Posted by uknow1 on May 14, 2007 at 7:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Way to go, Bruce! Maybe this will start a trend in Ventura County where instead of demonizing people near the lowest economic wrungs, we celebrate their hard work and give them a l i f t....by the way, how long has that perfectly good, used-car been sitting in your driveway unused? Just a thought...

Posted by skycop57 on May 14, 2007 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Properly an illegal since she did not speak English and we wonder why they come here since we give them lots of free things. And I am sure there is a tax write off for the dealership.

Posted by StarReader9 on May 14, 2007 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I commend Westlake Indpendent Honda & the Conejo Valley Rotary Club for helping a family in need. When I needed a new car, I bought a Honda vehicle because I wanted to have my car serviced by Westlake Indpendent Honda, an honest car repair company. This is a business that cares about people and about doing right by people.

Posted by Libra40 on May 14, 2007 at 10:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gregoryknepper - Just because she doesn't speak English doesn't mean she's illegal. You can't spell "probably" right, so does that make you illiterate?

Posted by jaesmom on May 14, 2007 at 12:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not very nice just to assume no matter how obvious it may seem to some that she is illegal. I have to agree ONLY if she is illegal that they should have picked someone they now is legally here and someone who isnt stupid enough to have 6 kids they cant afford. I had one kid I can barely afford and would never take the chance of making herlife worse by having another kid that would take what I could give the first. 6 kids even rich people that can afford them arent that stupid! I say kudos for doing it thou to the donater and reality is he most likely did it for her kids and kids of illegals or not they are still kids and this will make their life better so who cares. Some one did asomething nice leave him alone it was his stuff to give away and talking crap just may make him think twice about it next time, thats no good.

Posted by BeaHappi on May 14, 2007 at 12:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good for her. Who knows what her circumstances are or why she's a single parent. A 1991 Accord with 92K+ miles on it made her cry...it made her day!

That to me says it all. To be grateful for the gift because it's so much more than what she had.

We are blessed because we don't need this assistance. Mr. Nation is a good guy.

Posted by hotwildflower on May 14, 2007 at 12:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was just wondering where her husband is? I mean, she didn't make these babies by herself.

Aside from that, it is nice to see someone wanting to give back to the community. A rare trait these days.

Posted by sokol_kiev on May 14, 2007 at 1:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Putting aside whether Ms. Ramirez is illegal or not... What really drives me nuts is people like Ms. Ramirez who have baby after baby after baby when they clearly do not have the financial resources to properly support them! And what's the result? We the taxpayers end up footing the bills for people like Ms. Ramirez for all the social welfare programs they utilize to support themselves and their children because they cannot do so themselves!

Posted by MRCLEAN on May 14, 2007 at 2:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Does she have a CDL? I wonder if she will get insurance?

Posted by sbeach on May 14, 2007 at 2:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OH MY I CAN'T BELIEVE THE COMMENTS. I KNOW SOMEONE THAT SPEAKS EXTREMELY LITTLE ENGLISH, THAT IS LEGAL, AND HAS 4 CHILDREN THAT HE RAISED BY HIMSELF SINCE THE MOTHER PASSED AWAY! HOW JUDGEMENTAL TO MAKE ALL THESE COMMENTS WHEN YOU DON'T KNOW JACK ABOUT THIS WOMAN OR HER CIRCUMSTANCES. HEARTLESS PEOPLE! THOSE HOW LIVE IN GLASS HOUSES SHOULDN'T CAST THE FIRST STONE!!!!

Posted by hotwildflower on May 14, 2007 at 2:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr. Clean, did you not read the story? Insurance is covered for 5 years.

Posted by skycop57 on May 14, 2007 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have 2 kids where is my car, I know a lady that has 4 kids where is her car, dealerships should have raffles to give away the junk they can not sell.

Posted by simiprint on May 14, 2007 at 3:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How sad, that this man makes this generous gift to make the life of someone struggling better, and so many respond with vitrol. Start by being grateful you don't have to rely on the kindness of others to get by - it's not pleasant. You don't know this family's circumstances and it's a bit presumptious to be so judgmental. I know. After a long illness several years ago, I lost my business and my family and I (all white and born here, by the way) were struggling desperately when a friend gave us their old Mercedes they were no longer using. It made a tremendous difference in our lives and, now doing well again, we give back to our community every chance we can. These are people, humans, and are entitled to be treated as such. Rather than complain, go out and do something good for the people around you. It might give you a healthier perspective. And bless you to Mr. Gatt and Mr. Nation for making this happen.

Posted by bucknasty on May 14, 2007 at 6:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr. Nation, kudos to you sir. I am not a deeply religious man but for you I will say a prayer tonight. to all you sheet wearers I hope you are never down on your luck and need for someone to give you a helping hand.

