More than half of those who responded to an Argus-Courier online poll April 19, 2006 believe Barry Bonds should be suspended or banned from Major League Baseball if it is proven that he used illegal performance-enhancing drugs.

Forty percent of the 68 respondents (27 people) felt that no action should be taken against Bonds while 37 percent (25 people) said he should be banned from baseball for life. Twenty-four (16 people) percent said he should be suspended.

Asked if Bonds' home run records would still be legitimate if it's proven he used illegal performance-enhancing drugs, 60 percent (41 people) said "no" and 40 percent (27 people) said "yes."

Nearly three-fourths of respondents -- 50 people or 74 percent -- believe that Major League Baseball has not adopted strong enough testing and penalties to help prevent the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

When asked if college athletes should be tested for illegal performance-enhancing drug use, 87 percent (59 people) said "yes" and 13 percent (nine people) said "no."

Readers were also asked if high school athletes should be tested: 76 percent (52 people) said "yes" and 24 percent (16 people) said "no."

Here are the comments that readers who responded to the survey on performance-enhancing drugs wrote:

1
The governing bodies of all sports, highschool, college and pro, should have a no tolerence policy. Use and you're gone ... If athletes understand this, they will stop, or be forced to quit the very endeavor they love to participate in,

2
This is all just a big witch hunt. Leave Barry alone.

3
Bonds shouldn't be punished for taking the drugs, but his use of the performance-enhancing drugs should be fully disclosed. I don't know what the league requires of athletes. Apparently they have no policy. If they have no policy, then Bonds shouldn'g be punished. If they don't have a policy, then they should notify the players that henceforth users of performance-enhancing drugs will suffer a 3-month suspension for each occurrence.

4
I support research into the maximum capabilities that can humanly be achieved, regardless of whatever device or chemical that can or will bring it about. Go for the impossible!

5
what type of athlete are you if you can only perform with the us of ILLEGAL drugs. Not a very good one! Do the best YOU an do. That is a true athlete.Taking drugs to enhance your ability to perform is cheating, and drugs and cheating does not make a good athelete or an athelete period.

6
Athletes are our modern day gladiators and warriors and should be able to do whatever it takes to be the greatest.

7
The key is "illegal". Appearance-enhancing drugs (perhaps Botox) may one day be illegal, but today anyone can use them to benefit their well-being (or career).

8
Stop the hypocrisy already! We don't give actors breathaliser tests while they're making a movie. We don't test musicians. Baseball is a pastime. Sports are supposed to be for fun. If we didn't make such a big deal of outing people based on behavior we don't neccessarily agree with, we would have a lot more time to impeach our incompetent president who is KILLING HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE.

9
Unfortunately, in today's sports world, testing for performance enhancing drugs, should be mandatory. Use of illegal drugs is market driven and so is the reporting. It is too bad there is no longer a level playing field (so to speak) by the sports or the press.

10
Illegal should be enough, but apparently not. However, where are the people that should be setting examples for young kids? It's wrong and should be dealt with a strong penalty. Stop the phony hero crap, it's fake skills.

11
If Barry were to be tested today and found to have steroids in his system, he should then face what ever penalities now in place. If he used them in the past when it was not against the rules, he cannot be punished for that. Having been an athlete in the '60s, I was aware of many of my fellow athletes using illegal (speed) drugs, and steroids, which at the time were not illegal. We would have to go back and change and maybe disregard all records if we were to hold Barry to today's rules for past behavior. The rules, for baseball, were only recently changed and all present and future athletes must be held to these rules but to go back on Barry or any other athletes, would be a violation of the ex-post-facto portion of the constitution and unneccessary to clean up the sport. The rules are now in place, we now must enforce them.

12
Pro sports is really pro entertainment. Would we test actors, singers and the like? Would Dean Martin have passed a sobriety test? High school may be different, but the need to use steroids is often about getting into pro sports...the entertainment industry.

13
If he used it was in the past not the present. And steriods make it easier to hit the ball. That does take some talent.

14
If baseball want to crucify one person for alleged use of something they better go back many, many years. In the '60s you had pitchers putting substances on baseballs. In the '70s you had serveral players using different types of drugs, speed etc. In the eighties you had baseballs that were juiced to fly farther. And if you are a real baseball fan, what did they call the Atlanta Braves stadium when Hank Aaron played? The Launching Pad. So if your going to put an asterik near Barry's name you better stick it next to every ones. Pujols has hit 10 home runs so far with 18 at bats ... Maybe he is on "Roids" also, but I don't hear anyone talking about that. Parents should take the responsibility for raising their children not sports figures. I remember watching the greatest player of all time Willie Mays and he played in the worst stadium for baseball (The Stick) and he never complained. I wonder if Willie had played at the launching pad or at the Giants currrent stadium what his numbers would be. And If everyone is so concerned about Barry's numbers quit walking him and pitch to the guy.

15
The two Chronicle reporters should go to jail for using their possition in the media to write this book. It is unfare that they are allowed to break the law, because of their possition in the media.

16
This seems to be a witchhunt for Barry Bonds. I am sorry for these folks' loss, but Barry Bonds had nothing to do with his decision to do these drugs.

17
Bud Selig (MLB commisioner) knew what was going on in baseball, but took no action because popularity and attendance was at an all-time high. Now, he threatens to suspend Bonds, which is ridiculous because of his knowledge of the use in baseball and lack of enforcement. He shouldn't suspend one player when it's known that so many others used.

Four out of five people who responded to an Argus-Courier online poll April 12, 2006 said they think Petaluma needs a tougher anti-graffiti law.
Out of 120 people who responded, 97 answered "yes" to the question "Does Petaluma need a tougher anti-graffiti law?"
Another 70 percent (84 out of the 120 respondents) believe minors should be prohibited from purchasing tools such as felt-tip markers and spray paint cans that are commonly used by vandals to deface property.
Asked if merchants should be required to lock up items such as felt-tip markers and spray paint cans, the gap between "yes" and "no" was much closer: 66 people (54 percent) said "yes" and 54 people (46 percent) said "no."
More than three-fourths of respondents -- 78 percent -- believe that minors convicted of defacing property should have their driver's license suspended. Ninety-four answered in the affirmative and 26 said "no."
Here are the comments that readers who responded to the survey on graffiti wrote:

1
Instead of implementing stricter laws, we should be providing young artists a legitimate mediums and opportunities to express their art. Local Graffiti contests, etc.
2
The juveniles who are caught should have to clean up all graffiti in the city on the weekends. They should be supervised by the police who should be on overtime that is paid for by the parents. If they complete 100 hours, then they could be diverted from prosecution.
3
I've lived on the east side now for 10 years and they are just starting to reach my area. It is a shame that such nice bridges, lamp posts and walls get tagged. Taggers should get 6 months of weekend community service. Believe me, I've been there and taking away every weekend for 6 months sucks.

4
Petaluma's tough new anti-graffiti stance is ridiculous and extreme overreaction and posturing by a city government that is already overwhelmed and unable to deal with existing issues, such as our deteriorating streets and sidewalks. We don't need new and draconian laws designed to further isolate and punish our city's youth when existing laws, if actually enforced, would suffice.

