Sentinel Interview 14th June 1pm

[Susie]

Hi

I am being interviewed by Victor Ramus from the Sentinel at 1pm 14th June 2007 for a large article due to be published at the end of June


If anyone whishes to meet with the reporter who has a heartfelt story they wish to share please pm me

[reecey]

good luck with interview susie

[Jax]

Good Luck

[Susie]

Hi

Just received a call and reporter had to resedule till Friday 15th June 07 at 1pm

I will call those who have said they are coming just incase they miss this revised date.


So if anyone else would like to come on 15th June please pm me

[anniefromessex]

Susie,

You can bet I will be there. As you know my daughter in law was turned down for a Visa to allow her into the country today and to be honest with you that has made me even more determined to get out of this place - there was no compassion, no common sense, nothing remotely human. She was told that because of the situation it would be a longer interview and that is why she has had to wait so many weeks for them to see her. Longer interview, crap!!! She was wanting Jan gone in the first couple of minutes, when Jan asked her questions she told her to move away from the window she had other people to interview. If that is their idea of a longer interview -then God knows what a short interview would be like. She even threatened to have Jan removed by security because she was asking her how to turn it around. You know the bit about showing you have strong ties to the UK. Well Jan provided them with Mortgage statements on their property, Mortgage statement on a house that Daniel has bought to refurbish and sell on, Utility Bills, Council Tax, letters from Jacks High School allowing him 2 weeks leave of absence, a letter from a school that Holly will be attending next year, Bank Statements, Pension Statement, Child Benefit, For Sale Buy Owner advertisement showing their house for sale, Property Tax showing that it is the aforementioned house, apart from the kitchen sink and the fact that my son wasn't coming over with them, what more proof or ties could they have shown - the whole system stinks!!!!

Sorry guys, not trying to put anybody down, good luck to everybody with good stories, but this forum wouldn't be unless there were the horror stories and unfortunately I am imparting the horror story in our case. As far as we are concerned, we cannot get out of here fast enough, we were going to wait until our houses sold, no longer - we are out of here as soon as humanly possible. In the meantime I am in touch with Terry Mulford at Dave Weldon's office, I have written to Caulfield at the Embassy in London and to be sure will be contacting as many people as I can so that the sh.. hits the fan. Too late for us, but if it can help just one person then I will be happy. As for us we will be going back to a 2 bed apartment in Clacton (pretty hard after what we have been used to) but at least we will have peace of mind and we can put this nightmare that has been the last 3 years behind us. This is the final nail in the coffin as far as I am concerned - so what, I will be living in a small apartment (I can at least walk across the road and be on the beach, how good will that be) but at least I will have my family around me (about an hour down the A12) and at last I wont have all this worry on my shoulders.

I will say for those of you who think I do nothing but moan that obviously if things had worked differently for us then I too would probably be as happy as larry, although to be honest with you I always saw the downside to this country, hubby was the one who saw it as Utopia - I never did to be honest with you, but as he says if it had worked out he would be the hero - alas he's not!!!!! We all live and learn, this has come as a really hard lesson to our family and I am now keeping my fingers crossed that my son and his wife will be able to weather the aftermath of what has happened, my son is a different person now because of what has happened, whereas before he was a happy go lucky kind of guy, unfortunately life has thrown one too many curves and I am hoping that he will in time be back to the person he was, but that is our problem to deal with but to be sure I will always hold it against this country and believe you me, will never ever set foot here again - they don't deserve one cent more out of me or mine and I will make sure they don't get it either.

Hey ho, me done after my rant. Just wanted to let you know how it is.

Love Anniexxx

[Bobby]

Obviously I was astounded to hear the story this morning from Ted, and it's awful that this has happened to such nice people too.

There's not a lot of sense in being refused re-entry to tidy up loose ends. I've never understood this. What do they think they are going to do? ...stay their whole life in this country illegally and thus, landlocked???

I'm truly saddened by the whole affair and wish you guys better health and happiness back in England. Perhaps this place just wasn't for you?

If things don't work out for us in the next year, we may not be too far behind you. It wears you down. It really does. ....and for what??

This is NOT the best country in the world, ....far from it. Especially for would be immigrants and their families.

If you look at how long it takes out of someone's life chasing legal immigration, not to mention the financial implications,
.......it's just ludicrous.

For some of us, it would be worth it, but for many (as in Annie, Ted and family's case), it's just not worth the heartache and headaches.

Good Luck Guys.

What is one country's loss is another's gain, and England will throw it's arms wide open to your deserving family.

Bobby

[v2002]

Susie,

You can bet I will be there. As you know my daughter in law was turned down for a Visa to allow her into the country today and to be honest with you that has made me even more determined to get out of this place - there was no compassion, no common sense, nothing remotely human. She was told that because of the situation it would be a longer interview and that is why she has had to wait so many weeks for them to see her. Longer interview, crap!!! She was wanting Jan gone in the first couple of minutes, when Jan asked her questions she told her to move away from the window she had other people to interview. If that is their idea of a longer interview -then God knows what a short interview would be like. She even threatened to have Jan removed by security because she was asking her how to turn it around. You know the bit about showing you have strong ties to the UK. Well Jan provided them with Mortgage statements on their property, Mortgage statement on a house that Daniel has bought to refurbish and sell on, Utility Bills, Council Tax, letters from Jacks High School allowing him 2 weeks leave of absence, a letter from a school that Holly will be attending next year, Bank Statements, Pension Statement, Child Benefit, For Sale Buy Owner advertisement showing their house for sale, Property Tax showing that it is the aforementioned house, apart from the kitchen sink and the fact that my son wasn't coming over with them, what more proof or ties could they have shown - the whole system stinks!!!!