Posted by AnnaWhaat on May 14, 2007 at 8:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There are alot of good comments here , people with big hearts. Then some that are down right rude.
And as far as religion, Which is no ones business, it is true that alot of catholics feel its a sin to use birth control......... That is THIER choice of religion. I say Thankyou to all who made this happen for this mother of six !!!! What a blessing. God Bless you!!!!

Posted by wdwinder1 on May 14, 2007 at 10:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Bravo Delia!!!!!!!

Posted by wdwinder1 on May 14, 2007 at 11:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BTW, I just found out I hve to go to Japan for biz. I'm already starting to learn japanese and I don't even live there. You suppose they'll give me a car?

Posted by moethebartender on May 14, 2007 at 11:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To those who slam Ms. Puente Ramirez as an "illegal Mexican who can't speak English and can't keep her pants on": We don't know if any of that is true.

First, not all immigrants are illegal. Some immigrants do have their papers. Unless we ban all immigration, there will always be LEGAL immigrants. Second, we don't know if she is from Mexico. The article didn't give us that information. She could be Guatemalan, Salvadoran, Nicaraguan... she could be from any of the 20 Spanish-speaking countries in the world. You know, Spanish is spoken in countries other than Mexico.

And even though she did speak Spanish when the car was given to her, it's very possible she speaks English too. Next time you see a group of Spanish speakers, try listening in on their conversation. Half the time you'll hear them switch between Spanish and English, even in mid-sentence. Many Spanish speakers continue to use Spanish even if they know English perfectly well. How many of you would completely abandon English if you moved to a non-English speaking country?

And finally, we don't know what led this woman to become a single mother. Maybe their father has passed away. Maybe he was abusive and they had to flee him for their safety. Who knows, and why is it any of our business?

The upshot is, try to watch what you say about people you don't even know.

By the way, I wonder if some of you found this article through Free Republic or some other conservative website. If so, welcome to the Ventura County Star. Look around, I think you'll like it here.

Posted by AnnaWhaat on May 15, 2007 at 6:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Moethebartender, You took the words out of my mouth! I NEVER read anything about why she was single. How many fathers there were? Why is everyone jumping to conclusions. Because she is maybe hispanic????
I have seen alot of couties do this sort of thing. Most take letters from people submitted to the dealership and the dealership picks the one most in need.........I have NO clue how this car was given away....But this comment board resulted in another illegal immigration board????? That is NOT what the story is about.

Posted by bucknasty on May 15, 2007 at 7:57 a.m.

(This thread was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by rebel123 on May 15, 2007 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Some of you people make me ashamed to be an American. The hate and ignorance you spew is disgusting. The fact that this woman has several children likely speaks to her probably being a good Catholic. Instead of demeaning and insulting her, why don't you idiots hammer the Pope?! And as far as her status in this country, until you have facts, shut up.

Posted by bucknasty on May 15, 2007 at 9:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ms. Moreno I am thrilled you and I can agree on 1 thing. My message to everyone is next election log off your computer and vote.Do not vote for the the candidate that is running for re-election their time is up. They have wasted OUR time, vote for the candidate that will get it done. WE need answers and promises will not do, movers not shakers. Most importantly, and some of you will not like this, vote for the candidate that best reflects YOUR views regardless of their skin tone. Believe me, alot more people agree that enough is enough but the racial hate mongering is unacceptable, it devides rather then unite.This issue should not be about hate but the future of OUR country.I LAV AMERICA

Posted by Singer2007 on May 15, 2007 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I can't speak on behalf of Bruce, but I do know him and a little about this situation. Manuela is an American citizen, and all of her children were born here. She does, in fact, speak English, just not comfortably enough to have made a thank-you speech in front of a small crowd. She also has a valid driver's license. Her husband, the father of her children, was struggling with a drinking problem and left the family a couple of years ago. His leaving is why she has become a single mother in need.

Bruce is just a great guy who wanted to do something nice. He didn't do this for a tax break or because he couldn't have sold the car as I have read in some comments above. Of course he could have sold it. He didn't even make any arrangements for media coverage of this giveaway. That was all done by the Rotary Club. This wasn't a publicity stunt or some validation of illegal immigration. This was just a nice, successful guy doing something good. We should commend and follow such an example.

Posted by rglatt on May 15, 2007 at 12:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow, the number of negative comments on a beautiful story is amazing. My name is Bob Glatt , a member of Conejo Valley Rotary. I worked with Bruce Nation to make the surprise car donation on Mother's Day possible. I have worked poor Hispanic families in the US and Mexico since 1995 and I understand the culture. I am not Hispanic, but the Hispanic culture has taught me about the priority of family and generosity.

When I went to pick up the Ramirez family at their home, a surprise, coordinated by the oldest daughter, the first thing that happened is that I was invited in & asked to sit down for a meal.

