BajaNomad - Bizarre conversation with CBP at Otay Mesa

Bizarre conversation with CBP at Otay Mesa

Pages: 1 2

Spearo - 4-17-2011 at 09:04 AM

Just returned from six weeks in Baja, another great trip. We decided to cross at Otay Mesa this year instead of Tecate. This ended up saving us a couple hours of drive time and will become our crossing of choice in the future. We got to the crossing mid afternoon and spent an hour in line. What follows is as accurate a transcript of my conversation with CBP as I can produce from memory, I pick up the conversation where it gets interesting:

CBP: So where did you go in Mexico?
Me: Mostly around Mulege.
CBP: Where is that?
Me: About 70 miles north of Loreto.
CBP: You should be grateful you made it back.
Me: Excuse me?
CBP: Its very dangerous down there right now. Cops are pulling people over and demanding whatever they want. People are being abducted in broad daylight and they love the gringos. Lots of murders. Its all over the news.
Me: Well, I don’t know where you get your news but perhaps you should try another source. There is very little crime in Baja. I feel as safe there as at home in rural Idaho. I know dozens of people all over the peninsula and I haven’t heard of any crime other than some petty thefts.
CBP: We hear about it all the time, you are very lucky to make it back alive. Now I want you to head over to secondary inspection.

This was a very disturbing experience for my wife and I. A representative of the state of California making such baseless and fearmongering claims in a professional environment. In hindsight, I should have asked to speak to his supervisor and ask them if it was the CBP policy to dissuade people of tourism not only in Mexico but in California as well. Thousands of people pass through Cali to get to Mexico and they drop cash at restaurants, motels, gas stations. I would hope that the people protecting the border would have a better understanding of the situation but apparently they do not and feel compelled to “inform” you of your brush with death. I got the impression that the CBP guy had never been to Mexico and thought anyone who would travel there had a deathwish. It was an absolutely surreal experience.

Has anyone else ever been fed this kind of BS by CBP?

Bwana_John - 4-17-2011 at 09:08 AM

My experiences with CBP have been mostly negative.

Oggie - 4-17-2011 at 09:20 AM

The "CBP" is a US Fedral agency.

baronvonbob - 4-17-2011 at 09:20 AM

I go through CA as little as possibel. You can only drive 55 with a Trailer. Even a very small one. Trucks can only do 55, but gee try to keep up with them and you get a ticket if you are out of State. They talk about getting ripped of by cops in Mexico, I am more afraid of the CHP and they cost more.

BajaGringo - 4-17-2011 at 09:23 AM

CBP is just a mirror of the general public NOB. I get agents that ask me how the fishing is in San Quintin, where's the best spot to camp and get oysters/clams. I get other agents who look at me like I am totally crazy. My guess is that those agents have probably never been further south than Tijuana.

I just shrug it off and drive through. I could care less what they think...

vandenberg - 4-17-2011 at 09:28 AM

You're talking about a custom agent. Very different from the Border Patrol people. Not too many positive experiences with custom agents. Like a lot of folks in enforcment, they get carried away with their sense of power and make asses of themselves. Same goes for the ones on the US-Canada border. Most experiences with BP have been positive, but may have something to do with looking definitely northern European. :?:

BajaGringo - 4-17-2011 at 09:30 AM

CBP = Customs & Border Protection

Bob and Susan - 4-17-2011 at 09:34 AM

that's funny...i just crossed a couple of weeks ago and the border guy may be comming down for a vacation here :lol:

he was pretty professional

vandenberg - 4-17-2011 at 09:39 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaGringo
CBP = Customs & Border Protection

Thanks for enlightening me Ron. :biggrin:

Still doesn't take away from the fact that I think close to half are a**holes.

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by vandenberg
Still doesn't take away from the fact that I think close to half are a**holes.

Close to 1/2, how close? 44.67% or are you rounding off? Are you sure it is 1/2 or could it be only the ones you encounter? Could be else that impacts the exchange.

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 09:48 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Spearo
Has anyone else ever been fed this kind of BS by CBP?

Cross 30-50 times per year. Only been to secondary four times in 40 years.

California plates, not Idaho plates on my vehicle.

Some people just draw out the best in others. The border crossing and various experiences have been discussed, ad nauseum on this site. Since you cannot change history, you might try to alter your future.

vandenberg - 4-17-2011 at 09:53 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull
Since you cannot change history, you might try to alter your future.

Like,...stay home. :biggrin:

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 09:55 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by vandenberg

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull
Since you cannot change history, you might try to alter your future.

Like,...stay home. :biggrin:

Practice what you preach. :yes:

DENNIS - 4-17-2011 at 09:55 AM

It's commonly known that the gate inspectors will engage you in meaningless conversation, but it's for a reason....to see what your level of concentration is or if you're distracted. If you can't tell them who won the World Series in '66, obviously you have a truck load of dope and illegals.

That said, this guy was purely a Mexico hater and whether he has good reason or not, perhaps he should keep those thoughts to himself, but everybody is allowed an opinion. I'm sure he's more aware of the seamy realities in Mexico than the average tourist is.

Can you imagine how he treats the Mexicans who cross in his lane? Probably not very nice.

TMW - 4-17-2011 at 09:56 AM

Why would the CBP people be any different than anyone else. I know lots of people that wouldn't step foot again in Mexico and a lot that love it and many that can take it either way. Maybe that guy had a problem at one time and it's his way of getting back at Mexico. I've only had one or two CBP that I remember asking me if I felt safe going down and I just said yes.