Sorry guys, not trying to put anybody down, good luck to everybody with good stories, but this forum wouldn't be unless there were the horror stories and unfortunately I am imparting the horror story in our case. As far as we are concerned, we cannot get out of here fast enough, we were going to wait until our houses sold, no longer - we are out of here as soon as humanly possible. In the meantime I am in touch with Terry Mulford at Dave Weldon's office, I have written to Caulfield at the Embassy in London and to be sure will be contacting as many people as I can so that the sh.. hits the fan. Too late for us, but if it can help just one person then I will be happy. As for us we will be going back to a 2 bed apartment in Clacton (pretty hard after what we have been used to) but at least we will have peace of mind and we can put this nightmare that has been the last 3 years behind us. This is the final nail in the coffin as far as I am concerned - so what, I will be living in a small apartment (I can at least walk across the road and be on the beach, how good will that be) but at least I will have my family around me (about an hour down the A12) and at last I wont have all this worry on my shoulders.

I will say for those of you who think I do nothing but moan that obviously if things had worked differently for us then I too would probably be as happy as larry, although to be honest with you I always saw the downside to this country, hubby was the one who saw it as Utopia - I never did to be honest with you, but as he says if it had worked out he would be the hero - alas he's not!!!!! We all live and learn, this has come as a really hard lesson to our family and I am now keeping my fingers crossed that my son and his wife will be able to weather the aftermath of what has happened, my son is a different person now because of what has happened, whereas before he was a happy go lucky kind of guy, unfortunately life has thrown one too many curves and I am hoping that he will in time be back to the person he was, but that is our problem to deal with but to be sure I will always hold it against this country and believe you me, will never ever set foot here again - they don't deserve one cent more out of me or mine and I will make sure they don't get it either.

Hey ho, me done after my rant. Just wanted to let you know how it is.

Love Anniexxx
Annie
This post is just for you my friend,
I am so sorry to know about the visa refusal......Don't have words enough to show how disgusted and angry I am at the embassy staff in london....Can't believe people can be so mean and cruel.
Please feel free to reach me out if I could do anything to help you, and I am going to reach out to someone for you and see if I could get you help in anyway.I will email you soon.
Please keep your calm ; you do not want these people to take away your peace of mind..my heart goes out to you and your family.
love v2002xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[anniefromessex]

Bobby,

What can I say - it is people like you and the other people on this site who I am friendly with who make it hard to leave, but at the same time they have done what they wanted to do and worn us down so much we have nothing left after 3 years of fighting. You know, when you all dream of getting your Green Card and how you should feel, well we never felt a thing - it was very anti climatic and really that should have told us something.

Today has been the final nail in the coffin as far as this country and us are concerned - they don't deserve us really nor do they deserve all the rest of the hardworking Brits who are here and to whom they give a hard time.

I heard another story today which brought it home to me. A guy we know, our Accountant in actual fact, goes back to England quite a bit as I think he still has a business running over there. On his last return trip here the guy at POE asked him what he was doing here, he replied "I live here". This guy leant over his desk and said "No, you don't live here, you just work here". What an obnoxious b......d!!! I tell you they are jealous of us and resent us cos we are cleverer than them!!! I have no doubts at all - take us away and this country would fold!!! Our guy is now also going back to England - doesn't want to deal with em anymore!!

Anyway thanks once again Bobby, it means a lot. Hopefully Ted will be up and running/struggling next week but crack that whip!!!! I need to eat, I'm starving, plus I'm running out of wine, ha ha!!!

Love Anniexxx

[Susie]

Hi Annie, am so so sorry and will call you again tomorrow with some ideas

What can I add to what Bobby has said, all too many of us are begining to have enough of the way we decent legal folk are treated, something has to be done and quickly before many more of us turn our backs on the usa for good. Definatley no common sense or compassion with these people what so ever

It was my husbands dream for his family to be reunited and other families not to be separated and suffer as we have and why we as a group must continue to strive to achieve our goals for the benefit of others who will follow in our footsteps.

I know you said the immigration officer refused to give their name or number but there must be a way of making a formal complaint via the embassy and ombudsman's office

Was she give a letter of denial and if so was it signed by the officer or have any officer number on?

[anniefromessex]

Hi V,

What can I say to you, but thank you. I am going to pm you - finally got those details you asked me for.

Love Anniexxx

[Susie]

Hi Annie

Who is her MP in the UK? Can she contact him? or if you give me his name I will call on her behalf

[anniefromessex]

Hi Sue,

Totally agree with your previous post re we need to keep on fighting and to pathe the way for others who are following, as I have said for some of us it will be too late but trust me even when I am back in England I will do what I can for you over there - hey me against the establishment, I would love to take on good old Tone, ha ha!!!!

The MP for Brentwood is Eric Pickles. We have already spoken to Daniel & Jan re contacting him but they are not like we are and will just let it go - although believe you me I am not going to!!! Will speak to you tomorrow re plan of action.

Love Anniexxx

[Munish]

Annie,

You already know my view on this degarding and nasty treatment. Good luck to you and glad to see you coming back albeit in forced circumstances. I think you'll love it when you first come back and Britain will feel like Utopia (atleast for 2 days. LOL). Anyway, when you have a close family that is always far more important and I am sure you will be much much happier.

I landed a great job in London so that is further incentive for me to stay put now. I will say it is thanks to people like you on this forum and my experience that I have absorbed the warnings that America is not the be all and end all and that if I come, it will only be on mutually acceptable terms between me and the USA.