It is quite sad that some of you jump to conclusions on a story for which you don't have the facts. Be clear, I HAVE ALL OF THE FACTS!

Ms. Ramirez holds a full-time job. Legal in the US. Valid driver's license. Has beautiful well-mannered kids, and lives with her oldest daughter who helps out financially and with the young kids. She was interviewed by myself and Bruce Nation before receiving the car, and we did lots of due diligence before making our decision. We got her motor vehicle report and it was pristine.

She volunteers with the Westminster Free Clinic, helping those less fortunate. She will be using the car she to take people needing medical services to the Free Clinic on Wednesday evenings.

The viciousness that some of you demonstrate is an embarrassment to me. If you would channel some of your negative energy and start helping people you might just be the recipient of some blessings in your life.

The donated car is in perfect shape with 92k miles and a new transmission. It was not some junk vehicle, ready for the junk yard.

Yes, if somebody donates something to charity they get a tax deduction. That's what our laws allow. As for publicity, we got a lot of it, thanks to the Star. Stephanie Hoops and Juan Carlo Mendoza (photographer) did a fantastic job. We wanted to share a great story, to encourage others to do similar things. We could have done it quietly and accomplished the same thing, which does go on all over our county, through the numerous service clubs, non-profit organizations, and religious organizations located here. Try getting involved; you just might learn to like it.

The next post is the entire story and press release. There are some additional pieces of information that didn't get included in the article in the Star. Maybe it will encourage some of you. Those of you with the negative comments should get your facts straight before jumping to erroneous conclusions. We live in the greatest country in the world, and helping others is a gift. If you want to learn how to help the poor, call me, my contact info is below. I will help you do what God puts on your heart. No matter how poor or rich you are, you are richer than most in the world and by giving back what you can, we can all make a difference in our country and beyond.

Sincerely,

Robert Glatt
805-320-3626

Posted by rglatt on May 15, 2007 at 12:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The entire press release was too long to fit here. If you want the entire story send me an e-mail to rglatt@sbcglobal.net

One more thing. The "mexican" in the picture is actually a Colombian. He came to this country 26 years ago with nothing and now runs an acoustical ceiling company with over 50 employees in Newbury Park. He has created jobs for many individuals that needed work and is responsible for supporting the lives of many families in this County. He is an incredibly generous man, and he had nothing to do with the selection of the Ramirez family. If you have a few days, I could tell you about all of the generous acts that this man has done. He routinely says "I love this country" referring to the United States of America, but he still loves his homeland Colombia.

He is also leading a humanitarian trip to Colombia next week where the Conejo Valley Rotary Club is going to distribute 1,400 wheelchairs to needy people in Colombia, as well as fitting 10 chlidren with prosthetic devices as they have lost limbs from the land mines set by the drug lords in Colombia. Our group will be meeting with the First Lady of Colombia and learning how we can work together to create entrepreneurial businesses there. Oh, and one more thing, the local Colombians are hosting our club and will be paying many of the food, housing, and transportation expenses incurred on the trip.....they are extremely generous people, as are the Mexican people.

My entire Rotary Club - all 23 of us and growing - is made up of generous people doing charity work throughout the county every month. They do it because they enjoy it and want to give back to others needing help. You just don't read about it much. By way of background, Rotary International began in Chicago, Ilinois over 100 years ago and encompasses a worldwide organization of business & professional leaders who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Over 1 million Rotarians belong to more than 32,000 Rotary clubs located in 200 countries.

There are dozens of clubs in the county. I would suggest going to one and begin to learn how to help others less fortunate than yourself.

Lets stop with the nasty remarks and slanderous statements and start helping others........

Sincerely,

Bob Glatt
805-320-3626

Posted by Singer2007 on May 15, 2007 at 12:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I couldn't agree more, Mr. Glatt. Thank you for setting the record straight, and thank you to the Rotary Club for their inspiring example of generosity.

Posted by Libra40 on May 15, 2007 at 1:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DeliaMoreno - Your first comment is downright disgusting! You are the type of hispanic that makes the rest of us look bad! You sit there and make comments about this woman being on welfare, etc. etc. Maybe you had better go back and read the story again, because it states that she was taking the bus to "WORK". You sound like a hispanic with a "holierthanthou" attitude - what, just because you've had a bit of success in your life you think you are better than everyone else? Not so, my dear, not so!

Posted by Singer2007 on May 15, 2007 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm curious, DeliaMoreno. To whom would you suggest giving the car? Please know that I am not asking this sarcastically or judgementally. I really would like to know what you seriously would consider appropriate guidelines for choosing the recipient of this vehicle or any charitable giving, for that matter.

