bvv wrote on Jan 18, 2007 2:58 PM:Is someone mixed up? "The fire is just west of the large movie theater complex downtown" That would be whatever is across Center City Parkway. I make the fire to be north of the theater complex.

Mike wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:02 PM:Certainly appreciate North County Times making it through entire story without using the term "raging inferno".

quinnie wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:17 PM:they want to save the third building? what so next time this happens its occupants burn? good riddance to this eyesore. lets replace it with a park.

Hector wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:20 PM:Que Lastima!

I'm glad wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:20 PM:Chins was saved!

Surprised wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:21 PM:I'm just waiting for Marie Waldron to blame it on illegal immigrants ...

Mr. E wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:26 PM:There is already a very large park (Grape Day Park) right across the street. I'm sure that was part of the appeal to potential residents of the complex.

I have the hot dogs wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:30 PM:if someone has the buns!

tool wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:36 PM:Great idea quinnie, another park for all the alcoholic bums! It was only an eyesore because it wasn't finished! They will rebuild and it will be another welcome development in Escondido!

Couldn't Happen to Nicer People wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:51 PM:A developer in Escondido, poetic justice

Suspicious wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:52 PM:Surprised......wouldnt surprise me now would it you ?

B wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:54 PM:First and foremost I express condolences to anyone who has been injured or displaced as a result of this fire. I saw the smoke as I was driving home from work in Carmel Mountain and it looked nasty. Now, I must say I agree with quinnie; turn the area into a park. I'm actually relieved the condos are gone, Escondido doesn't need any new residential structures.

Praying wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:58 PM:For the firefighters to be safe. This was huge.

bystander wrote on Jan 18, 2007 3:59 PM:So the wood was dry ? Well what does it do hydrate itself when the vacancies are full ? What a major fire hazard from what I could see. Thank God there were no people living there yet. Looked to me like there wasnt a great rush to get water on it either. OH...and Surprised ? It wouldnt surprise me in the least if it was some sort of retalliation trip.

I was there wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:15 PM:They actually got water on it really quickly. I saw it go up and within the 45 seconds it took us to park to go look there were firefighters already there putting water on it. I think Escondido did a great job of getting it under some amount of control. And I don't think it was retalliation judging on where it started.

Fire Insurance wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:22 PM:This is why you buy it!

Cindy wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:33 PM:I agree with tool... we don't need another residence for all the homeless, Grape Day Park around the corner is the most un-welcoming to families and children, this complex might have brought in a better crowd and more business for the area, cleaning the neighborhood up.

kerry wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:35 PM:it's sad that someone is trying to make change in a run-down, dirty part of town and it all goes up in flames. makes you wonder what kind of person would want to hold back Escondido from flourishing into a better place to live, all we need is to get the illegals and homeless out of the area that would make a huge difference.

NotMyCity wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:37 PM:This was just an electrically-sourced fire accidentally started by bottom dollar labor that had no clue how to prevent something like this from happening. Probably something stupid like frayed power cords amidst wood shavings. The insurer is now looking for ways not to take a bath on this.

Old Escondido wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:38 PM:The spirits of Palomar Lanes appear to be alive and well.

to bystander wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:38 PM:Wood is as moist as the air, over time. Ever had a door swell? These weeks of extremely dry weather dried the wood to a level that makes it catch easier, burn hotter and faster than normal.

Person with a heart wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:44 PM:what does it have to do with homeless? Why are you all down on the homeless? Have you had bad luck? Have you ever had mental illness? YOur all a bunch of heartless people and probably have boogers in your nose!

Stir-fried wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:51 PM:Extra Deep-fried Chinese Food ????

Rusty wrote on Jan 18, 2007 4:55 PM:as my daughter and i watched the flames. we felt the heat.{really to close.} the only thing that went through my mind, was what field day for all the pros and cons. efd and epd were pros (great job!} what ever happen,happened. truth has a away.

To notmycity wrote on Jan 18, 2007 5:00 PM:are you a fire investigator, do you know how the fire started, or were you there??

Ed wrote on Jan 18, 2007 5:06 PM:This project was stupid to begin with. Half a million dollar condos in a commercial zone just down the street from what amount to be projects. They may as well have been built in the industrial center next to a homeless shelter. Why doesn't the city council take this opportunity to halt development so they can clean up the barrios first. When Escondido is cleaned up of thugs and illegal aliens, then maybe a project like this might actually be worth what the developers think they are worth.

justreading wrote on Jan 18, 2007 5:20 PM:maybe the reason escondido has such a homeless problem is the fact that you offer so much in the way of help to them. I feel for them too but shouldn't all cities share the burden. How many shelters in San Marcos? ask good old corky smith (ex-mayor) and his cromnies on the city council.Besides this has nothing to do with the homeless. apples and oranges people

Nancy wrote on Jan 18, 2007 5:26 PM:My daughter attends Classical Academy High School on Woodward. I want to thank the police, fire department and the school administration for getting our kids evacuated to the Walgreen's parking lot safely.

Whoa wrote on Jan 18, 2007 5:39 PM:Good thing no one was living in those condos because now they would be homeless!

Mary wrote on Jan 18, 2007 5:45 PM:Its really sad this fire happened.But as for Kerry's comment about getting illegals out of here,I don't see how that makes a difference.You jelous illegals are more hardworking people!!! They dont stand with "please help,need money" signs on the streets. Illegals go out and work for there money !!!!

