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Student says teacher tossed Mexican flag in trash

Published/Last Modified on Thursday, May 08, 2008 - 05:22:53 am MST

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TWIN FALLS, Idaho (AP) — A high school student says he may file a lawsuit against a teacher who took a Mexican flag he had brought for Cinco de Mayo and put it in the garbage.

Clint Straatman denies Froylan Camelo’s version of events but said he took the flag Monday because “white kids” might have hurt the 16-year-old.

He said he put it in a garbage can because he had no place else to keep it. Camelo said he was changing into gym clothes at Minico High School in Rupert when Straatman told him, “Give me the flag.”

“I said, ’’What’s the problem?’ ” Camelo,said speaking in Spanish. “He said, ‘The problem is that we are in the United States and not in Mexico.’ He grabbed it from me. He threw the flag in the garbage can.”

Camelo said that Straatman told him the flag would be returned at the end of the school day, but that Straatman taunted him instead.

“I asked, ‘Where is my flag?’ ” Camelo said. “He said, ‘What, the U.S. flag?’ I said, ‘No, the one for Mexico.’ But he wouldn’t give it to me.” Camelo said he then took the undamaged flag out of the garbage. He said he’s been contacted by the American Civil Liberties Union and is considering a lawsuit against Straatman.

Camelo and others brought Mexican flags to the south-central Idaho school to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, the May 5 recognition of Mexico’s victory over the French army on that day in 1862. About a third of the student body is Hispanic.

Straatman denied saying the words Camelo attributed to him, and said the student may have misunderstood him because of his poor English skills. He said he took the flag from Camelo after Camelo had been waving it in the school gym, and denied withholding it later.

“I had to confiscate it so it wouldn’t escalate any problems in class,” Straatman said. “We’re worried about that stuff all the time. We always have kids saying stuff to each other, and we have a lot of fights between kids.”

Scott Rogers, superintendent of the Minidoka County Joint School District, said an investigation has been started.

He said he could not comment specifically about personnel decisions.

“We believe in nondiscriminatory practices and cultural sensitivity,” he said. “We train for that and talk about that. If there is a teacher making derogatory comments we don’t approve of that. We also don’t approve of a student disrupting the classroom.”

Rogers said he was at the school early Wednesday and that the school was quiet. He said he noticed a few students wearing clothing in the colors of the Mexican flag — red, white and green — in protest of Monday’s incident.

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Vet wrote on May 24, 2008 6:18 PM:

" well then sierravistan, instead of just posting it..did you inform the city about it? A true American would do something about it. We had the something similar here in Prescott and got it fix FAST. "

sierravistan wrote on May 22, 2008 10:28 PM:

" From reading all the posts below I can see the Sierra Vista itself is in violation of displaying the flag. Have anyone see the giant flag pole south of Wallmarts parking lot? The flag is torn and dirty. Is this an American right? "

Viet Nam Vet wrote on May 22, 2008 8:25 PM:

" To Here you go - there you go. Did not believe this was a major issue or act committed by Mexicans. Only one consequential hit on google, if you want to call it that. Over the years, hundreds of American flags have been burned, but mostly by U.S. citizens,
more than by any other group(s). Not in very good taste for any flag to be burned, regardless of the country. But that's all it is, bad taste. "

To Ignorant Larry Talbot wrote on May 22, 2008 8:18 PM:

" The Confederacy LEGALLY seceded from the Union. (And the War wasn’t “about slavery” either.)
Do yourself a favor; get an education. If not for yourself, for your family; so they won’t have to feel ashamed listen to people laughing at you.
"

Mike wrote on May 22, 2008 8:07 PM:

" SV Herald,
When are you going to cut off comments to this story like you have others? It has been two weeks and over 150 comments. "

sierravistan wrote on May 22, 2008 6:57 PM:

" Jason, I seriously doubt that an American exchange student (there leagally by the way) would disrespect Mexico by doing such a thing...and even if so, just which court do you think he would sue in in Mexico? X-proud. such a shame that you have allowed the actions of a few take away all your pride in this great nation..that is yor right, but such a shame. Yes, there is wrong doing here, but this it the ONLY nation on earth which defends the rights of the minority...horray for the U.S.A.!!!!! Long may she wave! "

Cheyenne wrote on May 22, 2008 6:43 PM:

" X-proud american, get out. Move to mexico so you dont have to be ashamed. Sierra vistan people have been using my post ID your ID etc.. for awhile now. SV Herald needs to register the e-mail accounts, that would put a stop to it. "

X-proud american wrote on May 22, 2008 5:15 PM:

" I burned my american flags several years ago after I found out how crooked and corrupt the federal court system in Tucson is. I was shocked to see how crooked the federal judges and attorneys are. I am ashamed to be an American, this country is no better than Mexico. The court system in THIS country is a JOKE as is this country.Most companys in the USA are crooked nowdays. "

Here you go wrote on May 22, 2008 4:02 PM:

" Here you go Viet Vet, you asked for one documented case or event where Mexicans burned the US Flag. Not to hard to find when you google "Mexicans burning US Flag", http://search.live.com/images/results.aspx?q=Mexicans+burning+US+Flag&mkt=en-us# "

sierravistan wrote on May 22, 2008 3:43 PM:

" Keith (and this IS my post) I agree with you completely. If anyone is goingto fly a flag, they should at leastknow the proper way todo so and follow that. Otherwise, you are disrespecting any and all flags. And in this country, the flag of the United States is ALWAYS flown above all other flags...simple respect. thank you for you post and pointing that out. "

sierravistan wrote on May 22, 2008 3:39 PM:

" SOMETHING FUNNY GIONG ON HERE! Just so all will know and take into account...the first post of May 21 at 7:02pm IS my post HOWEVER, the second post of May 21 at 9:05pm IS NOT my post. so there is eveidently something giong on with people using other poster's names on this forum...be careful.... and to the Herald, you should have someway of checking this...this is the second time a ost was credited to me that was NOT my posting. "

Jason wrote on May 22, 2008 9:36 AM:

" If an American Exchange student in Mexico had his U.S. flag lapel button taken away and thrown in the trash by a teacher or professor, would you be defending that teacher's actions? Let's be honest now.. "

Larry Talbot wrote on May 22, 2008 8:38 AM:

" Would that include banning the flying of the flag of treason against the USA the stars and bars "

Viet vet response wrote on May 22, 2008 8:15 AM:

" Check out the videos of the protests of ILLEGALs demanding their rights. They stomped,spit on and burned my flag. The same flag you fought for. Keith has it right, there is a proper way and law to display a foreign countries flag. If you cannot follow our rules and laws dont cry when the flag you honor in my country is thrown away. "

emily wrote on May 22, 2008 8:05 AM:

" To Proud American, for the record, I came here from Mexico as well, except I did it the LEGAL way, and I also went to college which I paid for, I have a great job thanks to my college degree and thanks to my father who chose to do things the LEGAL way, and you might be one if a few that came here to pursue the American Dream, but what about the ones that don't and just come here to collect welfare or to cause trouble? What's their excuse? We need to stop making excuses for these people. "

Keith wrote on May 22, 2008 7:24 AM:

" I say all the people who fly foreign flags in this country without flying the American flag with it PROPERLY, should have those flags ripped down and thrown away. Not even a Mexican flag should be flown in the United States “to represent your heritage” without fly old glory with it. There are laws in this country about flying the flag and how it is to be displayed. It is time we start taking a little pride in our country, our flag, our people and our heritage. "

Simple Solution wrote on May 22, 2008 12:29 AM:

" Invade Mexico, liberate and reprivatize the oil wells that were seized in the 1930s to their rightful owners, and re-establish French or Spanish rule. Ban celebration of Cinco De Mayo. Re-establish Devil's Island. Croissants and French bread for everyone there so they won't have to come here! "

Old Glory wrote on May 21, 2008 10:30 PM:

" Old Marine, it is absolutely not, but WE are supposed to be the politically correct ones and take all that all others want to dish out. I know you proudly served, and like me as a Vet, have a hard time watching this nonsense take place. In my opinion, we are letting the country be taken over by lawlessness from within by consent at the highest levels. Our domestic enemies are as numerous as our foreign enemies, and many times they are the same. Long may she wave! "

sierravistan wrote on May 21, 2008 9:05 PM:

" Burning any flags (to include the American flag) in the United States of America isn't against the law. Flags are just a piece of cloth so there should be a fuss about this. The focus should be set at the border jumpers. "

PYTHON wrote on May 21, 2008 7:53 PM:

" EL RESPETO AL DERECHO AJENO ES LA PAZ.
THAT'S ALL I GOT TO SAY. RESPECT TO BE RESPECTED. LITTLE WORDS HUGE MEANING! "

sierravistan wrote on May 21, 2008 7:02 PM:

" Old Marine, no it is definitely not....and they did this in our country...they seem to think they can disrespect the United States, but...HOW DARE WE ...do anything? what ajoke...if they want to take back lands which used to be under "mexican domain" yeah right, then why are we not hearing abut Guatemala, Honduras, Belise? only the U.S. hmmm mighty strange there if they truly believe what they say. so L Raza, what say you? "

Viet Vet wrote on May 21, 2008 6:51 PM:

" To the Old Marine. Show me just one documented case or event where that has ever happened. If you can't prove it, don't say it. And if it ever did happen, I would say they would both be about the same with regard to being disrespectful. One does not make the other right. Airborne! "

Old Marine wrote on May 21, 2008 11:50 AM:

" Is this any worse than Mexicans burning the American flag?
"

sierravistan wrote on May 21, 2008 5:47 AM:

" "Proud American" no the American dreamm is to enter legally and then succeed, the other is the Mexican dream, flaunt the law and do well. and James, so what, your fiction was right on target? "

Flags of Foreign Countries wrote on May 20, 2008 11:35 PM:

" Decorum and disruption in the school is what all this is about. If the school was allowing the display of a flag of foreign sovereignty as part of a "heritage" day, then there should have been some rules in place for the proper display of the flag. It sounds like the kid was trying to prove a point for his personal agenda, or could be an operative for one of the "pro-illegal" groups to generate a test case. He is a kid and we know not all their actions are sensible. "

Jordan wrote on May 20, 2008 11:23 PM:

" I agree with sierra vistan that all illegals should be deported. As far as homeless asking for handouts I beleive that is ok. I've had illegals coming to my door selling tamales etc... at inflated prices, asking for help or just plain flat stealing. This has to stop! I have cousins from Mexico who are here collecting from Mexico collecting welfare. I am ashamed because of them. "

Murphy wrote on May 20, 2008 6:48 PM:

" Billy Hill, thank you for pointing out the obvious. If this was Mexico we would'nt be having this dialogue, we would not be sidetracked! "

James wrote on May 20, 2008 6:28 PM:

" SAd eYe, How to explain?!!! The student cant speak english hardly. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 20, 2008 6:23 PM:

" I agree to Proud American it's true that Every we "homeless" asking for money, none which are "illegal" or even Mexican. Why don't they work? "

SAd eYe wrote on May 20, 2008 2:24 PM:

" you all should quit it.
Be proud of are great country!
Yes I was born in the U.S.A
MOTHER MIGRATED BACK IN 50'S.
Im proud of my heritage.
And proud to be an AMERICAN.
BUT ALL I GOT TO SAY IS SHOW BY EXAMPLE.
THAT TEACHER SHOULD HAVE NOT JUST THROW IT IN THE TRASH BUT EXPLAIN THE TRUTH JUSTICE AND AMERICAN WAY AND MAKE HIM PROUD NOT HATE. "

boyd wrote on May 20, 2008 12:43 PM:

" to file a law suit, this person would have to be able to prove that he was hurt by the action of the teacher. from what i read in the story he was offended and that would not qualify. that is a part of life, you do not have the right to be without to a tv, or to not be offended. you have 2 choices, deal with it or get over it. "

James wrote on May 20, 2008 10:09 AM:

" As usual sierravistan is far off the mark. Billy Hill is right. This post is about a teacher who threw a Mexican flag in the trash. If you want to spout your ultra-nationalistic beliefs you should find a better forum. It hasn't progressed, but degenerated. BTW, my other post about the Martinez Marauders and Der Brun Camisa was fiction. Thank you for not noticing. I'm just redagding your filmaflodgie. "

Proud American wrote on May 20, 2008 9:44 AM:

" You assume that I am not an American Citizen...I am. I crossed as an illegal have become an American Citizen, went to college wich I paid for, Graduated from the UofA and now own my own business. This is the reason illegals come to the U.S., THIS IS THE AMERICAN DREAM. My family brought me here because this country does provide better opportunities for all. It doesnt mean that I have to hate Mexico, it just means that I am proud to be a US Citizen, but am also proud to have my Mexican heritage. "

sierravistan wrote on May 20, 2008 7:50 AM:

" Billy Hill, I do not fell that it has not degenerated at all, rather it has progressed as a dialog (still basically redagding the same overall subject) to include things that this story brought to mind in the people who are posting... "

Billy Hill wrote on May 20, 2008 7:37 AM:

" 120 posts ago this story was about a teacher who threw a Mexican Flag in the trash. Look what it has degenerated into "

Proud Criminal wrote on May 20, 2008 5:35 AM:

" I don't think I would go to Mexico. What would I do if I went to Mexico? Become an enforcer for the narco-terrorist, or become their competition? If I were to go to another country to work, I would certainly go by the rules and obtain the necessary work permits, not just show up as a law breaker and get whatever I could to earn illegal money and send it back home, but that's just me and my proud USAmerican upbringing talking! "

Patroler wrote on May 20, 2008 3:33 AM:

" sierravistan, you are so sad...
Okay here it is step by step.
1. go to www.google.com
2. type in the search bar "Hispanic Medal of Honor"
3. Click
Better yet go to the offical M.O.H. web page: http://www.medalofhonor.com or deeper http://www.medalofhonor.com/recipients/Hispanic.html.php "

Sierra Vista Resident wrote on May 20, 2008 2:02 AM:

" To 'CHICHI':
You get you 'evidence' from 'youtube.com'! LOL!!! I'd rather listen to the CLinton News Network (CNN) tell lies about how much experience hillary and obama hussein have.
Keep going CHEYANNE. If you're really in Iraq, be safe. "