5
Graffiti is a minor crime, and we should treat it as such. It's a form of property destruction when it damages paint or windows worth up to several thousand dollars. Punishment should be proportional to the crime. Punishments such as a fine of $100 to $1000, community service, and requirement to pay for repairs are appropriate. Suspension of a driver's license has no sensible relation to the crime, and thus no proportionality. Measures such as prohibiting sale of paint and pens to minors is just counterproductive nonsense, and I doubt there is any place on earth where such prohibitions were effective in preventing graffiti.

6
Don't penalize merchants or their parents, penalize the perpetrators.

7
I think parents of minors should have to perform community service with the minors convicted. Also, the parents should have to pay expenses double the cost of repairing the damaged surfaces. Additionally, those over the age of 18 should pay these fines or serve serious community service time.

8
Tagging is civil disrespect. Convicted taggers should be sentenced to community service, either picking up trash or removing other tagger's graffiti.

9
Put laws in place that punish the parents as well as the kids. If parents are held accountable for the "uhlawful" acts of their kids, I feel this would go a long way toward curbing the youth violence problem.

10
We want tourists to stop in our fair town to leave a few dollars at our fine retialers and restruants. What message is the graffiti sending to those who may want to stop in Petaluma? Graffiti makes our town look cheap and unkept.

11
More youth programs are needed that would focus on prevention and available regardless of income. More focus on prevention that criminalizing!

12
Merely slapping a hand does not make someone feel punished for a wrong doing. Vendors need to make money and they should not have to babysit their products against would-be taggers. You need to catch and impose a fine on these punks and make them clean up their mess. Hit them where it would do them damage, not more bureaucracy. If I had a police record that indicated I was a tagger, I doubt I would feel bad or embarassed or sorry for what I did. They may in fact be proud of their work.

13
Being a graffiti writer, i feel that Petaluma does not offer enough for young artists to express themselves. The wall by the animal shelter used to be a great place for young artists to express themselves with an aerosol can on a wall. When they took that way, it only opens up the streets. If the city wants the graffiti on the streets to stop, then they need to open legal spots for the artists to paint. They are only thinking one-sided. Do you really think graffiti is going to stop? There will be even more graffiti once these laws come out because there will just be more laws to break.

14
The parents of Minors should be held resposable for the damage the minor does. Locking everthing up so good kids can not buy art suplies is wrong. Parents are resposable for their children, and should be held financially resposable for any loss. As for Petaluma, we have better things to spend money on than catch kids writing on walls. How about taking care of street repairs?

15
I left New York to get away from graffiti, vandalism, crime and gang activity. Let's keep it out of our beautiful town and the only way to do that, is to be tough about it.

16
I think that education is what is necessary. Simply telling them it's wrong isn't going to change anything. Part of this issue is the defiance of authority and rebelling against the rules. I, however, prefer a work of art on a wall or fence than without, but to deface a store front isn't acceptable. There needs to be a balance and compromise on both sides of the issue.

17
how about if they are caught and convicted, the victim property owners get the opportunity to spray the suspects heads? That might be a deterrent.

18
Business owners and residents should be required to remove graffiti from their property and perpitrators should be held liable for damages to property. Fines should be very steep for those who wish to deface our beautiful city.

19
While I saw a letter from one tagger who feels his artistic freedom is trampled on, as a property owner, I feel my rights are trampled on. If someone needs something to paint on -- buy some paper or canvas like a legitimate artist -- as you wish to be considered. Or ASK a property owner if they would like their property decorated. Some fences around town, as I recall, have indeed been turned over to taggers for real art -- not the obscene scribbles that most taggers use.

20
Graffiti/Vandalism is a serious eyesore in many parts of our city. It does not matter whether it is on public or private property. We all have to fight it.

21
We have lived in this gorgeous town for more than 20 years. We are tremendously saddened by the changes in our community over the last 5 or so years. The graffiti has scarred almost every available surface. While some may argue that it is art, we find it to show a lack of respect for others, community and property.

22
Is anyone asking why grafitti is a problem? Are young people trying to tell us something? There is always another way of looking at a problem, and this one starts with the alienation of the 20 to 30 year olds in Petaluma.Give them a part to play in local politics, and things will change. Try it and see, Petaluma.We could just pioneer a better way.

23
I think Petaluma should do everything possible to fight graffiti. It's the first step in wiping out gang activity and tells the gang members their actions won't be tolerated.

24
Any type of graffiti is a crime. It degrades the visual environment of everyone. It must be a zero tolerance crime.

25
They or parents should have to pay to have the graffiti removed,and by a professional so the color matches and does not make the buildings have different color patches on it. This damage was done to someones property and should be repaired correctly. Also along with license suspension should be a fine and community service of some kind. If the person does not have a license then a fine and double community service. This has to stop. I used to have a buisness in a downtown area that would get graffi put on it at least once a month. It cost me alot of money to have it corrected every month. It should not be the owner or renters responsibily to put out such expense for removal. It should be the person and or the persons family. It is also the parents problem because apparently they failed to teach their children respect for others and their property. Now do the responsible thing and repair someones property. That goes for broken windows,graffiti,or any other damage.

26
I thnk anyone convicted of graffiti violations should be required to put in community service hours cleaning Petaluma. They should be required to a wear some sort of vest designating them as violators and be ordered to do mimial tasks such as picking up trash. I also believe a creative outlet is needed for these individuals. Not all graffiti is gang-oriented, some is art.

27
There should be tougher consequences for non-monors, as well. The two arrested last weekend for grafetti were not minors. I am a memeber of PEG, and I could clean up tags 7 days a week- if I had the time! I don't, so I do what I can, but it saddens me that people have so little respect for the town we all live in together.

28
It would be wise to lock up spray paint cans, but not felt-tip pens because how do you know that they aren't for school use. How would stores know that eeach teen or person who buys a felt tip pen is going to vandalize? I can see stronger laws on spray paint cans, but not felt tip pens.

29
Graffiti is an expression, sure it may be ruin some homes and it may be gang related for some but is an expression and will not be handled no matter how you try and stop it.

30
I agree with tougher graffiti law with stiffer punishment. I hesitate to support locking up markers and paint cans.

31
Perhaps they could also spend a full year removing graffiti from vandalized Petaluma buildings and walls.

32
I am SO fed up with the escalating graffiti problem in Petaluma. I have lived here since 1967 and have never seen it so bad. The River Walk which the city spent thousands of dollars on is a terrible eye sore (especially around the Payran/Lakeville area) and should be closed. The vast majority of people along its course are not there to enjoy the convenience of the walk or beauty of the area! No punishment - however harsh - is sufficient to discourage the vandalism and defacing of public and private property. Let's bear in mind, though, that unless there is enforcement, the best law won't deter these criminals, because that's what they are. LET'S GET TOUGH, PETALUMA!!