Bulk wrote on Jan 18, 2007 5:46 PM:The timing couldn't have been worse for the homeless turned down by the used car salesman(gallo) and Waldo. it's record cold out there, a lot of the homeless are mentally ill

Bulk wrote on Jan 18, 2007 5:49 PM:Esco it such a hypocritical right wing community Bush tells the people to let the churchs help, some compassionate conservatism-they won't even let the charity's do it when it won't cost City hall a dime

julia wrote on Jan 18, 2007 5:56 PM:Just want to thank all the fire fighters out there.

MIKE wrote on Jan 18, 2007 6:05 PM:EX HOMELESS. YOU NEED TO TRUST IN GOD, FIRE IS FIRE, HOMELESS IS HOMELESS, HATE IS HATE, DON"T MIX IT UP, GET A LIFE. LEAVE THE HOMELESS & ILLEAGLES ALONE

Unit number 4 wrote on Jan 18, 2007 6:21 PM:I hope I can get my deposit back...

San Diego FireFighter "Bouchey" wrote on Jan 18, 2007 6:27 PM:It was my first big structural fire, since i Was hired at San Diego, we all worked very hard, and still will through out the night, thanks to my Chief, and everyone at Escondido ,and San Marcus we put this fire out safely and quickly, with no injures. We left a little after 5pm. Thanks to All.

Reardon wrote on Jan 18, 2007 6:40 PM:Every anti-developer writer lives in a home or condo that a developer built, and that home or condo is in a community that a developer built. Not many people can or will hand construct their own dwelling.

MORE BOWLING LANES wrote on Jan 18, 2007 6:58 PM:TEAR ALL OF IT DOWN AND RE-BUILD PALOMAR LANES #2...OH YEAH, AND THE FIRESIDE #2 AS WELL..

AnotherReader wrote on Jan 18, 2007 7:00 PM:Escondido is trying to compete with it's large neighbor to the south, San Diego. Downtown, San Diego has entertainment centers, condos and the homeless. Escondido is attempting to do the same. Two out of three so far!!

morty wrote on Jan 18, 2007 7:01 PM:MY HOUSE BURNED DOWN 3 YRS AGO AFTER MONTH IN HOSPITAL WE GOT APLACE TO LIVE IN 2 MONTHS.SO SPEAK FOR YOUR SELF.I WAS NEVER H.M..L.

Floyd wrote on Jan 18, 2007 7:06 PM:This condo construction was in keeping with Mayor Pfeiler's "Smart Growth" strategy. She hasn't told us about the "Smart Disasters" that accompany such a plan. Maybe it's time to rethink the higher-density plan of jamming people close together and spread development out instead of up.

Escondidoite wrote on Jan 18, 2007 7:08 PM:I hated those condos. They were overbearing. I'm glad they're gone and I hope something less offensive takes their place.

How do you clean up a barrio? wrote on Jan 18, 2007 7:44 PM:To the writer who said the condos shouldn't be built until the barrio is cleaned up-what do you propose? How do you clean up the barrio unless you invite ICE in to do a raid? Escondido needs this kind of development to increase our tax base to pay for all our illegals and homeless. Hopefully the new development will eventually bring new residents as well as attract businesses. Downtown cleaned up when the ballpark came in- maybe just maybe our town will improve otherwise all those that can will move out. Escondido will be one big hell hole!

Homeless Advocate wrote on Jan 18, 2007 8:14 PM:I hope Abed and Waldron lost their deposit on this ridicules monstrosity so they can get their taste of homelessness for once....

Palomar Lanes wrote on Jan 18, 2007 8:42 PM:Gotta love the jokester who made the crack about the 'spirits' coming back from the defunct Palomar Lanes. Between that classy place and the myriad of frigg'n taco shops around there, it sure made for a run-down, low-rent neighborhood, which always seemed to be conducive to the low-rent people who lived around there and trolled the streets! I'm all for any movement that represents progress and improvement, and it's a shame that this tragedy happened today.

Walter wrote on Jan 18, 2007 8:45 PM:This tradgedy may give the city the chance to reconsider allowing such an ugly and problematic housing project to be built. What sane person would pay the money they were asking for those condos anyway? I will not miss those ugly high rise buildings in the least.

Who Care's wrote on Jan 18, 2007 8:53 PM:I will be leaving this town in a few months and don't want to look back. Our wonderful City Council is the cause of this fire. That is all they think about to make this city bigger and better. Have they really looked at who lives in this town??? I was born and raised in Califoria and have lived here since 1959. Thank God no one was injered in this fire and thanks to all the brave firefighters.

Frida wrote on Jan 18, 2007 8:54 PM:How crazy..I was at that shopping center when that happened it took fire dept over 30 minutes to get there...i never liked those condos in the first place but wow, this was a surprise!

Bummer wrote on Jan 18, 2007 9:07 PM:I didn't like those condos either. Wouldn't spend a penny to buy one, but no joy in seeing them burn. Feel sorry for those who may have already purchased.

