MILITARY FAMILY SERVICES DIRECTORY OF USEFUL INFORMATION AND LINKS (DC, VIRGINIA, MARYLAND) JUNE 2016 (VERSION 6) Military Family Services - Washington D.C. 501 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, D.C. 20001 Cell: 253.737.8714 [email protected] www.familyforce.ca TABLE OF CONTENT Introduction ......................................................................................................................................3 Government of Canada ......................................................................................................................4 Embassy of Canada in Washington, D.C. ...................................................................................................................4 Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces ......................................................................................4 Canada Revenue Agency ...........................................................................................................................................5 Canada Border Services .............................................................................................................................................5 US military Related Information .........................................................................................................6 US Military Related Links ...........................................................................................................................................6 U.S. Family and Moral, Welfare and Recreation........................................................................................................8 US Military Installations in the D.C. Metro Area ........................................................................................................9 State and Local Governments ........................................................................................................... 12 States, Counties and Cities ......................................................................................................................................12 Relocation ....................................................................................................................................... 14 Visitors and Relocation Guides ................................................................................................................................14 Local Utility Companies ...........................................................................................................................................15 Financial and Banking Information ..........................................................................................................................18 Health and Medical Directory ..................................................................................................................................20 Education and Schools .............................................................................................................................................26 Travel and Transportation .......................................................................................................................................29 Employment and Job Search ...................................................................................................................................31 Drivers License and Registration............................................................................................................................. 35 Practical Information ....................................................................................................................... 36 Practical information for Canadians Living in the US ...............................................................................................36 Discounts .................................................................................................................................................................38 Social Clubs ..............................................................................................................................................................42 Associations et groupes de rencontre pour les francophones ................................................................................43 Information For Diplomats ......................................................................................................................................44 Religion and Places of Worship ...............................................................................................................................45 Family and Children Related Information.......................................................................................... 