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So where do you draw the line?

I understand the affinity that Mexicans have for their culture, so I'm OK with the Fiesta logo for example. As for businesses flying the tri-color, the line is drawn there. Some of that stems from the 10th anniversary of 9/11 when I driving through town to get the grandchildren. The vast majority of homes had the American flag unfurled out of respect but I was galled when driving by used car lots that had the Mexican flag flying on that sacred day. About a flag pin similar to Sarah Palin's but with the Mexican flag, that too is another line I'll not cross. In the case of Mrs. Palin, it's clear that Israel is a solid ally and shares our American values, so it makes perfect sense and is a demonstration of her commitment to liberty and our Judeo-Christian principles.

Just for the record (lest I be accused of being a bigot), there are indeed some Americans of Mexican descent who fully embrace the United States and our heritage. I have a very good friend who is of Mexican ancestry who is 100% American through and through. His parents were legal immigrants, initially working on the King Ranch in South Texas and later creating a carpet installation business.

He never speaks a word Spanish, flies Old Glory from a mast in his yard and has cut all ties with the country of his origin. In short, he thoroughly assimilated. He even sneers when we're diving and pass a Mexican restaurant, calling the food [expletive deleted]. That's a rare instance of him cussing since he's a good Assembly of God type of guy. Although he kept his Hispanic-sounding last name, he Anglicized his first name (to Gilbert from Gilberto).

He's proud to be an American and embraces his country in every way -- his favorite music style is C&W. So I'm proud to call Gil my friend. Wish there were more like him and I don't have to speak in Spanish when we talk.