Last night Andy Ivy informed me that his visa renewal has been denied and he's gotta go back to UK. For those of you that are not aware Andy and his family moved to Gunnison, Colorado earlier this year to start a new life. They bought an RV Park and have been working hard at it ever since.
Andy's in the dumps with this news. So I'm hoping some well wishes from his Trad Family will pick him up some. The world is a small place when you have your Trad Gang Family behind you!
I am fortunate to have shared camp with Andy and his family a few times. He's a fine young man, he will do well wherever and whatever he does in life. The passion and enthusiasm Andy shows for our sport is second to none. Those of you that know Andy already know this.
Thousands of illegal criminals, gang members in some cases, in this country and a good guy like Andy gets the boot.(Unless, of course, he got denied because of illegal activities.)
What can we do to help?
Just speechless... :mad: I literally can't find words. Is there anything we or anyone else can do???
Andy, we're not lettin you go without a fight! Very sorry my friend,
Ron
When does he have to leave???
I agree, tries to do it legaly and look where it got him. You can get further in this country now my breaking the law. What a shame.
Everything just seems so screwed up right now with our government. Your mistake, Andy, was to come over here and be a good citizen.
Sorry to hear this Andy...let us know if there is anything we can do...hang in there brother.
Andy- as you can see, you have friends here. If anything can be done, I and your Tradgang brothers stand ready and willing. Our loss for sure. Grant
Hopefully Andy can keep working to return and stay permanantly. America has always been open for legal immigration. It would be wonderful if Andy and his family can return and become legal American citizens.
This is the type of immigrants America needs to continue to thrive in the future.
Not people looking for handouts or sending all their money home to another country. We are all supporting you Andy and hope it can all be worked out.
Exchanged messages with Andy last night - he is really in the dumps about this. He could use some cheering up.
Terry, I believe he is leaving Jan 15th
Best wishes to you, Andy. I really hope some path will open up to allow you to stay... or return! Sorry to hear of this trial in your life.
Daryl
Andy you have friends here some you have never met but friends the same. I hope that you can get this worked out.
Why would his visa be denied? Was there a reason? Maybe he can share some insight. Good luck Andy.
Wow! what have we come to? Keep us posted and lets help the guy out. What will become of his business. do the government dip ***** just say oh well? lets flood the govenors office with emails and phone calls, in a nice but pointed way. lets get the numbers posted.
What a load! we sure don't need anybody else helping to pay for the illegals do we?
Andy, keep your chin up and keep working hard at it you got sometime and good things can still happen.
Hang in there.
Chuck
how about instead of trying to cheer him up till he has to go we do something about it.
If Andy isn't a criminal, there's a lot that can be done.
Has he spoken with his senator and congressman? Does he have anyone in Colorado who will vouch for him and his family's efforts at good citizenship?
We can ALL call OUR congressional reps and senators and tell them about it, if Andy is willing to share details so we can speak intelligently.
What say you?
I have visited with some Mexican visitors here that are here legally. They have had their work visas expire and they go home but they are able to legally come back in a few months with connections for a job lined up. You have to respect the intent and limitations of the law and work with it and not do anything illegal, otherwise returning will become problematic. If anyone has gainful employment, even temporary, for Andy it may make it better for him to get another visa sooner than later.
To try and stay here and become a US citizen he needs a sponsor, preferably one who lives in his area that knows him.
He needs to apply for a working visa and we need to get a petition together, electronic or hard copy signatures and get everyones name on it, and then send copies to his senators, governor, the presidents office, and his local and Washington DC immigration burea branches.
Irritate enough citizens and they yell. Enough citizens yelling gets government attention. Then the government actually listens. Something to do with the big guys wanting to get re-elected. I work in government trust me on this one!
This is a perfect chance for us all to make an actual difference. Not only for Andy but ourselves and our govenrment. We need to let them know this kind of stuff is not tolerated while criminals and illegals run free.
I work for a government angency and can tell you the squeeky wheel does get the grease. To much noise and the bosses start looking for what is wrong and who is not acting properly in their offices.
Moderators, how would we go about getting an online petition set up here on this site? Is it possible?
To the original poster of the thread, how do we get specific information on the immigration officials he is dealing with. Phone number, address, email, etc... We need to know the bosses above his contact at least two, and preferably three levels. How do we find out who the senator and representatives for his district are? We need to make sure they get flooded with phone calls, emails, letters, and petitions so they know the good guys get to stay and be productive citizens.
TTT.
Ray nailed it, that is the best way to get it done. Lets get some details and phone numbers and get to work.
As did the Sherpa and Mr.Walker
The original post said he has purchased a business.
TTT for Andy,don't know him but have always enjoyed reading his post.