Posted by simiprint on May 15, 2007 at 3:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's sad that a story about a beautiful act of generosity had to generate so much ugliness.

How sad that so many of you think you have the right to be judgmental about someone else's choices in life. Having children is not a crime in this country, nor do you know her family's situation when her children were born.

How sad that so many of you are so bigoted that you don't pay attention to the facts, and make horrible assumptions about people you know so little about. Do you really think because this woman is brown she must be here illegally? That her children must be illegitimate? That she's on welfare? Do you honestly think that only brown people are responsible for crime, that only brown people get government help? There's an awful lot of white people in Ventura County getting benefits and committing crimes to prove that assumption wrong, too.

How sad that this hard-working woman, who lives with her daughter, and volunteers to help others had to be vilified by so many people. Who are all of you to pass such harsh judgment on her? And on this wonderful act of kindness?

How wonderful for our community to have people like Bob Glatt and the Rotary of the Conejo Valley. I'm a member of Kiwanis, and my club and I provide services and support to the less fortunate all the time. We understand how important, and gratifying, it is.

To all of you spewing venom here, I have a suggestion:

Rather than just complaining, take a look around your community and see what you can do to make it a better place. You can do work through church, temple, service organizations like Kiwanis and Rotary. There's nothing quite like working with those down on their luck to see how blessed we are with the good fortune we have to live our lives the way we do.

Posted by rglatt on May 15, 2007 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Delia –

What’s your point. Are you looking for a political platform?

If you spent half the time today that you have on the blogs, you could make a real difference in your community. If you don’t know how to do it, call me. I will be happy to show you! 805-320-3626.

Are you just going to talk? Or are you going to walk the walk?

I would hope that enough of us could come around this family so that the kids will do well in school and go on to college so that they can have a better life and support their mom as needed. Why don’t you get in the boat and row, with people like ‘simiprint’, myself, and the thousands of people in this county that volunteer their time to help others routinely?

In my life many people have helped me to get where I am in life. My father died at a young age, and it was tough on my mom to raise our family as a stay at home housewife and widow, but she worked very hard and we all chipped in. It isn’t only Mexican families that go through tough times.

You mentioned that you are now in control of your own destiny. Nothing could be farther from the truth. We control so little and our lives can be turned very quickly do to circumstances beyond our control. I pray that you learn to see the light and get a real appreciation as to how fragile life is…..so make the most of it while you can.

So what skills do you have that you can offer up? You say you are a professional? At what? What life skills are you willing to share with others? Now is your chance to speak up and let all of us know what contribution you would like to make to help mentor others less fortunate than you, Hispanic or otherwise.

So are you going to continue to vent or is it time for you to begin making a difference? We would love to hear something positive come out of your mouth. Maybe you should go and meet the family and tell them how you feel in person, encourage them, and offer them your help in developing some skills that would result in a higher salary……or do you just want to hide behind the blogs? I know plenty of Hispanic families that started with nothing and are now doing very well as productive members of our society.

Posted by bucknasty on May 15, 2007 at 5:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mrs.Moreno,your story about your family and growing up in Oxnard touched me deeply congratulations you made it out of poverty.I just wish that none of Ms.Puente Ramirez' 6 kids grow up to be anything like you. sure I'll admit that 6 kids are irresponsable but condeming her to face the consecuences is plain hateful. did you pull wings off of flies as a little girl?

Posted by rglatt on May 15, 2007 at 10 p.m.

(This thread was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by Libra40 on May 15, 2007 at 11:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Delia - My God, what are you on! What's the matter, honey - mad because your kids didn't give you anything for Mother's Day? Ok, so you're a college graduate - let me guess, Sawyer College, right? And wow - you've always had insurance for your kids? Let me guess again, Healthy Families, right? You mentioned that you and your brothers purchased a home for your parents - my, my, my, sounds like your parents obviously couldn't afford to have four kids since they couldn't even buy their own house. And why did it take four of you to purchase the house, couldn't afford to do it on your own? You talk about people only making minimum wage - would you prefer they went on welfare? If you were as intelligent as you would like people to believe, then you would know that there is "minimum wage" and "living wage". What's the difference? Minors earn minimum wage, adults earn living wage, and Oxnard's living wage is currently $12.25 per hour. Are you aware that a person can also claim their earned income credit throughout the year on their paychecks rather than waiting until tax time? Ms. Moreno, I walk with both eyes open everyday - you are the one who needs to open yours and see the light. Or maybe you can't because Edison disconnected it.

Posted by rglatt on May 16, 2007 at 6:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Delia –

What’s your point. Are you looking for a political platform?

If you spent half the time today that you have on the blogs, you could make a real difference in your community. If you don’t know how to do it, call me. I will be happy to show you! 805-320-3626.

Are you just going to talk? Or are you going to walk the walk?