America wrote on May 19, 2008 10:00 PM:

" Independence Day, what say we all wave Chinese flags? or Arab national flags, if we keep going the way we are, that will be the only flags we will be allowed to wave. In the meantime you liberal whiners will be the first to do it. You have no country, you do not have any patriotism. Go live somewhere else! "

Proud of Illegal American wrote on May 19, 2008 9:50 PM:

" How can you say that you are a Proud American when you seem to be saying that it is ok to break the laws of the land? If you haven't achieved citizenship, then you should be jailed along with the other law breakers. The current story of the drug cartels and lawlessness that Mexico is experiencing says it all, "We make our own laws, and ignore and kill those we don't like!" Proud of that? That's exactly why Mexico has gone to the sewers, the attitude of screw the country, it's all about me. "

Reality wrote on May 19, 2008 8:25 PM:

" The Mexicans never did anything to help the US out. There is an old song about the Mexican Free Air Force, that tells about them flying drugs into the US. "

sierravistan wrote on May 19, 2008 7:00 PM:

" "Proud American" please remember that you started this entire thing by breaking the law...so therefore, this post of yours just goes to prove that you all think that if you make good, the " END DOES JUSTIFY THE MEANS" is that truly how you feel?, then if so, the drug cartels killing in Mexico, as long as someday they make good it is alright with you? This is or at least WAS a nation that lived by rule of law...not you however! "

Yep wrote on May 19, 2008 6:43 PM:

" Yep, I already work in a foreign country to provide a better life for my family and I went through the wickets to become a legal resident of that country, so I could obtain a work visa. I agree with you that there is no reason that those homeless or the citizens who are on welfare can't get a job. Welfare should be done away with so they have no excuse in finding a job. There are more job vacancies than people to fill those jobs, so I don't buy into the welfare program. "

James wrote on May 19, 2008 2:00 PM:

" Actually, there were Mexicans on both sides during WWII. The Martinez Marauders made quite a name for themselves in the Pacific. A little known group, the "Der Brun Camisa," helped their Nazi friends out, mostly in Austria. "

Proud American wrote on May 19, 2008 1:09 PM:

" I crossed over from Mexico illegaly as a child. I am now a UofA Alum. I pay taxes, more than most since I own my own Business. As for all who think illegals are here to take "YOUR" jobs... Every day I see "homeless" asking for money, none which are "illegal" or even Mexican. All are US Citizens who are too lazy to work. There are some "illegals" who come here for the wrong reasons, but the majority are here to work. If you could go to Mexico and provide a better life for your kids would you? "

sierravistan wrote on May 19, 2008 1:04 PM:

" chichi, witahout going to the site you mentioned, I would be willing to bet that the most decorated ethnic group were the Navaho code talkers. or perhaps the Japanese group sent to the European front. "

How many Now wrote on May 19, 2008 3:51 AM:

" Of the estimated 12+ million illegals in this country, how many are courageous or honorable enough to serve their new country in order to become legal? Not a great percentage. Most seem to be here to ruin this country and then return to their homeland to live the good life. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 18, 2008 10:29 PM:

" Native it was you who said mexico sent a fighter squadron. 300 mexicans volunteered (very commendable) that were trained, transported and "loaned" P-47 planes WITH U.S.A. markings. There was markings for the mexican expeditionary air force only. There was no marking signifying these were the mexican governments fighter squadron, it wasnt. They were assigned to the 58th fighter group, flying their first combat missions in June 1945. Other than mexican citizens enlisting in the US military what did the mexican government do? Murphy dont credit your? posts to me. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 18, 2008 6:38 PM:

" Native, Please read up on the Chiapas Massacre, mexico's dirty war, Zapatista report,kumiai/cucapa and the International tribunal on Genocide in Central America/mexico. Jordan If you read TEX MEX comments that he is pure blooded mexican with no European blood maybe you'll under stand the point. Read your own comments about European blood. You just made my point! "

Chi Chi wrote on May 18, 2008 5:50 PM:

" Hispanics are the Most decorated Ethnic Group. See http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=dBh__nF0HY0
Cheyenne is very busy in Iraq blogging on the internet "

Native wrote on May 18, 2008 5:42 PM:

" SV Resident. Better late than never don't you think? You said they were waiting to see who would win? They went, how could they know. Not very bright on your part, I must say. It was Cheyenne who said Mexico was not involved in WWII. He was wrong, and although he will never admit it, he will undoubtedly continue to use his imagination and make up his own fiction as he goes along. "

Native wrote on May 18, 2008 5:28 PM:

" SV Resident, quite a gap, 4 and 24 wives don't you think? No need to google. I've read a number of biographies, written by the men, as well as his personal secretary (Ing. Eias Torres), who served under him. Three known marriages documented. Dozens of offspring never surfaced or documents to prove otherwise. Yes, he was ruthless & unforgiving on the battlefield, but raping & murder has always been speculation, mostly used by the enemies he defeated to discredit his popularity. The actors mentioned were unworthy of washing his shorts. "

sierravistan wrote on May 18, 2008 4:30 PM:

" Jordan, to use American terminology, then you are Spanish-Zapotecan (or Zapotecan-Spanish), not Mexican as Mexican in the strict sense refers to the Aztecs...or even more properly the Chichimecs (or dog people). So although your antecedents may be Zapotecan, I am sure they more proudly claim Zapotecan hertige than Mexican. and the comment about caliming Spanish heritage was menat to convey the idea that not many can. "

Murphy wrote on May 18, 2008 1:02 PM:

" Cheyenne, you cannot find more to quibble about except the word "can?" Perhaps not quoted exactly, but no there was no change in the basic intent of the statement made by you, which was false. And the best you can do is make a case about the omission of the word "can." My English is fine, but if you want to be a critic, you should train your sights on sierravistan. You seem to have a lot of time on your hands. "

hmmm wrote on May 18, 2008 12:42 PM:

" Jordon, Maybe you can help Tex Mex out with that 1st Grade geography lesson. I think it was he that was in denial. "

Jordan wrote on May 18, 2008 8:59 AM:

" Right on Murphy! My great-grandfather came from Spain to Mexico. My mother's lineage goes back to the Zapotecas. How does that not make my ancestors Spanish? Sierravistan and Cheyenne apparently wake up in a different world everyday. We don't need to be lectured that Spain is in Europe; we learned that in the 1st Grade. "

st Squadron Aztec Eagles wrote on May 18, 2008 2:52 AM:

" Somewhat off topic, but the Aztec Eagles did participate with US trained and equipped pilots. One squadron (less than 50 pilots) is hardly bragging rights to "winning" the war in the very late stages of WWII. Mexico was losing ships due to German subs, so why wouldn't they want to participate in their defense? The US provided the planes. Guarding the Baja would serve their interests more, not totally the US. Many Hispanic-Americans served with great distinction then and now. VJ Day celebrated in Mexico? "

Sierra Vista Resident wrote on May 18, 2008 12:36 AM:

" To 'NATIVE':
If you GOOGLE "Pancho Villa & Wives" you'll see his biographers list him as having from 4 to 24 'wives'.
As for Yul Brenner Telly Savalas, or Wallace Berry, well, looks like they made him look better than he was. "

Sierra Vista Resident wrote on May 18, 2008 12:19 AM:

" To 'NATIVE':
The 201st went to the Philipines in April 1945. Kinda late don't you think! Waiting to see who would win?