First off find out straight from Andy if he wants us to be squeeky. If, so THEN make some noise!
man been through all of that immigration stuff and it si a pain. We can all call our Senators, doesn't matter Colorado or not and express our disdain with his situation. You can be illegally here and they do nothing to you - legally here and they torture you. Been there done that.
Seriously call YOUR states people and tell them Andy's situation and where he is coming out of. It does get peoples attention.
J
I don's know Andy personly either, but from reading his posts I can confidently say he has a good head on his shoulders and has what it takes to get through this. He will find a way to be where he wants to be.
Best wishes to him and am sure it will work out well for him!
Thanks all! I have no idea of the visa process to become a legal American Citizen. All I can say is that it is not due to any wrong doing on Andy's part. He is here legally and somehow the process has turned sour. His Dad has another option to apply for different visa which may work for him but not Andy.
Perhaps Andy can give us more details but I'm sure it's complex at the least. If there is anything this Canadian guy can do to help, I'll do so. I'm pretty sure adoption or marrying one of your daughters is not an option once they have said pack up and go. If any of you is in good with Mr.Obama now is the time to admit it.
Keep us posted on the progress and I'll sure do anything I can that might help.
It's not over Andy, it might be temporary, but I have faith that you will end up here somehow.
Good luck!!
Andy sorry to hear the bad news, your a GREAT young man and I hope there's something we can do to help. You and your family would be an asset to this country.
You and your family will be in my prayers.
I'm not surprised. We have radical muslums preaching and shouting anti American everything on the streets of NYC, and don't do anything about it, yet our govt kicks someone who is here because he wants to be here living the American dream, and doing everything the right way.
Go figure
Maybe a petition of supporters offering various credence to Andy's validity as worthwhile citizen? Let me know how I/we can help. Tragic when you think of 30 million illegals including so many criminals.
Just another example of our "Enlightened Goverment" at work, the same Gov. that is taking over more of our lives everyday. Prayers out for Andy, and I'll be following this for info on anything I can do to help.
Guys,I know by my own experience that it is really tough to earn a green card or Visa right now.I wished to move in Colorado myself but never been able.I don't ask anything just to move my money and help the US economy,I don't need anything(just hunting licences)but not been able to have anything.So I come and go,back and forth.Andy you have all my simpaty and I can feel your feelings.Felix
I spoke with both Andy & Allan earlier in the week & there's still hope for Allan & Francine to return on the same Visa the Jules & I needed to get here. It is a very long, expensive & incredibly complex procedure, but I'm 99.9% sure that they meet the needed criteria. I've put them in touch with the Visa company back in the UK that we used & hopefully they should be able to get back here by next spring.
I reall don't understand why it is the way it is, but getting here from England is almost impossible. We're only here on a 2 year renewable Visa & there isn't a day goes by that I don't worry about renewal in 2011. Attaining citizenship makes getting a Visa look like a walk in the park! Officially I'm not even classed as an Immigrant! I'm a Non-Immigrant Alien, as is Andy. That 'Non-Immigrant' status basically means that we have NO rights or argument if the US Government decides that it no longer wants us here. We have to have had 2 un-opposed Visa renewals before we could even apply for a greencard & then we can start applying for citizenship. That could take 1, 2, 5 or 10 years or it may never even happen.
It cost us in excess of £20K just to get through the legalities of being able to be here in the position we're in now & it'll probably be about the same for the renewal.
I feel for Andy & his family, I really do. It breaks my heart to hear of this. Andy & his family are some of THE finest people I know & if anyone has the right to try & make it in the US it is them.
Andy, if you're reading this Brother, please let me know if there's anything else we can do to help you all out. Even if you just need to vent & swear please, please give me a call, any time.
Big up for you bro!
Just shows how government works these days - take as much from the guys following the law and reject them afterward, whilst letting all illegals in as they wish!
Boy I wish my memory was better than it is...
I went through the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Glynco, GA back in 1994 and graduated but then resigned to go back to my previous job with the airlines. Long story and in hindsight, the wrong decision in some ways but.... Oh well.
I do recall that there were many different types of VISA's available and all sorts of different stipulations that gave you the right to stay. "Anchor babies" were the most common. That's where the mothers from Mexico would try to cross the border and have their baby in the USA and it acted as an "anchor" to keep them and their family in the US since the baby was a US citizen. There were classes for scientists, athletes, actors or whatever type of famous person or person who could contribute in some way to the US. I still have my Immigration Law books some where in the basement. Maybe I could find some more information.
This really, really sucks! Talk about Good People, from my experiance, the whole Ivy clan is Good folks. Whatever I can do to help, I sure will.
Andy, on the lighter side, what do you thnk of Texas? Darken your complexion, dye your hair black, Heck you'll fit right in! We got hundreds of 'em, this state would shut down without our illegals! Just act like you can't speak english, you'll get by. :thumbsup:
LD
So can anyone tell us what the reason was that was given to Andy as to why his visa was denied this time?