I would hope that enough of us could come around this family so that the kids will do well in school and go on to college so that they can have a better life and support their mom as needed. Why don’t you get in the boat and row, with people like ‘simiprint’, myself, and the thousands of people in this county that volunteer their time to help others routinely?

In my life many people have helped me to get where I am in life. My father died at a young age, and it was tough on my mom to raise our family as a stay at home housewife and widow, but she worked very hard and we all chipped in. It isn’t only Mexican families that go through tough times.

You mentioned that you are now in control of your own destiny. Nothing could be farther from the truth. We control so little and our lives can be turned very quickly do to circumstances beyond our control. I pray that you learn to see the light and get a real appreciation as to how fragile life is…..so make the most of it while you can.

So what skills do you have that you can offer up? You say you are a professional? At what? What life skills are you willing to share with others? Now is your chance to speak up and let all of us know what contribution you would like to make to help mentor others less fortunate than you, Hispanic or otherwise.

So are you going to continue to vent or is it time for you to begin making a difference? We would love to hear something positive come out of your mouth. Maybe you should go and meet the family and tell them how you feel in person, encourage them, and offer them your help in developing some skills that would result in a higher salary……or do you just want to hide behind the blogs? I know plenty of Hispanic families that started with nothing and are now doing very well as productive members of our society.

Posted by rglatt on May 16, 2007 at 7:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

One more thing……we are so excited about the response to the donation of the car, we are planning a ceremonial re-presentation of the vehicle to Ms. Ramirez at the Conejo Valley Rotary Club Car Classic fundraiser on June 10th at Cal Lutheran University in front of 4,000 to 5,000 attendees. Here’s the link…

www.conejovalleycarclassic.com

Much of the proceeds will be going to the Westminster Free Clinic, where Ms. Ramirez gets her FREE health care. She is not using our tax dollars for treatment or going to the ER as you have suggested. She, along with the hundreds of other poor families that can’t get healthcare, so-called fall into the gap, come to a church where doctors donate their time to give back to the community. These people can’t afford healthcare, but are working and are “too rich” to get government healthcare assistance. The program is supported by doctors, nurses, physical therapists, pharmacists, and other medical professionals from our community that come to give back to the community at NO CHARGE. The care is as good as a pay for service providers.

Westminster Free Clinic, a non-profit organization providing free health care services to Ventura County residents that are not covered by health insurance. On Wednesday evenings from 4:00 – 10:00 pm, the Free Clinic, with the support of numerous volunteer physicians, nurses, and over 70 teenagers from the Conejo Valley, all volunteering their time, turns a large multi-purpose room at the Thousand Oaks Methodist Church at 1000 E, Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, into a full-scale medical center, treating hundreds of needy Conejo Valley residents weekly, all at no charge. The Conejo Valley Rotary Club has partnered with the Westminster Free Clinic in numerous fundraising activities over the last three years, to support the medical outreach needs in the community. The Free Clinic provides $1.2 million of professional services annually and their annual budget is $400,000. This is a great model for our healthcare system.

I encourage all of you to come out one Wednesday and watch Mrs. Ramirez show up in her new car and volunteer to help others less fortunate then she is. It will do your heart very good! They need volunteers and those that can write large checks……..yes for a tax deduction.

Posted by AnnaWhaat on May 16, 2007 at 8:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I see a beautiful story turning into frustration. And I might add uncontrollable frustration from the blogs.......
WHERE did it say in the story her husband was an alcoholic when she married him???? IT DIDN'T ! Sometimes in life bad things happen in a marriage!
Did it say the father was paying child support? NO.... So people are quick to get out a calculator not once but twice to figure out her monthly income. Good Grief !!!! And as I said above many Catholics DO NOT believe in birth control. SO what are you asking her to do. Go against her FAITH !!! Her religion???? I think this Mother deserved this car and Im glad people out there made it happen. People can get out here and make presumption after presumption without even knowing the woman. Let it go...... You will feel better ! Do something to help others. Thankyou to the Rotary Club ! God Bless you all !!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Libra40 on May 16, 2007 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Delia - Are you a preacher or an Accountant?

Posted by Singer2007 on May 16, 2007 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

According to the UCLA web site, there is no UCLA School of Accounting. Frankly, I didn't even see an available undergrad accounting major. I'm not sure that DeliaMoreno is as credible and upstanding as she would like us to believe. By the way, why would a successful CPA have so much free time to blog?

DeliaMoreno keeps saying "God Bless" to all who disagree with her. Not really in keeping with a message lacking in compassion, charity and forgiveness, is it? Who exactly is your god, DeliaMoreno?

DeliaMoreno, do you think that anyone is a deserving recipient of charity? I am glad for you that you have never made what you deem a mistake that caused you to need the help of others, but I think you need to learn compassion. Still, I don't think that I could ever call a child a "mistake." Reading your comments is saddening.

