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* From Facebook…
The accompanying video is here.
* Phil Kadner…
“The immigrants are coming! They’re bringing children from Central America here!”
That was the cry that arose from some panicked Southland residents this week after more than 100 military vehicles suddenly appeared on the campus of Cook County’s Oak Forest Health Center, 159th Street and Cicero Avenue.
“I’m almost 100 percent positive they will be shipping all the illegals from Mexico by the hundreds of thousands there …” one man emailed, sending a photo of the vehicles to illustrate his point.
Others called the SouthtownStar convinced that teenage immigrants from Central America soon would be camped out on the grounds of what used to be Oak Forest Hospital.
Earlier this week, Illinois Review received several queries about military vehicles suddenly showing up at the now-closed Oak Forest Hospital at 159th and Cicero Avenue. Speculations were running wild, as some thought the National Guard was preparing for a citizen uprising, while others suggested that the federal government was transferring unaccompanied minors from the southern border to house in Oak Forest.
The hospital, deemed as an emergency shelter by Homeland Security, was used to house homeless victims after the Katrina hurricane.
Actually, those Katrina refugees were housed in Tinley Park.
* As it turns out, the vehicles were moved to make way for parking lot improvements. From the Illinois National Guard…
Parking Lot Improvements Underway at Crestwood Armory
Vehicles temporarily parked at nearby health center
Crestwood, Ill. – Construction is scheduled to begin this week at the Illinois Army National Guard’s Crestwood armory parking lot, 13838 S. Springfield Ave in Robbins, Ill.
The $1.5 million project will upgrade and rehabilitate the current parking lot. Construction includes drainage improvements, on-site storm-water management and improvements to the current loading ramp. It will also include new lighting, paved concrete areas and an additional gravel lot for parking.
The project will last four to six months. Throughout the project, military vehicles will park at the Oak Forrest Health Center in parking spots leased by Cook County.
Additional construction at the Crestwood armory includes improvements to the Field Maintenance Shop’s driveway approaches. A future construction project will include interior improvements to the armory.
The Crestwood armory is home to multiple Illinois Army National Guard units including Company B, 405th Brigade Support Battalion; Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 122nd Field Artillery Regiment; Company G, 634th Brigade Support Battalion; Company F, Recruit Sustainment Program; 1744th Transportation Company; 108th Signal Company and Joint Force Headquarters Medical Detachment.
* Back to Kadner…
As for the sight of military vehicles scaring people, imagine what life would be like in a country where those vehicles are manned by hostile government forces intent on doing harm to anyone considered a threat to those in power. There are a lot of nations like that in the world right now.
We’re lucky. And sharing some of that good fortune, or at least showing people a little kindness, might not be the worst thing that ever happened to this country.
Why there’s so much fear among so many in a nation that has so much (even in the aftermath of the Great Recession) is both baffling and troubling.
posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:20 pm
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…*there, Man call? Oy Vey, I’ll take the calls to make English the national language when the pushers of such have at least a small command of said language.
Comment by Tweed Jacket Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:28 pm
Yes, there are those intent on doing harm. Just look at the Russian separatist and the Palestinians. Thankful for our strong military.
Comment by Apocolypse Now Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:29 pm
===“I’m almost 100 percent positive they will be shipping all the illegals from Mexico by the hundreds of thousands there …” one man emailed, sending a photo of the vehicles to illustrate his point.===
Unfortunately, you can’t deport stupid.
Comment by Timmeh Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:31 pm
I agree. People seem to freak out over the littlest things.
Sadly, in America today people yell about their rights (being infringed - in their minds) but are quiet when their responsibilities as Americans come up.
Comment by Sir Reel Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:32 pm
I find it strange and decidedly un-American that a wave of child refugees fleeing horrible violence and poverty in their homeland causes so much fear in people.