33
If the conviction is not strong enough,forget the effort. These people who are doing the graffiti really don't have any high values, so unless you enforce a strong conviction...you will be running in circles. I work at a middleschool in San Pablo and have witnessed the graffiti problem grow out of control..because the enforcers have not kept on top of the problem and the fine has been minimal. Strict laws and follow-up are the answer. And these two factors take alot of time and effort.

34
stiffer penalties

35
Current laws may need modification - I don't know as no one is publishing what current rules ARE...the idea that all merchants must keep felt pens locked up and pay for expensive cleanup doesn't sound smart. Make graffitti artists pay for damages? If you can find them. Give them a place to do their "art" - YES!

36
Before driver's licenses can be suspended, there need to be alternatives in place (like working bicycle paths) so parents don't have to pay the price twice by first dealing with the conviction of their kid and then by having to drive their kid everywhere. Graffiti should not be a major crime in the first place. The entire idea of requiring merchants to lock up pens is ludicrous. I can't believe it is even being proposed. New laws just increase the feeling of us versus them and will worsen the problem. New laws also are a challenge to writers to come up with more creative ways to get around them. It just doesn't work. Kids need to be respected as members of the community, then they will feel like part of the community and respect it. Ways for them to contricute should be created for various personality types, not just for football player and academic acheiver types.

37
We need a much smarter way to deal with this issue. punitive measures alone will not help. Re-opening the Hopper St. Wall for free art would be a good start.

38
If the city of Petaluma had not painted over the wall along Hopper Street at the end of 2004, none of this anti-graffiti rubbish would be necassary. The city has shot itself in the foot and deserves everything it is getting right now. Give us back our wall or continue to pay the price. You can't stop us, you never have been able to and you never will. Signed, the vandals of Petaluma.

39
Those caught defacing property should be required to clean up the damage.

40
We need to send a strong message to those convicted of vandalism. They shuold be put to work in the community and be supervised doing the clean up work

41
I think that all persons convicted of defacing property should be required to pay for the clean up of it all. If they are minors, their parents should be required to pay.

42
Its about time we started addressing this problem. Taggers and their parents, too, should certainly be held accountable for this form of urban blight.

43
Graffiti isnt that bad in petaluma

44
I would like to see Petaluma once again become the city that I can be proud of!!

45
I have lived in Petaluma 40 years and raise my children in the wonderful town. Lets keep it that way. It's going to take everyone making a effort. For our children and there children.

46
People shouldn't ruin our beautiful city.

47
Petaluma is a beautiful town, except for the amazing amount of graffiti that is plastered around the city. I've had to remove graffiti from a school crossing sign in front of my house numoerous times. When you see many signs, businesses and even the library tagged over and over again, the moment has come to toughen anti-graffiti laws.

48
graffiti is art not destruction

49
Graffiti has become a blight in our community. Kids and young adults are always trying to find ways to amuse themselves, but vandalising the town is not the way. Some people think that graffit is art. The definition of art has many meanings, and one mans art is another mans garbage. We have many artists in the community that hang their art work proudly in their home, gallery, restuarant, or in a merchants shop. But this is done with permission by the property owner. The art of graffiti is being done without permission by the community on our walls, fences, and bridges. I haven't seen a water color artist randomly hammer a nail in the side of somebodies house and hang their picture.

50
Fine should be $1,000 for each offence. If they find 10 tags, that $10,000 fine.

51
Please do not require our merchants to do anything with regard to graffiti as they are not responsible in any way.

52
Kids under 16 that are caught should have thier license privelage withheld until they are 18 years old. All taggers should do community service of removing graffiti.

53
I think all the hype regarding the "gang" tagging in Petaluma is a little out of hand. Majority of the graffiti is NOT even gang related. Giving out community service hours or other court ordered volunteering activites should teach kids who are taught defacing neighborhoods to quit it. I do feel however, that risricting their driving privlidges is a bit too harsh.

54
The city government should find and emulate the successful anti-graffitti efforts of other communities, and should do so immediately. Having moved here from San Francisco, I can attest to the importance of nipping this problem in the early stages. It is often an indicator of burgeoning gang activity, something I'm sure the citizens of Petaluma would like to curtail and eliminate. Make the punishment signficant enough to give the potential offenders pause and find a way to bring the message home that this is not about 'expression' but vandalism and destruction of property, pure and simple.

Fifty-five percent of people responding to an Argus-Courier online poll April 5, 2006 said they think illegal immigrants should be considered criminals and charged with a felony.

A total of 172 people responded to the survey. The first question was "Do you think illegal immigrants should be considered criminals and charged with a felony?" Ninety-four people answered "yes" and 78 said "no."

Another 65 percent (112 people) believe the United States should erect a 700-mile fence on the 2,000-mile U.S.-Mexico border to discourage illegal immigrants from crossing the border. Sixty people (35 percent) said "no."

Nearly three-fourths of respondents -- 70 percent or 121 people -- think employers should face criminal penalties for hiring illegal workers. Sixty-one people said "no."

Only 26 percent (45 people) said they have ever or would hire someone to do work for them if they knew or suspected the worker was an illegal immigrant. The rest, 127 people (74 percent), said "no."

Here are the comments that readers who responded to the survey on immigration wrote:

1
I think every illegal immigrant in the US should be granted citizenship. But moving forward, this law should be enforced 100%. But you can't give someone a speeding ticket that occured 20 yrs ago. We let you speed, but now we are going to use legal action against you. Makes zero sense.

2
I get really tired of seeing all the illegals standing around the Shell gas station on Bodega. I avoid getting gas there because of it and it is an inconvienience. It is also an eyesore. As I waited at the light this week I counted about 60 guys standing out there. A police friend told me the problem with these guys is that when they commit crimes there is no tracing them, so they can easily slip away. Not that they are all criminals but when they are they can easiliy go back across the border. I am a hard working citizen. It just irks me to think that people can be here illegally and take advantage of the system. Also your survey is too black and white. I don't know that charging them with a felony is effective. A fence? (they'll find a way back fence or not)...

3
Instead of persecuting illegals, we should establish a living wage and have criminal penalties for employers who don't pay the minimum wage. We should ban imports from companies that pay their employees less than a living wage in their countries. These two actions will stop illegal immigration in its tracks. If immigrants can earn a living wage in their own countries, why would they want to risk their lives coming here? Of course, we must be willing to pay the greatly increased cost of living when we no longer have cheap labor to harvest our farms and work in our WalMarts. I think it's a price worth paying.

4
99% of the illegal immigrant are here to make a living and to take care of their family. I grew up in Petaluma and I saw alot of the dairy ranches have workers that were illegal. Look who is working in the fields and the ranches and so on. They did not take anybody job. They are doing the job that nobody wants. I think if they are being good citizen, working and taking care of their family then why not give them the chance. I have family members and close friends who are illegal immigrants. And they are hard workers. I am not saying this because I am mexican, because I am not. I am Puerto Rican. We are all the same.

5
People will come as long as there are jobs. It is the history of this country and what almost all of our ancestors did. The question is why won't or can't employers pay a living wage to their workers? Most citizens can't afford to live on the wages these immigrants are making.