One Thought up in the Air wrote on Jan 18, 2007 9:14 PM:Its pathetic how some people blame their problems and disgraces in homeless people and illegal residents, I guess they all live paycheck by paycheck in 9 to 5 jobs that limit their mental capacities to do something better with their life than blame others for their own flaws...And people ask "Where is the Love??" Amazing how hypocrit some people can be criticizing immigrants that work hard for their families and in Sunday Morning The "All American" family praises the Lord!!But by tuesday they'll be blaming the homeless and immigrants Again...and That Ladies and Gentleman is our Poor Society.

kudos NCT wrote on Jan 18, 2007 9:41 PM:Nice job on NCT. Crazy good coverage and AWESOME pics. by the way, kinda ... convenient ... how everyone just happened to be out when the fire started and started SO quickly... hmmmmmmmmm

Karen wrote on Jan 18, 2007 10:30 PM:It’s so sad that some of you are so selfish and inconsiderate. I feel blessed that Escondido has such an efficient fire department and that the city is trying to re-develop the area so that it becomes a more desirable part of town. I just hope that the developer can continue with the plans to build the condos despite the incredible loss. I’m grateful that nobody got hurt. Thank you God!

Scotty wrote on Jan 18, 2007 11:00 PM:Is George and Wendys burgers OK?

Pantera wrote on Jan 18, 2007 11:05 PM:what an awsome job by our firefighters!

AnotherReader wrote on Jan 18, 2007 11:12 PM:Frida...check your clock. Karen..."God" didn't have anything to do with it.

YES wrote on Jan 18, 2007 11:17 PM:What do you think about the condo/townhomes by Barratt American down the street on 2nd ave and Orange. They are about the same price and size. I believe.

morty wrote on Jan 18, 2007 11:36 PM:KUDOS NO ONE LIVED THERE IT WAS STILL BEING BUILT. WHERE WAS THE CONVENCE?

Best Thing wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:04 AM:This fire is the best thing that ever happened to Escondido. Fast way to clear up that blight! I was nearby and heard an explosion, turned and saw the smoke starting up. Anybody know what the explosion was?

Smart Development wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:19 AM:Finger-pointing aside, I was not a big fan of that sort of land use. Fate should not have had to intervene to make people think twice about that project. The ostensible reason for them -- so that yuppies can live downtown and indulge in all of the myriad business and cultural opportunities-- Just like the Gaslamp, right? In case no one has ever noticed, the Gaslamp was redeveloped along a business-first model and only after 15 years of intensive clean-up and revitalization, along with the convenient construction of the Convention center did the gaslamp ever gain the kind of economic viability to attract culture and business such that anyone would want to live there. Escondido, thus is putting the cart before the horse in my opinion, building housing for an urban economic/cultural center that simply does not exist. One thing is obvious, none of our illustrious city council-folk have exhibited any sign of any clue about how urban redevelopment works. I have to laugh about the remark about the angry spirit of Palomar Lanes. I personally miss it. Knocking down one of the few things that people of all ages and walks of life can enjoy does not seem like a smart way to encourage people to spend their recreation time or money in escondido. Urban redevelopment is about attracting new business, not bulldozing it and importing people who will find nothing to do and then go somewhere else to spend their money. My admiration goes out to the firefighters who had the training, resources, and skill to do their job efficiently.

yes wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:24 AM:Well if you think that those condos are horrible...what do you rhink about the condos on Center City and 2nd Ave, by Barratt American. They are the same style and price I believe...anyone been their? I think it will help out Escondido. What about everyone else?

wow wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:40 AM:its really sad that no matter what happens.. people on here still find a way to argue about everything. this is why our world is screwed. some of you guys are always so negative.

FIRESIDE 2 wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:41 AM:Former site of the "Fireside"....the name says it all. This must be an omen. Bring back the Fireside and Bowling alley! Quit building homes out of sticks

Karma wrote on Jan 19, 2007 3:34 AM:Just walking by those condos used to make me shudder. They looked like the west coast version of tenements. Was I the only one to notice that they were described as being 'so close together they could not get between them.' Those involved in planning and approving this monstrosity should be wondering how they would be feeling if the project had been finished and occupied. This should be a wake-up call! This is very poor urban planning.

M wrote on Jan 19, 2007 4:26 AM:Hopefully there will be some lessons learned from this unfortunate event. The fire department was obviously hamstrung by the density of this project. Sure, if finished out, it would not have burned as fast, but still, I think the City should revisit how many units they allow to be built in a limited space. If Horton pulls out, I vote for a new bowling alley!!!

math challenged wrote on Jan 19, 2007 5:56 AM:hmmmmm let's see..... 122 units X 400,000+ equals well over $45 million. Why is it only a $6.6 million dollar loss? Did the developers lose almost $40 million in profit????? Why is math so hard?

big dog wrote on Jan 19, 2007 6:38 AM:This fire just goes to show what a firetrap this place will be. Do you really think that it will be rebuilt with again with different materials? future residents should count their good fortune to have seen this firetrap before they got invited to a front row table at the barbecue. None of these new places like this are built any better.

localyokel wrote on Jan 19, 2007 6:59 AM:And why is the EFD just letting it burn? I'm old and I've never heard of such a thing outside of the Third World. That's shocking. And the streets are shut down this morning, but evidently the EPD didn't shut anything down until long after the fire started. One reason the EFD took so long to get there? They can shut the entire city down for a parade on one street but are incapable of providing traffic control in a timely manner when there's a major fire. Hmmmm. There's such an arrogance amongst the long-time "leaders" in this town, and this is the kind of disaster that results from arrogance. To the Mayor and her pals, we residents are just little children to pat on the head as we are forced to endure what we don't want. Probably she's already planning the big awards ceremonies for the police and fire Chiefs. Bet they'll shut the streets down for that. How I envy the person here who wrote he was moving out of Esco!