There was a time when compassion was the first response to a tragedy like this. Now we have Senator Kirk and others demanding criminal background checks on children before they can receive shelter while awaiting their due process. We have protesters blocking buses from transporting these refugees to shelter. I always hear so much about this being a Christian nation, that it surprises me how un-Christian this behavior is.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:32 pm
It’s sad when people don’t trust the government to be open and honest, scarelarity ensues.
Comment by Wumpus Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:32 pm
The Grand Ole Party (GOP), who often invoke the name of Jesus in defending their policy shortcomings, should read Rex Huppke’s article from the July 8th edition of the Chicago Tribune, “Behold, the drunk uncle-ization of America”
Huppke says the following:
“What those protesters fail to understand is that these immigrants are being processed per the laws of the land. Most of them come from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, and the unaccompanied children are protected under the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008, which was signed into law by President George W. Bush.”
Comment by Knome Sane Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:33 pm
I think Extremism is driven by certain TV networks and the internet. They get attention by launching conspiracy theories to further their political agendas.
Comment by Stones Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:33 pm
== more than 100 military vehicles suddenly appeared ==
That will draw interest any town, any state, USA.
That will also going to draw out the wide variety
of responses on display in Rich’s post. Mostly sane, some crazy. The crazy ones, of course, are much more entertaining.
Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:38 pm
it doesn’t matter, people will still believe the original story, even more so if CNN or MSNBC covers it. jeesh, Propaganda, still works…
Comment by PoolGuy Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:38 pm
I’d hope that of these conspiracy theorists bouts of irrational thoughts came true and Homeland Security was having a military build up it would be more than transportation vehicles. I bet a full 35% of those trucks wouldn’t make it 5 miles. Source: Anyone who has ever done motor pool Mondays.
Comment by GV Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:41 pm
Maybe somebody should tell the Illinois Review that those crossing the border are “extremely late term fetuses.” Then IR would do everything possible to save them.
But to the general point about extremism and paranoia — there is blame to go around. Certain networks and websites obviously play it up, but certain candidates/elected officials in IL are equally guilty. One State Senator in particular seems more than willing to let the crazies rant on his Facebook page. An occasional word from electeds might help the situation.
Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:42 pm
FKA you’re right the crazy are more entertaining.
had friends who were convinced from emails circa 2009-2010 that if Obama was reelected he was going to tax every gun a person owned every year, and also tax all their bullets. my educated friends believed it even when I was laughing at them. cause if came in an email from a friend who forwarded it to them. had to be true.
Comment by PoolGuy Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:43 pm
“We’re lucky. And sharing some of that good fortune, or at least showing people a little kindness, might not be the worst thing that ever happened to this country.”
Kindness to destitute children! Tyranny!
Check out Kris Deutsch’s Facebook page, his wallpaper is John 3:16. Pretty sure god loved the world buddy. Or maybe he would support putting foreign (illegal alien, sorry) children on a train south without ensuring they have a safe place to go.
Comment by Lil Squeezy Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:45 pm
Teh crazy, it burns.
But to your comment about what if those vehicles were used by hostile government forces… Well the police in this country aren’t exactly storm troopers, but they are recieving surplus military vehicles. Hey, better than destroying them I suppose and just the presence of an MRAP appears to have ended a standoff the other day.
Comment by Jimbo Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:45 pm
“I find it strange and decidedly un-American that a wave of child refugees fleeing horrible violence and poverty in their homeland causes so much fear in people.”
I agree. When I see footage of people screaming at the refugee children to get out of America, I wonder how many of these people Bible-thump when it suits them.
If they want an America with Christian values, they should start with Matthew 25:34-40.
Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:47 pm
Gooner knows how to talk to the folks at IR. Good one!
Comment by Jimbo Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:48 pm
Grandson, they might also try reading the inscription on the Statue of Liberty. This country once welcomed immigrants. It’s a good thing too, because most of our families didn’t cross a land bridge from Asia thousands of years ago.
Comment by Jimbo Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:50 pm
== And sharing some of that good fortune, or at least showing people a little kindness, might not be the worst thing that ever happened to this country. ==
Most certainly.