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 09:57 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
It's commonly known that the gate inspectors will engage you in meaningless conversation, but it's for a reason....to see what your level of concentration is or if you're distracted. If you can't tell them who won the World Series in '66, obviously you have a truck load of dope and illegals.

Yonkees?

DENNIS - 4-17-2011 at 09:59 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull
Yonkees?

Speak English, Gull.

Oh...OK. I ran it through The Urban Dictionary. I thought your reference was to Yonke. My most sincere apology.

.

[Edited on 4-17-2011 by DENNIS]

J.P. - 4-17-2011 at 10:02 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by vandenberg

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaGringo
CBP = Customs & Border Protection

Thanks for enlightening me Ron. :biggrin:

Still doesn't take away from the fact that I think close to half are a**holes.

[/quote
Rule of thumb
1 Never try to engae them in conversation
2. answer their questions in a direct maner
3 never volenter any information
4 A ND MOST IMPORTANTLY I MAY BE BEHIND YOU AND I DONT LIKE TO WAIT WHILE YOU ATTEMPT TO ENGAGUE IN USLESS BANTER. :fire:

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 10:09 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull
Yonkees?

Speak English, Gull.

Oh...OK. I ran it through The Urban Dictionary. I thought your reference was to Yonke. My most sincere apology.

Ch**** tu Madre, Dennis.

Baisbol, ihy know good.

Baisbol, been very, very good to Chico Esquela.
(by the way, I saw him two weeks ago. He is sober and holding up really well with his medical marijuana card.)

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 10:11 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by J.P.

4 A ND MOST IMPORTANTLY I MAY BE BEHIND YOU AND I DONT LIKE TO WAIT WHILE YOU ATTEMPT TO ENGAGUE IN USLESS BANTER. :fire:

j.p. eets a home run!!!!!

DENNIS - 4-17-2011 at 10:12 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull
Ch**** tu Madre, Dennis.

Now....there's that landfill language we all know and love. :lol:

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 10:14 AM

Please feel free to use it on your next border crossing. Works wonders - better than an Idaho or Canuck license plate.

toneart - 4-17-2011 at 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull

Quote:

Originally posted by vandenberg
Still doesn't take away from the fact that I think close to half are a**holes.

Close to 1/2, how close? 44.67% or are you rounding off? Are you sure it is 1/2 or could it be only the ones you encounter? Could be else that impacts the exchange.

Exactly 49.9%, Gull. And that is a qualified answer. I am a Nomad. :rolleyes:

...and Yes! "else" is factored in. :smug:

Spearo - 4-17-2011 at 11:03 AM

I understand the banter from customs designed to get folks to twitch. I am used to getting profiled, I have long hair and have never NOT gone to secondary. This guy was dripping with animosity. My post was intended to get a feeling for how common this attitude is among CBP. Sounds like people have had a wide variety of experiences.

My Mexican friends are not fairing well with the huge drop in tourism. A friend of mine in Mulege that runs a shop told me that all the playas were basically empty for seven months last year and this spring was pretty barren as well. I have seen a big uptick in the number of fishermen running gill nets and illegally polespearing lobster and octopus. The undeserved bad publicity really bothers me and when officials spout crap like that at the border its just too much.

An experience like this isn't going to affect my returning to Baja but how about the first-timer with kids and a reluctant spouse?

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 11:15 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by toneart
Exactly 49.9%, Gull. And that is a qualified answer. I am a Nomad. :rolleyes:

...and Yes! "else" is factored in. :smug:

Toneart, please forward your data and calculations via U2U. I want to look them over as to dates and times of the sampling you did.

If claiming your Nomad status is any indication of your accuracy, then you are 78.69% wrong, all the time.

BajaBlanca - 4-17-2011 at 11:19 AM

I so agree with spearo that a first timer would certainly be spooked.

and worse is that the CBP opinion mentioned in the original conversation is not based on fact FOR BAJA.

I also thought that CBP stood for Calif. Border Patrol - so I just learned something new.

I have never gone to secondary - what do they do ? how is the inspection handled - do they open up every nook and cranny ??

[Edited on 4-18-2011 by BajaBlanca]

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 11:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaBlanca
I have never gone to secondary - what do they do ? how is the inspection handled - do they open up every nook and cranny ??

Yes, and it best to keep your nook covered and cranny held tight.

vandenberg - 4-17-2011 at 11:24 AM

J.P.
Don't even know how to "ENGAGUE" :biggrin:

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 11:27 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by vandenberg
J.P.
Don't even know how to "ENGAGUE" :biggrin:

V,

I heard that CBP (US Customs and Border Patrol) teachs "how to engague" in secondary while inspecting your cranny and touching your nook.

Yep, amazing

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 11:41 AM

Been using Sentri for as long as the program has been offered, went to secondary once for an expiring window sticker and card.

Before Sentri, only went to secondary three times. Twice it was for suspicious looking cars (55 Chevy full of drunks, once and a mud covered 80's sports car, once). Once was just random.

Each time the folks in secondary were polite, a little casual about the pace of letting me go on my way, but were able to conduct themselves like professionals.