Does the government just say "no" with no explanation to the applicant?
Good luck to Andy and family..
QuoteOriginally posted by Terry Green:
When does he have to leave???
I agree, tries to do it legaly and look where it got him. You can get further in this country now my breaking the law. What a shame.
It's time we kick a bunch of idiots out of Washington when this starts to happen, starting at the top.
Count me in on any petition or phone calls needed. I think it is a shame that folks wanting to be here the right way get denighed when we have illegals taking jobs left and right and contributing to my high priced insurance. Its time we stand up. We are still a republic for now and our voices count. Hang in there Andy and keep your head up.
Took my family 14 years... If you go through the right channels, your "on the radar" yet I deal with tons of people daily that leech off the system and scoff the laws, knowing full well they can litterally walk out the 'back door' whenenver things get hard (like house payments).
Folks who don't have a 'back door', like Cubans and other peoples who have left their homes to BECOME AMERICANS, are subject to the laws of the land. It sucks but I accept that it's the law. It's about integrity and upright character throughout the process. The best thing we can do is respect the boundaries and processes of the law. The individuals that work in the immigration and naturalization are just people doing their jobs with undoubtably their hands tied as well. Allow them to do their jobs and give them calm argument and due cause for them to exercise whatever flexibility they may have.
I concur with the plan to advocate for Andy and his family, but it MUST be accomplished with the utmost respect for the officers and the law. I am now, by the grace of God, an American citizen and working as a Code Enforcement Officer. I have the perspective of both the immigrant and the official. PLEASE RESPECT THE SYSTEM, it's not perfect, but it is the nature of a Republic. Act within due bounds and advocate for Andy - DO NOT make this about their lack of enforcement for other "illegals", that will NOT serve Andy in any way, shape or form.
All the best to you, Andy. Sorry to hear about this kick in the guts.
I just read through this post, and it breaks my heart to hear how hard we make it for someone to come here legally. Yet we are about due to hear our "enlightened" leaders once again advocate for amnesty and a path to citizenship for those who did not respect our sovereignty and chose to sneak in. $%^!* :banghead:
By the way, Please keep us informed as to whether Andy wishes us to plead his case. Really sad, but I'm rather beginning to enjoy sharing civics lessons with our senators and representatives. :readit:
See what "Hope & Change" got us??? (again) :(
But if Andy was from a "politicaly correct" country (the middle east) instead of one of America's oldest allies,he could scream "profileing predudice" and they would let him stay.
VERY Sad indeed!!!!!
Ray Hammond has the right idea (on page one). Let's get some information and make some polite and respectful noise. Let's be "community organizers" and get the tradgang community organized to help someone who is trying to be a LEGAL immigrant who respects out nation's laws. Let's be respectful and polite AND let's point out that the "path to citizenship" the Washington politicians like to talk about so much should be open to legal immigrants.
My better half is an immigration lawyer, I will talk to her tonight.
Andy, pm me.
Jim
Way to go Tarponnut!!! You are the man!!!
No good for Andy ... that just stinks !!!
Thinking of you mate , it must be very stressful .
ben
Well id be lying if i did't say im sitting here with tears running down my face, what faith i have left in mankind pretty much lies within the people from this site.
im truly brought to my knees... thank you guys!
its been a pretty hard stressful time.
I really dont know what to say, im not one for making my problem someone else's hence the reason i did not bring it up here until now.
i need some time to clear my mind and think it through, one thing i would like to ask is if we find a route or if we'r gonna make some noise we do it on behalf of my parents, they have everything to loose and i would like to make sure they are the first to get sorted.
They are back in the UK right now, they have personally invested a lot of money, they bought the business which employs only Americans, pay every tax in the book. If they can't get back then we'r really be in trouble.
If they can get sorted here then in the future i will be able to get sponsored and get back.
id like to point out none of us have any criminal record at all. We have done everything honestly and correctly.
if you'r still all behind us, what information do we need?, whats the best way to go about this?
thank You all
Andy Ivy
Andy,
Was there a reason given for the visa denial?
We have a lot of members here from all walks of life. We might be able to apply the right amount of pressure to just the right spot.
Mike
QuoteOriginally posted by Ray Hammond:
how about instead of trying to cheer him up till he has to go we do something about it.
If Andy isn't a criminal, there's a lot that can be done.
Has he spoken with his senator and congressman? Does he have anyone in Colorado who will vouch for him and his family's efforts at good citizenship?
We can ALL call OUR congressional reps and senators and tell them about it, if Andy is willing to share details so we can speak intelligently.
What say you?
AGREED!!!
I'm in, just let me know to whom I should write, or what petition to sign.
