I don't know if it's all across Mexico or only Acuna to Piedras Negras.

I have no source, except for mis Amigos, who we keep in regular contact.

Due to the Economic crisis, and lower tourist numbers, these actions are being taken in Mexico

The Maquilas have cut back to 3 days a week. That means the Maquila worker is now making $30.00 a week. They are not being subsidized with food stamps.

Each unemployed Mexican Family is given a Food Stamp Allotment and $30.00 a month to live on. If, they own their property, $30.00 might cover the light bill if, they only use electricity couple hours a day. Forget a Refer.

The Gov. is also, when available, passing out food baskets. Mainly, flour, salt, beans, rice and corn meal.

We here near the border towns know how the average Mexican lives. Their standard of living has gone from just getting by, to desperate.

They are crossing in record numbers.

There are no jobs for them here either. You folks to the North, best prepare yourselves. I believe, ya'll are going to experience a bit of what we live here.

Learn Spanish, you're going to need it.

I've been to Acuna when my son was young. it was hard then too. The resturant we went to...the waiters were almost cut throat to get us seated at their table

If you ever get down there again, go one block left. That's Madero St. Go up Madero to Tapatillos Rest. It's good and pretty inexpensive. You'll see a lot more of the locals around there.

This change has happened within this last month.

If youre down in acuna and you aint up to being alone
Dont spend all your money on just any honey thats grown.
Go find the mexican blackbird and send all your troubles back home.

They all call her her puta cause no one really knows her name.
She works the cantina, dancin and a-lovins her trade.
Her mama was meskin and her daddy was the ace of spades.

The States above Texas really have no clue as how to live Mexican style.
I don't think they'd like it very well. Not with as many as are coming across now.