are marching are ILLEGAL immigrant, they have no right to be marching. If they want to march, they need to march their illegals butts back across the border, and stay there. If they are legal, then you have the same rights as any other american citizen and Im sure Mr. Richardson isnt focusing on you. Legal is legal, illegal shouldnt be tolerated under any circumstance.
Posted by: mom Location: everywhere on May 6, 2008 at 09:53 AM
I agree that illegals should not be here ,butwhat are they taking from all the hard working AMERICANS? other than the jobs that most Americans do not want to do. If they all go home,are you going to work in the fields or on the farms? I doubt it. They are not taking your family,your house or anything that should be the most important to you.
Posted by: laura Location: new jersey on May 6, 2008 at 09:43 AM
Our country was made up of immigrants. Why are these any different. I am a Puerto Rican American with a Spanish surname who is bilingual and a professional, Should my parents go back?
Posted by: Ned Location: Ct on May 6, 2008 at 09:36 AM
Why can't people like this win public office nationally? This country had better wake up the the illegal alien problem soon. It's getting close to midnight. McCain is back on his "comprehensive" approach to illegals.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 6, 2008 at 09:36 AM
everyone keeps saying they are taking american jobs but they are doing the jobs that nobody wants i cant knock a person for trying to work
Posted by: Tim Location: Vanceboro on May 6, 2008 at 09:14 AM
now the surrounding county commisioners should do the same. Maybe if that sent a few illegals home the crime rate would also go down...Gee do illegals commit crimes...thats why they are called illegals. Jumpin' the fence is not the only illegal act they commit in many cases!
Posted by: CC Location: GREENVILLE on May 6, 2008 at 09:06 AM
He would have my vote!! I say run them ALL back across the border. So were more able to take care of our own. Our elderly and needy are suffering because our goverment is paying our so much to take care of the illegals! SEND THEM ALLLLLLLL BACK ACROSS THE BORDER!!!!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 6, 2008 at 09:01 AM
Way to go!!!!....Glad to know someone, has guts to take a stand!
Posted by: D. Location: Windsor on May 6, 2008 at 08:33 AM
If the "illegals" don't like it they can GO HOME! DON'T come over here and take what HARD working AMERICANS work for AND learn some ENGLISH!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 6, 2008 at 08:32 AM
YOU GO Commissioner Richardson!! IT IT TIME TO TAKE A STAND!!!
Posted by: Ron Location: Merritt on May 6, 2008 at 07:29 AM
Good for Hood!!! I wonder how many of the protestors themselves were illegals. I'm sure that no illegal Mexican has the surname Jones or Smith. This nonsense about profiling has got to stop! The mere fact that people were protesting is testament to the atmosphere of liberal political correctness that surrounds us today. The illegals are laughing in our faces!
Posted by: Common Sense says on May 6, 2008 at 07:14 AM
Rounding up people based on their ethnicity or last name is similar to others..... where have we heard this before... oh yea... Germany in the 1930's and 40's.... It's 2008, you can't be serious...
Posted by: Barbara Location: Beulaville on May 6, 2008 at 07:02 AM
Finally someone who has the guts to stand up for what is right. Way to go
Posted by: michael Location: martin county on May 6, 2008 at 06:48 AM
Hood Richardson For President. it's about time somebody tries to do something to help take the pressure off the American working man.
Posted by: Lyn Location: Blounts Creek,NC on May 6, 2008 at 06:07 AM
Thanks to public health, we keep stuff like TB and STDs under control. What most folks don't know is that the vast majority of illegal immigrants pay taxes and social security (most employers assume they ARE legal) but the illegal ones don't file taxes or apply for social security benefits of any type for fear of getting caught. So who's really paying for all this? They are. Hood is just afraid of the world changing around him - always hss. Instead of finding good ways to work with people and find good solutions, he's rather stay on his bickering butt and criticize and make enemies. He loves the publicity. Reminds me of the bullied kid in elementary school who grows up to spend his life making sure everybody else knows who they were picking on... and why.
Posted by: Mike Location: Edenton on May 6, 2008 at 05:57 AM
I wouldn't imagine there are a lot of "legal" latins here to protest. Where was I.N.S. when the protest was going? If the "illegals" don't like it they can GO HOME!
Posted by: Glen Location: Washington on May 6, 2008 at 05:55 AM
If you haven't broken the law, then what is the problem? Step up, be identified and if you are incorrectly registered you need to correct it. If you have a child that is a citizen and you are not, then you have a big problem. Correct it or get out with you child until you do. Seems to me you are making a problem worse when you should help to get it straight. Proceed Mr. Richardson and Thanks.
Posted by: Bikerwolf Location: Eastern NC on May 6, 2008 at 03:02 AM
Finally ......... Someone with some backbone ...... If I lived in Beaufort county, you'd have my vote. No Habla Espanol.
Posted by: Jerry Location: Greenville on May 6, 2008 at 12:31 AM
I agree the sick and injured should be helped. However I feel immigrates should have to pay just as working Americans. Too many people mostly Hispanics are coming to America illegally and receiving free health care. Having many children for nearly nothing when we have to pay 3,000.00 or more with health care coverage. The funny thing that upsets me the most is I am expected to learn SPANISH!!!! I should not have to press 1 for ENGLISH, or when shopping, flip an item three times looking for the ENGLISH side to read. I feel all immigrates should learn our language. While I am on this subject; PAY VEHICLE INSURANCE, GET DRIVER'S LICENSE, AND KEEP THEM. No, I don't think illegal immigrates should be able to het driver's license.
Posted by: someone who cares Location: williamston on May 5, 2008 at 11:24 PM
When the doctors made the vowel to heal the sick and hurt,they didn't say all but illegal immigrants,so I think by refusing to help them as well,is a breach of the vowel. The main thing Im most concerned about is; if they don't treat the sick illegals their families that are legal that are in schools will transfer the sickness to other kids and then to their parents and back into the public so by tring to hurt them you are only hurting yourselves and thats comment about that.
Posted by: voter Location: nc on May 5, 2008 at 11:06 PM
way to go commissioner, keep up the good work
Posted by: John Location: USA on May 5, 2008 at 10:54 PM
I don't mind people coming to America to better themselves, but DON'T come over here and take what HARD working AMERICANS work for! If they ("they" meaning anyone that comes over illegaly) would work, pay taxes, and EARN their citizenship we would be better off. OH... and learn some ENGLISH!!!
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