This recent failure of immigration reform says it all for me. If the Government don't have a clue about how to reform what can you really expect from immigration staff. F*** all!

Anyway, always love your honest posts and I agree a forum has to have all sides of the spectrum voiced. I'm very much in the horror stroy camp as you know so I 100% empathise with and support you.

[kirtida8]

Annie - what can I say. My heart goes out to you and your family again :hug: . The US's loss is the UK's gain and I hope that you find peace of mind and happiness on your return home. I, like you will continue to fight to make these idiots see that they are wrong to treat hardworking honest people this way and yet give everything to the illegals just because they shout louder. It is time for us to make our voices heard and just ask for fair and equal treatment.:fit:

[SHEILA 13]

Oh Annie,What can I say to you,I am so lost for words.
I am so sorry for what has happened like it has been said before "they dont deserve you"
I will speak to you later.

Love Sheila x

[DEE F]

Hi Annie,only just got round to posting , lot going on in my life at the moment which you know about,again is gonna cause untold miseries probably with immgration,but thats another story !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I to am appalled and disgusted at the treatment of your daughter-in-law,although gotta say nothing surprises me any more when dealing with the embassies,they are a law unto themselves,as you know my daughter was also refused a B visa after being told she could not come into the country without a visa,so someone needs to tell us in plain English how the hell are they supposed to do that when the enmbassies refuse to give them one,once again they are in the position where they think the world and his wife just want to come here and stay for ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Its about time they realised there are other countries in the world besides the USA,I really have no answers for you Annie wish I did,all I can say is good luck to you and Ted you have certainly had your share of bad luck,once you return to the UK I am sure you will feel better surrounded by your family,Americas loss Englands gain,its strange really ,we all come out here and try for a better life for us and ours,we play by the rules we pay our taxes we employ Americans etc etc and for what,the one thing they dont recognise is common sense and compassion ,jobsworths is an understatement,any country who can and do deliberately keep families apart in my opinion are not worth the worry and hassle that people put themelves through,a lot to be said for nipping over here on a raft,at least if you make it you get treated like a human being and get given rights,laughable really ,but hey Annie you are strong girl,you can and will get over this,one door closes and another one opens,since finding you and Ted as friends it will take more than the American embassy and the Atlantic ocean to stop us remaining that way,you know you dont need to ask I am here for you and anything I can do that will make this nightmare easier to bare I will do,so keep your chin up girl,dont let em get to ya,you are worth far more than that,and anyway look on the bright side of things,English Bread,English TV,proper bacon butter with a taste to it etc etc and last but not least,Munish on your doorstep to tease mercilessly hahahahah:D
Have said my bit am absolutely gutted for you all,but there is a light at the end of all this,take care sweetie,will be in touch,love to you both.:hug: :hug:


Dee xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[peter gold]

I have never met any of you as yet, and already feel I know you all well.
You are all very sensitive, supporting, and have have encouraged and comforted Annie as she deserves.
I can add no more, except my best wishes and a little of me is jealous of her living in Clacton, as I am an Essex boy, born in Ilford.

[Susie]

Hi Annie

Just got back from hospital and still so very upset for you and even more upset at the standard response I got(see below) so re e-mailed them

Please call me later to update me and I will update you also






Thank you for your reply

There is a little girl aged 3 years in the UK who has been told she cannot visit her grandmother for 2 weeks and heartbroken, she cannot understand why the immigration officer said she cannot visit her grandmother, how heartless is that?

The mother owns a home in the USA and wishes to visit (only for 2 weeks ) to pack up her belongings and ship back to the UK. and the 3 years wanted to be with her grandmother for her birthday

We are currently contacting as many TV stations both in the US and UK to ask #Whatever Happened to that special relationship

I am so upset on behalf of the family and urge you to report as it is about time the Bush and everyone else stopped trying to reward the illegal immigrants and showed some common sense and compassion !! before many business investors pull out of the USA once and for all. The POE staff need lessons in how to speak and treat people also

I hope and pray you will take up this story or direct me to another producer who is willing and able to assist, please get someone to call me as a matter or urgency

Regards Sue Ward
----- Original Message -----
From: ABCTV News Niteline NLINTRN1
To: Sue - Florida Villas
Sent: Wednesday, June 13, 2007 8:46 PM
Subject: RE: NIGHTLINE


Dear Ms. Ward,

Thank you for taking the time to write to Nightline to share your ideas and story with us. We always value viewers' mail and ideas, even though we often cannot include them in our programming.

We hope you continue to watch Nightline.
Thank you,
The Nightline Team

[DEE F]

Doesnt this tell us that no-one really gives a s**t,not here illegaly you see ,so it isnt news,Annie go to the UK papers with it let them know the truth of how it really is,special relationship my a**e,at least they will listen,its about bloody time peoples eyes and ears were opened to how we are treated,this is not only unfair it is inhumane,I cannot believe that these people really dont know how to use common sense,if they think a 3 year old is a security risk,then god help us all.

Dee xxxxxxxxxxx.