The Biggest Concern wrote on Jan 19, 2007 7:06 AM:As I watched the news the reporter said, "the fire fighters couldn't get between the buildings." My husband worked on that job and said there was very little room and they couldn't get their trucks through. So my biggest concern is the overall safety of density in our city. Personally I hate it, but that's neither here nor there. What happens when people are living in them and there is a fire? They won't burn as quickly, but what about efficient fire fighting? How hard will it be to fight a fire and save lives? To me this is a message to rethink the plan geared more for safety. Density or not. I hope the city takes note of this. God Bless our fire fighters.

Pat Robertson would say... wrote on Jan 19, 2007 7:23 AM:I was God bringing his wrath to Escondido for being uncaring, uncompassionate, sinners.

Pat wrote on Jan 19, 2007 7:39 AM:I am very releived that no one got hurt but I am happy that at least for awhile we won't have to see another ugly and unattractive project. Has anyone looked at the other condo developemnts that have been built? A garish version of art deco or cheap housing. Take a drive down off Center City in the area of the old Escondido Hotel. They already look like the projects and they're new. Who ever approves these designs has horrible taste and they do not make Escondido more attractive.

Martha wrote on Jan 19, 2007 7:45 AM:The information on the Escondido fire is the most complete I could find on TV or the internet. The San Diego Stations do not cover Escondido very well.

Karma Happens wrote on Jan 19, 2007 7:50 AM: The City Council pushes to keep the homeless out in the rain, then their multi-million dollar condo project goes up in flames. The universe is listening!

Ridgerunner wrote on Jan 19, 2007 7:53 AM:Very interesting! The building with the model units wasn't damaged. So now all the developers have to do is clear the rubble and keep on selling, huh? Very interesting. PS Introducing a high density complex like this into an already congested location is pure stupidity except for the elite few who will profit immensely financially. What drugs are the city planners on now? Bring back the bowling alley! At least it had some local charm. This is a middle class residential community, transplants from the Gaslamp Quarter won't make it here. It's fake.

Matthew wrote on Jan 19, 2007 8:00 AM:This town certainly has some deep seated issues it needs to resolve. It’s obvious from these comments that there is a great deal of divisiveness in Escondido. As to the fire, kudos to the EFD and EPD for keeping a difficult situation as safe as they did. Yet again, great men and women putting it on the line to keep the rest of us safe. As to the fire, this needs to be looked at as a clear instruction of how NOT to plan buildings. If it was unsafe to try to save these buildings and fight this fire, that needs to be learned for the future. Referring to the cause of the fire, why didn’t four story wooden frame buildings have fire sprinklers pressurized and ready to go in case of some kind of construction accident?????? Sounds like willful negligence at this early point.

So typical wrote on Jan 19, 2007 8:04 AM:This is why I am ready to do jumping jacks to know that the Corps will move me to North Carolina after my deployment and I can get away from California. There are some rather hateful comments about unfortunate souls who have had some extremely horrid luck (homeless) and the illegal immigrants. First off, do not be so critical to people because they are not rich and can not afford to sit in plush velvet chairs while someone massages their feet. Second off, the illegals are here because of employers cheating the government by hiring illegal immigrants below minimum wage to pick their fruit, work construction, clean sewers, and other laborsome jobs that I doubt most of you critical people have ever had the privilege of doing. I built barbed wire fence and ran a peanut farm with my uncles back in Georgia along with five hired hands. We documented every penny of profit, paid the hands around 40 grand a year (a lot of money for Georgia), PAID OUR TAXES, and have plenty left over for next year's startup. What in the world happened to compassion for humanity? I do not understand! SOMEONE EXPLAIN WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH MY COUNTRY! I am so disgusted.

v wrote on Jan 19, 2007 8:21 AM:thank God for the firefighters trying to save our city...especially that area that gets so much business. it would be weird to have all those condos in the middle of the city though. how come everybody has to blame the homeless and the undocumented peoples? it really has nothing to do with them-the fire is karma coming back to bite the city council in its a$$. and i agree-such hypocrites-people going to church and praising the lord and then talking smack about others and trying to get them kicked out of the city the next day...and i have NEVER seen an undocumented person asking for handouts on the side of the street either, i'm sure many of them were working hard to get that structure finished that is burning down now. i agree w/ karen...i saw a firefighter almost get smushed by a side of the building that came smashing down on blvd...thank God no one was hurt.

NC is lame.... wrote on Jan 19, 2007 8:25 AM:You north county bumpkins need to learn about a little thing called gentrification. Downtown did not clean up when the ball park moved there...that was happening for a decade. The ball park was a continuation. You rail about illegals and homeless (interesting since your solution to the former was to make them the latter). What, pray tell, do you want? A taxless, parkless, hospitaless developmentless "city" that is so undesirable even the homeless don't want it? What a great place! If you want the sleepy semi-country town that esco once was, get over esco and move further east to julian or ramona. You could even keep railing about illegals, but would annoy the rest of us contemporary city dwellers a lot less.