6
We need immigrants,but not illegal ones.

7
many of us came from different country. however we have to apply a legal document in order to come to america .it is everybody's dream.people waited for monht's years to get documents approved.this is unfair to anyone of it should mandatory to everyone to be legal if they wishes to stay here.those who violated the law should be prosecuted otherwise will to timbakto.

8
we seem to be forgetting the fact that these people are BREAKING THE LAW! Even if there are 11 million supposed illegles, in the U.S. does that make them any less guilty? If we pursue that line of thought, then next should we decriminalize drugs because "everyone is doing it?"

9
We need to have control of our borders and knowledge of the people who enter our country. We also need to recognize the contributions that immigrants, legal and illegal, make to our country and our economy. Respect for both the law and for each other must be fostered by any policy that is passed into law.

10
if the are called Illeagal Immigrants should it not be illeagal to be here. Lets see what they call the US after the Real Federal Income taxes start to be takin out of there checks. not just the taxes for buying food - all illeagal workers do not pay income tax there for the dont contribute. other than doing the work the lazy homeless people will not do. PAY FEDERAL TAXES and we will see if the still want to stay.

11
My family lives near an appartment complex that has turned the area into a high crime area. We hear sierns so much that we want to move. I don't dare drive down certain streets at night anymore. Everyone speaks spanish in the stores and can not communicate with you. God forbid, if a disaster hit this community. At least the three taco trucks were removed from the street that takes you to one of the main shopping centers.

12
Living in Chicago, as a former Petaluma citizen and resident, I am constantly contacted by these foreign born illegal individuals, who seem to be "hell" bent on provididing for their families . . they seem to be good souls and I have no problem with them except that they should have waited to having permission to enter the USA, just like my parents, back in the early 1900's

13
I am a Mexican American. My Parents came as Illegal Immigrants, and are know Citizens. This has affected me because I do have relatives that are Illegal and I see the struggles they go through. They don't have a lisence and are risking driving, but what about emergencies? How will they get to the hospital if they can't drive. Being legal in the U.S. is very important. I don't see it as a privilage, I see it as a necessity!

14
ILLEGAL is just what it means...ILLEGAL!!

15
The current immigration policy also needs to be approved. Put some Americans to work processing immigrants (and exportees), aggressively enforce employer laws, and strengthen the border. A shorter "amnesty" period for converting illegals to citizens would help.

16
I think that if you add 700 miles to the already 2,000 mile fence it will just be a waste of money because nothing will stop someone who is really hungry and motivated to cross the border.

17
I want the best for those from the other side of the Rio Grande, however, I think that it is costing U.S. too much right now. They are not to blame, however there are many large employers that are. We need some way of identifying migrant workers and those who wish to remain in the U.S. The latter would be subject to our laws re legal immigration. We cannot police the border at present, so what makes Congress think that they could handle 11 million "undocumented " workers? We have a real threat from terrorists that cannot be addressed properly because of the "sieve" we call a border. Let's try to document those who are hear illegally and afford some period for them to work and obtain legal entry. Requiring them to learn English would be a start. Raising the Mexican flag at their gatherings doesn't help cement good relationships with those of who seriously question their being here at all. We must build a way to share our U.S. bounty with all, particularly those directly south of U.S. "Sometimes it seems that God above lives just across the Rio Grande" - song by Roger Whitaker, makes me want to cry.

18
Un restrained (illegal) immigrantion places a huge burden on our already over burdened social services. If we sit by and do nothing to control it this we will all suffer for it.

19
I do realize that illegal immigration is a problem, but I think the measures recently proposed are too harsh.

20
Are we making this state, country a better and safer place to live by allowing 750,000 illegals aliens to cross our southern boarder annually unchecked? I think we only need look at our rising insurance rates, closing hospitals, overcrowded highways, overtaxed social services and crowded prisons. Enough is enough. All polls show an overwhelming majority of Americans get it and agree that amnesty doesn't work but a secure boarder does. And by the way the opinion poll today was rather pathetic. Next time try not to be so obvious with your bias. Get some opinions from both sides of the isle. Harv

21
Round em' up collect em' all and send em' back!

22
We accept the most legal immigrants in the world(more than all other countries combined)! Our resources, infrastructure is beyond capacity-look at our roadways, jails, and schools; additionally, we have record numbers of homeless, and elderly-Lets take care of our own citizens before we absorb the rest of the world's issues. Please try to report fairly; its as if "illegals" only bring happiness and good will...There's no mention of the criminals that follow the same path as the well intentioned immigrants...Oh, by the way, please name me the other countries that give out benefits and make children of "illegal" immigrants "legal"...That would be NONE!

23
we live in the belly of the beast!

24
The word is self explanatory -illegal. What don't you get - people in this country need to leave if not here legally!

25
Everyone has a right to come here LEGALLY! Follow the rules, pay your dues, pay your own way, and when in Rome... I am tired of seeing the Mexican flags being waved in protest. How about if you really want to be in America, wave the American flag?

26
As a proud Latina American, who's parents immigrated legally, I think the US has already sacrificed too much security and sovereignty for the sake of sensitivity and political correctness. Let's enforce our existing immigration laws.

27
Is illegal immigration a problem? Honestly? Or are people not of mexican heritage feeling a bit like a minority now? The cold, hard fact is that the American and Mexican economies DEPEND heavily on immigrant labor. All the illegal immigrants I know all have jobs...none are collecting welfare. Are they really taking away jobs from other Americans?? Would any other American have that job? Not likely. In the end, big business will always win, anything else is worth wasting the oxygen. In the end, if Republicans have their way, hard working people who are DRAWN, almost INVITED to this country, will be made felons and American companies will fall or move their operation to Mexico. Sure, that is all we need.

28
I am tired of supporting them. They get almost everything free here, prescriptions, medical treatment, food stamps, have more and more babies, the more they have the more the state gives them. Do they pay taxes if they are working? Doubtful, most pay is under the table cash. The mexican's are in the majority, the more we let them take over the less the rest of us hardworking citizens will have. Sure if they really wanted to live like us they would all have their own S.S. cards, not using someone else's, one family per household and not 20 people living in one house. Gangs and drugs? Look at the names of arrests in the paper. I don't see the names Smith or Jones, it's always a Mexican name. I'm sick of it.

29
I notice that your editorial page has two editorials. The second one opines that getting tough on illegals and employers that hire them is too "harsh." I also notice an article on last week's question dealing with gangs and gang violence. Dare I conflate the two? I wonder how many gangbangers are also illegals or the children of illegals and your own newspaper reported not too long ago that "the majority of the Latino population of Petaluma is believed to be illegal." Call me racist if you will (and no doubt all you "good liberals" will) but this is unacceptable. Illegals drag down wages (and take jobs) for low-skilled and young American workers and use a disproportionate amount of public funds, including law enforcement resources and MediCal and, of course public education. Demands that these services be provided in Spanish is just an additional slap in the face. Sign the guestbook on the way in, learn the language and obey our laws or stay home!

