A New Cool App: Amazing Ocean

Granted, this new app from the Department of State and the Smithsonian isn't yet available in iTunes but if you are remotely interested in our oceans then you'll want to access is via the WebApp until it's released. Android users can begin discussing topics such as protecting our oceans, mysteries, and natural disasters.

Hosting Opportunities

Have you considered opening your home to an international student? Hosting is not just about having a student in your home. You could host an international scholar or professional. As well, the length of  time varies. Learn more about hosting from Hosting Opportunities by the Department of State.

Is Your Student Studying Abroad This Semester?

If so, read this post from the State Department then bookmark the links & download the Smart Traveler app (for iPhone) mentioned in the post.

Japan

Here are some resources & images from Japan's earthquake & tsunami:

• The Ongoing Response to the Earthquakes and Tsunami in Japan (White House)

• Japan's Coastline Before and After the Tsunami (NASA)

• Tsunami flooding near Sendai, Japan (NASA)

• What are Tsunamis? (USGS)

• What is the difference between a tsunami and a tidal wave? (USGS)

• Japan's Earthquake and Tsunamis (Dept. of State)

• USGS Updates Magnitude of Japan’s 2011 Tohoku Earthquake to 9.0

• Tips on Avoiding Fraudulent Charitable Contribution Schemes

• On the Ground in Japan (USAID)

Egypt

**If your U.S. citizen loved one needs assistance in #Egypt, call 1-202-501-4444 or email EgyptEmergencyUSC@state.gov.**

**U.S. citizens who wish to depart #Egypt via USG-chartered transportation: call 1-202-501-4444 | email EgyptEmergencyUSC@state.gov**

Situation in Egypt: information for U.S. citizens currently in Egypt

The White House, President Obama on the Situation in Egypt: "All Governments Must Maintain Power through Consent, Not Coercion 

The Department of State, Egypt: Public Service Announcement for American Citizens

New START Treaty

I pulled together a few links about the New START treaty. The first link includes the text.

New START: Treaty Text
New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) 
Key Facts About the New START Treaty
The New START Treaty: "A National Security Imperative"
Statement from the Vice President on the New START Treaty

November is National Adoption Month

National Adoption Month (H&HS)



National Adoption Month (Dept. of State)

2010 General Election Absentee Voting Information for U.S. Citizens Abroad

There are new regulations for absentee voting beginning this year.

A Variety of Resources

Today, I'm sharing a variety of resources with you.

Challenge.gov is a place where the public and government can solve problems together. And possibly earn some money.


mySkillsmyFuture is the new career website from the Department of Labor. The site will match your skills to a career. I noticed there are lots of openings for librarians in the US. 


It's never too early to plan for the summer. Need an internship? Consider the Department of State's internship program. 


Are you an organic farmer? Do you certify organic operations? The USDA has published an organic program handbook. 


Alabama is one of 6 states that will receive funding to support education jobs. As a matter of fact, our state will receive $149.5 million.

Country Reports on Terrorism 2009

Flooding in Pakistan

It's easy to see how large the flooded area is compared to normal in the image taken by NASA. As well, we can text "SWAT" to 50555 in order to donate $10 to help flood victims.

New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START)

The Department of State has pulled together a site that includes a link to the treaty text & protocol along with photos & remarks from the event and factsheets.

International Scams

I thought I knew about all of the ways I could be scammed. Until I read this blog post about international scams from the Department of State. Evidently, and this is an estimate, $50 million per year ends up in Lagos, Nigeria.

Traveling to Mexico and Spring Break Abroad

Did you know that you need to show either a passport or a passport card in order to travel to (and of course, back home) Mexico? This requirement is a part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) The other countries included in WHTI are Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean region.

Traveling abroad during spring break? Other than being lucky to go somewhere, be sure you have everything in order by examining Students Abroad.

Iraq & Germany

2 interesting posts on DipNote, U.S. Department of State's blog

• Iraq 2010: A Year of Transformation and Transition
  
• U.S. Returns World War II-Era Cultural Artifacts to Germany

You will also find Haiti updates on DipNote.