Esco Resident wrote on Jan 19, 2007 8:32 AM:I went by the post on Tuesday, and I drove along the fence to catch a glimpse on the construction progress. What struck me was how close the buildings were to the street. The sidewalk was narrow with tree planters in the middle of the sidewalk. It did not seem pedestrian friendly. Then I noticed that there were no predestrians for blocks, so it probably did not matter. My suggestion, before rebuilding, widen the sidewalk by moving the buildings back 5 to 10 feet.

Sasha wrote on Jan 19, 2007 8:43 AM:In Escondido ... SABOTAGE!!!!

1Escondidan wrote on Jan 19, 2007 8:54 AM:The fire may have been a blessing in disguse. I had to drive by those condos every morning, they were awful. Let's think of something better to put there than ugly condos. I am happy to hear they saved Chin's! Best Chinese food in Escondido!

Frida's Wrong wrote on Jan 19, 2007 9:05 AM:The closest Escondido fire station is five blocks from the Paramount and firefighters were on the scene minutes after they were called. It's really hard to get an accurate idea of arrival times unless you can see the whole scene. Also, it's VERY common for onlookers to grossly overestimate response times. Every call, dispatch, and arrival is fully documented and those documents will show 4-6 minutes, not half an hour.

Former Esco Resident wrote on Jan 19, 2007 9:19 AM:I applaud ANY efforts to clean up that hellhole of a town, but let's face it. High-end condos at Escondido Blvd and Washington?? Were they INSANE?! No one with enough money to buy one would want to live in that neighborhood. Period. On the news last night they said they weren't selling well at all and that building had slowed way down because of it. Hmmmmmm...

MJH wrote on Jan 19, 2007 9:36 AM:Fires have always been with us and maybe its like Sam Abed said about the homeless, maybe the fires are "part of God's plan"

against mary wrote on Jan 19, 2007 9:42 AM:Ok mary, sure the illegals may work for their money. Sure they do. But they dont pay taxes, they take jobs from those who ARE actually here legally. Those who are homeless right now have no chance of getting a job really due to the fact that the illegals have invaded. They work for such cheap labor, why would any of these companies hire otherwise. The illegals are called that for one reason, the fact that they are here ILLEGALLY!!!! And honestly its begeinning to get rediculous. I cant even work in this city without learning spanish. Im sorry, but if you are to live here, learn the language this nation was founded on and with, english. Support OUR FREE NATION, and not mexico, and their insane attempts to steal what we have. GOD BLESS AMERICA, AND ALL THAT ARE HERE>>>LEGALLY.

Interesting comments.. wrote on Jan 19, 2007 9:49 AM:Why does everyone feel the need to blame everyone else??? All you people that are complaining that you did not like the condos being built in the first place, and seem happy of this unfortunate event, may want to be careful what you say. There is a way to trace these comments you know. May be they should start investigating YOU!

Mathematician wrote on Jan 19, 2007 9:53 AM:"500 SchoolChildren Evacuated!!" What HEADLINES!! Thank the Lord for the accurate reporting going on at NCT!! What I read was about 70 kids from the Classical Academy were evacuated - where were the other 430 kids at?

Incomplete equation wrote on Jan 19, 2007 10:12 AM:"Mathematician" could be a math whiz, but apparently NOT a reading whiz --- "evacuation of more than 500 schoolchildren, store employees and shoppers." No need to freak out, just keep reading the next line.

Esco Local wrote on Jan 19, 2007 10:22 AM:Thank You Escondido Fire & PD!!! This huge fire was contained pretty quickly and with zero injuries, zero problems at evacuated stores...Great job!

R. Alan wrote on Jan 19, 2007 10:38 AM:It seems like most of the comments have nothing to do with the fire, but are reacting to the long seen problems of Escondido, having been raised there it is sad to see that the once best place to live in North County has been left in the dust of all the other cities in the area. Thanks a lot Jerry Harmon

Jimbo to "one thought" wrote on Jan 19, 2007 10:55 AM:Although, this article has nothing to do with illegals, since you brought it up with your anti-American sentitmet, I'll respond: And the illegal aliens come to our country defiant of the law, no conscience about how they affect the quality of life of HARD WORKING AMERICANS just as long as it "betters their life", strain our social services (gov condoned theft in the eyes of most tax payers;and since it is the tax payers' money, I do believe they have the right to determine what is and what is not considered theft in regards to it), generally make themselves unwelcome, uninvited guests and impose themselves upon the citizens and legal residents. All they while not paying taxes lest they STOLE or used a FRAUDULENT ID (both of which are considered criminal acts, just in case you weren't aware.)And then they go to church on Sunday. How nice. Two can play this game, buddy. Jesus never said you had to be a sucker. I recognize my own flaws, but it has no bearing what-so-ever on my opinion in regards to the OBVIOUS and DETRIMENTAL affects of illegal immigration. What is it that you ultra-liberal, anti-American, open borders, geniuses don't get about this situation. It is not about being heartless. It is about protecting a great nation. If the illegals came, didn't sign up for freebies first and foremost, learned English, didn't cry foul when we at the very least enforce laws against the violent criminal element associated with this problem, encouraged their offspring to truly assimlate into American culture (including waiting until you are financially stable prior to having children), maybe there wouldn't be as much opposition. But, as I mentioned before, they impose themselves on us, and thus the lack of a welcome mat.