30
I am not against peaple from other countries coming here for work. My father and almost everyone who lives here had their parents or grandparents immigrate here. I have a problem with doing it ILLEGAL. That word still means breaking the law dosen't it? You need to go through the proper channels get the proper papers and do it legally. People need to be documented paid legally and pay taxes just like everyone else who lives here. Their is a price to pay if you want to live here,and it should be payed by everyone. The benifits we get should not be used and abused by peaple who do not even put into the system. If people really want to live and work here for the better life. Then do it like our parents and grandparents. LEGALLY. They were willing to take the time ,do the sacrifices and pay the price to become a proud part of america. Not a person who just wants to take the easy way with none of the work to make it legal. Yes it takes time, but its worth it. And yes I think if you hire an ilegal their should be a big price to pay. The person or company would really think twice next time. If everyone stops hiring them maybe just maybe they will be willing to go through the process to become legal.

31
This is being played as a racist issue, it's not. Yes, this country is a melting pot. Yes, we should have open arms. I have no problem with immigration. I have a problem with illegal immigration. I have a problem with English not being the only language on this like DMV forms and Ballots.

32
Our nation was based on legal immigration. Illegal immigrants come to our country use healthcare system at cost to the American taxpayers, use our schools and instituations of higher education at in-state tuition rates at a cost to the American taxpayer, add to the crime rate; again, at a cost to the American taxpayer. The do not want to learn the language and then they send their money back to Mexico. Help me understand why should an illegal immigrant who has broken our laws be allowed amnesty or citizenship? Duh!

33
If there's support to change immigration laws, change them. Until then they should be enforced as aggressively as drug or tax laws.

34
If the Senate wants a guest worker program, let the employers pay for hospitalization, incarceration (when and if they commit crimes) and housing for these workers. The issue of educating the hords of offspring should also be paid for with employer contributions. This means it is not cheap labor anymore?

35
This is not about race. The only reason most of the illegal immagrants are latinos is the proximity of countries south of the border dividing two standards of living. I beleive if given the chance, tens of millions of asians, africans as well as eastern europeans would swarm into the country if only they had a porous border to walk across. We should should be just as diligent to deport all illegal aliens of all colors including whites. On the other hand, if we have a guest worker program, in the interest of diversity, shouldn't we allow guest workers from all third world countries and not just latin america?

36
They do work that others here in California would not do.

37
Let's not forget that these "immigrants" are people. The want what we all want, a good opportunity for education, health and quality of life. I welcome the cultural diversity they bring. The contributions they make in the work force are vital to the economy. They should be welcomed here and not persecuted.

38
Frce them all back to Mexico and covertly support a reeducation program to eliminate the the bandits who run tat country now. Eliminate the need for them to come here to live prosperously!

39
Some guy said it best on the news.. This country is based on laws and rules. if they want to be a part of that, they should come in legally. when they come in illegally, they are breaking a law. they should be punished for that. everyone else gets punished for breaking laws. why should they be any different.

40
We MUST get control of our borders. It is not racist to want this, as many democrats would have us believe. Immigration must be done legally for the security of our nation.

41
I have no problem with LEGAL IMMIGRATION, I am tired of paying illegals medical and welfare. athey should pay taxes if they wnt welfare at sometime, just like the rest of us do. aif you come here illegally, you should be arrested and deported. You should have no rights to our welfare system or our sympathy if you are not hear legally. It is drainig or taxes to feed, house and educate illegalls. Come here legally, pay taxes and experience all that this county can give you.

42
As far as I know it is pretty easy to emigrate from Mexico or Central America - so I don't understand why they go through all the trouble to get here illegally.

43
The key word in this legislation is "Criminal". I don't believe that "Criminals" are harvesting our fruits and vegetables. If anyone is "Criminal" it would be the employers that profit from these hard working people who are forced to live in squalid conditions and earn well below a living wage.

44
One planet, one people - I am ashamed of the way my country is treating people. Other than Native Americans this country is peopled with foreigners. If illegal immigrants quit working for one week our state's economy would be in serious trouble.

45
UNDER OUR CURRENT TAX SYSTEM, MANY NON-CITIZENS DO NOT PAY INCOME AND PAYROLL TAXES, EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE HERE EARNING WAGES. THEY ALSO MAY RECEIVE MANY BENEFITS IN THE FORM OF HEALTH CARE, EDUCATION AND MUCH MORE. CONGRESS SHOULD SERIOUSLY CONSIDER PASSING THE FAIR TAX BILL (H.R.25 & S.25)WHICH SUBJECTS ALL LEGALLY OR ILLEGALLY LIVING IN THE U.S. TO PAY A NATIONAL RETAIL SALES TAX. THEREFORE, ALL U.S. RESIDENTS WOULD CONTRIBUTE TO THE TAX BASE.

46
In the 1940s illegal immigrants were called invaders. The invaders of today are being welcomed even as they march in our streets flying the flag of their county.

47
There is a clue in the term: "illegal alien." I always thought it was illegal to harbor and assist lawbreakers. This is the bottom line for me. Apply the same format to "illegal drug dealer." What if we were discussing hiring, importing, and making citizens out of drug dealers. The US has turned their heads and haven't wanted to deal with this situation and the problem is now tearing away at the fabric of our American identity. At least it is in my area. We are like a town you would see in a border town in Mexico. My neighborhood isn't an American neighborhood anymore.

48
While I have never hired an illegal immigrant to work for me, I know many people who have. My problem with illegal immigration is not a race based issue at all, it is an American based issue. We owe our children a future. A future which includes and hopefully enhances their abilities to earn a living. Illegal immigration has underminded the middle class, making once good wages earning midlle class jobs in the Construction fields bottom level jobs. Who can survive on $15.00 in our city. You certainly won't be purchasing a home anytime soon. The net effect of illegal immigration is to push salaries down, and while doing so talking the middle class with it. We have to protect the future of our children by providing them the same salary and employment opportunites at the same social levels we were offered. We aslo must protect our public services for our children. Which includes our schools and hospitals. This can not be maintained as long as illegal immigrants use these services at no cost. If we grant illegal immigrants currently in this country permanent status then we will enforce the minimum wage for these new citizens raising the salaries, and creating a need for more illegal immmigration. We must enforce the laws currently on the books in regards to illegal immigration, fine those companys and people who hire illegal immigrants and secure our boarders to prevent future illegal immigration.

49
Anyone breaking the law should be punished, call them anything you want, illegal immigrants are just that, illegal.

50
We created our immigration laws for a purpose. Immigrants who break are laws should be penalized according to our laws. The arguments that they are willing to do work that other citizens are not is a lie. Illegal immigrants lowered the cost of labor to a point that no one is willing to do it in that competetive environment. This allowed employers to lower their wages and then not offer health and other employee benefits. One immigrant worker who is working for no benefits, may also have 3 or more dependents with no health benefits. Our health providers are not able to turn away uninsureds from our hospitals etc... thus putting millions of dollars written off by hospitals each year picked up by the federal government - thus the taxpayers are subsidizing that and the many free clinics that are paid for with state money. 29% of those in our jails are illegal immigrants and we are paying for that also. If we give amnesty we are setting a dangerous precedent. Those who have broke our laws whether you are mexican, swedish, or whatever should be made to stand in line to become a citizen legally. Our country was built on the strentgh of our borders, culture and language. We cannot dilute our voting ability (30,000,000 illegal immigrants make up near 25% of the voting population), we cannot loose our language and they must be made to speak English, and we must protect our borders from drug cartels and potentially terrorists. We cannot be assured that correct social security numbers are used to substantiate that all those who are here illegally are good taxpaying people. You cannot make an argument that the money they make is taxed and not be sent home to families they support in Mexico. The only true argument anyone can make, is to try to legitamize illegal activity, a costly venture to an already debt strapped state, and a threat to our national security. I would be very happy if you would reprint my comments. Thank you.