I would ask Mr. Kadner, however, where the line should be drawn.
Do we accept unlimited numbers of immigrants every year? Should we do away with any “line” whatsoever?
Do we accept only those under 12? 14? 16? 18? 20?
Do we accept only children? What about single adults who are pregnant or their mothers? Their fathers? Do we prevent them from reuniting and break up families?
Do we only accept the young and healthy? What about the elderly or infirm?
Do we accept only those who have training and skills in areas our country has a shortage? What about those with no special training, no education and no prospects but a strong desire to work?
Where does that line get drawn?
Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:55 pm
== cause if came in an email from a friend who forwarded it to them. had to be true. ==
Poolguy - especially when they are the 50th person it has been forwarded to on the email chain. It’s like the crazy is self-reinforcing or something.
Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 1:57 pm
===Where does that line get drawn?===
You might want to start your homework with learning the difference between refugees and immigrants. Also, feel free to learn something, anything about federal immigration law and policy over the past 50-60 years.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:03 pm
47th WARD
You can call them refugees, immigrants or whatever you want.
Their current status is illegal.
Comment by MOON Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:10 pm
== You might want to start ==
by reading Kadner’s article. He focuses more upon the broader issue of immigration, human desire to build a better life and the xenophobic knee-jerk reactions of some. There are also 4 uses of the term “illegal” and 0 uses of the term refugee.
Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:13 pm
===Their current status is illegal===
You mis-spelled your own screen name MOON, there should be an R in the middle there. Try the google genius. Take half a minute and try to understand the subject we’re discussing. Thanks.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:13 pm
FKA, I understand your concern, but the fact that we would have to draw a line somewhere, doesn’t mean we should refuse to do it. These are refugees. At the very least we can set up camps to house them. Even dirt poor countries find the means to do that. This isn’t an immigration crisis; it is a humanitarian crisis.
What really chaps my hide though, is that there’s an awful lot of self-proclaimed Christians hating on these kids, demanding we send them back to the violent h***holes they came from. I’d strongly recommend they read the bible verse Grandson mentioned, it’s pretty unambiguous. Spoiler alert: “Truly, whatsoever you did for the least of my brethren, you’ve done to me” It’s pretty specific about clothes and shelter too.
Comment by Jimbo Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:19 pm
FKA, I read Kadner and here is the money quote:
“A lot of these children from Central America are in a similar situation. Due to drug gangs, corrupt governments and oppressive poverty, these children have trekked hundreds of miles to the United States.
Some have family members here. Others allegedly were sent north by parents afraid that their children would be forced to work for the drug cartels or murdered if they refused.
Some of our fellow citizens (I almost said Americans, but these children are Americans, too), don’t believe any of that. They believe these children are simply coming across the border illegally to make a better life for themselves.
Well, what’s so awful about that? My ancestors came here for pretty much the same reasons, and chances are that yours did as well.
As for inability of the U.S. government to stop immigrants at the Mexican border, that’s an issue that ought to be debated, discussed and investigated.
But we have nothing to fear from these children who are merely looking for a safe place to live. If not for the grace of God, as the saying goes, our children might find themselves in a similar predicament.”
There is a fundamental legal distinction between an immigrant and a refugee. They are treated differently under US law. Those claiming refugee status, especially children, are entitled to due process and therefore cannot be termed “illegal.”
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:19 pm
CAPS LOCK is cruise control for crazy. Seriously, I’ve never seen something in all caps that wasn’t nuttier than the Planters factory.
Comment by Jimbo Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:23 pm
This whole episode shows what sort of kooks are out there when it comes to government conspiracies. It’s fun to see them rear their ugly heads. It makes for good entertainment.
As for the topic of immigrants, nobody seems to want to distinguish between the issue of children being sent here by their parents trying to get them away from danger from the “normal” problem of people crossing the border. They are two separate issues. Unfortunately the “hate the illegals” crowd wants to drop kick everyone back across the border which is their answer to everything. That’s not how a compassionate society acts. I’m ashamed by the reaction of some Americans to these kids.