Jimbo wrote on Jan 19, 2007 10:56 AM:Thank God nobody was hurt in this fire. My sympathy to those who lost money due to this situation.

Dennis wrote on Jan 19, 2007 10:58 AM:Yes, I am an experienced Fire Captain with the Orange County Fire Authority, a regional fire department serving 1.4 million residents and 469 square miles. I have lived in North San Diego County since 1977, and I do have a great deal of experience in fire investigation. During the construction process, this particular phase of the building has the greatest exposure to a catastrophic fire. Because the built-in fire protection features such as fire sprinklers, fire separation walls, and alarm systems are not yet in place and functioning as they would have been when all the walls were closed up and the building occupied, fire can spread both vertically and horizontally, virtually unabated. These features would have helped protect occupants and assisted firefighters in preventing a conflagrational type fire. As far as the origin and cause, all natural and accidental causes will be ruled out before an arson determination will be imposed. The cause could have been as simple as an electrical failure from new wiring, or sweat soldering copper pipe, or it could have been intentional. We will have to wait and see what the expert investigation conclusions reveal. I feel sorry for the potential new owners here, and I think the city of Escondido could really use the upgrade of upscale and nice housing to compliment places as nice as this new city center is attempting to portray. Considering it is just across the street from the Performing Arts Center, Escondido can use this higher-class image to improve and do well for the whole city and all its residents. Good job by all the public safety departments in keeping all of the citizens safe and to all the fire departments involved for preventing additional collateral losses. But, what if another major fire had broken out at the same time? Twenty-five engine and truck companies were committed to this one incident, all but five, from mutual aid with other jurisdictions. It really is the time to look at regionalization of all of our fire department resources in San Diego County to provide seamless response to multiple incidents at the same time.

Former Esco Residents wrote on Jan 19, 2007 11:02 AM:Re: interesting comments. Go ahead, investigate me. I have nothing to hide. That's my opinion and I am sticking to it. It should have never been there in the first place. I'm glad that no one was hurt and I hope the few that did buy can get their deposits back.

Aloha wrote on Jan 19, 2007 11:09 AM:Any fire is a tragedy. Thanks to our great firefighters and police officers who come to our rescue. As for the condos, I had decided never to shop in that area. The condos were an eye sore and a recipe for traffic disaster. Hopefully the city council will learn from this event that bigger is not better and that quality is more important than quantity.

Anonymous Comments wrote on Jan 19, 2007 11:13 AM:are "interesting," because one can speak freely about how they really think, and not have to worry about being politically correct. The only worry you have is the racist and bigoted editors at the NCT censuring your comments when they don't like them! As long as no one is physically threatening anyone, (although some could use it) you should be able to comment with any opinion you have. It's cheap entertainment, and quite challenging to provoke a response from certain people! What a wonderful country!!!

Len wrote on Jan 19, 2007 11:36 AM: I think that the one statement that had the most meaning for me was that the fire dept could not get between the buildings to fight the fire. Just think of how many bodies they would find this morning had they been occupied Maybe if they rebuild these monstosities they will make them a little more accesabile to emergency personal.

San Diego Fire Dept. wrote on Jan 19, 2007 11:41 AM:We all did a great job, no one was hurt. we came from San diego a little after 2:00pm Escondido did a great job, alone side its police dept. Thanks for the comments.

Escondido at its finest wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:00 PM:You know that developer was going to lose BIG on this. How many of those beautiful (Yuck!) condos would have really sold, the developer would probably have to reduce himself to renting them out. Seems like the same thing happened to the developer on the corner of Washington and Rose (behind the run down laundry mat), Overbudeget homes trying to sell for 700,000 can't seem to do it in a area like that and now he can't even rent them. Those will probably go up in smoke next. Where are the builders with common sense?

Patrick Wright-- Staff Writer wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:01 PM:If you have lost a condo due to the fire, please call me at (760) 739-6675 or pwright@nctimes.com. I noticed one person in Unit 4 is worried about a deposit and I would like to talk to other people in that situation.

No HATERS wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:21 PM:What's up w/ all of the expansion haters? Escondido is only on the map because someone came to town and built something in the first place. I'm PROUD of my city and our City Council. I'm proud of the efforts the city is taking to make it a safer and better city. And I'm tired of all of those writing here that you can't stand what the City Council is standing for. Rhetorical question - did you vote in this last election? Because if there are so many haters out there - how did our City Council get elected in the first place?! Way to go Esco Fire and Police! And the other depts that helped out... that could've gotten real bad real quick and it didn't. Thank you!

Samantha wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:27 PM:In response to Against Mary.How can you say that an illegal person takes the job of a legal person? If the legal person was out there looking for a job, and really wanted a job Im sure they would get it, right. And as far as the illegals not paying taxes, well Im sure they have to buy groceries & other stuff right and all that has taxes.Dont worry when you are old enough to retire most of that money from your soc. security will be coming from the money that those illegals dont collect back every year from taxes.You will be fine.

M wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:30 PM:I agree with R. Alan -- the string of comments here is instructive. Esco is obviously a City in search of an identity and is in a state of flux. In many ways, our little burg is a microcosm of Calif as a whole -- there is a clash of cultures and socio-economics in progress that will probably not settle out for a couple of generations -- if then. Our climate and geographic location lends itself to excess influx -- how many living here are natives? Compare that to many other parts of the country.