[reecey]

Dear Annie,
just read this
im so sorry and so angry for you, it just goes to show that there is no give or reasoning with the system, surely if your son was staying at home this was enough reason to show NO intent what else to they need??? what would have happened if you wernt here to sort out the sale of home etc??
it stinks

love to you and all your family xxxxxxxxxx

[Susie]

Annie,

Spoke to Gurbir the assistant producer of Trevor McDonald show about your daughters case , he was gobsmacked. He suggested contacting your daugthers local newspaper to report. These locals are read by freelance reporters who may well take the story up and sell on to the nationals so worth a try also contact her mp and the foreign affairs minster

[Sharon]

Oh, Annie, what can I say except my prayers are with you and I am so angry right now. I feel something just has to be done to stop these little hitlers at the embassy from breaking a little girls heart, just hang on in there for now and contact as many reporters and senators as possible

[v2002]

Hi V,

What can I say to you, but thank you. I am going to pm you - finally got those details you asked me for.

Love Anniexxx

Hi Annie look at this link it can be an avenue for many people angry at system......due to inconsistant and wrong interpretation of laws.....look at this site if you think your case is someone like these give it a shot... there is a phone number as well as email to contact.
hope it will help someone really in need and have no more options open...

http://www.house.gov/hensarling/rsc/doc/Private%20Relief%20Bills%20Passed%20by%20House.pdf

Private Relief Bills Passed by the House
1999-2005
In light of some assertions that the Terri Schiavo bill was the first time Congress got involved in
the private affairs of individual citizens, the RSC has compiled this document which shows the
instances that at least the House passed private relief bills.
Total number of private relief bills passed by the House during the last 6 years: 41*
* Note that the bill for the relief of Terri Schiavo’s parents (S. 686) was passed as a PUBLIC law.
H.R. 530
Private Law 108-6
A private bill for the relief of: Tanya Andrea Goudeau
Matter of relief: Classification as a child for immigration purposes
Signed into law by the President: December 23, 2004
S. 2042
Private Law 108-5
A private bill for the relief of: Rocco A. Trecosta
Matter of relief: Compensation for back pay not received
Signed into law by the President: December 3, 2004
H.R. 867
Private Law 108-4
A private bill for the relief of: Durreshahwar Durreshahwar, Nida Hasan, Asna Hasan, Anum
Hasan, and Iqra Hasan
Page 2 of 10
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visas
Signed into law by the President: October 30, 2004
H.R. 712
Private Law 108-3
A private bill for the relief of: Richi James Lesley
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: October 30, 2004
H.R. 1658
Private Law 108-2
A private bill for the relief of: The Central Pacific Railway Company
Matter of relief: Validating land conveyances
Signed into law by the President: October 5, 2004
S. 103
Private Law 108-1
A private bill for the relief of: Lindita Idrizi Heath
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: July 22, 2004
H.R. 3758
Private Law 107-6
A private bill for the relief of: So Hyun Jun
Matter of relief: Classification as a child for immigration purposes
Signed into law by the President: December 2, 2002
Page 3 of 10
H.R. 2245
Private Law 107-5
A private bill for the relief of: Anisha Goveas Foti
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: November 5, 2002
H.R. 487
Private Law 107-4
A private bill for the relief of: Eugene Makuch
Matter of relief: Compensation for benefits earned at, by not received by, the FBI
Signed into law by the President: October 4, 2002
H.R. 486
Private Law 107-3
A private bill for the relief of: Barbara Makuch
Matter of relief: Compensation for benefits earned at, by not received by, the FBI
Signed into law by the President: October 4, 2002
S. 1834
Private Law 107-2
A private bill for the relief of: Retired Sergeant First Class James D. Benoit and Wan Sook
Benoit
Matter of relief: Compensation and damages for a wrongful death in military family housing in
Korea
Signed into law by the President: October 1, 2002
S. 560
Private Law 107-1
A private bill for the relief of: Rita Mirembe Revell (a.k.a. Margaret Rita Mirembe)
Page 4 of 10
Matter of relief:
Signed into law by the President: July 17, 2001
H.Res. 103
Passed the House
A private bill for the relief of: Sarabeth M. Davis, Robert S. Borders, Victor Maron, Irving
Berke, and Adele E. Conrad
Matter of relief: Referring a bill for the private relief of the above citizens to the chief judge of
the United States Court of Federal Claims for a report thereon
Passed the House: May 21, 2002
H.R. 807
Passed the House
A private bill for the relief of: Rabon Lowry
Matter of relief: Payment of damages incurred as a result of the breach of a certain Army
contract
Passed the House: July 17, 2001
S. 2289
Private Law 106-24
A private bill for the relief of: Jose Guadalupe Tellez Pinales
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status for purposes of becoming a U.S. permanent
resident
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
S. 2019
Private Law 106-23
A private bill for the relief of: Malia Miller
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Page 5 of 10
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
S. 2002
Private Law 106-22
A private bill for the relief of: Tony Lara
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
S. 2000
Private Law 106-21
A private bill for the relief of: Guy Taylor
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
S. 1513
Private Law 106-20
A private bill for the relief of: Jacqueline Salinas and her children Gabriela Salinas, Alejandro
Salinas, and Omar Salinas
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status for purposes of becoming U.S. permanent
residents
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
S. 1078
Private Law 106-19
A private bill for the relief of: Mrs. Elizabeth Eka Bassey, Emmanuel O. Paul Bassey, and Mary
Idongesit Paul Bassey
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status for purposes of becoming U.S. permanent
residents
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
Page 6 of 10
S. 869
Private Law 106-18
A private bill for the relief of: Mina Vahedi Notash
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
S. 785
Private Law 106-17
A private bill for the relief of: Francis Schochenmaier and Mary Hudson
Matter of relief: Compensation for an erroneous underpayment of military benefits
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
S. 276
Private Law 106-16
A private bill for the relief of: Sergio Lozano, Faurico Lozano and Ana Lozano
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
S. 150
Private Law 106-15
A private bill for the relief of: Marina Khalina and her son, Albert Mifakhov
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status for purposes of becoming U.S. permanent
residents
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
S. 11
Private Law 106-14
Page 7 of 10
A private bill for the relief of: Wei Jingsheng
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status for purposes of becoming a U.S. permanent
resident
Signed into law by the President: November 22, 2000
H.R. 5266
Private Law 106-13
A private bill for the relief of: Saeed Rezai
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: November 9, 2000
H.R. 3414
Private Law 106-12
A private bill for the relief of: Luis A. Leon-Molina, Ligia Padron, Juan Leon Padron, Rendy
Leon Padron, Manuel Leon Padron, and Luis Leon Padron
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status and of eligibility for immigrant visas
Signed into law by the President: November 9, 2000
H.R. 3184
Private Law 106-11
A private bill for the relief of: Zohreh Farhang Ghahfarokhi
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: November 9, 2000
H.R. 848
Private Law 106-10
A private bill for the relief of: Sepandan Farnia and Farbod Farnia
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for immigrant visas
Page 8 of 10
Signed into law by the President: November 9, 2000
H.R. 660
Private Law 106-9
A private bill for the relief of: Ruth Hairston
Matter of relief: Waiving a filing deadline for a petition for judicial review regarding a survivor
annuity
Signed into law by the President: November 9, 2000
H.R. 3646
Private Law 106-8
A private bill for the relief of: Certain Persian Gulf evacuees
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status for purposes of becoming U.S. permanent
residents
Signed into law by the President: November 7, 2000
S. 302
Private Law 106-7
A private bill for the relief of: Kerantha Poole-Christian
Matter of relief: Classification as a child for immigration purposes
Signed into law by the President: October 13, 2000
H.R. 3363
Private Law 106-6
A private bill for the relief of: Akal Security, Incorporated
Matter of relief: Payment of all claims by this company against the United States for security
guard services rendered in Missouri in 1991
Signed into law by the President: October 10, 2000
Page 9 of 10
H.R. 3903
Private Law 106-5
A private bill for the relief of: The owners of the vessel M/V MIST COVE
Matter of relief: Deeming the vessel to be less than 100 gross tons for certain regulatory
purposes
Signed into law by the President: July 6, 2000
S. 452
Private Law 106-4
A private bill for the relief of: Belinda McGregor
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status for purposes of becoming a U.S. permanent
resident
Signed into law by the President: May 15, 2000
H.R. 322
Private Law 106-3
A private bill for the relief of: Suchada Kwong
Matter of relief: Adjustment of immigration status or of eligibility for an immigrant visa
Signed into law by the President: December 3, 1999
S. 449
Private Law 106-2
A private bill for the relief of: The Steffens family, Wyoming
Matter of relief: Directing the Secretary of the Interior to transfer certain property in Wyoming
to the representative of Fred Steffens’ estate
Signed into law by the President: August 2, 1999
S. 361
Private Law 106-1
Page 10 of 10
A private bill for the relief of: John R. and Margaret J. Lowe
Matter of relief: Directing the Secretary of the Interior to transfer certain property to the
individuals to correct an error in the patent issued to their predecessors in interest
Signed into law by the President: August 2, 1999
H.R. 758
Passed the House
A private bill for the relief of: Nancy B. Wilson
Matter of relief: Entitling the individual to widow's insurance benefits under the Social Security
Act
Signed into law by the President: April 4, 2000
H.R. 1023
Passed the House
A private bill for the relief of: Richard W. Schaffert
Matter of relief: Waiving time limitations related to the filing of claim for a tax credit or refund
of an overpayment of 1983 federal income tax
Passed the House: February 1, 2000
H.R. 510
Passed the House
A private bill for the relief of: John R. and Margaret J. Lowe
Matter of relief: Directing the Secretary of the Interior to transfer certain property to the
individuals to correct an error in the patent issued to their predecessors in interest
Signed into law by the President: May 4, 1999
Staff contact: Paul Teller, paul.teller@mail.house.gov, (202) 226-9718