Comment by Demoralized Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:26 pm
Well, it’s like Jesus said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for I wish to scream at them as they sit on buses awaiting crude shelter and a sandwich.”
Or the Statue of Liberty: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to be breathe free, so I can hustle a buck or vote stirring up hatred against them.”
Moon, don’t be so sure they’re illegal. I have it on good authority most of the kids walked from Cuba, meaning, by law, they are to be welcomed with open arms and granted political asylum.
Good thing they didn’t walk from Haiti.
Anyway, it’s all being sorted out under the law and by international treaties regarding refugees ratified by the U.S. Senate. Don’t let them scare you too much, they won’t be on your lawn anytime soon.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:28 pm
I would suggest the new Weird Al video for his song “Foil” should be required viewing for the people that freaked out over this (non-)story.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:29 pm
Moon,
In English, people are not illegal. Acts are illegal.
If I drive to fast, I am guilty of speeding. However, I am not an “illegal driver.”
Moreover, crossing the border without documentation is not a criminal act. It is a civil offense. So no, they are not criminals.
Moon, for a guy who claims to want to protect this country, you don’t seem to know much about our laws. You might want to look into those laws before commenting.
Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:32 pm
Regardless, let’s roll with your point @47th.
Let us say that every single one of these individuals are refugees fleeing persecution, violence, oppression and fear. They meet every criteria of Article 1 of the UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and then some. In that case,
It is not only children who are refugees. It is also their parents, aunts, uncles, siblings and others living amid that same oppression, violence, persecution and fear.
The same questions remain. In a world of finite resources, is it appropriate to accept a finite number of immigrants or refugees?
Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:35 pm
Oh good.
Lets get citizens riled up even more than they already are. Lets insult their intelligence and call them bad names. That will put them into their places won’t it?
Three months to go until the General.
This is not good for the Governor.
Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:38 pm
@VMan:
And this relates to the Governor how?
Comment by Demoralized Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:38 pm
–This is not good for the Governor. –
What is not good for him?
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:43 pm
Those claiming refugee status are entitled to an asylum hearing. If they make their case that they have a legitimate threat of persecution if they remain in their home country, they are generall granted asylum and allowed to remain in the U.S. permanently with a path to citizenship and permission to work. If they cannot prove their case, they are denied asylum and returned to their home countries.
On the related but different case of immigration, we currently issue 226,000 immigrant visas annually to familiy members of US citizens. In addition, another 150,000 immigrant visas are issued for employment purposes.
So that’s the annual supply of legal visas for immigration. The demand? Right now there are more than 4.3 million family members of US citizens waiting for a visa, roughly an 18 year wait for some of these people.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:48 pm
Not VMan but…
I suspect people will think that Quinn is ok with bringing these folks here to Illinois and based off how no elected official seems to be saying “bring them here” anyplace in the US at this point.
Again, very few people have lost (money, elections, whatever) by underestimating the stupidity of people.
Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:50 pm
We could compare and contrast the immigration policies of other 1st, 2nd and 3rd world countries. Most other countries have immigration policies far more draconian and more fiercely policed than ours. And that is ignoring what occurs in actual practice. During the wave of immigration most folks think of (about 100 years ago) folks were routinely housed and quarantined while their circumstances were investigated or their health issues were clarified or resolved. some folks were sent back home.
Frankly, I think both sides of this issue have their points and their craziness. A pox on all of them. Sheesh, we need immigrants - the USA thrives on these new infusions. Both sides are pandering to their bases and the country loses out on enthusiastic newcomers. Instead, we have furtive sneakers who may well remain in the shadows, not fully participating as members of this great nation - may even be folks who don’t fully embrace what they can’t, in part, have. We have thousands of folks who are following the rules and awaiting entry for years and years while we allow those who are near enough (just across the Rio Grande) or of means enough to make it here on a tourist Visa only to disappear.