LaloinBaja - 4-17-2011 at 11:41 AM

Have been across hundreds of times over the last 53 years...99% of the time...No Hassles...BUT we all get the bonehead once in awhile...Just have to roll with it..I guess...I still spend 90% of my time in Baja...Like the T-shirt says..."I have friends in LOW places"...Pic of Baja....Always felt more safe here below the border than in L.A. I never bring contraband back and NEVER try to carry on a conversation with the boys in blue...Lalo :tumble:

BajaBruno - 4-17-2011 at 11:42 AM

BajaGringo is correct that few CBP officers venture into Mexico, for the simple reason that they are told through official channels that being a US federal law enforcement officer in Mexico is hazardous. They are told that if they do enter Mexico, to not take their federal credentials, for fear of being kidnapped and tortured.

When I replied to the author of this federal memo that I often drive through Mexico and just as often show my LE credentials to the cops who stop me, he thought I was insane. I got the impression he had never been to Mexico, had never spoken to a Mexican police officer, and was basing his assessment on "common sense," which may be very common but isn't necessarily sensical.

CBP's lack of knowledge about Mexico may be baffling, but it is genuine, and fostered by silly rumors and inflammatory memos from ignorant officials.

BajaGringo - 4-17-2011 at 11:43 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajaeng
Cross 30-50 times per year. Only been to secondary four times in 40 years.

that is an incredible rate. we've crossed about 50 times over the past 2 years, use a sentri pass, and have been sent to secondary 7 times for "random" checks

There are some nooks and crannys that CBP prefers to avoid inspecting (or God forbid touching) any more than absolutely necessary. My guess is that they are flagged on the computers and automatically waved through...

Spearo - 4-17-2011 at 11:43 AM

Secondary is not a big deal. They make you sit for an hour, run the dog around your rig and maybe make you open your cooler to make sure you're not smuggling tamales (Never put the tamales in the cooler). I just sit in the cab and read a book. The biggest problem is this process takes a while and they don't exactly have public restrooms available.

I have crossed the border over a dozen times and have always been sent to secondary. Before you ask, I have no criminal record though I do have a concealed weapons permit (I'm not packing of course). I know the CWP shows up when they run the passport.

Rosie the drug dog

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 11:48 AM

Yes, Rosie did get to romp around my car 3 out of the four times.

Funny how someone "always" goes to secondary. I know people with CWP and they don't have that problem. They, too, don't carry in Baja. Hmmmmm

windgrrl - 4-17-2011 at 11:50 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaBlanca
I have never gone to secondary - what do they do ? how is the inspection handled - do they open up every nook and cranny ??

We went through Tecate last month. The staff were friendly, the dog sniffed our rig while we were waiting (about 2 min. wait). We were sent to Secondary where another polite, friendly person asked if we had a dog (Yes) any Mexican dog food (no, we fed her the last serving about 1/2 hour before). He checked our fridge and we were out of secondary in about 2 minutes. Another staff member gave us a big friendly wave on the way out. Total time lapsed to cross - less than 10 min.

DENNIS - 4-17-2011 at 11:59 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Spearo
My Mexican friends are not fairing well with the huge drop in tourism. A friend of mine in Mulege that runs a shop told me that all the playas were basically empty for seven months last year and this spring was pretty barren as well.

Yeah...the whole world is a tough place to be these days and without making lite of the dilema of Mexicans through this time, if, after things turn around and they're all driving Escalades, you ask them how business is....all you'll get is a, "so so."
It's the nature of the beast.

Another thing.......you try in the future to break them of these bad habits they practice today in the name of survival and you'll have a tough time of it. Sad, but true.

The Gull - 4-17-2011 at 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaGringo
There are some nooks and crannys that CBP prefers to avoid inspecting (or God forbid touching) any more than absolutely necessary. My guess is that they are flagged on the computers and automatically waved through...

...while there are some nice looking nooks and crannies that just beg to be inspected. Big nooks and tight crannies may be just too much of a temptation to pass up for some of the most bored CBP.

I was with my US attorney once when were crossing with our families after a visit and his two big friendly dogs (Goldens) blasted their heads out the back window and wanted to lick the CBP dude. The question came up about vaccinations and my buddy produced proper evidence. The guy continued to ask lots of questions, holding up the line for way too long. My lawyer bud politely suggested that secondary was the proper place for all this BS and the CBP dude immediately got a 'tude. A shouting match ensured. He told my buddy to drive out and walked the car over to secondary. That gave my buddy the opportunity to speak with the supervisor about childish retaliation. We all got to sit around while he threatened lawsuits. The dogs were impatient, we were amused and about 30 minutes later we were on your way north.

I avoid travelling across the border with him, ever since.

toneart - 4-17-2011 at 12:19 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Gull

Quote:

Originally posted by toneart
Exactly 49.9%, Gull. And that is a qualified answer. I am a Nomad. :rolleyes:

...and Yes! "else" is factored in. :smug:

Gull,
With tongue in cheek, I have trouble walking through that U2U door. But, to be accurate, if being a Nomad makes me 78.69% (I say 78.68%) wrong, then I am squarely in the 50% range of that population. These are my balanced Nomad credentials. :spingrin:

Notice I didn't say "fair and balanced". That would be grossly unfair those who lack the intellect to follow my logic. Sudden thought: What overwhelming percentage would they represent? :?:

Jeeze! The science of pedantics is very taxing on my patience. I am going fishing tomorrow. :bounce:

vandenberg - 4-17-2011 at 12:47 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by toneart

The science of pedantics is very taxing on my patience.

Little more practice Tony.

You're getting pretty good at it. :biggrin:

David K - 4-17-2011 at 01:30 PM

Tell that border agent that the only negative part of a Baja vacation is the returning to the U.S. part! :yes:

Crossed north at every crossing except Algodones, and like Tecate the best. Rarely get invited to secondary, but no big deal if we do... usually fast.