[anniefromessex]

Hi Guys,

I was just going to sign out when I read all your posts regarding my daughter in law and family. What can I say, I am gobsmacked and thank you all sooo much for your friendship and help over the last little while.

Both Ted and I are really down at the moment, I am sooo worried about Ted, have never seen him so low or so ill as he is at the moment, normally he is the strong one but over the last year since Daniel & Jan were deported he has gradually got more and more down until his body no longer seems able to fight off whatever is ailing him at the moment. No good crying over spilt milk, we have had our fair share of traumas since we have been here but now is the time to say enough is enough, our health and well being and sanity is not worth staying here for even though we do love the life - so we are going to cut our losses and return to our grandchildren and children who mean more to us than this country.

I really do appreciate all your good wishes and will miss you all - strange really cos I don't know a lot of you personally, but the ones I do know I will miss a lot but hey, we can keep in touch. The others on here who I just converse with well, it can still happen - thats what the computer age is about and you know if anybody ventures to Clacton on Sea where we will be for a period of time until we decide where we want to live, you are more than welcome to call in and say hi - omg we can actually go for a pub lunch -I do love a ploughmans!!!! In the meantime, I really don't think in all probability that we will be gone until 2-3 months - so much to sort out etc etc so still expect some of my rants until then.

Once again, thank you all so much for caring, will still keep fighting for you all back there!!!