Ok so not being quite up with the terminology
Firstly i do not wish to say anything that may work against me, however im not lying so dont see how i can.
the Visa was for a Noimmigrant Worker as a Intracompany Transferee.
I was a manager in our Business in the UK and was transferred from there to Manage (General Manager) the business here in the USA .
The reason for the denial was that they do not feel i show to be working in an "executive Capacity" or "Managerial Capacity" and i quote
"for immigration purposes"
Even though i am the General Manager, OK so im not the GM of Microsoft, but i am a GM none the less.
"for Immigration purposes" that leaves a lot of grey area.
As well as this if we do not submit the correct requested information which can be pretty vague..."shall be grounds for denying the petition"
Im no layer, but there is enough Grey area withing the system to cover their backs on whatever decision is decided.
As asked before if we do anything can we help my parents first.
Be glad to sign a list or petition or whatever.
First of all I hope this works out for you.
Is the business in your name or your parents? I read somewhere that if you are from another country, have a U.S based business, manage the day to day operation, that you were tax exempt and they had different visa rules. I'm not positive, but maybe somebody else read this also.....Roy
Sad news for sure. If I'm able to help I'm in.
This government is out of whack...Lets give thanks tomorrow to what little they havent screwed up....Lets fight for Andy and do our best to pull thru for him and his family....
Are there any tradgangers familiar with citizenship issues??? I don't know much about it...but i'm not afraid to make a stink once we get our ducks in a row!
This country is full of illegals and the good guys get the screw put to them...lets get this ball rolling!!!
The good always get screwed.my prayers go out to him and his family.If he needs to run I will hide them in jersey!
Whatever needs doin, I'm in. Just keep us informed
I'm with ya Andy. I will do anything I can do to help ya.
I have corresponded with Andy before, and I must say, he is a very kind individual who loves life and seems to live everyday as if it were his last. A very exciting person to be around in person, I would imagine.
Andy, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Do not lose faith and keep on fighting 'til you receive your heart's desire.
Sad news Andy and as many have stated, If I'm able to help I'm in.
Sounds like you need a lawyer, and an accountant that can document your management activities. Put lots of paper in front of 'em.
Petition? We should be able to pull the collective power of Tradgang to bear on this.
Let us know what we can do and I'm in.The illegal alien situation eats me alive and the talk of making them legal instead of sending them back to their home land relly irks me.Andy I have only respect to those that want to move here legal.I'm in to help anyway I can. Ben
My thoughts go out to you and yours BUD, if anyone out there can help we need to find them and get this family back on track!
Andy, hate to hear this is happening to such a fine family. Can't understand why the Government will help people from some countries by giving them all types of incentives and money to move here, knowing they will send the money back home in order to bring their entire family here. Then buy up all the gas stations, convenience stores, and motels in existence. Then at the same time the Gov. uses double standards to work against families which do things right and really try to live the "American Dream" as honest hard working members of society.
I have a few lawyer friends which may be able to give some advice on how to approach this situation. Will check on it and let you know what I find out.
I'm willing to help in any way possible.
Good Luck and our prayers are with you and your family.
Hal
Tarpon Nuts wife sounds like the person to give us advice on what we need to gather for info. Andy will need to put together his parents full names, along with his own. I agree with Andy that we should push hard to get his parents back to where they belong. Running their business and help him while we are at it.
Anything I can do, count me in.
sorry to here about the kick in the guts andy hope it all works out for you and your family
Andy, not quite sure what to say. But if I can help count me in. Best of luck with this and I'll keep you and your family in my prayers. Jeff
Andy, sorry to hear this, I have nothing to offer that hasn't already been offered but if I can help I will, Just curious why doesn't someone marry Andy the democrats have made that type of marriage legal ;) , and no I can't help with that.
Now,Now Todd you suggested it!! Youd make a purdy couple!! We'd promise not to take any weddin pictures.
I think your plenty safe Todd. Andy could find him a willing gal in short order if he needed. An no offence Todd but he'd pick one a tad purdyer than you! I don't think that's an option once you have the orders.
WOW! I'm sitting here with a lump in my guts after reading all the pages in this thread. I think Nigel nailed it a few pages back! Illegals are welcome to walk across our southern border these days without even the slightest slap on the wrist if caught. Our "new" government has seemingly intentionally opened our border to Mexico while turning a blind eye and a closed fist at anyone trying to become a citizen legally. Here's a tip-join ACORN........