51
While I don't think that illegal immigration should be tolerated, the government could make legal, temporary immigration easier.

52
It's a dissapointment that the government would try to enforce something like this because it shows how much rasicm still exists. I'm exited that the senate decided to go through with a bill in more support of immigrants and not the HR4437 bill.

53
Who is going to round up millions of felons, force them onto thousands of buses and physically deport them or put them in prison? And at whose expense. Ridiculous.

54
If we have to speak spanish in their country they should speak english here. And just because they will work for lower wages doesn't mean they should get jobs over the people who are American.

55
I think much of the anger toward immigrants, is the immigrants of today do not feel a need to learn English, we don't want to push 1 for english 2 for spanish. Also, the gangs and the uninsured motorist anger American citizens.

56
What part of the word "illegal" don't people understand? I am sure that our politicians can work this out if they only stop trying to please all parties.

57
It is a problem that has been ignored for many years--a complex one. The propoased legistlature is partly right, but much of it is unenforceable. Mexico should be pressured to somehow improve their economy so that illegals will not need or want to come to the USA.

58
The operative word is ILLEGAL immigration. Our country has an obligation to secure our borders. Let's quit blurring the line between legal and illegal immigration. Confusing the two only serves to increase the anger on both sides of this very emotional issue.

59
I believe it's time for the United States to join the rest of the modern world in protecting it's borders. My family became US citizens legally, so I find it difficult to understand why the public has any support for accepting illegal immigration. As for those who want to protest immigration, it's your right, but there is options other then entering a nation unlawfully...my family is proof.

60
The immigration laws offend the right to liberty and the right to the pursuit of happiness. Immigrants do not burden us. Immigration isn't theft. If they were legal residents, then they would pay income taxes.

61
The alternative to Sensenbrener's proposal is much more appealing.

62
I think the illegal immigrants should be allowed to obtain temporary work permits which would give them an option to apply for residency and citizenship within a limited numbers of years. Medical benefits and driver's license could be required with permanent residency.

63
change the law if needed, don't break it.

64
It boggles my mind how California and the rest of the country is more than willing to provide anything and everything to illegal aliens including amnesty, citizenship, driver's license, etc. but never once consider helping someone in their own country who may have fallen on hard times. Why do we put everything in a foreign language such as driver's tests? If a person can't read English are we going to change all the road signs and road information to Spanish or another language? Are country is so bent on rewarding people who come to this country illegally, it's still breaking the law no if's and's or but's about it. These people are breaking the law and they should not be rewarded. And, we should not allow an illegal alien or even a permanent resident who is not a U.S. citizen to have a child and have that child automatically be an American Citizen. These anchor babies should not be allowed!

65
Rewarding someone who has broken the law to begin with is not an answer. It is telling people that breaking the law is okay under certain conditions.

66
No US border should be pervious, whether to immigrants or terrorists. Until then, it seems inhumane and counter to the American dream to criminalize the laudible act of crossing it (each of us is a descendant of an immigrant - even the Ohlones). The real crime probably lies in spending 300 bazillion "securing" Iraq while leaving our borders relatively open.

67
those who are here to better their lives and provide for their families should be given every opportunity to join the American Family. There are future teachers, doctors, scientists, entrepreneurs, caregivers, and patriots among them, as has always been the American way...

68
No one in Law Enforcement wishes to deprive law abiding immigrants for pursuing a better life. But being in a foreign county illegally does make one a criminal, not necessarily a bad person but a criminal by definition. The new bill before congress would allow Law Enforcement to rid our communities of violent criminals illegally in the U.S. Law Enforcement does not have the time, personnel, or desire in chasing down law abiding people to ascertain their immigration status

69
When the paper quotes that the illegals do jobs that our legals don't want to do that is not quite true. The jobs that they take are jobs that high school kids don't even have a chance at anymore. How do they know if they don't want the job, there are never any openings. This started happening about 25 years ago, when we went to apply for jobs and they weren't available anymore. This is one of the reasons that we don't build work ethics & character in our younger groups, they haven't had the ability to learn or work at them. There aren't enough jobs to go around.

70
Millions of others have come to this country legally, though it is not an easy process there is no reason for illegals here to be rewarded for breaking the law. It makes it obvious they do not respect our country as America and are intent on making it their own. Carrying a foreign flag in a protest in our country demonstrates this clearly.

71
Illegal Immigration needs to stop NOW! NO AMNESTY!

72
We are "The United States" Lets show unity. The land of freedom...give immigrants freedom..but for their labor, many would not be wealthy!

73
This nation needs to address it's borders. No nation can survive without immigration, but no naiton can survive with unfettered and uncontrolled immigration that allows and encourages those without standing to enter and remain illegally.

74
My own mother came from Canada, became an American Citizen, my sister-in-law came from San Salvador became and American Citizen through the due process. I know many others that have done so. We have the Laws and they are breaking them coming into the US illegally. I remember on employment applicantions it asked "Are you a US Citizen?" What happened to that classification? I live in San Rafael: the illegal, stop and urinate in the childrens playground, behind homes and wherever they want, drive cars without insurance or a license, hit hit objects, homes and other cars, drunk most of the time and run. They get drunk sitting on a path that circles the neighborhood, leave all the bottles, cans and paper instead of cleaning up. This goes on all hours of the night. They line the sidwalks, sit on lawns and hang out in front of shopping centers, make comments and disturb the people coming and going. The end of every month there's an area where they pack and stack trucks with cars, trucks and other items that they drive to Mexico. Mexicans are robbing Mexicans cause they know when dropped off from a job they were paid. They are sucking our systems dry and have no respect for our laws or how we live, civilized. I am sick and tired of people not standing up and speaking out, I suggest we put the American Flag on our cars to remind them who and what county this is not, mexico!!! I don't care how bad it is, if you want to improve your lives, DO IT LEGALLY!! Of course this goes for ALL ILLEGAL ALIENS REGARDLESS OF THE COUNTRY!!!

75
This America, Land of the Free Home of the Brave. It is our Home. Those who chose to come here from another country, should do so with the respect and the acknowledgement of the privelage that it iS, AND DOING THAT lEGALLY. Americans are not welcome everywhere, but everyone is welcome here. Funny how that has worked out.....and MAY GOD BLESS AMERICA.

76
I just feel that if someone comes to live and work in this country, that they should learn the language, not refer to their birth country as my country all the time - it's insulting....they live here, this is their country. I also feel we as taxpayers and a country spend way too much money because of them...they get free health care (I don't, for example, I pay for my health care); we have to listen to telephone prompts in Spanish. I don't mean to be cruel; I'm just tired of it.