J.P. Has Some Very Good Advice

Gypsy Jan - 4-17-2011 at 01:57 PM

But, we have occasionally been engaged by the Homeland Security officer in conversation that seems to be generated from some "Profiling for Dummies 101" workshop.

Usually it is low key, but one incident stands out in my mind.

One peckerwood straight from backwoods looked at our info, including the papers for the dog, looked inside, put his hand on his gun and said, "If your dog barks at me, I will shoot him."

[Edited on 4-17-2011 by Gypsy Jan]

[Edited on 4-17-2011 by Gypsy Jan]

BajaBlanca - 4-17-2011 at 05:43 PM

what a horrible thing to say.

DENNIS - 4-17-2011 at 05:54 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Gypsy Jan
"If your dog barks at me, I will shoot him."

Considering you had a witness, I would have made an extremly big deal of this on the spot and after the fact. I still would.
This is baloney.

Marc - 4-17-2011 at 07:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaGringo
CBP = Customs & Border Protection

I thought that the officers at border crossings were immigration officers, not Border Patrol?

Hi, Dennis

Gypsy Jan - 4-17-2011 at 07:06 PM

How do you make a big deal in an confrontation with an As*** with a gun on the border?

David K - 4-17-2011 at 07:11 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Marc

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaGringo
CBP = Customs & Border Protection

I thought that the officers at border crossings were immigration officers, not Border Patrol?

Different divisions of CBP now... Things were changed after 9-11 and put under Homeland Security.

CBP.gov - home page
cbp.gov · Official site
U.S. Customs and Border Protection secures the homeland by preventing the illegal entry of people and goods while facilitating legitimate travel and trade.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
CBP.gov - home page
Includes the former Border Patrol and Customs Service. Missions include detecting and preventing the illegal entry of persons and goods into the country.

GWBaines - 4-18-2011 at 09:42 AM

On my last return to the US through Otay, we had an unusual experience. Great chat with the first agent, but sent to 2ndary because of trailer. We stopped in the shed but were told most contemptuously to move forward. Were let through the barrier to an enclosed area, after being yelled at by an agent. After a wait the female agent asked what we had for food. Insisted that we should have a list of ALL food items on board. We tried to tell her everything. We were made to get out. taking the dog way off to the side, then told to open all cabinets, outside doors, etc. Then told to stand well away from the rig. Two agents went through the inside, they found 3 shriveled apples down in the bottom of a kitchen drawer. The female agent came out with the apples triumphantly, and announced we were to be fined, for the old apples. They left suddenly without looking in the outside cabinets or trailer, about an hour later, she returned to ask how we would like to pay the fine. She left again and returned a hour later, to conduct me to the office. She announced on the way that she was giving us a break and only fining us $175, when she could have gotten us for $300! I said nothing, because it was obvious that she did not want to hear from me. Secondary took over 2 and a half hours. I am 69 years old, and have never had problems before and have been to Mexico every year for more that 30 years.

Woooosh - 4-18-2011 at 10:17 AM

I had an interesting gate conversation while crossing at the San Ysidro POE last week:

Q: Where are you headed?
A: To San Diego. We have a Doctor appointment
Q: Were you getting treatment in Tijuana?
A: No, we have residences on both sides of the border.
Q: You do know they steal your organs at the medical centers in Tijuana?
A: Huh?
Q: You go in with two kidneys and they keep one to sell. It is a huge industry and they make a lot of money.
A: Really?
Q: Yes, You do know you have two kidneys right?
A: Yes, we know we have two kidneys and we still have both of ours. Luckily we have health insurance in the USA so we are keeping our kidneys, but thank you for the warning.
Q: You're welcome, have a nice day (and he handed our passports back).

[Edited on 4-18-2011 by Woooosh]

BajaBlanca - 4-18-2011 at 10:52 AM

:lol:

toneart - 4-18-2011 at 11:04 AM

You are getting the Police State that you have been voting for. Quit your b-tching. :smug:

DENNIS - 4-18-2011 at 11:30 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Marc
I thought that the officers at border crossings were immigration officers, not Border Patrol?

They'll do whatever it takes to pees you off. They wear the hat required at the moment.

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 07:35 AM

On our last cross back into the States, in Tecate, we had some of the same negativity from our lovely CBP. She asked where we had been ~ Bahia Asuncion...where's that? And the requisite "Don't you know how dangerous it is to travel in Mexico?"

She then proceeded to tell us that we were putting our children in harm's way by bringing them there. You should have seen her face when she asked for Tristan's identification and we handed her his MEXICAN passport. "Who's child is that?" Um, gee, the blonde boy sitting next to the blonde girl in the car driven by the blonde man? OURS? She couldn't fathom why he would have been born in Mexico. Before she finally let us cross, she put in a few more warnings of danger! DANGER! Haven't you seen the news lately? and the like. Not to mention she was attempting to make us feel like terrible parents ~ FOR SHAME you just spent 2 weeks on the beach! Petting whales!! Playing with other children!! But GASP!! they speak Spanish!!

Had it been in a different setting, I would have told her to shove her fear propaganda up her arse ~ we don't have any use for that. Please, spare your fear tactics for someone else! I try not to let it get to me, as I do about the fear mongering here in the states, but when someone ventures as far as to tell me in not so many words that I am a bad parent....Well, them's fightin' words!!