Seriously, There are ways around the system. I hate to be the one to point this out but out southern immigrants come and have kids in America as fast as they can. It's an immediate pass to citizenship, welfare, healthcare, and food stamps...... Does Allen want a grandkid? :readit: :bigsmyl:
I hope you know I'm joking. Awww heck, the entire system is a joke and getting worse by the day. I'm American by birth but sadly I'm ashamed of my current government. I'll also go far and above to help any way I can to keep Andy and family State-side-LEGALLY. We got pigs to kill!!! I'll be watching this thread to see how I can help. You need a job? You got one if you need! CK
Well said Curtis. Sadly, this administration appears to be so focused on spending us to oblivion, while cramming their current health care reform bill down our throats.
Rather than focusing on the bad elements parading over our borders, they pick on folks like Andy. The type of person that would help our country and make a good citizen.
Nothing ever surprises me now. Andy, you and your family are in my prayers.
Ragnarok Forge has it right. Andy please p.m. TarponNut if you haven't and see what his wife has to say. I'm truly sorry for your situation brother and I'll watch the thread and help anyway I can.
Andy you and your family are good people, and you have a ton of friends here. We are all pulling for you, and pray for the best. I will keep watch of this thread. And will do anything I can, for you and your family.
We need to keep you and your family :campfire:
Brent
QuoteOriginally posted by Ray Hammond:
We can ALL call OUR congressional reps and senators and tell them about it, if Andy is willing to share details so we can speak intelligently. What say you?
I say, I'm in. If Tarponnut's wife can give us some guidance on what to say and whether to say it individually it would be great. If not, I know some really good immigration lawyers from my former career who could probably help. Let me know if y'all think it's a good idea to call them too.
Good luck Andy! This is a shame.
Just tell me what it is I can do and I'll do it. I'm saddened by this situation. Hold your head up Andy, we're pulling for you and praying for you too.
God bless,Mudd
Andy,
I say you ought to immigrate to Mexico, loose your job, not speak any of the English language for the next 6 months, get yourself all tatooed -up and walk across the border...your chances of staying will greatly improve
:knothead:
Anybody got a 66 Chevy Impala lowrider they can loan Andy for a short time?
Please, someone give us the info we need to make our efforts the most productive. Mailing address, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, names of officials to talk to, what do we say...
Would it help to start a thread with just names like a petition? Then print it and send it to the right people.
Curtis Keller said it right about our current government.
Ya know how Obama's wife made the comment about being proud of America for the first time after he got nominated?
Well.... For the first time in my life, I'm truely ashamed of our government. It's been bad in the past but never this bad.
Andy, whatever it takes, let us know.
This is truly crap. As little that I know of Andy he is a great guy. I think our government is full of it on so many things. For someone to come to this country and love being here, running a business and supporting Americans, then kicking them out. Bull****!!
Andy if there is anything I can do let me know! I'm there for ya brother.
I don't think Andy's situation is one that should cause us to be ashamed of our government. We are not in a position to let every good person take up permanent residence here, so there have to be rules about who gets in. Andy is definitely a great person whom all of us would love to have as an American citizen, but being a great guy and having a love for traditional archery does not meet the legal requirements. The first thing anyone here needs to do is to understand what those requirements are. Since that usually takes years of study and practical experience, such a task is best left to a good immigration lawyer. Even then there can be many difficulties. The fact that illegals are living here is immaterial. If Andy wants to risk sneaking across the border and working as a migrant farm laborer or domestic servant, then he can. But I doubt he wants to live that kind of life. Doing things the right way is tough, and it is supposed to be.
Both my kids have studied overseas, one of them for years. We had to jump through hoops just to get them student visas. America is not the only nation that severely limits immigration. My brother lives in Switzerland with his Swiss-born wife and children, and it took him 25 years to get Swiss citizenship so he could get health and retirement benefits there. He and his kids have dual Swiss/American citizenship, but if he brought his wife back over here it would take many years for her to become an American citizen. My son is about to get married to a Swedish girl, so she is going to have a similar problem when they move here next summer. As you can see, I understand Andy's situation. I'm a lawyer myself, but that doesn't carry any weight in getting things done with the immigration service. I am hiring an immigration lawyer to help us through the process because I don't know what to do either. I do know that if Andy were to marry an American girl it would be easier for him, but that is not something he should do just to stay in the country. In fact, it would be illegal to marry only for that purpose, although such an intent might be difficult to prove.
Andy, I'm all for you buddy, and if there is something I can do for you and your family, I will. You are definitely a person we all love having here in America. I hope your family has a good immigration lawyer working for you on this. If not, I can find one for you to contact. I expect you already have one or you probably would not have gotten this far. I know that under your visa it is not enough for you to simply have any old job; you have to be transferred here from another country to a management position with the same company you were already working for. A company I own part of had foreign employees transfer to the US on the same kind of visa and we had our lawyers put the whole thing together. I could give you the contact information on our lawyers if you want or need it. I do know it cost us a considerable amount of money.
