CBS4 Investigates 'English Speaking' Sign Flap

CBS Denver ^ | 4/7/06 | cbs4denver.com

[Admin Moderator]

Do you have a link for this story?

[CROSSHIGHWAYMAN]

No freedom of speech unless you're an illegal with an accent.

Native Americans need not apply.

[Tzimisce]

...let me get this straight, this guy mows lawns for the government? Is he a private contractor or an actual government employee?

[aimhigh]

Here is one:

http://cbs4denver.com/topstories/local_story_061125200.html

[peggybac]

http://cbs4denver.com/local/local_story_061125200.html

[the invisib1e hand]

"Lawn Services Done With Pride!! By An English Speaking American."

That's a real cheap shot, in very bad taste. It should say, "...done by bigot whose answer to competition is insult."

Say what you want about immigration issues -- and not all Mexicans are illegal, thank you -- I've employed a few in my former business -- but this character seems to have a real chip on his shoulder.

[aimhigh]

Considering all the adverisements that include "Hablamos Espaniol", I think he'll win his case.

[Hank Kerchief]

http://cbs4denver.com/topstories/local_story_061125200.html

[Admin Moderator]

Thank you!

[peggybac]

I'm in Kansas and have noticed a Spanish only commercial running. In Kansas? Please.

[cripplecreek]

I'd hire him.

[Brilliant]

The problems began last spring. Gray, 50, owns a lawn service business on the side. He was routinely driving to work in his pickup truck towing a trailer that he uses to carry lawn mowing equipment for his business. On the side of his trailer, the married father of two affixed a sign that reads "Lawn Services Done With Pride!! By An English Speaking American."

It doesn't have anything to do with this guy's job with the County. It's a violation of free speech.

[Americanexpat]

No, it said he mowed lawns on the side. The sign is for his private business las t I heard that was not against the law. I might understand the boss telling him to leave the cap at home but what he puts on a sign for his business is his business.

[Petronski]

"...done by bigot whose answer to competition is insult."

The only shoulder-chip is yours. What's illegitimate about describing his competitive advantage?

[operation clinton cleanup]

I can see not being allowed to advertise on City property... but I would hire him, if I could afford him!

[69ConvertibleFirebird]

Damn English speaking Americans. I think Spanish should be declared the official language of the United States. It's getting close to that...

[varg]

No, he owns a lawn business on the side. His main job is a government heavy-machine operator. I heard this on ABC News here, as usual, they made it sound like Gray was a racist. Sorry, but this is ridiculous. When people can have signs that say "se habla espanol", how is that not harassing me? Saying "English Speaking American," is just business promotion when most of the people in the lawn care business are illegals. I agree with this guy 100%.

[Fee]

If wearing a BP cap is offensive, does that mean the Alamo Rental Car company must take down all their billboards and signs?????

[Smokin' Joe]

...but this character seems to have a real chip on his shoulder.

What chip? Patriotism?

He has a marketing angle in the service business.

Next thing you know, the flat chested are going to decide "Hooters" is discrimination...if they have not already.