To 'CHEYENNE':
Good work. "

Murphy wrote on May 17, 2008 9:42 PM:

" Cheyenne, OOPS!! I'm bad! The comment you made was "funny how many Mexicans claim Spanish ancestry". There was no "can" in there. So sorry as I'm am ignorant of the english language. "

Murphy wrote on May 17, 2008 8:31 PM:

" Cheyenne, your comment back on May 13, 8:14 a.m., that it was "funny how many Mexicans can claim Spanish ancestry" shows your ignorance. "

Maria wrote on May 17, 2008 8:22 PM:

" To AZLuna - We are all saddened to learn that you no longer recognize Cinco de Mayo as a holiday. Such a terrible and devasting blow! Somehow, we will get over it. Goodness gracious!
You can however, rest assured you will not be missed. You do have our deepest sympathy in your need for mourning. "

Geeze Kathy wrote on May 17, 2008 8:14 PM:

" They are just North American? They are also invading from south america. We don't need to learn anything from people coming from a third world country. What, corruption, lets make a deal, over populate? Guess you have never been in Mexico. "

Native wrote on May 17, 2008 8:03 PM:

" Cheyenne, Mexico was involved in WWII. They sent troops to Baja California to help defend the West Coast after Pearl Harbor. They also sent an Air Force squadron (201st) to fight in the Pacific. They were not involved in the others principally because Mexico is not the world's policeman - not their wars. Genocide of their Native American population? You don't know what you're talking about. With regard to Pancho Villa, please don't go by movies with Yul Bryner, Telly Savalas, or Wallace Berry in the role. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 17, 2008 7:12 PM:

" Jordan, maybe sierra vistan and I see things in the same light. mexico is wonderful IF you have the money. As was implied in Irony defined post. When it appears you are defending the right of mexican citizens to come here illegally I am not going to give you an "atta boy". Who if not you is making up or distorting history? "

sierravistan wrote on May 17, 2008 7:07 PM:

" Jordan...continued...if you have ever been to Mexico among the people you are talking about, the may admit to being Mexican if the need arises, but they consider themsevels to be Maya, Zapotecan, Mixtecan, etc. they do not consdier themselves to Mexican as we of the United States consdier ourselves to be American...see "Distant Neighbors a Portrait of the Mexicans" by Alan Riding to see the difference in how the two nations think about themselves....then talk to me. "

sierravistan wrote on May 17, 2008 6:50 PM:

" "Cathy" vaulted family values...what leaving a child in the desert while you run, then when caught, only mentioning it hours later..true love there.
"Jordon" I probably know more about the pre-columbian peoples of than you...the people coming to this nation are some of them indigenouse peoples, however, the majority are of mixed blood, not accepted by the "Spanish" blooded peoples of Mexico, the poor, the "mixed bredd" called by a derogatory name...only among the peoples who value their cultures and way of life, who by the way are NOT leaving their homes is ther that thing you speak of. "

t wrote on May 17, 2008 3:32 PM:

" to "hereford" What's trashing America is a grossly under-educated, elitist, spoiled population of Americans. When more Americans are willing to work in the fields, clean toilets in the hotels and work at McDonalds for minimum wage then and only then can we complain that they are taking our jobs. Latest arrest of smugglers in my area were U.S. Citizens traveling with small children, bringing in drugs. What kind of moral ethics does that show? I also would prefer that people come into our country legally. But I also wish there was no racism. Wishes don't come true in this arena. "

Jordan wrote on May 17, 2008 12:24 PM:

" Cheyenne, you must be related to sierravistan, as you both fail to grasp
the specific point addressed. I was responding to Irony Defined, who claims that Mexico is not all that wonderful.
You keep ranting about the distinction between legal and illegal, don't you think we know? It is easy to slander when you don't know history and make up your own as you go along. Don't you have anything better to do over in Iraq? We are all against illegal immigration; can't you all get that through your head!
"

Cathy wrote on May 17, 2008 8:09 AM:

" I'm with Murphy on this... but I will go farther and say the teacher should be fired for teaching his prejudices to students. It continues to amaze me how hateful so many people are against “Mexicans”. They are just as “North American” as those of us living in the U.S. are. We have so much to learn from their culture i.e. Love of family, God, respect for each other.. the list is endless. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 17, 2008 5:04 AM:

" Mexico was not involved in WW1-WW2-Korean war-Vietnam-The Balkans-OEF in Afganistan-OIF in Iraq. Mexico has one of the largest freestanding armies in the world which they keep at home. Why? They have to keep their own citizens in line not to mention the continuing genocide of the native American population and patrolling their borders to keep illegal aliens out of mexico. The mexican government does little to support the UN or even help their own people. Facts are facts. You have to wonder about a people who honor a murderer, thief, rapist and a practioner of bigamy, Pancho Villa. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 16, 2008 7:43 PM:

" Jordan, 1 million < 12 million +. Those retirees are financially set as I imagine the other 4 hundred thousand are. They are not competeing for work, or sucking the social services dry. I dont think they are criminals,selling drus ect.., So we must assume they are contributing to the economy and society. Guess what, I bet you they are in mexico all LEGAL with documentation. You should not compare legal with ILLEGAL. Have you ever thought about that? I didn't think so. "

Native wrote on May 16, 2008 6:47 PM:

" Whats the Fuss - Typical redneck mentality. "

Jordan wrote on May 16, 2008 6:46 PM:

" Sierravistan - The Mejicas, Aztecas, Mayans, et.al, existed in what is now Mexico centuries before the Spaniards arrived. Mexicans are hybrids of the Spanish? What utter nonsense! You must have skipped History throughout your academic upbringing. You also failed miserably to grasp the second point of why Americans choose to live in Mexico and I'll just let it go at that. "

Whats the Fuss about wrote on May 16, 2008 2:21 PM:

" I've thought of that! I've been advocating that we invade Mexico for months now and pick out prime real estate and key positions in Mexico. I've advocated that we annex Mexico as our 51st State so we can reclaim our manufacturing base and capture the tax base that has been sucking us dry for so long. I've been advocating that we take over the oil reserves so we can become less dependant on foriegn oil. I've been advocating that we embrace the Mexican population as our own so we have cheap labor and make them all US Citizens. "

sierravistan wrote on May 16, 2008 2:17 PM:

" Jordan, technicaly, Mexicans are a hybrid of Spanish and the indigenous indians populations. I doubt that there are any true Mexicans (read Aztecs)left who have not intermarried by now. (it is possible however) as to the American retirees living there, I would bet NONE are illegal and ALL are brining moeny and expertese wit them in order to emmigrate to Mexico one must porve an income above a required amount. And I doubt it is for a "Better life" perhaps less expensive but better, roads, parks, crimes? "

Jordan wrote on May 16, 2008 11:02 AM:

" Irony Defined - There are well over one million "Americans" living in Mexico (over 600 thousand retirees). Mexico is also being invaded by those wishing a better life. Have you ever thought about that? I didn't think so. "

hereford wrote on May 16, 2008 10:22 AM:

" The illigals are causing our taxes to go up. We should tax those who fly the mexicono flag. The illigals are causing alot of death and taking our jobs. They are also trashing america. They have no moral ethics and also kill animals. They should be kept out of this country. And also they smuggle drugs into this country. Remeber what they are doing to us. What would the mexicano gov do for us? Throw us in jail is what they would do and let us rot and stave to death. "

Murphy wrote on May 16, 2008 10:07 AM:

" There should be no debate that the teacher who threw the flag in the trash is a moron. Is that the type of individual who is now teaching our children? There were other ways to handle the situation. Those of you who genuinely believe the teacher was acting appropriately should be ashamed. "

Sean wrote on May 16, 2008 9:58 AM:

" Sierra Vista Resident - Why should TEX MEX go back, anywhere? About as far as he could return would be Texas, and he would likely be willing. How about you, why don't you go back! We would all be quite happy with less people like you. "

Jordan wrote on May 16, 2008 9:53 AM:

" Actually, native Mexicans (without Spanish, French, or other outside foreign infuence), are technically more American than most now living in the United States. Mexicans were here in the Americas long before the arrival of the Europeans. The term Americans has just been a carry-over for convenience over many years. Perhaps we should really be referred to as "United Staters"? Spain and France left Mexico in disgust, but only after they were decisively whipped by the indigenous population. Mexico did not support the Axis powers. Learn your history SV Resident. "

Native wrote on May 16, 2008 9:21 AM:

" Sierra VIsta Resident - You obviously know very little about the history of Mexico. It is embarrassing that you would post such nonsense. It is so flawed, that it is unworthy of point by point challenge. The same goes for most of you other enlightened bigots. We were all very content here until all you Southerners began resettling in this area. Please go back. "

Sierra VIsta Resident wrote on May 16, 2008 12:22 AM:

" To 'TEX MEX:
If Mexico is so great..go back! Spain left it in disgust, as did France, and after the Cold War, so did the Soviets. Mexico has never been a friend of the USA. It supported the Axis powers in World War I and II; the Soviets in the Cold War and now the Drug Cartels. Anything that is anti-American and they can make a dollar. "

sierravistan wrote on May 15, 2008 5:30 PM:

" to "To TexMex" if you have not yet figured out that this person is a true bigot and racist, then be advised. This is a person who does not understandhistory and uses that non-understaind to "attempt" to prove a point whihc is not at all important anyway...keeps denigrating the U.S. for wanting lwas enforced (being a nation with respect for laws) yet lives here... "

Get real wrote on May 15, 2008 2:34 PM:

" I guess you all don't eat at La Casita?Did you go when they had their Cinco de Mayo weekend? Sounds stupid, doesn't it? So does your way of thinking that Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican holiday celebrated to anger the bejesus out of you. Get a life! Nothing wrong with wanting LEGAL immigration but to be angry because of a celebration that has been going on for decades is a serious waste of your time. What will you do next, start picketing Taco Bell and Filibertos??? "

To TexMex wrote on May 14, 2008 11:20 PM:

" Can you trace your purebred heritage back to the beginning of time? You like most others now living in the US are "mutts" from a lot of backgrounds. If you are truly a pure bred Mexican/south American then you are 100% Indian "native" American and should be disgusted with the mis-treatment and discrimination of your real "homies" by the Mexican Govt and populous, not the US. Who says you are not the product of some Anglo/European in your family closet? "

uberman wrote on May 14, 2008 5:46 PM:

" haha, that's funny Doc. Of course octoberfest doesnt have this many problems cuz no one has a problem with Germans only with the pesky mexicans. "

Cultural Translator wrote on May 14, 2008 5:26 PM:

" "We believe in non-discriminatory practices and cultural sensitivity" translated means "illegal aliens can do whatever they want and we will punish any teacher who tries to stop them." The student "had poor English skills" translated means "he couldn't speak English because he's an illegal alien." A few students "wearing clothing in the colors of the Mexican flag ... in protest of Monday's incident" translated means, "we're not going away and we will use your legal system to defeat you and take over your country." And "American Civil Libeties Union" translated means "Anti-American Center of the leftwing Underground." FYI "

AzLuna wrote on May 14, 2008 4:57 PM:

" I no longer recognized Cinco de Mayo as a holiday, or any kind of celebration. It's a day of mourning for me. "

surrounded by ignorance wrote on May 14, 2008 12:04 PM:

" TO "THE TEACHER" your comment below was right on the money!!
To "no sympathy": Imagine what the US would be like if we didnt have these "parasites". I dont think you or your "entitled" friends or family would expose themselves to hard, physical labor the way "parasites" do. BTW, There was no mention of an ACTUAL disruption, the teacher stated he wanted to "avoid" one. Funny how things work out. . karma?
AND, I never read anywhere that this kid was "illegal". "

surrounded by ignorance wrote on May 14, 2008 11:48 AM:

" to PJR . .yes, it's a crime. . what would happen to a student if he/she threw something of the teachers in the trash? And really now, how large could that flag possibly have been? too large for the desk? filing cabinet? to claim this as an immigration thing is absurd. children are best taught be example, what example is this moronic teacher setting for his students? "

surrounded by ignorance wrote on May 14, 2008 11:39 AM:

" SO, IF I WAS BORN IN THE US, ONE PARENT BORN IN MEXICO FROM "ILLEGALS" (ONE OF HIS PARENTS BORN IN FRANCE AND THE OTHER IN SPAIN- BOTH "TRANSPLANTED" INTO MEXICO) AND MY OTHER PARENT BORN IN THE US FROM PARENTS WHO WERE BORN IN ITALY AND SPAIN. I REFER TO MYSELF AS AMERICAN. ..MANY WOULD ARGUE AND SAY I'M MEXICAN. SINCE THERE ARE OBVIOUSLY SO MANY "KNOW-IT-ALL'S" OUT THERE. .WHAT WOULD U CONSIDER ME? WHAT ABOUT MY PARENT FROM MEXICO? AND HIS PARENTS? HOW BOUT MY OTHER "ILLEGAL" GRANDPARENTS? SO AM I MEXICAN? FRENCH? ITALIAN? SPAINSH? OR AMERICAN!! "

DocHoliday wrote on May 14, 2008 6:29 AM:

" I wonder of Octoberfest has this many problems. "

To Amused wrote on May 14, 2008 5:02 AM:

" So, you were either absent or slept through the part in history class about the British monarcy governing, controlling, and taxing colonial America (Now the origins of the USA)before the American revolution? Better go back and re-read the US history before your citizenship is revoked. "

Tom T wrote on May 13, 2008 8:12 PM:

" I agree with Proud American. The issue here is an extremely inappropriate act by a school teacher. The teacher used poor judgement in this action. It has nothing to do with illegal immigration, or true and total allegience. It has to do with emotional maturity, and with an individual who is certainly no role model for students of any age. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 13, 2008 6:51 PM:

" To Amused: Darn, I thought we had a DECLARATION of INDEPENDENCE that was addressed to King George of England. I thought the Boston Tea Party was a protest against a luxury tax that the ENGLISH GOVERNMENT put on the COLONIES. I would have sworn that the COLONIES sent representitives to the ENGLISH PARLIMENT to address the problems. I even thought we fought a REVOLUTIONARY WAR to get rid of the English. I am to old to try to study up on the "new' history. So I'll stick with what I was taught in school and by reading. "

Lies and Insanity wrote on May 13, 2008 6:35 PM:

" Forgetting to mention that the "student" was an illegal alien is lying. But it's something the liberal press does on a daily basis. Informing the public of the truth would cause Americans to feel differently about the entire situation. So what is the real picture here? An Mexican born alien in the country illegally getting a free education thanks to American citizens who have no choice in the matter threatens to sue a teacher who took away his Mexican flag. Does anybody else think this is insane? Arrest him and his family and send them back to Mexico! "

Huh wrote on May 13, 2008 4:01 PM:

" Wow - amused...so we never had to fight a Revolution then to win our independence from England. Shoot what was that war for then? Where's that history book you are reading from? I'd like to check it out. "

hmmm wrote on May 13, 2008 3:53 PM:

" "Texmex, aren' you from Europe as well? Is Spain and Portugal not considered Europe now? hmmmm...that's news to me. "

hmmm wrote on May 13, 2008 3:43 PM:

" I didn't knwo Mexicans call themselves Americans? Did you? I thought they referred to themselves as Mexicans. I thought Canadians refer to themselves as Canadians. I thought the whole world including US Citizens refer to those from the US as Americans...not USians. "

No Sympathy wrote on May 13, 2008 3:39 PM:

" I have none...sympathy that is, for those who can't or won't raise up arms in argument with the government that supresses them. IE Mexico. I don't want anymore illegals in this country. If they don't like their country then CHANGE IT. It's just too easy for them to cross borders illegally and become parasites on an economy other than their own. When will the US put a stop to illegal border crossers? So what the teacher supposedly threw the Mexican flag away. Mexicans burn the US flag, anything happening to them? There was a disruption, it was handled. "

Uncle Sam wrote on May 13, 2008 3:25 PM:

" To concerned citizen; Mexico IS America... All Mexican citizens are Americans, they live in AMERICA, the same as people from Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Chile and so on. "

sierravistan wrote on May 13, 2008 2:51 PM:

" "Proud American", yes, you can love both countries, however, you can only give true and total allegience to one. I am also of mixed heritage, and although I love those other countries my family came from, I am American first, foremost and always. It is the nation which has given me opportunity and freedom. "

Proud American wrote on May 13, 2008 1:31 PM:

" I cannot believe half the things i've been reading. First, we are in The United States of America, but we need to remember that USA is made up of different people from different backgrounds. If the student is being disruptive in class then you take the flag away...do you throw it away NO. I was born in Mexico, but am a proud American. I love Mexico for what it is and I love the USA for what it is, I dont see why I can't love both countries. "

PJR wrote on May 13, 2008 12:00 PM:

" I dont think the teacher did anything wrong. This is the USA, not Mexico. and that is all that seems to be said. I didn't read anything about him making derrogitory remarks or calling him names. So he threw the flag away? Is it a crime? I don't even think it is a crime if it was the US Flag, though it is considered un-patriotic and frowned upon. Please tell me this kid has no grounds to file a law-suit? Because it's ridiculous! "

amused wrote on May 13, 2008 10:56 AM:

" Cheyenne take a history lesson--the United States has never been "under" England's rule; the pilgrims left England to start over. Does the Boston tea party sound familiar? The teacher was wrong in this instance, yes, students will continue to push teachers to the breaking point but the teacher is the adult and must remain neutral. "

The Teacher wrote on May 13, 2008 9:52 AM:

" The adult here could have 'hidden' the flag in his desk to deter any escalation. I'm sure the teacher realized the reason Camelo brought the flag. Trashing it would surely anger anyone. There are many so-called 'holidays' celebrated here in the great USA by people of different origins. There is nothing wrong of being proud of where you came from, no matter how corrupt that country may be. Yet, we should be proud to be in America and be Americans (legally). Americans Care.

"Despite everything, I believe that people are really good at heart."
~Anne Frank "

Cheyenne wrote on May 13, 2008 8:14 AM:

" MexTex: Funny how many mexicans claim spanish ancestry. Spain is in Europe. How many claim to be anglo also. My ancestors are American. Geography lesson; mexico is the southern end of the north american continent. It is not part of the USA. by the way I still think you are a racist. keep blathering. God Bless the USA. "

concerned wrote on May 13, 2008 6:53 AM:

" good job teacher! Even though its starting to look like it, this still aint Mexico "

Tex Mex wrote on May 13, 2008 6:02 AM:

" No matter how you slice it...Hispanics will be the majority and we'll be flying... The American flag for you because we are in America and we are American. And everyone are free to fly whatever flag they want. Remember your ancestors are not American you are from Europe. My ancestors are American... Mexico is in America you know. God Bless America. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 12, 2008 10:26 PM:

" To Annoyed and others: I thought mexicans were hispanic, not their own race. They can spit on, step on and burn my flag and that is all right? This is documented by video and photos when the illegals are demanding their "rights". ILLEGAL is ILLEGAL. You cannot be loyal to two countries. "

To annoyed wrote on May 12, 2008 8:15 PM:

" Cinco de mayo is not a holiday in the US. You must be from Mexico, we have the 4th of July. "

AzLuna wrote on May 12, 2008 6:26 PM:

" If people weren't so tired of all the illegal trespassers coming here demanding this and that, this wouldn't even be an issue right now! Bottom line is, we are fed up with illegal immigration! "

annoyed wrote on May 12, 2008 1:48 PM:

" Cinco de mayo is a holiday, it is well know and heavly commericalizedHeavily commercialized. The county makes money off of it like any other holiday, and it is often advertised with the Mexican flag. Anyone would be offended if the US flag was put it the garbage regardless of the circumstance. If we are such a wonderful county we need to so this same respect to others REGARDLESS OF RACE. It is extremely hypocritical and ignorant to applauded an action you would be offended by. "

Hmmmm wrote on May 12, 2008 11:35 AM:

" Sounds like the kid was looking for trouble and found it. Teenagers are good at pressing buttons until they get a reaction. The teacher acted with his feelings instead of his head, how many of us have done that? This hit the news because it was inflammatory, both were wrong. "

AzLuna wrote on May 12, 2008 7:42 AM:

" Sounds like the teacher still has a bad taste in his mouth about the time groups took to the streets demanding equal rights for ILLEGAL aliens, and our American flag being flown upside down and under the Mexican flag. "

sierravistan wrote on May 12, 2008 5:55 AM:

" Huachuca blogger, speaking the language and mouthing the words are two entirely different things...ash yourself, just how many people even know that that "Sierra Vista" means mountain view?
and pray tell, what do the street names in Chapparel Village or CDF actually mean, to most people they are just words, which by the way, most mispronounce. English is the "unifier" in the United States, and as such is needed to keep us from being as other nations are...divided. "

fred wrote on May 11, 2008 9:43 PM:

" The teacher put the Mexican flag in its proper place, the trash can. As a Naturalized Ameican I don't celebrate Canadian Holidays, and I am not celebrating Mexican Holidays, even if it is a victory of the Mexican Army over a French Army, not very hard to do. "