Posted by simiprint on May 16, 2007 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Enough of the negativity.

For whatever it's worth, I want to say thank you to the many people who responded to this blog by giving this family the support, and respect, and dignity that they deserve. It's good to know there are so many good people in our community.

Posted by Libra40 on May 16, 2007 at 3 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Singer2007 - I was wondering the same thing about this "UCLA College of Accounting" - I've never heard of it either (I guess because it doesn't exist!) I'm surprised Delia hasn't responded yet, since it seems like she's just sitting and waiting for another comment so she can bless someone else. It's funny, because it seem like when she doesn't have an answer, she skirts around it by saying "bless you".

Posted by Libra40 on May 16, 2007 at 3:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Delia - Your comments would make it appear as though everyone were in agreement with you. It seems the only thing you are good at is providing twisted responses that are to your advantage. You said that your parents taught you not to make ridiculous decisions and then turn to others to bail you out. Well, guess you didn't learn your lesson there, because the minute you decided to comment on this story you made a ridiculous decision and then you try to turn to God to bail you out!

Posted by Singer2007 on May 16, 2007 at 4:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree, rcamacho, Westlake Independent Honda is fantastic, and Bruce Nation is a stand-up guy as are all of his employees - an amazing group of professionals. I've been a customer for nearly 20 years. My hat's off to them and their generosity, too. Maybe I'll see you there sometime :-)

Posted by AnnaWhaat on May 17, 2007 at 7:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thankyou to all of the positive comments ! Who are we do degrade and put down people? God Bless the people who made this happend for the woman to recieve this car. Isn't that what the article is about. Then twisted into an argument about how many kids someone should have !!!!!

Posted by teesdin on May 17, 2007 at 6:06 p.m.

(This thread was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by teesdin on May 17, 2007 at 6:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

> I KNOW SOMEONE THAT SPEAKS EXTREMELY LITTLE ENGLISH, THAT IS
> LEGAL, AND HAS 4 CHILDREN THAT HE RAISED BY HIMSELF

Well honestly, that person should not be here legally then. The citizenship test for this country is an absolute joke. It will always be beyond my comprehension, the fact that people will move somewhere - legally or illegally - and not even bother to learn the native language.

That's the main problem I have with the absurd number of illegal immigrants (mainly coming from Mexico). The majority of them, yes, generalizing based on years of personal experience, refuse to learn our country's native language; they demand all services in Spanish (DMV, voting, etc, etc. Do you know how much that costs taxpayers alone to print?). I could never even dream of moving to another country and not learning their language.

Yet, we "embrace" this as "cultural diversity". That is complete nonsense. Diversity is one thing, refusal to abide by the laws or put any effort into assimilating into your homeland is another.

Posted by teesdin on May 17, 2007 at 6:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

> That is THIER choice of religion. I say Thankyou to all who made this
> happen for this mother of six !!!! What a blessing. God Bless you!!!!

No argument there. But I do have a major problem if your decisions directly impact my pocketbook. When these illegal catholics (or illegal muslim, christian, or anything else) have children they can't afford - why on earth should I be the one paying their bills? If you can't/won't use birth control, then you must stop having sex. It does come down to exactly that, because their decision directly affects MY life.

If a religion or belief existed that stated all members must refuse to pay for anything, they must steal everything they would normally buy. Prices would go up. Would you be happy? I think not.
That's exactly what is happening here.

Posted by teesdin on May 17, 2007 at 6:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

> And I don't even need to address the fact that, in MOST cases, they do
> contribute via certain taxes (sales tax, for instance) that DO go to the
> services that they apparently get for free all the day long...

With a 7% sales tax, a single person spending $30,000 on goods per year (which is obviously vastly over what most low income people would even come close to), that's a total of $2,100.

Do you even have a clue how much a single trip to the ER costs? Obviously not.
How about the cost of just having a single baby at say, Los Robles Hospital? What about subsequent post-birth visits to the ER/Doctor? Then add in education, free school lunches (3 meals per day, for about 17 years), etc, etc.

Come on, be realistic. You are kidding yourself if you think that the amount of money an illegal immigrant puts into the system is even a smidgen of what they take out.

In regards to the "lower prices we pay by having illegal immigrants do the work that <double quote> none of us will do <end sarcastic double quote>" ... This is basic Economics 101. If they weren't here, legal citizens would do the work for higher (=normal) wages. Basically, the economy improves as a whole, we all make more, we all spend more. It evens out. The illegal aspect is what throws a nut in the gear, it is not something that can be just swept away or ignored. They are negatively impacting our society and economy in so many ways, it is nothing this nation will be able to recover from - the debt is piling up and will exponentially grow with the ever growing illegal population.