48 Activities for Children and Youth .............................................................................................................................48 Child Care Services ...................................................................................................................................................56 Health, Wellness and Personal Growth Programs ...................................................................................................61 Pet information and resources ................................................................................................................................63 2 of 67 INTRODUCTION The MFS Directory of Useful Information and Links has been prepared by the Military Family Services Coordinator(MFSC) in Washington, D.C for all CAF Members and their families in our region (D.C./Maryland/Virginia). The various links will be useful to newly posted members and also other CAF families already living in our region. MFS does not endorse or recommend any particular service provider or products listed in this directory or on the Websites provided here. We will continue to improve this directory by updating it regularly as we find more useful links and information. If you find broken links and/or online resources that you think should be added to this directory, please do not hesitate to contact your Military Family Services Coordinator: Military Family Services Community Coordinator - Washington, D.C. Embassy of Canada | 501 Pennsylvania Ave NW | Washington, D.C. 20001 Telephone: 202-448-6352 | Cell: 253-737-8714 Email: [email protected] Website: www.familyforce.ca 3 of 67 GOVERNMENT OF CANADA EMBASSY OF CANADA IN WASHINGTON, D.C. Embassy of Canada in Washington, DC 501 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, D.C. 20001, United States Official Travel Information for Canadians www.canadainternational.gc.ca Canada’s Network in the United States: www.connect2canada.com http://travel.gc.ca/ The Government of Canada Website for Canadians travelling or living abroad. DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENCE AND THE CANADIAN FORCES National Defence and Canadian Forces www.forces.gc.ca Royal Canadian Navy: www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca Canadian Army: www.army.forces.gc.ca Chief of Military Personnel Royal Canadian Air Force: www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca www.cmp-cpm.forces.gc.ca/index-eng.asp Military Foreign Service Instructions: www.forces.gc.ca/en/about-policies-standards-benefits/toc-ch-10foreign-service-instructions.page? Canadian Defence Liaison Staff (Washington) 501 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, D.C. 20001 United States www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca *Please note: You will need to log on if accessing site through regular internet connection. You may use the CAF Member’s ID (ie. K123456 as ID Number and password) or colorado1 for ID Number and password (all the way up to colorado10). This site is accessible to CAF Members and Spouses. 4 of 67 CANADA REVENUE AGENCY International Tax Services Office 2204 Walkley Road Ottawa, ON K1A 1A8 English: 613) 940-8495 French: (613) 940-8496 1-800-959-8281 www.cra.gc.ca/international Individuals - Leaving or entering Canada and non-residents: www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/nnrsdnts/ndvdls/menu-eng.html CANADA BORDER SERVICES Border Information Service (BIS) Calls within Canada: 1-800-461-9999 www.cbsa.gc.ca Calls outside Canada (Long distance charges do apply): 1-204-983-3500 -or- 1-506-636-5064 5 of 67 US MILITARY RELATED INFORMATION US MILITARY RELATED LINKS US Department of Defense www.defense.gov US Enlisted Rank Insignia: www.defense.gov/about/insignias/enlisted.aspx US Officer Rank Insignia: www.defense.gov/about/insignias/officers.aspx Military One Source www.militaryonesource.mil OneSource is a free service provided by the US Department of Defense (DoD) to active duty, Guard and Reserve service members, and their families with comprehensive information on every aspect of military life including deployment, reunion, relationships, grief, spouse employment and education, parenting and child care, and much more. US Department of Defense (DoD) – US Installations www.militaryinstallations.dod.mil DoD Website to help you find information about US military installations as well as programs and services offered in the United States and throughout the World. DoD Common Access Card (CAC) and Defense Enrollment and Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) Cards www.cac.mil CAC cards are for active military members to access US Military Installations. DEERS cards are for military family members to access service benefits and privileges. Morale, Welfare & Recreation Program www.militaryonesource.mil/mwr “MWR is a comprehensive network of support and leisure programs and services designed to improve the quality of life of service members, their families, and other eligible patrons. MWR consists of a wide range of programs and services from fitness and outdoor recreation to libraries and bowling centers. Available programs and services vary at each installation. MWR goes by many names across the Department of Defense (DoD): Army Family and MWR (FMWR), Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS), Navy MWR, United States Air Force Services, and Coast Guard Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation. Regardless of the name, all provide service members and their families with a variety of recreational programs on and off the installation.” Source: www.militaryonesource.mil/mwr/overview?content_id=266803 Base Directory www.basedirectory.com Search more than 15,000 establishments on U.S. military bases around the world. They also have a free app on iTunes. 