Huachuca Blogger wrote on May 11, 2008 6:08 PM:

" Everyone here speaks Spanish everytime you name some streets in Sierra Vista. Hey even when you say where your from. Spanish is spoken by 99.9% of Sierra Vistans. "

Billy Hill wrote on May 11, 2008 11:58 AM:

" If it were a Palestinian Flag would anyone be complaining? "

Language Makes the Country wrote on May 11, 2008 11:30 AM:

" We claim to speak English because it is the official language of the Government, and almost universally accepted around the world as a common language. (Aviation especially) So do Mexicans speak Mexican and not Spanish? They don't live in Spain! Is Mexican a language? Why do many countries ouside Franch speak French? Languages are cross-border, but in the school of the host country the display was obviously inappropriate for the teacher to take corrective action. "

Raymond of Hereford wrote on May 11, 2008 11:04 AM:

" I live near the border of Mexico. Lets reverse the role. I need 50 volunteers to come with me to AP which is Agua Prieta, Mexico. Each of us with AMERICAN flags at least 2' x 4' in size and walk up and down all the streets in this town of Agua Prieta. Lets see what would happen to all of the 50 volunteers and myself. WE all know what would happen to us Don't we! Do you think we could get the ACLU to step in and HELP us afterwards? Do I need to say more. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 10, 2008 8:42 PM:

" To t, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, United States speak english because at one time we were all governed by England. How do you get "racist" from the postings about law enforcement? Im racist because I want legal immigration? Yes, the USA is a melting pot for CITIZENS! This is not a civil rights issue with illegals. It is a matter of theft of services from our social welfare system and it is about law enforcement. That is all. "

Ray wrote on May 10, 2008 6:52 PM:

" I guess the only question I have is when was the last time Froylan Camelo walked around with an American flag? "

t wrote on May 10, 2008 12:34 PM:

" I am truly amused by the racism thinly vieled here. I am curious though why we claim to speak English, we are not in England. We all claim heritage from other areas and should be able to be proud of our personal history. I may be Irish-Greek-Swedish-American, but most importantly, I am American! America is a melting pot and is proud of the diversity. For those of who who have yet to figure it out... Women vote and "Negros" can go into the public restaurants now. Welcome to United States of America 2008 "

Really wrote on May 10, 2008 11:55 AM:

" Nope...you're right, my timeline is off. It was 1865, not 1862. However, the French were just as much a threat to the US as they were to Mexico. I don't advocate making Cinco de Mayo a US Holiday. I never made mention of that nor did I suggest that. I pointed out that there is more to the story; the teacher's story was a bit lame and that he was most likely lieing about his motive for throwing the flag away. He did it because of his sensitivity to having the Mexican flag flown in his classroom. "

Time LInes Off wrote on May 10, 2008 6:37 AM:

" To Really: The US show of force border patrols you mention were organized after the civil war ended in 1865, hardly a "rush to the border" in support of Cinco de Mayo in 1862. Your claim seems to be that the US was mainly responsible for the restoration of Benito Juarez and the Mexican Republican in 1867. Oh well, it's your story, tell it like you believe. Now, do you think the US should make it a US national holiday and fly the Mexican flag to celebrate our defeat of Max and Napoleon III? "

To Really wrote on May 10, 2008 6:17 AM:

" I'm sure if you go to the bars in Nogales or Agua Prieta next year on Cinco De Mayo on a mission to educate the local population about how the US and Sheidan saved them, and that it is really a US holiday, you will be warmly greeted as an heroic amigo with your new interpretation of history. "

Sierra Vista Resident wrote on May 10, 2008 5:55 AM:

" Grant was a drunk, Sherman was a poor planer who depended on burning and rape of the land. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 9, 2008 11:32 PM:

" Really, In 1862,5 May our civil war was ongoing. We were in no position to supply arms or soldiers to help. After the civil war, 1865, well after 5 May 1862, soldiers under Sheridan were sent to the S.west to help with munitions. American soldiers were DISCHARGED with their uniforms and rifles IF THEY PROMISED TO JOIN the mexican army to fight the frenchies. Yes , General Sheridan was a supberb soldier. "

Really wrote on May 9, 2008 9:22 PM:

" BTW...In case you didn't know who General Phil Sheridan was: "At Appomattox Court House, April 9, 1865, Sheridan blocked Lee's escape, forcing the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia. Grant summed up Phil's performance in these final days of the war: "I believe General Sheridan has no superior as a general, either living or dead, and perhaps not an equal." "

Citizen wrote on May 9, 2008 9:12 PM:

" To "To amazed" maybe the people in the great State of Idaho should take action and vote representatives into office that will write state laws that will discourage "illegal aliens" from taking jobs in Idaho, just like Arizona and Oklahoma have done. Stop complaining and make your concerns count at the next ballot. Vote for candidates both locally and nationally that have the guts to do something about enforcing the federal laws and eliminating illegal aliens from entering our country. "

Really wrote on May 9, 2008 9:06 PM:

" To "huh", you did miss something! jon smth wrote on May 8, 2008 2:49 PM: "I go to the school." "

Really wrote on May 9, 2008 9:04 PM:

" The reason we sent troops and weapons to the boarder to support the Mexicans was because of the Civil War. The French were supplying the Confederates with weapons and ammo. The US was interested in returning the favor. "

Really wrote on May 9, 2008 9:00 PM:

" To "Cheyanne" and "History Lesson" you may want to brush back up on your history. "Union forces were then rushed to the Texas/Mexican border under General Phil Sheridan, who made sure that the Mexicans got all the weapons and ammunition they needed to expel the French." "The Army's presence, U.S. political pressure, and the growing resistance of Benito Juárez induced the French to abandon their claims against Mexico." "Sheridan later admitted in his memoirs that he had supplied arms to Juárez's forces."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philip_Sheridan
http://www.vivacincodemayo.org/history.htm "

America wrote on May 9, 2008 2:34 PM:

" This is the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. NOT THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND MEXICO. You should not be able to flaunt any other flag. If I was at that school, I would have beat that kid down. If you are so proud to be Mexican, go back to Mexico. That goes for any other country. Don't come hear just because we have what you want. Germany has the best beer I have ever tasted. I don't want to move their and become a citizen. "

To amazed wrote on May 9, 2008 2:29 PM:

" i am amazed too that the issues in my little hick town would make national news. maybe some of you people should come out here to idaho and see why this whole deal with the mexicans is such a big deal. maybe some of those people with such support for them would actually change there minds and say the same thing most people around here do... go back to mexico until you can afford it here and until your a LEGAL resident and citizen dont complain when your given what you deserve!!! "

huh wrote on May 9, 2008 12:00 PM:

" First of all, I must have missed something because I have seen nothing of Jon Smth saying he attends school in Idaho...Second of all, I dont think that it is right to step on ANY flag but I do believe that the Mexican flag has no business being paraded around our country. This is America, not Mexico. We, as a nation are allowing the Mexican population to take us over. On that note, I think that it is extremely disrespectful to our nation to allow Cinco De Mayo in VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK but not allow the VETERANS MEMORIAL WALL!? "

Stayed Awake in English Class wrote on May 9, 2008 9:02 AM:

" jon smth,
RE: Your entry on May 8, 2008 2:49 PM. You criticize others, but you must have fallen asleep in your ESL class when the teacher talked about using apostrophes, showing possession, and using "that" vice "who." Crack open the book and actually READ it!