Love Anniexxx

[JulieC]

Sorry to hear about your problems, Annie. When we had all of our hassles last year we tended to think that the people who had got green cards were home and dry and no longer had any problems, but this obviously isnt the case. I know that family is more important than anything and has to come first and do not blame you in the slightest for your decision. I also have a granddaughter of that age and i would not like not being able to see her.
Advice by one who has left, get back as soon as you can so you have some of the summer left to acclimatise, we arrived back in mid December and I cannot express how cold and depressing we found it then, yet it was so beautiful in the UK last April that you start to wonder why you ever left. Very good luck to you in whatever you decide to do.

[McSporran]

Hi Annie,

I also posted a reply to you on the other thread - but once again - I am so sorry to hear your news (and apologise that I didn't have time to read this thread before I asked about the cases on the other thread). My heart goes out to you and I will add my prayers to those of everyone else to wish you a speedy resolution to your troubles.

[chris]

As Dee said earlier, 'nothing surprises us any more'.
When the UK investment dries up and the visa applications fall off and the arrivals halls become empty because the Brits wake and see they can have a better vacation in the med for less money and a whole lot less hassle, then this country may finally get the message.
However, reality kicks in here and I would say that the great big ego that America has of itself will always cloud its view of how others around the world view it. If you tell a lie long enough, you end up believing it to be the truth.
I do believe that Susies dream of re-uniting families will come true, but probably not in the way Susie hopes and prays. I think it more the scenarion with Annie where we re-unite by returning to the UK or to Europe, leaving the USA to its own little pleasures. When it has been turned into a clone of South America and its economy also becomes third world, they will wonder 'what went wrong'
Good luck to you Annie for the future and anything that gets the 'real picture' out there is to be applauded.

[anniefromessex]

Hi Guys,

Just to let you know I spoke to John Newstreet today at Sen Martinez's office who is referring me to somebody else in their office who deals with crap (as they say)!! He told me that she would be contacting me by end of day probably but as it is now gone 7pm am not expecting a call!!!

Went to Susie's today, along with Kay, and we met a reporter from the Sentinel - he listened to our stories - but because I told him that we are now returning to England he didn't seem as keen as he was beforehand. Why that is I really don't know cos surely he can see that because of what we have to put up with then people will be turning their backs on this country - but unfortunately these people do not seem to see the bigger picture. He was very interested in Kays story and I sincerely hope he uses it. Still got lots of avenues to explore; the only problem being that unless my daughter in law can get over here soon, then there is no point at all because their house has got to be packed up so that we can pack ours up too and ship it all back to England together - so my question is do I carry on the fight, if only to show them up, or say you have won!!! Answers on a postcard please to? ha ha.

To everybody out there, thanks once again for your support. Susie, within 5 minutes of me arriving home from yours today already got 4 signatures on the petition,with many more to come I hope.

I have written a letter to Caulfield at the Embassy in London, but does anyone know whether I can fax it to him as really don't want to wait a week or more for him to receive it. If so fax number for him, or even e-mail address so that I can e-mail it, lot quicker than waiting for the post. Any input would be appreciated.

Love Anniexxx

[britcan]

Annie so sorry to read of your situation...its very hard to make the decision to go back to the UK...you are right though the US are scared of us Brits, we work harder andsmarter than them, they consider us a threat. So how come the USA is the power of the world? Simple the sheer number of them... I call them the Borg, cos individually they are as thick as SH*T, collectively they are stronger...

We were treated like terrorists this week when we went to the DMV to change our Canadian licences to US ones, basically Rhode Island does not accept our licences, so we have to do a new test etc...the test centre is booked up until September...so you know what...we are moving to just the other side of the RI stateline to Connecticut where they do recognise our licences and we can do a straight swap..The woman at the DMV said" well its since 9/11" and I said do I look like a terrorist? her answer" I don't know what a terrorist looks like!", so I gave her the verbal about UK standing by USA and the Canadians to( I am from UK originally before moving to Canada 5 years ago) and we are sick of the way we are being treated versus the people who come over from the southern border.... I left her open mouthed and we left.... we went to the AAA today and expained our situation to them and they were horrified!!! They had no clue...we have both been driving since 1977....!!!!

Well Annie- good luck petal....we will be using the USA to make some money god willing and then we will be heading back to Canada... let them keep the flood of illegals coming over from the south and let them speak Spanish!!!!Cos you know that minorities breed like rabbits and then they will vote...need I go on.. USA will be a 3rd world country before very much longer...

[Caroline]

so sorry Annie, doesn't always pay to tell the truth! I first moved to the US in 1974 and it was a nightmare then! the interviews, fingerprints.. couldn't leave the US until we had the all clear (which took years!!) finally got our green cards in 1982. My Mother snuck out of Canada so she could go to her Father's funeral. Re entered the same route. It's all B**S** You should have flippen lied. :( :hug:

[Susie]

Hi Annie

I called Terry Mulford after you left but he is out of the office till Tuesday so I have spoken with Dave Weldon's Chief of staff about your case and fxed up the letter you left at my home.I will follow up with them early next week if I have not heard back


Thanks for coming, think he will be contacting you further as well as Kay and myself

[Susie]

Hi Annie

I called Terry Mulford after you left but he is out of the office till Tuesday so I have spoken with Dave Weldon's Chief of staff about your case and fxed up the letter you left at my home.I will follow up with them early next week if I have not heard back


Thanks for coming, think he will be contacting you further as well as Kay and myself

[kirtida8]

Hi Annie and Sue,

I am sorry that he seemed to zero in on my story - but I will find a way of making him include yours as well as it needs to be told!!!!After all - there for the grace of God go all of us. I just hope he includes the info on my court case against Contempo as I found out from my attorney that the July court date is due to their motion to dismiss which the judge will finally (hopefully???) put to bed so that we can actually start proceedings. Unfortunately it doesn't look as if I will get my day in court until early next year!!!!!:mad: :fit:
One thing that I am glad came out of the meeting was that the reporter agreed with us that our stories need to be brought to the attention of the Americans who have no idea what we go through to live in the "land of the free". Have already got plenty of signatures (including my attorney's) and will have pages more for you to fax or email to Caulfield early next week. Dont you worry - we will find a way of getting your daughter in law over - and your precious granddaughter will get her day with Mickey too. Hey has anyone thought about writing to Disney???After all this is the year of a million wishes?? Just an idea...

