Human Resources: January Features on FirstGov.gov

January Features on FirstGov.gov
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1. Web Chat Now Available on FirstGov.gov

2. Visitors to the U.S.--A New Gateway on FirstGov.gov

3. Martin Luther King Day--January 15, 2007

4. Applying for Federal Student Aid

5. New Passport Requirements to Enter the U.S.

You can also view an illustrated online version of this newsletter.
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1. Web Chat Now Available on FirstGov.gov
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Visitors to FirstGov.gov can now use Web Chat for live online help in answering government-related questions.

FirstGov.gov launched Web Chat--a tab on the Frequent Questions page--in an effort to expand the ways in which the public can contact the government. During its six-month pilot phase, Web Chat will be available Monday through Friday from 12:00 noon until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Once we've had the opportunity to assess Web Chat's popularity and effectiveness, we may adjust the hours of service.

If preferred, you can continue to ask your questions by e-mail, phone, or mail, or by using FirstGov.gov's Frequent Questions database. Visit FirstGov.gov's Contact Us page for further information on these options.

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2. Visitors to the U.S.--A New Gateway on FirstGov.gov
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FirstGov.gov now features a new gateway--Visitors to the U.S. You'll find links to relevant online services, including converting other currencies to American dollars, getting maps of the U.S., and locating American embassies worldwide. The main topic areas in the new gateway provide information on:
--Traveling, studying, and working in the U.S.
--Doing business in the U.S.
--Learning about American history and culture

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3. Martin Luther King Day--January 15, 2007
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On January 15, 2007, Americans will observe Martin Luther King Day, an annual federal holiday that commemorates the life and work of the American civil rights leader. Recipient of the 1964 Nobel Peace Prize, Martin Luther King, Jr. advocated for social change through nonviolent action.

Martin Luther King Day is observed on the third Monday of January to coincide with King’s January 15 birthday. The holiday is marked by demonstrations for peace, social justice, and racial and class equality. A national memorial to King is planned for construction in Washington, D.C., directly in line with the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials.

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4. Applying for Federal Student Aid
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Check out FirstGov.gov’s link to the Department of Education’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used by most colleges, universities, and career schools to award federal student aid. For the 2006-2007 school year, applications are due July 2, 2007 and can be submitted either online or by completing a paper form.

Many states and schools have earlier application deadlines than the federal deadline, so be sure to check on the application deadline for your state and school.

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5. New Passport Requirements to Enter the U.S.
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Beginning January 23, 2007, anyone flying between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a passport or other documentation (Air NEXUS card, U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document, or an Alien Registration Card (Form I-551)) upon entering the United States.

As early as January 1, 2008, valid documentation may also have to be presented by those traveling via land or sea. For further details, visit FirstGov.gov's link to the U.S. Department of State.

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