No Hero Worshiper wrote on Jan 19, 2007 12:49 PM:SD FD - nice pat on your own back!

American Mike wrote on Jan 19, 2007 1:06 PM:So, now that the building is officially a public nuisance, how long will the city wait for abatement to begin? Kudos to those on the front line.

morty wrote on Jan 19, 2007 1:13 PM:WOW SAYS IT ALL I LIKE PEACE.HATE AND DISCONTENT IS ALL YOU PRINT.

FIRE TRAGEDY - wrote on Jan 19, 2007 1:36 PM:- Everytime I drove by the 4 new giant apartment buildings under construction, I kept thinking how vulnerable they were to fire. They were all wood - no concrete and steel support. Then, when I saw them burning, it reminded me of the Texas A & M bonfire disaster back in 1999, when the 4-story high log pile collapsed, killing twelve students. The finished buildings would have been somewhat more safe, doubtless, but had they been fully occupied, and a blustery Santa Anna wind been blowing, we could have had a major catastrophe in these buildings. Escondido MUST have stricter standards in its building codes.

Everyone is so mean wrote on Jan 19, 2007 1:39 PM:What is with all you people? So these buildings were expensive and didn't exactly fit into "Escondido." And you keep saying that you are so glad that they burned down?? Do you stop to think about the people who were working on them and spent so many long hours? People who have spent months and months on these and to have all their work be gone in a couple hours? Try and put yourself in their shoes. You people have no heart. What happened to when there is tragedy everyone comes together and helps out. One thing is for sure I am not proud to be fellow San Diegans with you guys!!

Esco is full of... wrote on Jan 19, 2007 1:39 PM:close-minded and racist people? Blaming illegals? Are you out of your mind? It's embarrassing already! Let our city grow and become part of the rest of the world...and don't blame others for your ignorance!

Opinionated wrote on Jan 19, 2007 2:04 PM:First I would like to thank our Police department and Fire Dept. for controlling the fire and not getting it to take Chins. The best Chinese food in Escondido. Here goes my opinion. Why in the world are people in here writing about illegals and homeless when the topic is the fire of those condos, regardless if you think they are bad or good for the city. Since you all have your own opinions whether they are bad for Escondido or not then talk to your local politicians and decision makers and make a stand for what you believe in instead of attacking the PD and FD for their help. I believe that due to the economy and the market of real estate slowing down, the developers should have developed more recreational areas for families that currently lives in Escondido but not condos. I too look at those condos and thought to myself that they are somewhat in an awkward place to be when there are plenty of apartment conversion homes that are not selling around. My family is in real estate and I am aware of many homes and condos in Escondido not selling because of slow market for real estate. But regardless of what the fire has made you feel, the bottom line is that no one was hurt and FD and PD serve and protected the people and the businesses around it. If you (whoever you are) are so against homeless or illegals then do something about it rather than talk about it. I too have my own opinion on the situation but I don't think that blaming anyone for the fire or the decision for building those condos is enough why don't you go to the mayor's office and ask what you can do about it. Yes I know one person can't move the world now a days unless you have money but at least you did something rather than complain. Help the homeless by giving them clothing its cold outside. Give them food even can food or water bottles. For illegals well this is another topic because I think for the most part most people assume that if you look a certain way you must be illegal (not true). The problems with our economy is really just not about illegals its about our current government making sure that they tighten up policies, regulate and fix our trillion dollar deficit or there will be no more power for this country in 10-15 years. I don't expect anyone to understand my opinion but I'm simply saying DON'T BLAME ANYONE just be thankful and do your duty as the citizen of this country and whether you live in Escondido or not ( I don't but grow in) the root of our problem is not because of homeless or illegals its our government (they need to get their budget straighten out). Have a nice day everyone. For the haters Psalm 62:1-2 "My soul finds rest in GOD alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he his my fortress, I will never be shaken."

bvv wrote on Jan 19, 2007 2:06 PM:Some of the comments on this blog have good suggestions. I hope you will send them to the planning commissioners and city council. I've lived in Esc. for 40 years and shopped here for 60 years, so of course have seen many changes. I did not like the way those condos were right against the sidewalk. BTW - I wonder where the prostitutes will hang out now? [in cold weather, dressed in butt-exposing short shorts - that's how the ladys on El Cajone Blvd dress to advertise their wares]

Fire Tragedy - wrote on Jan 19, 2007 2:08 PM:You sound like an firebug!

Esco Local wrote on Jan 19, 2007 3:15 PM:A huge "THANKS FOR THE ASSIST!" to the emergency response folks from other cities. Very much appreciated.

Bulk wrote on Jan 19, 2007 3:27 PM:I think most people who would take the time to blog here,would vote, I certainly did, doesn't mean I can't disagree with the policy of recently re-elected officials, My hat is off to the two young hispanic women who had the guts to run against our hapless and current council members, in the future young folks will vote,have a voice and these Machiavellian members will be gone

Joe wrote on Jan 19, 2007 3:39 PM:Too bad the fire didn't erupt at Mission and Fig.