Posted by egg on May 17, 2007 at 10:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

this should have gone to a white meth addict with all their kids in foster care!

Posted by rglatt on May 18, 2007 at 8:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have a client from Hondouras that barely speaks English. He runs a $4.0 million a year company, very profitable. Has one daughter that is a junior at Cal Lutheran, and a second one that just got accepted to Cal Poly SLO. I think she only had a 4.3 GPA. Oh, and by the way, he makes too much money for need based financial aid, so he writes large tuition checks, just like I do.

So that's where poor imigrants can end up in this fantastic country. Oh, and by the way he built his first home here with his own bare hands, because he couldn't afford to buy one and needed a home for his family. He did this on the side, after working a 40 - 50 hour week. He now lives in a beautiful new home in Simi Valley..........and still barely speaks English. I have learned Spanish so I can understand him. Together we are building a better company and will be setting him up for retirement, so he can use his resources to help other poor people from his home country of Hondouras.

Some of you with your stereotypical views of immigrants need to get out a bit more and see some of the sucesses aforded by the greatest country in the world........even with all of our problems.

Let's stop with the negative comments.

Posted by AnnaWhaat on May 18, 2007 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Teesdin, now your going against one of the ten commandments , thou shall NOT steal! And its a crime ! Having children isn't. Big difference !
Alot of the newer faith catholics are now using birth control. But not all......... Are you asking someone to go against thier religion? I for one wouldn't. She is struggling to make ends meet. She came upon some unfortunate circumstances. She deserves it !!!!!!

Posted by teesdin on May 18, 2007 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

> and still barely speaks English. I have learned Spanish so I can
>understand him.

That's nice for you, I'm very happy. For me, I don't want to learn Spanish, and shouldn't have to. This is America, we speak English. If your "friend" (fictional character most likely, but that's ok, we'll use him for an example) runs a 4 mil company, he must be smart enough to learn at least basic English, right? So why on earth would he not? That's just a slap in the face.

I'm also glad to hear that his money that comes from our economy will be exported to Honduras, another great win for the U.S.

I am very grown up, and see the world realistically. Living in a fantasy world where everyone is happy, healthy, and on the same level is just that - a fantasy. I'm sure you think you're doing great things, and for the most part, you most likely are. I am in NO WAY against helping people. What I am against is helping self-serving, self-centered people, yes - the ones that cannot be bothered to learn our native language, yet run a multi-million dollar business and take the money out of our economy.

Posted by teesdin on May 18, 2007 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

> Teesdin, now your going against one of the ten commandments ,
> thou shall NOT steal! And its a crime ! Having children isn't. Big difference !

You must not have read my post. I said this is a new religion, we do not believe in the Ten Commandments. So, we are free to steal. Yes, it hurts the people we steal from, and in this example, should I care?
In your example, having children hurts me directly by taking my hard earned money, and I have no choice in the matter. Whatever beliefs you want to throw into the mix, I have no problem whatsoever with that. What I do have a problem with is when your beliefs affect my own life, which is what happens when people have children that they cannot afford. Stealing is only a crime because a law has been made to prevent it. That law started somewhere, just as a law should be written to prevent the absurd abuse of having children that you cannot provide for. It's absolutely ludicrous to think otherwise.

You ask if I'm asking someone to go against their religion. Well, there are 2 answers to that, either one will work, and if you think logically, it is the only conclusion that makes sense:

1) They can refuse birth control. Fine by me - go for it, have all the children you want. Just make sure that you can pay for them. If you can't, don't expect *my* money to help cover your choices. While a child may be biologically different than a new car, they both require money, and you should have to cover your own costs. Will you offer to buy me a car when mine breaks? And yes, this is 100% relevant to the question.

2) While this isn't exactly any different than #1, people must be responsible for their own actions. When they do something that is, or should be illegal - in this case, child abuse (going out on a limb? I think not. How is not being able to feed, clothe, and educate your child *NOT* child abuse??). An offender should be severely penalized. If the rewards and handouts weren't available, the occurrence of the act would be decreased. Remove the reward, decrease the problem, simple as that.

As long as our country welcomes these people with open arms and says, "do whatever you want, we'll pay for it," there is no hope. The line must be drawn somewhere. Please tell me how you can rebuff that?

Posted by Singer2007 on May 18, 2007 at 11:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Right on, egg! Love the comment!

Mr. Glatt, you, the Rotary Club and Bruce Nation are to be commended for your amazing example of generosity. Don't let this naysayer get you down. You and Bruce are inspiring, and I hope that some hard hearts who hear of this story will be softened or at least a little more introspective. History has shown that intolerance and isolationism create more problems than they at first appear to address.

Mr. Glatt, you and Bruce have rekindled in me (and I'm sure in others) a passion for volunteering and charity.