[anniefromessex]

Britcan, thank you for your good wishes. With regard to your Driving License situation, it is utter madness, said it before and I will say it again, they have their brains up their ar..!! At least you don't want to be driving round illegally with no insurance etc. I am so glad you questioned them - I really don't think the Americans really understand what is going on in their own country. They are indoctrinated to believe there is nowhere else apart from America. Every time I hear Bush going on about we have to secure our borders I want to spit. In securing their borders they are keeping out the wrong people. I had a thought in the middle of the night: We are told that if we want to live and work here we have to invest all kinds of money and then when we do this we are told that just because we have started up a business it is not for our benefit but for the benefit of America and American citizens. Fair enough, I can see that and really have no problem with it, but whether it comes to pass or not they are thinking about giving the illegals amnesty even though they are not actually calling it that but believe you me that is just what it is. These people are then allowed to stay, okay they might then have to pay taxes etc but they will be looking after THEMSELVES at the end of the day, they are not told they have to give Americans work, and they have not invested any money in this country like we have to. Can you please tell me just why that is? I am not being rascist, I am not being horrible about these people and in many cases I feel for them, but you only have to look at where they live, how they live, and how they bring areas down because they do not have the same values as us. You only have to look at England to see whole areas being dessimated by these people who, yes, want a better life, but have no concept of how we live. I for one keep my house and yard tidy and clean, my home is painted a respectable colour and we take pride in the appearance of our home. Okay, not the be all and end all but when you get these people coming into a community, playing their loud music till all hours, having claptrap cars, painting their houses vivid purple, not looking after the yards and then tell me who suffers, the people who have paid good money for their homes and will now get next to nothing for them. If that is what America wants, then good luck to them is what I say, at least I wont be part of it. Who suffers again?!!!

Kay, thank you for what you are doing with regard to signatures etc. I am hoping to come tomorrow, although I am feeling so ill at the moment - it is as much as I can do to put one foot in front of the other - I think the traumas of the last few days, not being able to sleep because of everything that is going round in my mind is leaving me exhausted. I will give Susie a ring in the morning to find out times etc, but even if I am not able to come I will try to go round our development and talk to people (if they understand English) to get even more signatures because I just want answers and then closure from this nightmare. Please do not feel bad because you think this guy is more interested in your case, no problem as far as I am concerned and people need to know what has happened to you and your family - again the injustices of this country! I spoke again with my daughter in law today and to be honest with you she is emotionally drained. Apparently Holly thought that when they were in the Embassy in London that they were at the airport and were going to get on a plane. When she heard the woman telling Jan she was denied entry she just burst into tears and said I want to see my Nanna. It could be a result of what happened to them in the Bahamas when she thought she was coming home - kids pick up on sooo much! Since going home from the Embassy she is still convinced she is coming over - that is what is doing me in - it is breaking our hearts. Even if they have done wrong, they haven't murdered anyone, they haven't committed criminal acts, they have put a lot of money in this countries coffers, they now want done with it and closure so just what is their problem. As Ted said, if somebody could tell him why (a security risk, ie bombs in their shoes, luggage etc, a flight risk - I would even put up a Bond guaranteeing her return to the airport and flight out on the date stated, Christ in all the times they were in this country if they wanted to get lost they had ample opportunity but they always left in a timely manner, her husband being left behind in England - what would she have in this country, she couldn't work so you tell me what risk she poses). None, but they love playing God, and I wish them in hell for what they do, no common sense, no humanity, automatons as far as I am concerned.

Love Anniexxx

[DEE F]

Annie what can I say,as I read your posts it drags up all the same s**t that we ourselves have gone through,and are still going through,you are absolutly right in your assumton that they are totaly automated,they live by the rule books and when something doesnt fit in the box,it totaly baffles them and they have no idea how to react. What you have to do now is try and pick up the pieces for your sanity if nothing else,when you get back to the UK you can shout from the rooftops and make evryone aware of the treatment the British recieve at our so called "allies",it is total madness,remember the old saying ,"dont get mad,get even" this you can do in numerous ways,but get yourself into a position of strengh,that way you have no fears of any comebacks from anyone.As for your little grandaughter lets face it there are other places you can take her, a lot more welcoming as well than here,kids are very resilient,my grandson also thought he was in Florida when they were sent back to UK,and it broke his heart,they have no compassion Annie they dont even know the meaning of the word,it is sad but true, but your story ,mine and others like us are probably only the tip of the iceburg,this happens probably every day out here,but they make the rules so what do you do.
You have to look after youself and your family now,you have done more than enough for a country that has treated you in the most shabbiest of ways,move on ,one door closes and another one opens as they say,and when you do finaly leave these shores you can hold your head up,can they...................I very much doubt it.
And I still say as well that all the shouting in the world wont matter a jot out here,we are not illegal,so therefore we are not newsworthy,I am sure though that back on UK soil,someone will pick up on your heartbreaking story and run with it,you deserve to be heard,but unfortunately ,call me a cynic I really dont think you will be listened to here,we are all 100% behind you Annie,but we are trying to fight a system that doesnt even realise it is at fault,take care ,btw I got your email and will phone you tomorrow,and remember anything you want you only have to ask,chin up girl,you dont need all this crap they are throwing at you,your family need you more,tell them to shove it where the sun dont shine:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:


Love Dee xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[anniefromessex]

Hi Dee,

Where you bin, ha ha!! I know whats been happening with you so only joking but missed you on the forum.