6 of 67 US MILITARY RELATED LINKS DC Military (Publisher) www.dcmilitary.com To find various online publications produced for the US Military Bases located in the DC, MD and VA area (e.g. Base Guides, newspapers, newsletters, etc.) Commissaries Official Website www.commissaries.com “The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) operates the military Commissaries throughout the world. DeCA Commissaries are supermarkets, usually located on military installations, that sell food, sundry and cleaning products for cost plus a 5 percent surcharge to active duty military, guard and reserve members, retirees and qualified family members. Authorized shoppers need only show proper military ID to use the commissary.” - www.military.com/spouse/militarylife/military-resources/commissary-exchange-mwr.html US Base Exchange www.military.com/spouse/military-life/military-resources/commissaryexchange-mwr.html “Post exchanges, base exchanges, Army and Air Force exchange service (AAFES), Navy exchanges, Marine exchanges (NEX), and shoppettes are all examples of military exchange stores. The exchange is the military department and drug store. Guard and Reserve personnel and their dependents have unlimited shopping privileges at any exchange. A military ID is required.” The United Service Organizations Inc. (USO) www.uso.org “The United Service Organizations Inc. (USO) is a nonprofit organization that provides programs, services and live entertainment to United States troops and their families. Since 1941, it has worked in partnership with the Department of Defense (DOD), relying heavily on private contributions and on funds, goods, and services from various corporate and individual donors. Although congressionally chartered, it is not a government agency. The USO operates 160 centers worldwide.” (Source: Wikipedia) Military and veteran membership organization www.military.com Military and veteran membership organization which connects service members, military families and veterans to all the benefits of service — government benefits, scholarships, discounts, lifelong friends, mentors, great stories of military life or missions, and much more. MilitaryAvenue.com www.militaryavenue.com Created by a team of military and veterans, MilitaryAvenue.com is an online service supporting the military relocation, travel, and lifestyle needs of the American military family. This very large family is made of millions of military active duty, retirees, veterans, DoD civilians and contractors, and of course the military spouses and children. Military Kids on the Move http://www.militaryonesource.mil/family-and-relationships/militaryyouth-on-the-move 7 of 67 US MILITARY RELATED LINKS Military Kids on the Move is a site designed for military children of all ages and their parents. They offer age-appropriate information, tips and resources on various topics such as moving, health, school, social life, bullying and internet safety. Military Kids Connect www.militarykidsconnect.org Military Kids Connect is a US-based site which offers military children an online community where they can learn about deployments, recognize and share feelings, and develop coping skills. U.S. FAMILY AND MORAL, WELFARE AND RECREATION The US Family and Moral, Welfare and Recreation (Family & MWR) programs and services are available to Canadian Forces Families posted to the US. These Family & MWR programs are similar to our Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services offered to our Canadian Forces Members and their families in Canada. Unlike the Canadian Armed Forces Military Family Services (MFS) which have the same national standards across the country and across the Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force), each US military force has its own family support program model. MWR goes by many names across the Department of Defense (DoD): Army Family and MWR (FMWR), Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS), Navy MWR, United States Air Force Services, and Coast Guard Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation. Regardless of the name, all provide service members and their families with a variety of recreational programs on and off the installation. Although MWR programs may vary from installation to installation, general MWR programs include (source: www.militaryonesource.mil/mwr/overview?content_id=266803): Fitness and sports. Fitness and sports programs develop cardiovascular fitness, strength conditioning, and flexibility, and promote healthy lifestyles. These include: swimming; self-directed, unit level, or intramural sports and athletics; and sports programs above the intramural level that provide competitive events. Library programs and information services. The DoD MWR library activities support readiness and the military mission, professional and technical education and training, Internet access, transition and career assistance, relocation assistance, and leisure needs of the military community. Recreation programs. Recreation programs provide opportunities for social interaction, self-expression, leisure pursuits, and cultural and educational activities that appeal to all segments of the community. These can include: free admission movies; outdoor recreation programs; recreational classes such as sailing, skiing, kayaking, auto skills, and swimming; and arts and crafts and other special interest programs. Leisure travel. The DoD Information, Tickets, and Tours (ITT) program provides economical opportunities for service members and their families to satisfy their needs for local, regional, and national travel, tours, attractions, and events. Recreational lodging. Recreational lodging offers eligible patrons the opportunity to relax and enjoy their vacation at a premier location while providing significant savings to the service member in the process. Recreational lodging allows patrons to rent cabins, trailers, chalets, cabanas, beach houses, cottages, or hookups in trailer/recreational vehicle (RV) parks. Additionally, Armed Forces Recreation Centers are resorts operated by one Service for all of the DoD Components' use for the primary purpose of providing rest and recreational activities. Single service member programs. These programs support the overall quality of life for single service members ages eighteen to twenty-five by offering exciting and diverse programs and services that appeal to this age group and by encouraging and assisting single service members in identifying and planning for recreational and leisure activities. 