To : So typical wrote on Jan 19, 2007 4:33 PM:RE: I am ready to do jumping jacks to know that the Corps will move me to North Carolina after my deployment >>> Get ready for a shock. North carolina has the fastest growing population of Illegal Aliens in the U.S. Just GOOGLE "North Carolina illegal aliens" and you will find page after page after page of stories on how Illegal Aliens are devastating the stste. (Polls shows 75-80% of NC citizens want more done to reduce immigration and stop Illegal Immigration)

Skip wrote on Jan 19, 2007 4:37 PM:To all people unhappy with the comments about "Illegal Aliens", I offer you the following : It is not the immigrants that are the problem, It is the shear numbers of Immigrants! There are absolutely more illegal aliens in this state, and still coming here day after day then you could possible imangine. We are at the breaking point at being able to support and absorb them. Why do you think Escondido wants to limit housing to Illegals?

Vista Citizen wrote on Jan 19, 2007 4:53 PM:Please NO park there! It would just turn into another "Grape Day Homeless Drunk and Dump" site.

Rox wrote on Jan 19, 2007 5:01 PM:For all of you who are talking about the "high density" of the project and how many people would have been killed.. get a clue and READ DENNIS' COMMENTS POSTED AT 10:58am ON 1/19!

Reardon wrote on Jan 19, 2007 5:14 PM:Every piece of property is for sale. Those opposed to the development could have purchased the Fireside and the Bowling Alley if they had wished. The complainers can band together today and buy the land from the developer...then turn it into a park. Just like all other problems, they want someone else to solve what they perceive as a problem. I urge them to call one of the nature conservancies and pledge their own money...put up, or shut up. If just 10% of people agree with your complaints, buying a city block in Escondido is a snap...heck, 10% of Escondido could buy a city block of Rodeo Drive!

Pat wrote on Jan 19, 2007 5:26 PM:I just can't wait to see how proud our city council will be after all the new condo projects are finished. People will be able to drive though our town and see peoples laundry drying on their patio railings. There is no city code preventing it. What an improvement!

The issue wrote on Jan 19, 2007 5:42 PM:How did this condo disaster become an illegal alien issue? Wow, what a bunch of bitter bloggers, I bet some of you live in Temecula. As for the homeless, alot of them don't want to work. How is it, that a non-english speaker can get a job and have a place to live, and a homeless person can't. I know the illegals are to blame, thats a stupid excuse. I've run out of things to say.

Rebuild it again wrote on Jan 19, 2007 5:44 PM:I hope the do rebuild. It's a great addition to the city.

New in Town wrote on Jan 19, 2007 6:10 PM:It's great that the EFD & the EPD did a good job. I get so tired of those who pat the military, police dept and fire dept on the back though. They are only doing the job that THEY chose. When is the last time you bent over backwards thanking the person who is skilled and does a good job that served your lunch, the person who does your landscaping? There are other jobs that people risk their lives. What about the people that work on scaffolding or power lines, etc. shouldn't they get the same recognition? No one should be any more deserving of doing a good job. When one hired to do a job, any job, your expected to do it well.

Bob wrote on Jan 19, 2007 8:51 PM:The Escondido City Council Policy of: HOW MANY CONDOS CAN WE CRAM ON THE HEAD OF A PIN, contributed to this disaster! Let's rebuild, but let's do it smarter with LESS density.

Going to NC wrote on Jan 19, 2007 10:17 PM:You missed my point there buddy. I do not like the present situation either about the illegal immigration but guess what... the greedy employers of these people did it to America. They have the thought patter of such: "Why should I hire someone for 10 dollars an hour to pick my fruit and pay his taxes and go about this all legally when I can hire someone for 3 an hour under the table." The only reason why illegal immigrants are here at all is because there is a demand for them. If people would not hire them then they would not come. Do not blame the people of foreign nations for coming here; blame the smugglers, cheap and greedy employers, and OUR lack of enforcement of policy for the problem that has grown like a cancer which we have continually ignored (kind of like the strawberry fields there in Carlsbad). Like I said in my earlier post i am more than tickled to know the Marine Corps is moving me away from this area of backwater stooges. By the way, if you hire illegals in Georgia this is what happens, you GO TO JAIL! Try, California, to do that. ARREST the employers and try deporting illegal immigrants and you will see results.

L in C wrote on Jan 19, 2007 10:57 PM:They said the fire was started by a human. A human what?

Steve wrote on Jan 20, 2007 9:14 AM:Fire can strike any structure. What does density necessarily have to do with it?

Esco Business Owner wrote on Jan 20, 2007 6:08 PM:Steve, density affects the way a fire is fought, not necessarily how it starts. The fire fighters weren't able to get in and fight the flames. Someone needs to notice this stupidity in planning and layout, and make sure it doesn't happen again.

John wrote on Jan 23, 2007 9:20 AM:And a GIANT BRAVO to the Escondido FD for protecting the exposures as well as they did, Give those folks a raise.A job well done.

John wrote on Jan 24, 2007 5:25 AM:Its obvious that most of you folks in this blog dont have a clue about how firefighting is done. The firefighting personnel did what was the only thing you could have done in the situation. Protect the exposures. Notice that the damage was contained?

outta here wrote on May 4, 2007 11:39 PM:grew up in escondido, went to orange glen high school. moved away after 30 years because i could not tell it from mexico anymore. nor cal all the way baby...