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 07:43 AM

and sorry toneart but no....if there is even the slightest hint in a candidate's agenda that denotes ANY prejudice, stereotype, etc. against immigrants of ANY origin....they do NOT have my vote. Same goes for any bill, law or the like. I may live in AZ, but I do NOT support the devil that has weaseled her way into top position...

krafty - 4-19-2011 at 07:48 AM

Walked across Otay yesterday with a friend-9 am and it took 1-1/2 hrs. they only had 2 officers working the gates-do they not know that on a Monday morning there may be a line? They were pretty gruff as well. We felt like cattle.

David K - 4-19-2011 at 08:13 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam
and sorry toneart but no....if there is even the slightest hint in a candidate's agenda that denotes ANY prejudice, stereotype, etc. against immigrants of ANY origin....they do NOT have my vote. Same goes for any bill, law or the like. I may live in AZ, but I do NOT support the devil that has weaseled her way into top position...

Doesn't Mexico has stricter policies about foreignors than Arizona has, or tried to have?

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 08:13 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by krafty
-do they not know that on a Monday morning there may be a line?

Do you not know by now that they don't care about your being inconvenienced? :light:

Really....everyone has to get beyond the silly idea that these are public servants.........and don't cross on Monday mornings.

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 08:26 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K

Quote:

Doesn't Mexico has stricter policies about foreignors than Arizona has, or tried to have?

Certainly ~ foreignErs have to abide by the rules, as they should. However, I have noticed in my years of travel (albeit not as many years under my belt as many Senior Nomads) that most travelers (nomads included) do not feel as though they should have to abide by such rules! They complain about tourist cards, military checkpoints, laws regarding property ownership ~ as though they are "entitled" to just wander freely through a foreign country and do as they please, and yet we demand that folks of other nationalities should abide by OUR rules and give in to OUR stereotypes and prejudices. There is a double standard and I think that stinks. Yes, there should be rules and laws ~ don't be ridiculous! BUT, breeding fear about certain nationalities and religions and deliberately making it more difficult for certain people to attain citizenship, etc. is what I have a problem with.

From personal experience, obtaining citizenship in Mexico (for Tristan at his birth) was like jumping through hoops of fire ~ but not because we were Americans. Not ONCE did I feel like we were looked at as foreigners trying to pull a fast one (as sooooo many immigrants are made to feel). On the contrary, all of the government employees we came in contact with during the process were welcoming and intrigued by it all. ALL of the employees EXCEPT the ones (the Americans!!) at the US Consulate!

Interesting

Dave - 4-19-2011 at 09:37 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam You should have seen her face when she asked for Tristan's identification and we handed her his MEXICAN passport.

Questions:

When applying for his U.S. citizenship are you gonna tell 'em?

Mexico requires dual citizens to enter and leave Mexico under Mexican citizenship. How's that gonna work?

MaryJoC - 4-19-2011 at 09:37 AM

Hi, I'm new here have been lurking for awhile but never posted.

Presently I'm in Yuma. A couple of months ago I wanted to go into Algodones for meds and dental care but forgot my passpost. Had to go back the next day. On the way back, I asked a Customs guy what would happen if I accidently forgot my passport when I went into MX. His exact words, "don't go into Mexico." I never go into MX so I leave my passport at home.

I also happen to workout at a Yuma gym where alot of Border Patrol and Customs people workout. I didn't know this at the time I opened my big mouth to another snowbird and related my above experience, also stating that Customs officials are unprofessional. A wife of a customs guy who was working out (her husband also works out at this gym) overheard me. She told me what would happen if I forgot my passport, have to go through a secondary checkout, etc. Anyway, now I get the cold shoulder from all of them and when I am in earshot of any two of them talking all I hear are negative remarks about Mexico.

Also one of the Customs guys works out in his full Customs uniform, hats, hat and all.

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 10:58 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by MaryJoC
Also one of the Customs guys works out in his full Customs uniform, hats, hat and all.

He's definitely in need of help. I knew a gal who was married to a cop and, in the morning while getting suited-up in front of a full length mirror, he would get sexually arroused.

On the note....welcome to BajaNomad, MaryJo. :biggrin:

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 12:18 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam
and yet we demand that folks of other nationalities should abide by OUR rules and give in to OUR stereotypes and prejudices. There is a double standard and I think that stinks.

Demand as "we" will, it falls largely on deaf ears. Mexicans by the millions cross our border illegally and have their way with our country in spite of our demands.
Now...I know you know that, but you have taken on the roll of US prosecutor at the cost of giving up your country and those whom you should be showing at least a little bit of loyalty rather than making grandiose accusations in your efforts to ingratiate yourself to Mexicans and Mexico.

If you can't handle Americans or America, why don't you just stay in Mexico, get your citizenship and become a legal activist. then you could march around the streets with a placard telling the world how screwed up your benefactor is.

.

[Edited on 4-19-2011 by DENNIS]

I'll probably regret asking but...

Dave - 4-19-2011 at 12:28 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
I knew a gal who was married to a cop and, in the morning while getting suited-up in front of a full length mirror, he would get sexually arroused.

How did the subject come up?

so to speak. :rolleyes:

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 12:36 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Dave
How did the subject come up?

so to speak. :rolleyes:

Funny you should ask. She was just telling me her most interesting vignettes of married life. That was only one of many.
Another.........she had finally reached the end of her rope and told her husband that she couldn't put up with any more. He looked at her momentarily and left the room, returning about five minutes later wearing one of her dresses.
"What do you mean? This?" he asked.