8 of 67 U.S. FAMILY AND MORAL, WELFARE AND RECREATION Revenue generating programs. These programs generate enough income to cover most operating expenses so they receive very limited appropriated fund (APF) support. Typical programs include golf courses, food and beverage programs, bowling centers, and marinas. Child care and youth programs. Child care and youth programs provide a system of quality, available, and affordable programs and services for eligible children and youth from birth through eighteen years of age. Specific programs include the Child Development Program, Youth Activities, Family Child Care, School-Age Care, and child care resource and referral. The following directory of US Military Installations in the Washington, D.C./Virginia/Maryland Area contains links to Family & MWR program available through each individual U.S. Military Installations. US MILITARY INSTALLATIONS IN THE D.C./VIRGINIA/MARYLAND AREA Please note that some US Military Installations have more than one military service. This is the case for Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall (JBMHH) which has a US Army component as well as a US Marine Corps component. These bases are usually called “Joint Base” as a result of Base Realignments and Closures (last one in 2005) which was the department's efforts to optimize the delivery of installation support across the services. Although these bases are trying to optimize their support services by merging them, some joint bases still have two separate Family Support Centers (JBMHH is one of them). As foreign military members, you do not have to worry about using a particular US Military Facility based on your service affiliation (Army, Navy, Air Force). You and your family members are free to use any of the services offered on any US Bases, regardless of your Canadian Forces element. JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL (JBMHH) (ARMY AND MARINE CORPS) www.army.mil/jbmhh Fort Myer (US Army): www.army.mil/jbmhh Base Guide: http://www.military.com/base-guide/fort-myer Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Family Moral, Welfare and Recreation (JBMHH FMWR): www.jbmhhmwr.com 102 Custer Road, Bldg 203 | Fort Myer, VA 22211-1199 Army Community Service (ACS): 703-696-3510 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 4pm MCCS Henderson Hall (US Marine Corps): www.mccshh.com Base Guide: http://issuu.com/mccshh/docs/mccs_henderson_hall_guide_2014_we b Marine and Family Programs: www.mccshh.com/MFS.html 1555 Southgate Road, Building 12, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Arlington, Virginia 22214 T: 703-614-7200 FORT BELVOIR (ARMY) www.belvoir.army.mil Base Guide: www.dcmilitary.com/section/baseguide_belvoir Fort Belvoir Directorate of Family, Moral, Welfare and Recreation Army Community Service (ACS): Building 200, 9800 Belvoir Road (18th and Belvoir Rd) Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 9 of 67 US MILITARY INSTALLATIONS IN THE D.C./VIRGINIA/MARYLAND AREA T: 703-805-4590 http://belvoir.armymwr.com/us/belvoir/ NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON (NAVY) www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/ndw.html Base Guide: http://www.military.com/base-guide/naval-district-washington NDW Installations: Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (see below for more info) NSA Annapolis NSA Bethesda NAS Patuxent River NSA South Potomac NSA Washington US Navy Ceremonial Guard Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC): Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Bldg. 13 Monday-Friday: 7:30am to 4pm T: 202-767-0450 www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/ndw/installations/nsa_washington/ffr.html Link to MWR (411) and Family Connection Newsletters: http://issuu.com/jointbaseanacostiabolling JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING (JBAB) (NAVY AND AIR FORCE) www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/ndw/installations/jbab.html Base Guide:http://www.military.com/base-guide/joint-base-anacostiabolling JBAB Military and Family Support Center: 118 Brookley Avenue, Bldg 13, Washington, DC 20032 T: 202-767-0450 Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 7:30am to 4pm www.mywfr.com JOINT BASE ANDREWS (AIR FORCE) Base Operator: 301-981-1110 www.andrews.af.mil JB Andrews Base Guide: http://www.military.com/base-guide/andrews-air-force-base/basedirectory Newcomers Page: www.andrews.af.mil/library/newcomers/index.asp Military and Family Support Center: (11th Force Support Squadron) Bldg 1191 Menoher Dr. T: 301-981-7087 Office Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30am to 4:30pm www.andrewsfss.com/mfsc.html Spotlight Magazine (Force Support Squadron Monthly Newsletter): www.andrewsfss.com/spotlight.html FORT GEORGE G. MEADE (ARMY, NAVY, AIR FORCE, MARINES AND COAST US Army side: www.ftmeade.army.mil US Navy side: www.niocmd.navy.mil 10 of 67 US MILITARY INSTALLATIONS IN