I understand the reactions of many who worry their jobs may be in peril. However, competition hones the edge.
Comment by dupage dan Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:52 pm
This is why we can’t have nice things.
Comment by Dirty Red Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:52 pm
It isn’t about stupidity.
It is about emotions.
Citizens don’t want more chaos in their lives.
They are going to go crazy if this isn’t contained.
Quinn is going to get hurt if he isn’t looking like he will know what to do with these folks. The Governor is trying to run for reelection. He doesn’t need this at all.
Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:52 pm
==Quinn is going to get hurt if he isn’t looking like he will know what to do with these folks. ==
What in the heck are you talking about? What folks? Nobody is coming here. Did you take a bite out of the crazy apple too?
Comment by Demoralized Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:54 pm
This is a hot issue.
It needs to be avoided at all costs.
Even the rumors.
Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:58 pm
Some info about why this migration is occurring can be found at http://www.vox.com/2014/6/16/5813406/explain-child-migrant-crisis-central-america-unaccompanied-children-immigrants-daca . It states “Gang violence in Central America, especially in Honduras and El Salvador, is driving a substantial exodus to other countries throughout the region”.
Another article from the Washington Post states “In Honduras, which is considered the most dangerous country in the world, poverty combines with the underlying danger on the streets caused by conflicts between rival gangs and the increasing presence of drug cartels.”
It seems that a significant part of the problem is caused by gang violence, possibly worsened by drug trafficking. Why can’t (won’t?) the Central Americans take control of their gang issues? Is drug criminalization both in Central America and here in the US partly to blame?
Comment by Rharaz Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 2:59 pm
47
Based upon your reasoning there is no need for visas, just open the borders (oh we have already done that) and let the 4.3 million in. But, don’t forget about the millions across the world who also want in. Forget about the cost and upheaval after all we are humanitarians.
Comment by MOON Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:00 pm
Maybe only Native American Indians should be allowed to be U.S. immigration officers, border patrolmen, and policy makers on immigration. I’d like to hear their take on these immigration issues.
Comment by Joe M Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:01 pm
MO-ON, is that what I said? Maybe you should change your screen name to Karnak the Great. The adults are having a conversation here, listen quietly and maybe you’ll learn something.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:02 pm
@MOON:
My wife isn’t a citizen. Doesn’t want to be. She’s been here for 20 years. Is a permanent resident. She even pays Social Security, though she will never see a dime of it unless she becomes a citizen so my non-citizen wife is actually subsidizing you. But lord knows we should put up a wall and not let anybody in this country to make the haters like you feel better.
Comment by Demoralized Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:03 pm
–This is a hot issue.
It needs to be avoided at all costs.
Even the rumors.–
You’re not making any sense. How does one “avoid” other people spreading crazy rumors?
As far as the issue of refugee children being “avoided at all costs….,” I heard it differently in Sunday School.
Let the haters and crazies scream all they want; next week it will be something different, it always is. Sgt. Bergdahl was the focus of irrational hatred for a week or two, now he’s forgotten.
This country should do the right thing under its current laws.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:15 pm
There’s an undeniable paranoid streak among the rightwing.
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:16 pm
Jimbo - I really like your reply, even if we may end up differing on certain specifics. That is part of why I ask about whether we accept “only the young and healthy?” or include “the infirm and elderly” for example. There is a basic sense of humanity at play here, and some hypocrisy, no matter where we draw any such “line”.
@47th - Kadner brings up a number of issues in a number of paragraphs. His main point imho is not “these children are refugees” but more about the way we should treat other human beings whether they be immigrants or refugees.
It is accurate that the US can not simply turn away children claiming refugee status from non-bordering countries and must follow a specific process. It is also true that an entire branch of enforcement is dedicated to investigating false claims of refugee status, since sometimes people lie in order to circumvent immigration restrictions.
Until the administration declares these individuals to be refugees, which they have not yet done, the debate over refugee vs immigrant is a minor one in comparison to the larger discussion concerning how we should treat others.
Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:25 pm
Some light, for those not too blind to see, on U.S. refugee policy since WWII.
Since 1975, the United States has admitted and resettled 3 million refugees with the assistance of a variety of faith-organizations.
http://www.rcusa.org/history
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:31 pm
DEMORALIZED
If she wants to be a citizen then she should apply. Whats the big deal?
She doesn’t subsidize me. I chose not to collect social security.
Also, please explain how you and others concluded I am a “hater”?
Comment by MOON Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:33 pm
Also relevant is that the Administration and House GOP agree on something: the automatic asylum hearings law should be changed.
== Most of the people widely considered to be refugees by the international community are fleeing more traditional political or ethnic conflicts like those in Syria or the Sudan. Central Americans would be among the first modern migrants considered refugees because they are fleeing violence and extortion at the hands of criminal gangs…
Three-fourths of them are from Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador and most say they are fleeing pervasive gang violence and crushing poverty.
Both Congressional Republicans and the Obama administration have called for action to reverse the trend. Among other changes, the administration wants to end a 2008 law allowing child migrants to automatically appear before an immigration judge. Instead, Border Patrol agents could decide whether to deport them or allow them an additional hearing. ==
http://washington.cbslocal.com/2014/07/08/un-urges-us-to-designate-immigrants-as-refugees/
Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:36 pm
===Until the administration declares these individuals to be refugees, which they have not yet done, the debate over refugee vs immigrant is a minor one in comparison to the larger discussion concerning how we should treat others.===
But you are aware that we have laws in place to handle the situation, right? The administration can’t simply issue a blamket asylum declaration. Those claiming refugee status are legally entitled to an asylum hearing. If they weren’t claiming refugee status, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act would apply because many of these people are minors. And if that didn’t apply because they were adults who showed up at the border, then they’d simply be detained until they could be processed and deported. That’s how our laws work, and it’s a good system until it gets overwhelmed by a flood of humanity.
Your comments seem to wonder what the best way is to handle this situation, as if we didn’t have laws on the books to take care of it already. And you conflate immigrant with refugee as if you don’t understand the legal distinction between the terms.
As far as how we treat others, I learned everything I needed to learn about that from my parents and my church, thank you very much.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:36 pm
MO-ON,
Are you updating us from your bunker, as you work on your manifesto?
So far, your comments can be summarized as “MO-ON does not like immigrants.” Noted.
If you have something interested to add, please do so, but also, since your nickname is not familiar, you should be aware that this isn’t the comments section of some newspaper. There actually are standards here, and rants about immigrants typically are not the type of comment you will find here.
Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:41 pm
Knome, if He read this, Jesus wept
Comment by steve schnorf Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:48 pm
==Also, please explain how you and others concluded I am a “hater”?==
For one, your original comment was deleted so I can’t quote you. But calling someone an illegal (using illegal as a noun) is offensive. You say: “You can call them refugees, immigrants or whatever you want. Their current status is illegal.”, but how you speak about other human beings matters and says something about yourself.
And we’re trying to make a serious argument that we honestly don’t feel like we should have to make because it seems like basic human decency. There’s a difference between children seeking asylum from a place where they might be killed or basically enslaved and people crossing the border to seek a job. You say: “You can call them refugees, immigrants or whatever you want. Their current status is illegal.” You’re wrong. When we say someone is a refugee (or at least a potential refugee), they have a right to be in the US. It isn’t illegal because we have laws on the book that make it legal.
Comment by Timmeh Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:51 pm
Fact is the over 50% of Illinois population growth is currently immigrants.
We are importing poverty, Importing a culture of violence.
Then Rahm Emanuel has the nerve to ask “where are the parents” when it come to the shootings in Chicago. Whelp, gee Rahm lemme guess. THEY ARE UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN!! Maybe they are still in Mexico and Central America!!
That’s the culture they have created.
Importing poverty, Importing violence. Exporting jobs. Exporting tax revenue.