Divorce....signed, sealed and delivered.

Dennis, Dennis, Dennis

Gypsy Jan - 4-19-2011 at 12:45 PM

TMI

Now I have to go and scrub out my brain.

Brain bleach recs, anyone?

[Edited on 4-19-2011 by Gypsy Jan]

elgatoloco - 4-19-2011 at 12:49 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Gypsy Jan

Brain bleach recs, anyone?

[Edited on 4-19-2011 by Gypsy Jan]

100% Blue Agave :dudette:

Elgatoloco, Do You Deliver?

Gypsy Jan - 4-19-2011 at 01:41 PM

I am suffering.

GJ

Jim/Liisa - 4-19-2011 at 02:40 PM

Wow! 90% of the border agents are of Mexican decent hate the word Hispanic.
You must have gotten one that wasn't! Not like them to put there own kind down?

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 02:45 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Dave

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam You should have seen her face when she asked for Tristan's identification and we handed her his MEXICAN passport.

Questions:

When applying for his U.S. citizenship are you gonna tell 'em?

Mexico requires dual citizens to enter and leave Mexico under Mexican citizenship. How's that gonna work?

He has his US stuff already done ~ the deal is that he is a citizen of whichever country he is in.When in Mexico, he is Mexican, when in the US, he is American. He has a Mexican passport, and Mexican birth cert., a CURP, a CRBA, and a US SSN. He will get his US passport this year. It's really no big deal.

Dave - 4-19-2011 at 02:50 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Jim/Liisa
90% of the border agents are of Mexican decent

I hadn't noticed that. It seems a good percentage are filipino, though.

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 03:05 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

the same could be said of the millions of US citizens that cross over to Mexico to run amuck and treat the Mexican citizens the same way they treat they in the states ~ like trash. Of course, not everyone does ~ but the ones that do make the biggest and most lasting impression. There are days when I wish I could just up and leave the States permanently, but I have the ability to travel between here and there so when I get frustrated with certain policies and people, I can flee. Should there come a day when I am no longer able to do that, then I think you can guess what my choice would be.

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 03:09 PM

BTW ~ the border officers have never been interested in his Mexican passport, just his CRBA ~ because the are only interested in whether or not he is a US Citizen. Same goes for when he travels on a plane within the states. They only want to see the CRBA (which we could not have gotten unless we declared his Mexican citizenship).

And I NEVER said I couldn't handle America or Americans ~ I just think that the double standards stink. Period.

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 03:49 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Jim/Liisa
Wow! 90% of the border agents are of Mexican decent hate the word Hispanic.

Who in the *** uses that word? Mexicans are Mexicans. Call them Mexicans. They won't mind.

True, But...

Bajahowodd - 4-19-2011 at 04:03 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by Jim/Liisa
Wow! 90% of the border agents are of Mexican decent hate the word Hispanic.

Who in the flock uses that word? Mexicans are Mexicans. Call them Mexicans. They won't mind.

On the other side of that coin, I recently was on another site that carried a story about how John of Orange (Boehner) is breaking with a long-standing House tradition that was started under Dennis Hastert. It is a Cinco de Mayo celebration hosted by the Speaker. Boehner said that it was OK with him for the House Hispanic Caucus to host their own party, but he was not going to fund it as Speaker.

Thereafter, on this site, a number of virulent anti-Mexican posts. could be observed.

Fact is that the Hispanic Caucus is made up of members with far flung backgrounds that include Mexico, but, more importantly, include those from Central America, Cuba (in my opinion, it has always been the Cuban exiles and their offspring that have driven policy), and ta da! Puerto Rico, which if I recall correctly is this big, lush island in the Caribbean whose inhabitants are, at birth, citizens of the US.

[Edited on 4-19-2011 by Bajahowodd]

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 04:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam
the same could be said of the millions of US citizens that cross over to Mexico to run amuck and treat the Mexican citizens the same way they treat they in the states ~ like trash.

Give me just one instance. Tell me when that happened.... just once.
I know it may happen, but I insist that you qualify your statements. When, in your experience, did anything like this happen?
I don't think you can answer that. You're just working on your meaningless need to vilify, for personal reasons, the US and her citizens.
You have no real idea of the true relationship between the US and Mexico. All you have is your simplistic thoughts that your child's citizenship will give you a slot in the cabinet of life in a country not of your own by birth.
You won't be accepted....so you can forget that.

You, and others like you, are frauds to yourself. You used to be frauds to your kind, but you have gone to another level. You've convinced yourselves that if you trash your country and your kind that Mexico will like you.

What a joke. They will never like you and I can understand why. You give up your friends.

Jim/Liisa - 4-19-2011 at 04:35 PM

Don't much care for the word Caucasion too. At least at the Colexico,mexicali border and the newer one going west. seem to be of Mexican decent.

[Edited on 02-05-2011 by Jim/Liisa]

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 04:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Jim/Liisa
Don't much care for the word Caucasion too. At least at the Colexico,mexicali border and the newer one going west. seem to be.

Are you efffing drunk? What the efff are you trying to say?

Jim/Liisa - 4-19-2011 at 04:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by Jim/Liisa
Don't much care for the word Caucasion too. At least at the Colexico,mexicali border and the newer one going west. seem to be.

Are you efffing drunk? What the efff are you trying to say?

Sorry im white, forgot to add of Mexican decent.