77
Send them all HOME!!

78
I am my brothers keeper and welcome all who wish to improve their living conditions through work in the USA. We have plenty of space for immigrants in our country. Eventually the current immigrants will be just as successful as those in the past...........

79
Illegal and criminal ARE synonymous, so what more is there to say? I propose we grant amnesty to all those in our prison system ... If you do it for one, ... do it for all. Oh yeah, and free Tibet, free Willy, and free beer.

80
remmember the alamo

81
There is something in the words "illegal immigrant" that doesn't sound right and there is something in the words "legal immigrant" that does sound right. Everyone know the difference? Any one? Any one?? Another poll = Do you think (no brainer) that illegals are contributing to the rise in gang activity?

82
We need to have respect for the law, and follow due process to properly enter the greatset country on earth. All working members of our society need to pay taxes, and contribute to the betterment of the society.

83
Illegal immigrants come to the USA for many reasons, but probably the most prevelant is to find a better economic and social environment for themselves and their families. Part of what keeps this a great environment are laws and social standards to ensure protection and freedom. To enjoy the great environment, you have to be willing to follow the laws and standards. There are reasons there are immigration limits - to protect our existing citizens' standard of living, the infrastructure, and safety. To be an illegal immigrant is to try to enjoy the best parts of the country without agreeing to the underpinnings of the society. Allowing that to continue puts legal citizens at risk.

Fifty-eight percent of people responding to an Argus-Courier online poll March 29, 2006 said they consider gang violence a serious problem in Petaluma. Another 28 percent said it is "somewhat" of a problem, while a combined 15 percent said it was either not a problem or not much of a problem. Out of 153 responding, 88 answered "yes" to the question "Do you consider gang violence a serious problem in Petaluma?" Forty-three said "somewhat," 12 "not very" and 10 "no."

More than three-fourths of respondents -- 119 people or 78 percent -- think gang activity is becoming a greater problem in Petaluma. Seventeen (11 percent) said "somewhat," 11 (7 percent) said "not very" and six (4 percent) said "no."

When asked if they are fearful for their safety due to gangs, 36 percent (55 people) said "yes" and 33 percent (50 people) said "somewhat," while 31 percent answered either "not very" (29 people) or "no" (19 people).

Here are the comments that readers who responded to the online survey wrote:

1 The graffiti surrounding our neighborhoods is increasing daily. This graffiti brags about whose territory you are entering. Racism in our local high schools has increased with fights breaking out among the different races of our youth. When our youth feel disenfranchised and without family ties the gangs will be glad to take them into their family.

2 Just reading stories in the Argus and PD about increased gang activity, shootings -- even graffiti -- gives me cause for concern.

3 "Tagging" with gang symbols has become such a problem in the boy's bathroom at PHS that bathroom access has been limited on occasion. Fear of retaliation keeps students from speaking out against the perpetrators. Our teachers, admistrators and support staff need to spend time educating students and supporting the campus and not on cleaning up after taggers. I am beginning to see a change in my child's once liberal attitude towards Latinos based on the actions of a few bad apples.

4 drug activty worries me though

5 This is in response to listing peoples names for crimes, not the gand activity in petaluma. if you are going to print the names of the people commiting the crimes, that is one thing, but I feel it is unsafe to publically list the persons address. Especially in the case of young women who may not want their name, age, and address listed, for something as simple as being under the influence in public. Let them learn from their mistakes, don't make them a target for a real criminal.

6 It is interesting that gang problems are a hot topic in the Petaluma area these days. My affiliation with gangs in Petaluma are connected by the articles published in the news papaers and the coverage in the local TV news station. Also, it is clear to me that they exist because I see the tagging on the walls through out the city. But, personnaly I have not had any interaction with gang members, nor have I wittnessed any gang related activities. It is unfortuante that gans continue to exist in this day and age. Perhaps the real problem is the rapid decline in public service oportunities for young men and women. Afterschool activities that engage ALL teenage cultures and personalities would be an alternative to gang participation.

7 We the citizens of Petaluma need to address this problem as a community. We need to support our Police Department and let the City administration know this is a priority. The city needs to provide more money and officers to our already understaffed police force.

8 Due to the ever increasing cost of living in Petaluma, the likelihood of gangs becoming an issue is small as compared to Santa Rosa. There maybe some activity now but futurewise it may decrease.

9 I was raised in Petaluma and lived there for 45 years. I still keep up with friends there and read the Argus via e-mail. I am appauled that gangs are coming into Petaluma. I read the paper with geat sadness when I hear about gangs there. I think there should be a zero tolerence not only for drugs, but gang members also. Thank you. Former Petaluman

10 GANG ACTIVITY MUST BE MORE CLOSELY MONITORED & CONTROLLED BY OUR POLICE DEPARTMENT TO KEEP IT FROM SPREADING FURTHER INTO OUR COMMUNITY!

11 Much of the hysteria about gangs is linked to a desire by the Police to respond to a social issue with "gang officers" - community policing, bilingual officers and a culturally sensitive police presence would do wonders. Bring back Sgt. Johnny Turner - an officer who respected kids, gangs and boundaries! This is not a "police problem" - it is OUR problem. Get involved, be a mentor.

12 Gang activity is serious regardless of what degree is imagined by anyone using whaever standard they can come up with as a measuring rod. I can care less where the young hoodlums come from or their ethnic background. They are useless dreggs on our citizenry and should br treated as the nerdowells that they are. One chance to straighten up or be locked up and receive some tough Marine Corps boot training until they grow up to learn what being a man or woman requires.

13 Petaluma needs to get serious about gang activity. There is vandalism daily, and the assualts that you read about are mostly all gang related.

14 everyone of us should be aware of gang activity not only for sake of this kids but also for the whole cummunity we dont want to be like Sta. Rosa where gangs hangout in every corner.we want our town safe.

15 I think the Police do a great job

16 I KNOW FOR FACT THE GANG SITTUATION IS OUT OF CONROLL IN Santa Rosa and Petaluma is just around the corner. We need to get on top of this matter of GANG TROUBLE at once.

17 most of the so called gang youth is petaluma are really just wannabes copying what they think is gangster but the truth is there living in 500-700k houses that are far from ghetto.

18 Petaluma will be in the same postion as Santa Rosa is now unless we open our eyes to the problem. Our police chief needs to stop being so PC about the problem. Just look at the Lakeville apartments, not one police officer would live there.

19 Innocent People can get hurt by bullets, and children are being recruited and peer pressured to join gangs. There is absolutely nothing good about gangs -- they are bad, bad, bad and need to be shut down throughout California.

20 I believe gang activity in Petaluma is a direct result of illegal immigration from Mexico

21 I would like to see the police form a gang task force, staffed with more than one officer. I would like authorities to crack down on illegal immigration, capture all known Latino gang members in Petaluma and either deport them or force them out - If we don't act drastically now, Petaluma could become the next Vallejo, Richmond of Oakland. Already we are seeing tagging on the West side!!!