"

BAC wrote on May 9, 2008 8:13 AM:

" Has anyone stoped to think that this kid was most likely causing a distraction in the class? I dont think that nationality or freedom of exspression had anything to do with this, my thought would be that the kid was running around waving the flag and most likely screaming things in spanish about how great mexico is. Lets face it, high school boys like to fight, and that would be a great reason for a fight to start, the teacher did the right thing. "

Amazed wrote on May 9, 2008 5:51 AM:

" To Jon Smth - I am impressed. You say you go to this school in Idaho and you read this Sierra Vista Blog?? Did not realize the SV Herald had such a wide distribution. "

To jon smth wrote on May 9, 2008 12:45 AM:

" I think you missed a few days of spelling, composition, and grammar if that is the school you attend in Idaho. What was your point again? Did some teacher at your school step on the US flag at the principal's office? "

History lesson wrote on May 9, 2008 12:38 AM:

" General Ignacio Zaragoza led 5,000 ill-equipped Mestizo and Zapotec Indians called Zacapoaxtlas. On the 5th of May 1862, the forts of Loreto and Guadalupe, in the city of Puebla, became the scene of the historical defeat of the great European army.
To say that the US provided support to the cause during the middle of the US Civil War is pretty outrageous. TEX-MEX aren't these brave native indians highly discriminated against in your heritage nation. That says a lot about how to honor national heroes.
"

Rabble Rousing wrote on May 9, 2008 12:26 AM:

" While the teacher may not have handled the situation as delicately as he may have, the student was clearly agitating the situation at that school. Ok, so have a heritage day, but for someone to bring a foreign flag on such an increasingly touchy subject was asking for trouble. Maybe the teacher should have allowed the student to have his ash can kicked. Then the teacher would be sued for not protecting the teen who was looking for trouble. He should be sent home for a few days. "

To Really wrote on May 8, 2008 8:08 PM:

" I agree it didn't say he was an illegal, but it said that the dummy couldn't speak ENGLISH. "

Cheyenne wrote on May 8, 2008 7:00 PM:

" MEX TEX! Yes, I am certain you are a racist. Keep blathering you'll show all eventually. The students english isnt very good? Bringing foreign flags to school? Maybe a younger version of MEX TEX? Maybe illegal? I am sure they will know in a day or so.REALLY, I dont believe the USA government sent weapons and soldiers to mexico to fight the French who were in a "occupation" role. This country is not mexico! "

Langer wrote on May 8, 2008 6:31 PM:

" I live in the United States of America and I've never understood why we have observences for other nations. To submit to my heritage in such a way I'd have to celebrate Boxing Day, Burns day, Queen's birthday, St. Patrick's Day, Bannockburn Day, Hogmanay, Highland Festival, Oktoberfest, Walpurgisnacht, May Day, Mexican Revolution Day, Cinco de Mayo, etc. I wouldn't have time for our own Independence Day. I do eat foods from some of these countries, but I don't celebrate their holidays nor fly their flags. I'm proud to be an unhyphenated American. "

Really wrote on May 8, 2008 5:43 PM:

" I don't think the article said the boy wasn't a legal resident. Why did you jump to that conclusion "Im"? I'm sure there is more to this story then what is reported. The teacher's excuse for throwing the flag away was a bit lame. The US sent weapons and soldiers to fight with the Mexican Army to defeat the invading French Army, which is why Cinco De Mayo is celebrated. I suppose the Mexican flag being waved in the US is a sensitive issue with a lot of folks, but that's not the exuse being given here in this article. "

Tex Mex wrote on May 8, 2008 5:06 PM:

" More racist people in Sierra Vista speaking. But hey we are still growing fast. AND YOU CANT DISPLAY YOUR HATRED IN PUBLIC! GOD BLESS AMERICA! "

jon smth wrote on May 8, 2008 2:49 PM:

" You people really know nothing about this. I go to the school. Its absolutely ridiculous it got this blown out of proportion. Jaydee you need to learn how to spell. And no one said anything about the ESL teacher that went down to the principal’s office and stomped on our countries flag. That issue should be the top issue of the news it was childish and extremely disrespectful to the country and veterans that provide his "freedom of expression". This is America, not Mexico. "

curious wrote on May 8, 2008 1:53 PM:

" I think the teacher provided a valuable lession to the child. He was able to show the child freedom of expression in the United States. As much as some believe the child could wave the flag the teacher had, under the same freedom of expression, to throw the flag in the trash. They need a skate park in that town. "

VJ wrote on May 8, 2008 11:09 AM:

" The Bill of Rights protects the freedom of speech, press, and religion, etc..Freedom to express yourself...
I think this teacher should have a respect for any flag- not only for the USA flag, and a respect for the "human rights" also...In agreement with the USA LAW - Straatman is absolutely WRONG! "

Concerned Citizen wrote on May 8, 2008 10:00 AM:

" This is AMERICA, not Mexico. Fly your nations flag in your own nation, not ours! "

Irony defined.. wrote on May 8, 2008 9:36 AM:

" If Mexico was "all that" and so wonderful, there would not be an illegal problem in the US in the first place. Everytime you see stuff like this, it is a pathetic demonstration of irony--"yes, I love my country and that is why I am in yours...." If Mexico is so wonderful, why are large amounts of their citizens here????? The fact is it isn't wonderful, what is to celebrate about? That the country keeps the wealth amongst the top and screws everyone else? They treat their citizen badly? Yeah Mexico :( "

And no one can... wrote on May 8, 2008 9:30 AM:

" figure why there is so much resentment towards illegals and people who refuse to assimilate! Come on, these kids are deliberately being rude and insulting to all American citizens. You do not wave other flags in a host country--want to do that and celebrate your country, go back there. Do not try and change this country. I would not go to Mexico--wave the American flag and dance around on July 4th, that is extremely rude and you would expect the same courtesy extended to us. "

Im with Straatman wrote on May 8, 2008 8:03 AM:

" Straatman did nothing wrong but protect the boy. The trash was the only feasible hiding place. The problem with not speaking or understanding English well or at all, is that you tend to not understand what is really being said. But just because of what you THINK you heard, it doesn't mean you should go out and file a lawsuit. How about making a buck the good old fashioned way instead, get a job... as a LEGAL resident! "

JayDee wrote on May 8, 2008 7:20 AM:

" Well what I don't understand is why the teacher thought that kid would have been in danger just for having a Mexican Flag in his posseesion. I totally agree that there is no need for a flag, No Matter What Country, in a GYM Class, because it has no bearing on the class. But if the teacher threw it in the trash & would not give it back, I think he should be held responsible. Freedom to express yourself should always be on the minds of our teachers, council members, leaders and family. That's our USA "

The Jest wrote on May 8, 2008 6:25 AM:

" Good teacher, dumb student. "

KCS wrote on May 8, 2008 6:24 AM:

" Now this teacher is my kind of man. Good for you. "