Posted by teesdin on May 18, 2007 at 12:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There's a major difference between intolerance, isolationism, racism, and factual reality - and what makes an economy survive.

Posted by Singer2007 on May 18, 2007 at 2:49 p.m.

(This thread was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by Singer2007 on May 18, 2007 at 3:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have posted that last comment. I'm trying to have it removed ASAP. I keep suggesting removal again and again, but the response is slow. I guess this discussion is really bringing out the worst in me. I'm going to bow out. Might be a good idea not to make your last name your user ID in the future.

Posted by teesdin on May 18, 2007 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry to ruin your google search, but I am actually a Mr. living in the NP area. Marketing for an electronics company would surely be more fun than what I do LOL.
A quick search of your name says many details, but I won't post them on here. Thank you for apologizing though, apology accepted :)
Yes this discussion is very lively and we all do have many strong opinions. But bringing personal info is not something that anyone should do. Especially if it isn't correct. I hope that that company isn't too liberal, it might give me a bad name lol. No really though I understand your frustrations and just want to have a constructive talk.

Posted by royhalter on May 20, 2007 at 4:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I was impressed to see what a simple gift of generosity turned into. People get a life!

Posted by AnnaWhaat on May 20, 2007 at 7:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Tees, I agree anyone living in the US here should learn the language......... BUT that is not what this article is about. Its about a charitble donation of a car to a Mother who badly needed one. Now had the article been about learning the laguage if you LIVE here I would have more to say. Your right about that. While I agree with your theory of how many kids someone can have and afford to care for. That is not the subject here. Otherwise I would be totally on your side of the subject.

Posted by teesdin on May 20, 2007 at 8:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Anna:
Yes I agree with you and I fell into the trap of the offtopic posts that were posted before me and like others have said, got caught up in the heat of the moment. Sorry for the kind of offtopic posts but at least there was a nice little discussion going on here about something

Posted by elisacassino on May 21, 2007 at 12:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To Mr. rglatt, very well said, I'm sure you did research upon selecting the right person to receive such a wonderful and thoughtful gift. And as for Ms. Moreno, in one of your so many angry blogs you mention that you try and help our society by teaching to make intelligent decisions, if that is true you need to stop the world is full of intelligent people as yourself.

Posted by vpkinchela on May 25, 2007 at 12:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WOW!!!!
I can't believe all of the harsh comments. I am a native California born and raised in Oxanrd. 100% mexican and proud of our race. I am so embarrased by the specific comments of the Latino Hater Delia Moreno. Maybe you should change your last name as your are an insult to the Latino community. As for you being a college graduate you sure did not do well in spelling as I have noted numerous errors in your writing. May God Bless you Delia Moreno and come into your heart and make a change that is greatly needed. Your mother failed to teach you about repescting your own race. Maybe your are upset that you didn't have more children, regardless of your thought process just stop posting dumb A$$ comments about someone you don't know.

My prayers are with your Ms. Puente-Ramirez many do not know the stuggles you and your family have faced. Some of us appreciate that you try and at least work full-time. The Welfare system is a hand-up and you should not be afraid to use it.

Maybe it would make a great reality show to have Ms. Moreno swap places with Ms. Puente-Ramirez so she can see that Ms. Puente-Ramirez is trying. Don't knock her for that.

By the way Delia before you bless me, forget it Jesus lives in my heart everyday. I am a Kansas resident and a single parent for the last 10 years. I do not collect welfare, I am a college graduate and try and help people that really want the hand-up. Ms. Moreno try getting up off your A$$ and helping the commuity since you are no longer working.

Just saying it like it is.....

Bunny Perez Oxnard high school graduate and proud of it........

Posted by AnnaWhaat on May 27, 2007 at 9:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Bunny I agree with you about the hand up. If someone is working full time and still needs help then that is what the system is there for. Not for people that make no attempt to work at all and want everything for free !
God Bless !

Posted by rglatt on June 5, 2007 at 10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

For those of you that want to meet the Ramirez family in person.....we will be rededicating the gift of the car to her this coming Sunday, June 10th, at California Lutheran University at 11:00 am, for the Conejo Valley Car Classic, car show. All the money raised goes back into the commmunity to help poor and needy people. We would love for you to come out for this event.

The info is at the link below:
http://www.conejovalleycarclassic.com/

Hope to see you all there, wishing the Ramirez family well. They are a very humble and appreciative family, and all of the kids are very polite and well behaved.

I would love for each of you to meet them in person. For those of you that have posted negative comments on this article, I personally challenge you to come support our cause and maybe you will have a different impression after meeting the Ramirez family in person.

I hope to meet each of you there!

Posted by Singer2007 on June 6, 2007 at 2:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

www.westlakeindependent.com has a lot of info on this shop