You are right sweetie, I am totally exhausted by all the crap that has happened over the last little while and really don't know whether I have any more fight left, is all this really worth my health and sanity. Have just been on a website re the Embassy in London where they show faq's. I read the nearest thing I could on my daughter in laws case and it says as far as they are concerned you have been found wanting, you need to establish yourself in England a whole lot longer etc etc. Never mind you have taken the kitchen sink up there - makes no difference to these morons who make up their mind from the get go.

Going to bed now, whether to sleep or just to lay awake thinking who knows - but I will definitely try to fight our cause from in England, after all what else will I have to do on those long, cold winter nights, ha ha, apart from waiting for Mun to call round!!! Jealousy does not become you Dee!!!!

Love Anniexxx

[Munish]

I really don't think the Americans really understand what is going on in their own country. They are indoctrinated to believe there is nowhere else apart from America. That's the fault of the quality of the US media.

You only have to look at England to see whole areas being dessimated by these people who, yes, want a better life, but have no concept of how we live. I for one keep my house and yard tidy and clean, my home is painted a respectable colour and we take pride in the appearance of our home. Okay, not the be all and end all but when you get these people coming into a community, playing their loud music till all hours, having claptrap cars, painting their houses vivid purple, not looking after the yards and then tell me who suffers, the people who have paid good money for their homes and will now get next to nothing for them.

Love the loud music, but agree with you on the purple - that's bad taste (don't mind most colours for a house - except black, and most shades of green and purple). Just don't go to Southend or you're in for a shock! I think it has an abundance of loud music and purple.

[Sharon]

well done Annie, Kay and Susie for seeing the reporter, if only we could get the US and UK nationals to take up a few of the stories I am sure we would get the USC vote for chamges. Every American I talk to is horrified and assume people from the uk can just breeze their way to the us

[anniefromessex]

You are right Sharon, been talking to friends who are New Yorkers and they say nobody is really aware of our plight, even though they are our friends they are not saying they will really do anything to help apart from sign our petition. Having said that the daughter of our good friend works at Disney and is going to take our petition there - I have filled her in on everything so hopefully she will get a few signatures to help in our cause.

I also think it might be a good idea to write to Disney - already thought of how to open the conversation with them but need to know who to address it to. Another friend of mine works in the Travel Section there so will give her a call tomorrow to find out who she thinks we need to address the letter to. They have got to be hurting with so many people opting to go elsewhere, so keep fingers crossed. Will speak to Susie about the way forward also.

Love Anniexxx

[Grumpy]

Hope it went well, when it the article appearing in the paper?

[Kriz1]

That's the fault of the quality of the US media.



Love the loud music, but agree with you on the purple - that's bad taste (don't mind most colours for a house - except black, and most shades of green and purple). Just don't go to Southend or you're in for a shock! I think it has an abundance of loud music and purple.

I lived in an area of Bristol for a while that had tons of people living there from Jamica...I loved the different coloured houses...just talking about it reminds me how much I miss the smell of curried goat...:(

[kirtida8]

Update:
I was interviewed today - photos, video story etc - and the story should be appearing sometime next week. I wore my Expatsvoice T-shirt, and mentioned everything from expatsvoice to Weldon's proposed legisaltion as well as my own story, but have no idea what they will actually print. They are also going to do a follow-up article on my legal action against Contempo as Victor has been researching my story and was a little horrified at the amount of court cases against them. I hope the article comes across OK and helps our cause in some way. There should also be a video article on the Sentinel website the same day.Thank you Sue for arranging the interview in the first place, I just hope that the story is not edited to just be my story and not that of a member of Expatsvoice.

[Ellie]

Did you have any word yet as to when the article will be in the Orlando Sentinel?

[kirtida8]

No not yet - but last weekend they ran some on illegal immigrants and their stories - so maybe this weekend? Will post as soon as I know.

[Susie]

Thanks for the update Kay, Annie did Victor call you he said he would?

Do not worry Kay about what is printed, I am sure it will be fine, so slong as awareness is raised in support of legal immigrants it is only good news/

I do hope that the story is factual, as I know you asked to proof read before it went to print and was told that would not be possible. Victor did seem to understand what Annie , you and me told him so fingers crossed

[Susie]

Thanks for the update Kay, Annie did Victor call you he said he would?

Do not worry Kay about what is printed, I am sure it will be fine, so long as awareness is raised in support of legal immigrants it is only good news/

I do hope that the story is factual, as I know you asked to proof read before it went to print and was told that would not be possible. Victor did seem to understand what Annie , you and me told him so fingers crossed

[Susie]

Thanks for the update Kay, Annie did Victor call you he said he would?

Do not worry Kay about what is printed, I am sure it will be fine, so long as awareness is raised in support of legal immigrants it is only good news/

I do hope that the story is factual, as I know you asked to proof read before it went to print and was told that would not be possible. Victor did seem to understand what Annie , you and me told him so fingers crossed