22 when gang members are caught (or any person for that matter)doing harm to someone or someones property a slap on the hand does nothing, a BIG fine and having to repair the damage done will at least be something that will make them think twice. If they can even think. If what is done is repairable then they or their parents must take the responsibility for the repair and or the hospital bill. Money talks a slap on the hand does not.

23 Years ago this problem wasen't in existance. Now, in my opinion is one of the worst problems we have in Petaluma, next to the traffic problem.

24 Gang "activity" per se isn't harmful. Violence to persons and property, associated with gang activity is harmful. I think the prohibition of drugs creates the commercial necessity for unlicensed pharmacists and their customers to settle business disputes with guns. The prohibition of drugs is the core root cause of gang violence, just as the prohibition of alcohol caused gang violence in the early 20th century.

25 I think the growth of Petaluma being allowed by the city council is a contributing factor.

26 The police are always visibile and trigger happy to take someone down. I think that the mexican gangs that are have better things to do like move drugs

27 I have 2 boys 12 and 15. I am very worried when they go anywhere especially the 15 year old. There are gang related tags everywhere where we live in Petaluma it's rediculas. These kids today are out of control and something drastic needs to be done.

28 Public awareness as well as support for authorities to combat the gang & crime problems is essential. I believe the public's knowledge in this area is inadequate in Petaluma.

29 The new Kenilworth Junior High School has a problem of gangs bullying students.

30 I feel that if there were more outlets for kids to go to, things for them to do, then they would have somethign else to occupy their time. Ramp rats, and the Phoenix I think are great or them. But maybe more free after school activities. For the older crowd, that are in a "gang". I think the police should be more harsh. Let them know there is a Zero tolerance. I have seen more and more graffiti popping up in areas where it was never seen before. Have classes for parents who might suspect their kids are in a gang. teaching them how to deal, and how to speak to their kids and explain to them why it is wrong.

31 I've noted what is apparently gang tagging on some of the USPO boxes and on the walk ways in my neighborhood. Also some of the commercial buildings downtown have what appears to be gang tags. I have not seen any gang activity yet, but according to your police report there is more in Petaluma recently. Your policy of printing more information in the crime log should help our citizens follow what is happening in our areas and allow us to be wary of possible trouble from gangs and other problem characters.

32 Group Violence is something to be concerned about. So is disadvantaged youth that do not have great role models and learning disabilities. I want to address preventative measures and beefing up the police is not one of them. Going to schools and making effort to connect with our male youth is the way to curb group violence. Come on baby boomer men, step up to the plate, stop group discussions and do something for male youth. Go talk to teens, let them know there are choices and good men out there that they may copy.

33 From what I've read in the Argus & Press Democrat it appears that there has been a big upswing in gang violence on both sides of town.

34 The minimal gang activity is another reason to further tax citizens for an already over budgeted police, due to the Polly Klaas kidnapping and subsequent three strikes law.

35 I believe the recent emphasis on gangs has to do with the City Council Gang of Four promising the Police a 1/4% sales tax increase to pay for their recent large salary increases.

36 I believe strongly that all of the recent hype about gangs is geared towards passing a sales tax increase in Petaluma and will likely become the main platform for this coming election. Santa Rosa has a gang problem. Some Petaluman's are ganging up to create the illusion of a serious gang problem in Petaluma.

37 Groups of bored punk teenage kids do not constitute a gang. Worrying about gangs in Petaluma is symptomatic of living in an upper class town and having too few real problems with which one can concern themselves. Give the kids a place to go after school and on weekends, and you'll have less vandalism and petty crime. I've yet to see a drive-by shooting or know of a neighborhood drug dealer hanging out on a corner in this town. Perhaps this is another example of our reactionary Police Department trying to stir fear within the community to justify their unfair and brutal treatment of youth, minorities, and the few people of low socioeconomic standing in Petaluma.

38 i think gangs are stupid, and they make mexicans look bad, because they think we are all criminals like them.

39 I don't think gang violence is a serious problem in Petaluma, YET. I do however think the potential for serious problems is here and growing.

40 The more we build the more they will come. Keep petaluma small and the problems will not get worse.

41 It may seem a simple thing but it is of paramont importance to eradicate grafitti as soon as possible.

42 We hear sierns much of the day and we never know what is going on. I hate living here. I am always glad I made it home before the next round of sierns.

43 The Petaluma I grew up in in the 40s &50s did not have gangs.Beatings by gangs was unheard of. Petaluma was a safe place to live and raise a family

44 Hopefully you guys won't scare Petalumans and indirectly make a problem worse. I think there is a difference between dealing with the problem and addressing concerns/finding solutions and oversensationalizing things just so papers can be sold. This is not Richmond or Oakland--places where there is severe gang problems. Scaring people to think we have a bigger problem than we have is not a good way to solve the problem, all it does is heighten sterotypes, divide Petalumans who currently live peacefully and give people the feeling that this isn't a good city to raise their kids. The last thing we need to diagnose a big problem, since once that is established...it will not go away. We'll have the stench that places like Marin City, Richmond, San Leandro, Apple Valley area of Santa Rosa has and there will be no way to remove it. I hope you keep that in mind when you write your story.

45 It's very sad not to be able to buy your children red or blue clothing.

46 Graffiti & vandalism seem to be on the increase. The City is changing.

47 It's up to every member of the community to everything possible to nip this problem before it explodes. At present gang tagging sits for weeks on sidewalks and buildings which only encourages more. There needs to be more community education by the part of the police department in order to attack this problem from all sides. The new resolutions comming before the city are a good start but that's only the tip of the iceburg.

48 Im a teenage girl and I think its a big deal. I feel that its only going to get worse and alot of adults shut their eyes to it because they're so worried about their kids having sex or doing drugs. Something definetly needs to happen about it.

49 Illegal Immigration and gangs go hand in hand. Wake up Petaluma! It can start controlling gangs by supporting legislation that will STOP Illegal Immigration.

50 Stop it now or it will be uncontrollable - like in SR

51 Gangs exists for many different reasons, but by far the single biggest reason kids join gangs is parental indiffernce. Were the parents of these gang members to be made financially and criminally liable for the kids actions, I think it would go a long way towards curbing the problem. Another piece to the solutions, is job availability for these kids. Putting in place a "curfew" be yet another piece of the solution.

52 I am concerned that the city of Petaluma isn't paying enough attention to gangs and gang activity. It's very sad that the schools need guards to keep the kids safe.

53 It sems as hough the cops dont't see the sierousness of the situation all the see is the graffiti and think thats all it is. But in my nieghbor hood people are getting killed or jumped what seems to be everyother day and the white kids dont help when they out there trying to act all big when sooner or later the south mexicans on the west side of town are gonna just start killin them all off and he racits rednecks in this town dont help none by just p---ing mexicans off even more. bottom end of west st. all way over to the library is filled with gang members

54 It is important to give information to the community about gang issues, especially parents that have children in junior high and high schools. Many times, the parents are not aware of the side effects of drug use. Many teens in this community are using drugs and are involved in gangs.