Abbott Labs Tax inversions.
Abbyvie Tax inversions
Walgreens Tax Inversions
Illinois Building Construction Supplier Moving Operations to Lake County
7/9/2014 3:43:00 PM
GARY, Ind. - Superior Truss & Panel, Inc., a manufacturer and installer of commercial building roof trusses and wall panels, announced plans today to relocate its Markham, Ill. operations to Gary, creating up to 52 new jobs by 2016.
The company will invest $2.6 million to construct, equip and relocate its operations into two 24,000 square-foot buildings on 8.5 acres at 7592 East Melton Road in Gary. The facility, which will begin Indiana operations this fall, will allow the company to innovate new methods for panelizing light gauge steel trusses and wall panels for non-combustible classified structures.
***
Founded in 1993, Superior Truss & Panel designs, engineers, fabricates and installs metal roof trusses and load bearing wall panels for the commercial construction industry. The company has manufactured projects for more than 1,500 building projects located east of the Rocky Mountains, specializing in construction for nursing homes, hotels, schools, office buildings, churches, apartments and government buildings. Superior Truss and Panel has repeatedly been the recipient of Aegis Metal Framing’s President’s Council Award, presented to the top 10 fabricators using the company’s MiTek System.
http://www.mfrtech.com/news/500053/illinois_building_construction_supplier_moving_operations_to_lake_county.html
The corporations are not going to pay for these immigrants. Wait until you see the next Tax revenue report after these tax inversion deals get done.
These children have the highest unemployment rate in Chicago. They qualify for all kinds of social services and the money is being taken from our pensions and social security to support them.
Now. The standard reply is your a racist and hate immigrants. Ha. So there I saved you from having to post that.
Enjoy what the Kingpins have created. Your tax bill from the bankrupt Illinois will arrive shortly. Step aside Detroit, Flint, We’re right behind ya.
Illinois roof truss maker moving to Gary
Comment by oz Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:52 pm
This give and take is more fun than I have had in years.
I thank all of you for the name calling, it just diminishes your arguments and proves my point…when the facts don’t support your beliefs attack.
Comment by MOON Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:54 pm
MO-ON, the person who uses the label “illegals”, is complaining about “name-calling”?
Ahh, the lack of self awareness!
Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 3:56 pm
Isn’t it amazing that Sears Corp. the pioneer in mail order retail can’t compete with Amazon!?
Sears should be out of business by 2015.
The Mighty Motorola Mobility, they’ve been sold to China’s Lenovo and already have shut down manufacturing plant in Texas. Do you really think that the HQ is gonna stay in Chicago when the deal is complete?
There is nothing but tax increases on the horizon. Tax increases and increases in fines, fees, licenses and what have you.
Why? Because in spite of the Illinois population growing the size of the Illinois workforce is going DOWN.
Smart money is leaving and you’re blind if you can’t see it.
Comment by oz Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 4:00 pm
===proves my point===
What was your point?
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 4:01 pm
Consider a charitable donation to help these immigrants.
http://www.immigrationproject.org/how-to-help-immigration-il/
https://cliniclegal.org/donate
http://www.stjames-cathedral.org/immigrant/donate_to_refugees_immigrants.html
Comment by Rharaz Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 4:03 pm
Moon, as an observer on this one, I must point out that your attempting to take the “moral high ground” on this one is confusing at best.
Refugees are refugees. They’re awaiting status, not illegal. The policy on this isn’t confusing. Your most cogent points are buried in a somewhat mean-spirited rant. There are some creeps at the border, no doubt. The teeming numbers of innocent children need to be protected from them too. Moderate your anger, then remake your argument. At the moment it’s just mean.
Comment by A guy... Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 4:05 pm
what about the poor children of Gaza. Don’t we have room for them.
…as the rockets red glare
the bombs bursting in air..
What a beautiful site eh!
And Ukraine, Iraq, Syria, down in South Africa.
