Current and Previous Issues

Dear Readers,
The summer season is here again, bringing with it a tremendously busy time in the Consular Section here in Warsaw. This edition of Consular Chronicles will focus on important information over a wide range of issues - from improvements in the Warden Telephone System, to our ever-expanding J-1 Visa Program.

I'd like to remind everyone about the forthcoming U.S. Congressional Elections. As citizens of a democracy, whether we live stateside or overseas, it is vital that we fill out our ballots and vote for our respective candidates. Given all that the United States and the world have gone through following 9/11 and the many questions still to be decided, your vote is important. Anyone who doesn't believe that an individual vote or that an overseas vote is important has a short memory. Just think back to the last United States general election and how Florida's vote count - and absentee ballots - determined the result of the presidential election. Should you want assistance with voting, including registering and absentee ballot information, please get in touch with the American Citizens Service unit of the Consular Section.

We are happy to note that travel worldwide has picked up again and this summer has been especially busy in the Consular Section in Warsaw. We are hard at work processing visas, particularly for students wishing to work for the summer in the States. Speaking of travel, as we all plan our small getaways and larger family vacations, it is wise to check the State Department's travel site (www.travel.state.gov) for the latest updates on safety and other travel advisories around the world.

I hope everyone has a pleasant, safe, and relaxing summer.

Regards,

Michael D. Kirby
Consul General