THE D.C./VIRGINIA/MARYLAND AREA GUARD) Navy: T: 301-688-6491 Army: T: 301-677-5590 Welcome Guide: http://www.ftmeade.army.mil/pages/newcomers/guide/ Fort Meade Family, Moral, Welfare and Recreation: 2212 Chisholm Ave, Ft Meade MD 20755 T: 301-677-9014/17/18 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 4 pm http://ftmeademwr.com/ Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC): T: 301-677-9014/17/18 www.public.navy.mil/fcc-c10f/niocmd/Pages/FleetandFamily.aspx Army Community Service (ACS): T: 301-677-5590 www.ftmeademwr.com/acs.php Airman and Family Readiness Center (AFRC): T: 301-677-4136 or 301-677-4138 www.ftmeade.army.mil/pages/airman/afrc.html 11 of 67 STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS STATES, COUNTIES AND CITIES DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA http://dc.gov/ WASHINGTON, D.C. GOVERNMENT Office of Unified Communications: 2720 Martin Luther King Jr Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20032 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm Information Line: 311 24 hours a day, 365 days a year Alert DC - Emergency Notification System (Registration required): http://mpdc.dc.gov/service/dc-police-alert STATE OF VIRGINIA STATE OF VIRGINIA GOVERNMENT www.virginia.gov Ready Virginia Mobile App - The free app for iPhone® and Android™ devices provides emergency planning and guidance: www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/additional-resources/mobileapp ARLINGTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT Information & Referral 2100 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201 (Courthouse Metro, Orange Line) Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am - 5pm Email: [email protected] Voice: 703-228-3000 TTY/TDD: 703-228-4611 FAIRFAX COUNTY GOVERNMENT 12000 Government Center Parkway Fairfax, VA 22035 T: 703-FAIRFAX (703-324-7329) Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 4:30pm CITY OF ALEXANDRIA GOVERNMENT Public Information www.arlingtonva.us Information for New Arlington Residents: www.arlingtonva.us/portals/topics/page87702.aspx Stay in Arlington Guide: www.arlingtonva.us/departments/ParksRecreation/scripts/camps/Park sRecreationScriptsCampsMain.aspx Arlington Alerts Emergency Notification System: www.arlingtonalert.com – “Arlington Alert is a free County service. However, registration is required. When an emergency occurs, Arlington Alert will instantly notify you with updates, instructions on where to go, what to do, or what not to do, who to contact and other important information.” www.fairfaxcounty.gov Newcomer’s Guide: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/newtofairfax Fairfax County Emergency Notification System: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/cean http://alexandriava.gov/ Newcomer’s Guide: 12 of 67 STATES, COUNTIES AND CITIES 301 King Street, Room 1900 Alexandria, VA 22314 T: 703.746.HELP (703.746.4357) Fax: 703.838.6426 http://alexandriava.gov/index.aspx?tab=Residents City of Alexandria Emergency Notification System: https://enews.alexandriava.gov/index.php?CCheck=1 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am - 5pm CITY OF FALLS CHURCH GOVERNMENT 300 Park Avenue Falls Church VA 22046 T: 703-248-5001 (TTY 711) www.fallschurchva.gov Newcomer’s Guide: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/newtofairfax New Resident Checklist: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/cean STATE OF MARYLAND STATE OF MARYLAND GOVERNMENT www.maryland.gov Maryland State Alerts (Webpage): www.maryland.gov/pages/citizen_alerts.aspx ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY GOVERNMENT 44 Calvert Street Annapolis, MD. 21401 Telephone: 410-222-7000 MONTGOMERY COUNTY GOVERNMENT General Information & Service Request: Call 311 Outside of Montgomery County: T: 240-777-0311 FREDERICK COUNTY GOVERNMENT 12 East Church Street Frederick, MD 21701 T: 301-600-9000 www.aacounty.org Anne Arundel Alerts (Webpage): www.aacounty.org/AACoAlertNews.cfm www.montgomerycountymd.gov Newcomers Resources: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Resident/newcomers.html Alert Montgomery - Emergency Notification System: https://alert.montgomerycountymd.gov/index.php?CCheck=1 http://frederickcountymd.gov/ Resident information: http://frederickcountymd.gov/index.aspx?NID=31 ALERT Frederick County Emergency Notification System: http://frederickcountymd.gov/index.aspx?NID=4727 13 of 67 RELOCATION VISITORS AND RELOCATION GUIDES The US Family and Moral, Welfare and Recreation (Family & MWR) programs and services include relocation services for newly posted military members and their families. To find out more about these services, please contact the Family & MWR Center or Relocation Services Coordinator at the US Military Installation of your choice. The following are visitors and relocation guides available online. Washington Visitors Guides http://www.washingtonian.com/2012/07/20/visitors-guide-five-daysin-washington-dc/ Guides on everything you can think of, such as how to spend one, two, or three days in Washington with the kids, list of hidden gems, fun things to do outdoors in Washington and so much more… About.com - Neighborhoods of the Washington, DC Capital Region Neighborhood Scout http://dc.about.com/od/neigborhoodprofiles/u/Neighborhoods.htm www.neighborhoodscout.com “Get crime, school, real estate reports for any address.” Washington, DC: www.neighborhoodscout.com/dc/washington Bethesda, MD: www.neighborhoodscout.com/md/bethesda Chevy Chase, MD: www.neighborhoodscout.com/md/chevy-chase McLean, VA: www.neighborhoodscout.com/va/mclean Arlington, VA: www.neighborhoodscout.com/va/arlington Alexandria, VA: www.neighborhoodscout.com/va/alexandria Falls Church, VA: www.neighborhoodscout.com/va/falls-church Vienna, VA: www.neighborhoodscout.com/va/vienna The Washington Post – Neighborhoods Guide www.washingtonpost.com/real-estate/neighborhoods/index.html You can search by state (DC, VA, MD) and by categories such as: Popular, Shortest Commutes, Family-friendly, Renter Favorites, etc. Here’s a link to their “Going Out Guide”: www.washingtonpost.com/gog Washington Family Magazine – Relocation Guide www.washingtonfamily.com/guides/annual_welcome_to_washington. html Lots of info and useful links for families living in the Washington DC Area. Cultural Tourism DC Washington DC Pages http://www.culturaltourismdc.org/portal/copy-of-home1 http://www.dcpages.com/ Official web community publication for the District of Columbia. 14 of 67 LOCAL UTILITY COMPANIES Important Information to Know Before Opening an Account with Utility Companies: Unless you have a US Social Security Number and have previously had credit in the US, you may have difficulty doing anything that requires a credit check such as obtaining credit cards, setting up utilities and getting a cellular telephone. Very few companies will check your credit rating with the Canadian credit bureau. You may be asked to give a refundable security deposit for things such as cellular telephone service and utilities. You can try to persuade the companies by explaining that you are posted here as an official of the Canadian government and that you do not have a US Social Security Number as of yet. The CDLS Clerks can provide a letter attesting to this fact. You may also wish to call the service provider back and ask the question of another representative as some of them are more amenable to working with Canadian Forces Members than others. You also have the option of asking to speak to a manager. Do not give your Canadian Social Insurance Number as this is not the same as the U.S .Social Security Number and will cause great confusion. Security Deposits: Be aware that security deposits can range from $200 to $1,000 and most are refunded within a specific timeframe, when satisfactory credit is established (6 months to a year), when service is discontinued, or whichever comes first. It is recommended that you contact the utility companies in your area (see list provided below) to enquire about new client requirements prior to opening an account. Costs may be prohibitive and you may decide to choose another utility provider. Tax Exemption on Utilities: Only members who are physically employed at the Embassy of Canada are eligible for tax exemption on utilities. Once you have arranged your telephone/internet/cable accounts, you can apply for utility tax exemptions from the Department of State through the Protocol Coordinator. For more information on US Security Numbers and tax exemption, please refer to the CDLS Welcome Book you received by email (also available on the CDLS Website) or contact the CDLS Protocol Coordinator: Email: [email protected] | Website: www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca (Login required) T: 202-682-7697 | Canadian Switch Network (CSN) 251-1740 x7697 WASHINGTON, D.C. ELECTRICITY PEPCO www.pepco.com (202) 833-7500 GAS Washington Gas www.washgas.com (703) 750-1400 or 1 (800) 752-7520 WATER AND SEWER DC Water and Sewer Authority www.dcwasa.com (202) 787-2000 STATE OF MARYLAND ELECTRICITY PEPCO www.pepco.com/forms/pepco/residential/startservice(md).aspx T: 202-833-7500 GAS Washington Gas www.washgas.com T: 703-750-1400 or 1-800-752-7520 15 of 67 LOCAL UTILITY COMPANIES WATER AND SEWER Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission www.wssc.dst.md.us T: 301-206-4001 or 1-800-828-6439 STATE OF VIRGINIA ELECTRICITY Dominion Virginia Power www.dom.com T: 1-888-366-4357 GAS Washington Gas www.washgas.com T: 703-750-1400 or 1-800-752-7520 WATER AND SEWER There are many – Please confirm with your landlord. Arlington County: Department of Environmental Services - Utilities Services Office: http://desutil.arlingtonva.us/index.html E-mail: [email protected] 2100 Clarendon Blvd, Suite 710, Arlington, VA 22201 Call Center: (703) 228-6570 Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm City of Alexandria: Virginia American Water – City of Alexandria: www.amwater.com/vaaw/About-Us/Alexandria-Water T: 800-452-6863 Falls Church: Department of Public Utilities: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/DocumentCenter/Home/View/860 Public Utilities – Administration 300 Park Avenue, Suite 302 West Falls Church, VA 22046 T: 703-248-5001 (TTY 711) Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm TELEPHONE, CABLE AND INTERNET Telephone charges are quite different in the US. First of all, there are charges for both local and long distance calls. Most people opt for a package with unlimited local calling and recently, phone companies have come out with a variety of packages including unlimited long distance to anywhere in the US and Canada. These options are quite reasonable and can be very convenient if you intend to call home frequently. Another major difference is that you may have one company that hooks up your phone and then you have the option of either using that same company for your local and long distance charges, or choosing from one of the many other suppliers. 