[Edited on 02-05-2011 by Jim/Liisa]

[Edited on 02-05-2011 by Jim/Liisa]

mtgoat666 - 4-19-2011 at 04:46 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam
He has his US stuff already done ~ the deal is that he is a citizen of whichever country he is in.When in Mexico, he is Mexican, when in the US, he is American. He has a Mexican passport, and Mexican birth cert., a CURP, a CRBA, and a US SSN. He will get his US passport this year. It's really no big deal.

what happens if the US and Mexico go to war? again.

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 04:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Jim/Liisa

Sorry im white

Oh yeah??? Did your mother tan easily?
You have to do some genealogy stuff being prepared for the shock of your life. :lol:

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 04:55 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666
what happens if the US and Mexico go to war? again.

We are at war, numbnuts. You might be aware of that if you knew how to read papers that weren't scratched out in goat-talk.

Jim/Liisa - 4-19-2011 at 05:06 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by Jim/Liisa

Sorry im white

Oh yeah??? Did your mother tan easily?
You have to do some genealogy stuff being prepared for the shock of your life. :lol:

All these words that where made up years ago just don't make sence nowadays. Yes we are all made of all nationalities here in the USA. Do you think the words such as Hispanic and Caucasion make sence in todays world? Sorry if I offended any one, just my opinion.

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 05:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd

True, But...

Will you stop it?
Gawwwwdammmmm.......sometimes you get ridiculous, especially when I'm doing my best to be obnoxious. It ain't easy, you know. I really don't need your interuptions when I'm trying to be brilliant.

OK....What were you saying? :lol:

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 05:13 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Jim/Liisa
All these words that where made up years ago just don't make sence nowadays. Yes we are all made of all nationalities here in the USA. Do you think the words such as Hispanic and Caucasion make sence in todays world? Sorry if I offended any one, just my opinion.

Nah....you didn't offend anyone that I know of. Thanks for you explaination. It all makes sense now.

Thanks again.

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 05:23 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

First of all, DENNIS you don't know me. So generalizing me, and your so called "others like me" means absolutely nothing.

You honestly believe that folks do not cross the border into Tijuana with the sole hope of anonymous debauchery? You honestly believe that all American (or any other nationality for that matter) travelers go to Mexico and treat her and her people with respect? Of course not. WE are AMERICANS!! We are entitled to treat others like crap. Maybe YOU don't, but I have seen (and yes in my personal experience) tourists treat locals like crap, I've seen my friends (yes, my so called friends) treat Mexicans poorly. Case in point ~ one trip to La Fonda and the table next to ours was running their poor server like crazy complaining about everything, mocking him when he was gone. It was deplorable. I'm sure they treat everyone like that, but the point is ~ THEY are the people I was referring to.

I NEVER vilified the US. I am simply saddened that a country built on the idea of freedom and inhabited by a cornucopia of nationalities has turned its back on what has historically made it great ~ immigrants. And please don't tell me that all of those immigrants were legal, because if you recall, we took this land from the natives that lived here. Of course, that is all history, but to say that we are better than others because of where we live and damn those immigrants for coming here and taking over our country...is quite hypocritical, don't you think?

How am I trashing my country? Because I have a love for another? Yes, I love Mexico, Baja in particular. I love the people of Baja. I love the culture. Coming from a "culture-less" country, I think that's justified. My child's citizenship is not for my benefit, but for his own. It's not MY place in life it secures, it is his own. He has opportunities that no one I know of could ever have. THAT is why we chose to have him there.

I'm not accepted? My family is not accepted? We have many friends throughout Baja ~ we stop for tacos at Los Poblanos and are greeted with handshakes and smiles and "where have you been?", we drive by MYC alfombras in San Quintin and the family runs outside and waves to us, we go to the Baja 500 and the families invite us in to their RVs, they share their food and beer, we walk into Mama Espinoza's and are instantly hugged and kissed by Rolli, we are offered places to eat and sleep when we are hungry and weary, we go to Bahia Asuncion and the policia stops to have coffee with us, we are taken to family ranches and taught Spanish by the children. I have never felt more accepted than in Baja.

How have I given up my friends? My friends are in the US, my friends are in Mexico. My friends are here, my friends are there, my friends are everywhere! Just because I do not see them everyday does not make them any less my friends. And my TRUE friends are ALWAYS welcome in my home ~ whether that is here in the states, or oceanfront in BA.

Mexico likes me and my family because we are kind. We are generous, we are helpful, we are more interested in expanding our hearts and our minds than closing them off. Mexico likes me because I don't bash her, America likes me because I don't bash her. I may not agree with everything that happens in either place, but both places have a deep hold on my heart.

[Edited on 4-20-2011 by bajafam]

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 05:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote:

what happens if the US and Mexico go to war? again.

Not sure if that would have any affect on him, though I guess if he was of age he could fight on either side. His decision, not mine. To guarantee his full citizenship in Mexico, though he will have to serve time with the Mexican military, but again, his decision.

David K - 4-19-2011 at 05:32 PM

There are bad people everywhere... on both sides... The vast majority on both sides are good people...

Baja is special and unique and so we keep going and altering our life to be there. Mexican government is a mess at all levels and people in American government can mess things up... as long as you know Baja is good, who cares what an ignorant border agent says to you?

They are no different than a family member who can't imagine why we "risk our lives" going into Baja!!! All a result of our news media hypeing up events like pouring gasoline on a fire.

If you are happy and feel safe in Baja... then let them think what they want... it is their loss to be mis-informed, not yours.

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 05:33 PM

I am sooo over the border agent ~ but now I have to defend myself to a so called "fellow nomad"???