If someone here wants to start a fund to help defray the expenses of helping Andy to stay here, I am willing to put some money where my mouth is. It is easy to talk about how rotten our government is by not letting Andy stay and quite another to do something constructive to accomplish Andy's goal. I will contribute the first $100 to kick things off. If enough of us here really want Andy to stay that much, we should be able to raise the money it takes to hire people to help make that happen. Once we know from the lawyers what else Andy needs, then we can help get that done. With 20,000 registered TradGang members, it would not take very many people donating money to make things happen. All the badmouthing of the incredible country that Andy wants to stay in won't do him a bit of good. Ask Andy whether he prefers the governments of England or Zimbabwe (where he is from) to the American government, and I bet you will hear from a relative outsider just how good we all have in our native country!
Allan
Amar911,
You are right about not being ashamed of our government just because Andy and his family got their VISA revoked. It's MUCH more than that but since this not a political site I won't get into it. Lets just say I don't like seeing my kids and grandkids put into a situation with debt they will never be able to pay off in their lifetimes and government spending, government control, and government growth are down right OUT of control.
Really, I'm not ashamed as much as I am P!$$ED OFF.
Thank you all
The response has been overwhelming
i have spoken with many many people believe me, over the last 2 months. There is no easy fix at least nothing iv heard of yet, for now we are concentrating on getting my Parents back here by Feb next year, through another visa.
as we pursue other routes they all still have to go through the immigration, however i do think some letters to our Congressman here in Colorado will at least help make sure the case is looked at closer and fairly for the visa my parents are working on now.
I would still like to speak with a few people on here about just exactly who the letters should go to, to make the biggest impression.
ideas?
It is a very costly process but we could not accept any money please, but i would ask for your voice if it would help us.
hope your all having a great thanksgiving
Andy
P.S. It is a beautiful diverse country you all live in, no doubt
serving in the military is the quickest way to citizenship. If you want to be an american citizen in a short time join the army, you'll have citizenship after your term of service.
sign up for school/college.had a neighbor in the same boat pretty much,he signed up for college and got a seperate visa.this was ten years ago so maybe that will work for you brother.
Put me on the 'will help' list; sending a bowhunter to a non-bowhunter country: is cruel and unusual punishment.
i'd also add that maybe you should plead your case to the media in your hometown,great human interest story and you'd be surprised what 20k signatures and a camera televising nationally can actually get accomplished.keep your chin up andy you have people pulling for you.
larry
This all sucks but sometimes it's the hard times that makes ppl pull together LIKE NOW. Get ready for many hard times ahead EVERYONE.
Having said that and the fact that I live in the Yukon in Canada probably won't be able to help much, but if I can I will too.
We have tons of illegal Philipinoes here in the yukon....nobody seems to care, but they are taking jobs from yukoners because they live 12 people to a house and work for peanuts (because you can when you live 12 in a house).
THey aren't bad ppl don't get me wrong but we all need to be on the same playing field when it comes to work.
I have a friend who has a janitorial business and he has to pay higher wages to his workers and he is being out bid by the phillipinoes who pay minimum wage and live all together. You can't compete.
Sorry my REDNECK is shining out of my shirt. Anyway if I can help with signing something count me in.
Jer Bear
He's not the first that's happen to. I think he might not fit the politically correct immigrant status.
Andy,
Give me a call when you get a minute.
Thanks, Jim
Andy,,,We'll do anything we can to help out...Skyler says You, him, and Robtattoo got a bowfishing trip in the future...
This response has been incredible and that is why we chose to invest and work in the US. You can be proud to be American!!
THE FACTS
In 1999 our ranch was expropriated by the South African Government, and we decided to make a new start in the UK. We established a fast food business and have run it successfully for 10 years. It is a family business with both Andy and our Daughter Natasha working up the ranks to managerial positions. In 2008 we decided to expand our business into the US with the purchase of an RV Resort just west of Gunnison and both Andy and I applied for and got L1 visas as General Manager and President respectively. The visa process is complicated and with the aid of an Immigration Lawyer we successfully filed our case with over 800 supporting documents. The visa was granted for 1 year. In October we filed for an extension on the grounds that our work is ongoing and that we had successfully achieved what we had set out to do in the first year as part of a five year plan. Despite the economic climate we showed an increase in turnover, employed 14 American citizens and achieved most of the improvements set out in our business plan. Both of our applications were denied and both on the grounds that we were not acting in an executive capacity. Our research into contesting this decision shows that very few people successfully appeal the decision, so with the advice of our lawyer we decided to apply for an E2 non immigrant visa. This differs from the L1 and is only available to foreigners from select countries that invest a large sum of money in the US economy which my wife and I have done. Unfortunately Andy has not so he does not qualify for this visa. The other difference is that as a non immigrant visa it is processed by the US Embassy in London and not the USCIS. Francie and I left Andy in charge of our US operation to return to the UK to take care of our business here. We have submitted our application for an E2 to the US Embassy in London and are now waiting for a response. During this process you are completely in the dark until the embassy contact you for an interview typically 2 months with an interview date set up to 6 weeks after this. If it is granted it can take up to a week to return to us. This will mean that we will only be able to return to take care of our business almost 4 months from today. At present I am not sure if there is anything that can be done and any advice will be welcome.