They’d all like to come to America for a so-called better life I’d bet. (Too bad it no longer exists.)
Why don’t the US border patrol give them free travel vouchers to anywhere in the us as refugees fleeing the violence that the CIA and DHS created?
The DOJ running guns south of the border created quite the crisis that can be used and not let go to waste now wouldn’t you agree?
Comment by oz Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 4:17 pm
Rich, you really nailed the headline on this thread. Yikes.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 4:22 pm
Oz, maybe hide the car keys for a while. You can make the trip to The Promised Land of Gary tomorrow.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 4:29 pm
Oz there are also press releases showing companies, corporate HQs and jobs coming to Illinois. you choose to focus on the negative only. did you see that Chicago was #1 and Illinois #3 in the 2013 Site Selection corporate expansion rankings that was released in March 2014. care to comment on that?
Comment by PoolGuy Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 5:07 pm
I can’t remember where I read it, but some writer brought up Elian Gonzalez. How many of the conservatives today screaming about these kids were the ones yelling about letting him stay? Cognitive dissonance anyone?
Comment by MyTwoCents Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 5:23 pm
This isn’t a religious issue.
It is a border security issue. Would you close your doors and windows at night if every morning you discovered your home filling with care bears?
Sure you would.
It has nothing at all to do with caring for children. Stop the silly Jesus references.
Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 8:50 pm
Wow, Vanilla.
Do you now understand that we are talking about people?
What an incredible lack of basic humanity from you.
Vanilla, I remember years ago when you were sort of a funny and entertaining presence here. Now you post stuff like that?
What happened to you over the years?
Comment by Gooner Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 9:02 pm
Once again, VanillaMan is right. There is no place for Jesus in a debate about politics. This debate about whether and how to care for children who have come to our border has nothing to do with caring for children.
I, for one, am grateful to VanillaMan for telling me what’s what around here,
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 9:29 pm
–This isn’t a religious issue.
It is a border security issue. Would you close your doors and windows at night if every morning you discovered your home filling with care bears?
Sure you would.
It has nothing at all to do with caring for children. Stop the silly Jesus references.–
Didn’t hesitate to hit the “send” button on that one? Fascinating.
What to do about the children, how to care for them, seems to be the whole issue for all concerned.
Your religious beliefs don’t come into play here? Comes and goes with you. Your religious beliefs seem more focused on the ob/gyn office.
But the care bear analogy is spot on and adds a lot to the discussion.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Jul 23, 14 @ 10:50 pm
==It has nothing at all to do with caring for children==
Only in your fantasy world VMan. You’ve been on fire lately with your dopey comments.
Comment by Demoralized Thursday, Jul 24, 14 @ 8:23 am
It’s about people taking advantage of our big, old, compassionate hearts. They know that if the kids get in, the social safety network will take care of them.
Comment by Wumpus Thursday, Jul 24, 14 @ 9:30 am
To the point of “Teh Crazy”:
I have been infromed, by someone who is too in the loop in GOP circles down south to be an outlier, that:
- When crossing the border, ‘illegals’ are asked which sanctuary city they want to go to
- When they arrive, they are registered for ‘welfare’ (where does one do that in 2014?)
- When elections happen, they vote for Democrats because Democrats will keep the ‘freebies’ coming
- Chicago is a designated sanctuary city
- Democrats only win, and will not ever deal fairly with illegals, because they actively want them to come here to vote for Dems because Dems know that their ideas cannot work so they need fraudulent voters to prop them up.
When I asked for a single point of data to back up any of these points, it was handwaved away as unimportant. I cannot emphasize enough how real these bullet points are to people - look at our own dear VanillaMan as an example of it.
I don’t have a solution, I don’t have much to add other than a warning not to handwave this away as unimportant. Somehow, this idea has implanted itself in the mindset of a certain subset of voter (coughWHITEcoughBOOMERScough) so thoroughly that, well, look at the mess we’re in.
Comment by Colossus Thursday, Jul 24, 14 @ 11:25 am