Marketing 101

Dave - 4-19-2011 at 05:42 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam
You honestly believe that folks do not cross the border into Tijuana with the sole hope of anonymous debauchery?

Where would Americans get such an idea? :rolleyes:

monoloco - 4-19-2011 at 06:11 PM

"Coming from a "culture-less" country" You mean McDonalds, KFC, and American Idle Brain aren't culture? :lol:

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 07:04 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam
First of all, DENNIS you don't know me. So generalizing me, and your so called "others like me" means absolutely nothing.

Wrong , sweetie. You don't mind if I call you sweetie, do you? I have a name....you don't.
"Others like you" means the many who have crossed my path in the past who have done nothing in the their life to endear them with the country of their birth. They just live there and have no idea why, never knowing of the grand history and sad presence when men and women are giving up their lives for your ability to travel to Baja. I really believe you don't give a *** about this. Not your problem

Quote:

You honestly believe that folks do not cross the border into Tijuana with the sole hope of anonymous debauchery?

Folks go for what is offered. They go to Disneyland because it offers fun. Same with Revo.

Quote:

You honestly believe that all American (or any other nationality for that matter) travelers go to Mexico and treat her and her people with respect?

Probaly not, but I do. Can you tell me of those who don't? Can you tell me of any group of people who go to Mexico with disrespect as their goal?

Quote:

Of course not. WE are AMERICANS!! We are entitled to treat others like crap. Maybe YOU don't, but I have seen (and yes in my personal experience) tourists treat locals like crap, I've seen my friends (yes, my so called friends) treat Mexicans poorly.

Like...what did they do? What kind of friends do you hang with?

"WE are AMERICANS!! We are entitled to treat others like crap."

I can't belive you even said that even in your most facetious moment. When and where does this happen? Tell us where.

Quote:

Case in point ~ one trip to La Fonda and the table next to ours was running their poor server like crazy complaining about everything, mocking him when he was gone. It was deplorable. I'm sure they treat everyone like that, but the point is ~ THEY are the people I was referring to.

These A-Holes are your model of Americans? The rageing American tourist that ruins your life and gives a country a bad name?
There must be more. Tell us. We wanna know.

Quote:

I NEVER vilified the US.

Bulllsht. It doesn't have to be written in red ink to understand what one is saying.

Quote:

I am simply saddened that a country built on the idea of freedom and inhabited by a cornucopia of nationalities has turned its back on what has historically made it great ~ immigrants.

More baloney. How can a culture turn on itself? Immigrant culture has growing pains and turns on each other as a method of survival.
When did a particular segment of our society turn against Mexicans in recent times?
The antagonist segment arn't Pachucos.

Quote:

we took this land from the natives that lived here

Ohhh, freakin please. I am so tired of answering for the sins of my ancestors. Can you bring up something current?

Quote:

Coming from a "culture-less" country, I think that's justified.

I'm appalled by your childish ignorance that you say the US has no culture., albeit there are people within that evidently don't. You are a gold-plated example.
We are a mix of many cultures, your included, that you arn't even aware of.
You are a Worker-Bee. Buzz on.

Quote:

My child's citizenship is not for my benefit, but for his own.

Meaning you don't see value in being an American? [and please refrain from pointing out we're all Americans. That's really worn out]

Quote:

It's not MY place in life it secures, it is his own. He has opportunities that no one I know of could ever have. THAT is why we chose to have him there.

I hope his future will thank you for that. Today, that would be questionable.

Quote:

We have many friends throughout Baja ~ we stop for tacos at Los Poblanos and are greeted with handshakes and smiles and "where have you been?"

Veritable VIPs. Next Taco is on me. Is that what you call friends?

Quote:

Mexico likes me

How in the name of Gawd would you know that? What have you done for Mexico that she would appreciate?

Quote:

Mexico likes me because I don't bash her

Oh..yeah. Good girl.

G'night...whatever your name is. Sink off into your fantasyland.

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 07:19 PM

F off DENNIS.

I don't have to defend myself or my family to you.

thank you sir.

goodnight

woody with a view - 4-19-2011 at 07:20 PM

point, set, match goes to the man on the punta!

mulegemichael - 4-19-2011 at 07:23 PM

dennis, dennis, dennis...take a deep breath....and a long pull...isn't that better?

bajafam - 4-19-2011 at 07:25 PM

stay out of this woody...and yes...I do believe DENNIS needs a stiff drink

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 07:32 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam
F off DENNIS.

I knew I was conversing with a worldly soul.....one who could relate well....in the American way. :biggrin:

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 07:33 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajafam
stay out of this woody...and yes...I do believe DENNIS needs a stiff drink

Yeah....I think you need something stiff too. Sounds as though it's been a while.

Bajaboy - 4-19-2011 at 07:44 PM

Dennis, not like you could give a crap what I have to say but if our paths cross, I'm buying you a drink or two. Seems like your opinions don't matter in this conversation, I mean, lecture.

woody with a view - 4-19-2011 at 07:47 PM

i just read the previous page, and i'll stop at the good stuff.

p.s. take it to u2u or get a room....

[Edited on 4-20-2011 by woody with a view]

DENNIS - 4-19-2011 at 07:50 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajaboy
Dennis, not like you could give a crap what I have to say but if our paths cross, I'm buying you a drink or two. Seems like your opinions don't matter in this conversation, I mean, lecture.

Thanks Zac. I'll take two and buy the rest.
Thanks for the thought.

Pages: 1 2