Happy Thanksgiving
Allan
Good to hear from you Allan. As you can see, your Trad family is torn that this has happened to such good folks, our friends. Government process is what is and unfortunatly it takes time and never works fast unless it's against you.
There are lots of folks here with good conections and lets explore all the angles and loopholes if any. We are all willing to help in any way we can. I wish you all the best for now and lets hope for a speedy process and you both on Colorado soil soon. As for Andy, we're looking for a cute-pregnant-american girl as fast as we can! Don't tell his girlfriend.
As I've already said, I've got a lump in my guts thinking about you guys going through this. The simple fact that you've invested so much money in the US, US economy, and the workforce makes you miles above so many who simply arrive here, have kids, and become an entitlment citizen of the states. I am truly dazed and confused by the decisions being made here.
This counrty was built by immigrants who came and invested in this place and made it what is called America today. One door to America seems to stand open by the dark of night while the other door seems to need a password, fingerprints, and a membership to the club. I certainly know that we need rules and laws to keep the whole world from moving in freely overnight BUT, there seems to be some real out-of-balance rules and regs in place. With America comes Buerocracy!!! Again, Let me know how I can help and I certainly will. God Bless yall! I do hope it all works out. They say that great triumph does not come without great trial. I hope this is the trial before the triumph! :thumbsup: CK
To the Ivy clan, Guys keep your chins up. It's a step backwards in the process, you're good folks and I'm sure you will find a way. :knothead:
Andy - I think it's about time you find a nice all-American girl and think seriously about settling down??? After all, you're getting too old to be living the life of a bachelor! ;)
Good luck guys! Thinking of you all...
You have the support of a lot of outstanding folks here on Tradgang - this is a truly great site guys. :notworthy:
Hi Dave
You sure started something here may even turn into the next revolution. The response has been overwhelming. We appreciate it all.
Allan,
Elkherder had a good idea about Andy signing up for college. I know it is not ideal to try to be in school full time and work, but it is another avenue to explore since Western State is right there. It sounds like you are doing things the right way; you just need to think about something else that would get Andy (as well as you and your wife) where you need to go. I know that getting married to an American would work; however, that carries its own set of problems. How tall is Andy? My daughter really liked a young Zimbabwean apprentice PH the time she went with us on safari there, so maybe Andy could show up here and try to charm her. ;) I would like to replace her current boyfriend anyway. At 25 she may be a little old for him, but she is tall (179 cm) and beautiful -- and I'm not just saying that as a father. Seriously, I'm not trying to set up my daughter, but she could do much worse than Andy, and already has done worse! :saywhat:
I really don't know about the college angle, but if Andy qualifies, I'm sure that between me, my friends, and other people on this site we could put on a very good case to get him into Western State on an expedited basis. I know he could get admitted if he came down here to Oklahoma, although I doubt that would fit into any of the family's plans.
Allan
Amar911, et.al.
I'm in to help with the costs. Let's keep each other posted.
paul
Allan,
Even though they are all trad brothers/sisters they's itchen for a revoloution! The Lord only knows how many bullets/guns/arras/bows are buried all over the states. Sure is great to see everyone willing to help. Heck, we've even got fathers offering up their cute daughters! Andy better keep his better half away from computer or his butt will be on the airplane outa there faster than he's planning. Won't be long and all the single guys on trad gang will be wanting to switch identity with Andy. There's a thought, any you guys know how to make meat pies and want a vacation in England and forgot - want to grow your hair longer??
Send picture and sign up here. Amar's daughter will choose winner! :biglaugh:
Allan and Andy, I really do hope you get this all sorted out. It's something that sends a cold chill through me when I hear of good people like yourselves being refused a visa. I'm here on a K2 Visa which is coming up for renewal next May, and as Rob mentioned, not a day goes by without thinking about the outcome.
Some people have mentioned marrying an American girl because they think it's the easy option. It ain't. The hoops are still there to jump through.
But the only option is to play their rules, because it's their game.
Let us know what we can do for you, but in the meantime you'll all be in my prayers.
Mister Stinson, you make me laugh!! :biglaugh:
Allan
This is quickly going to get out of hand, good to hear from you all, Curtis this is a trail just hard enough making a living without all of this. Thanks for all the advice Allan and Paul, Andy is pretty strong headed and will have to makeup his own mind as to whom he plans to marry and if he wants to study.
oh crap I am sorry hear this. Andy get the paperwork started ASAP we need you here.
Joe
Folks,
I am a Supervisor with CBP(formerly US Immigration) If a person is in the US on a Non- Immigrant visa, IE, B1/B2(6months stay maxs)There are other non immigrant visas, student,investor,company manager which allow people to stay up to two years. In order to adjust your status from a non immigrant to an immigrant, some one has to petition for you, ie you marry a US Citizen,your parents are immigrants or us citizens,or some other relative is a US citizen or immigrant. If your non immigrant visa is employement based your employer can petition for you. That is about it. Now it sounds like Andy's father may have an investor visa and he and his wife should be ok and after a bit can adjust their status, Andy on the other hand, once he is an adult would have to try another way or wait until his parents are Lawful Permanent Residents and then they could petition for him. Sorry but contacting Senators and such is not gonna do much good.
Praying for you guys :(
QuoteOriginally posted by Danny Rowan:
Folks,
I am a Supervisor with CBP(formerly US Immigration) If a person is in the US on a Non- Immigrant visa, IE, B1/B2(6months stay maxs)There are other non immigrant visas, student,investor,company manager which allow people to stay up to two years. In order to adjust your status from a non immigrant to an immigrant, some one has to petition for you, ie you marry a US Citizen,your parents are immigrants or us citizens,or some other relative is a US citizen or immigrant. If your non immigrant visa is employement based your employer can petition for you. That is about it. Now it sounds like Andy's father may have an investor visa and he and his wife should be ok and after a bit can adjust their status, Andy on the other hand, once he is an adult would have to try another way or wait until his parents are Lawful Permanent Residents and then they could petition for him. Sorry but contacting Senators and such is not gonna do much good.
Danny, it's good to get some hard facts. Are these new regs or have they been in place for some time?
Andy, I sure as hell hope there's a way for you to stay. You've been through big changes in your short life, having put down roots in three countries -- Zimbabwe, England, and the US. No matter what happens, I know you're a sharp, strong guy who can make the most of it. Chin up, friend.
I do not know how to help, but will help in any way I can and will dontae $100 as well if it is needed by Andy to help in any costs with this situation This really makes my blood boil as peoplw who try to do things legally cannot and other come here illegally and we give them everything from healthcare to free education for their kids.
Danny,
Thanks for weighing in. We all need to hear the facts, even if we don't like them. It is always good to hear from someone working in the programs we are all talking about.
Thanks Danny, you are a good man. I'm glad we got someone chiming in who knows what needs to be done. I just hope Andy, Allan and the family can get things put together. I know lots of us here are willing to help in any way we can.
Sorry I couldn't get out of work to hunt hogs with you and Donald. I hope you had a great time and a Happy Thanksgiving with your bro and Kimber. I am going to try to get over and hunt with Donald soon.
Allan
Thanks Danny. Well now we know. Looks like all we can do is pray. But praying is alot. May the Lord keep you and your family Andy.
Andy and Allan,
I'm so sorry to hear this news.
I don't know what to say, it was pleasure meeting you guys this summer. I only wish I could have gotten together to do some stump shooting .
My family and I will keep you in our prayers.
sammy
Woody,
These regs are spelled out in the Immigration and Nationality Act. It is sad that things like this happen and believe me I see things like this most every day. Unfortuneately the State Department is responsible for issuing visas and one must go to their home country to renew or change visas,yes it is lengthy but in the end the Ivys should prevail,especaialy since they already have their business started. As for Andy, a student visa will probably be the easiest way for him to stay in the short term,if enroled in an accredited college he could stay for 4 years of study and possibly longer for graduate studies, however he may not be able to work since they normally do not allow students to work.
I just logged on after being away for almost a month, and this is the first post i read. This isn't very great news to come home to. Andy, I really hope this works out for you and your family. this country needs more people like you, not less.
-Dan
FYI my wife is working with the Ivy family, here's hoping it all works out for them.
They are the kind of entrepreneurs we need more of in this country.Good luck Andy.
Andy,
Despite our governments misgivings and overall idiocracy, you're always welcome on this side of the pond and at my house. In the words of Neil Young "Don't let it bring you down."
Warmest regards and best wishes,
homebru aka nathan in parker, co
I don't believe marrying a U.S. citizen does much good anymore. I believe those laws have been changed, from what I've been told. A friend of mine told me about his son, who is in the military, married a young lady from England. She is not allowed to live here in the U.S.A.
Danny...maybe you can clear this up.
Thanks
Hope this gets worked out... Trying to do everything legal is refreshing.
Even Obamas "aunt" stayed illegally.. She is living in public housing and quite famous now.
The Feds will not go after her for deportation.. You do things right and you will get to stay,, I hope.