16 of 67 LOCAL UTILITY COMPANIES In choosing your provider, you will probably want to visit the web sites of the major telephone service providers to get information on local and long-distance calling plans. You can also ask your colleagues/sponsors what plans they use. Several companies offer bundling (phone, internet and/or cable) which can often save money. Some people are able to make do with purchasing pre-paid calling cards from local convenience/ drug stores, which offer very competitive long distance rates and allow the caller to avoid potentially unwanted ‘package deal purchases’ from a service provider. LOCAL PROVIDERS Xfinity http://www.xfinity.com/ T: 1-800-301-3000 Cox Communications http://ww2.cox.com/ T: 703-378-8422 Verizon www.verizon.com T: 1-800-837-4966 NATIONWIDE PROVIDERS (LONG DISTANCE) AT&T www.consumer.att.com/plans/calling T: 1-800-222-0300 MCI www.mci.com T: 1-800-333-5000 US Sprint www.sprint.com T: 1-866-866-7509 SATELLITE TV Satellite television service such as DIRECT TV or DISH TV is available through each provider’s website and at area stores such as Radio Shack, Sears, Blockbuster, or Best Buy (consult the yellow pages for more satellite choices). Please be aware that there is often a service agreement of up to 2 years associated with cable/satellite service and it is your personal responsibility if you enter into such a contract. VOICE OVER INTERNET PROTOCOL (VOIP) As an alternative to regular residential telephone service there is VOIP, or “voice over internet protocol”. This type of service runs your home phone over the internet rather than over traditional telephone lines. You may wish to compare and contrast the prices and features of traditional telephone service with VOIP. Some of the service providers who offer VOIP service are: Vonage - www.vonage.com Skype - www.skype.com 17 of 67 FINANCIAL AND BANKING INFORMATION How do I get a bank account in the United States? CF Members are free to do their personal banking with any local, or internet bank, but it should be noted that you might have some difficulty opening an account and obtaining credit. The CDLS Clerks can provide a Letter of Introduction to each newly arrived CF Member to facilitate the process of opening a bank account. The Canadian Embassy in Washington, DC and many other Canadian Missions in the US do their business with the Bank of America (see contact information in the bank directory below). They have made arrangements to provide Canadian diplomats with a package of personal banking options under their diplomatic banking program including: Free chequing Free online banking and bill payment Conversion of Canadian dollar cheques to US dollars with immediate availability of funds A preferred exchange rate Bank of America will also issue credit cards, loans and lines of credit when provided with a letter of salary and employment verification from CDLS and when no negative credit report exists. Please note: Non-Bank of America ATM fees do not apply at some ATMs located outside the US. You will not pay a transaction fee when you use ATMs of Scotiabank in Canada. If you choose Bank of America: Prior to coming on your House Hunting Trip, set-up an appointment to open your personal bank accounts while you are on your HHT; Before your meeting, contact your CDLS Clerk to ask for a Letter of Introduction from CDLS to present to the Bank Manager. In order to open your accounts, you will need to bring your passport (with visa) and another form of picture ID, ideally a driver’s licence. If you do not choose Bank of America There are three US banks that are owned by major Canadian banks (list provided in directory below). Although not all of these options have branch locations in your area, you may prefer to see if your Canadian bank can assist you in the set-up of your USD accounts. (NOTE: You may be subject to service fees at ATMs since there are a limited number of local branches). When considering these options, we would recommend that you research any potential fees and/or holds for transferring funds. Keep in mind that any banking option you choose will need to have a US branch address. For more information on recommendations for personal finances and banking in the US, please refer to the CDLS Welcome Book you received by email (also available on the CDLS Website) or contact the CDLS Protocol Coordinator: T: 202-682-7697 Canadian Switch Network (CSN) 251-1740 x7697 Facsimile 202-682-7673 Email: [email protected] Website: www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca (Login required) BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Bank of America Closest Branch to the Embassy of Canada www.bankofamerica.com Branch and ATM Locator: http://locators.bankofamerica.com/locator/locator/LocatorAction.do 18 of 67 FINANCIAL AND BANKING INFORMATION 1501 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20006 T: 202-624-4253 Branch Hours: Office Hours: Mon-Thu 9-5, Fri 9-6, Sat-Sun Closed TD Bank www.tdbank.com Please note: While TD Canada Trust and TD Bank NA are separate banking institutions, clients of TD Bank NA have free access to TD Canada Trust ATMs while in Canada. Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) — USA Harris Bank www.rbcbank.com/banking-in-the-us/index.html www.harrisbank.com Affiliated with Bank of Montreal. 19 of 67 HEALTH AND MEDICAL DIRECTORY The following is an excerpt from the Health Care information for Dependents on the CDLS Website, which can be found at: www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca “Management of health care administration while in the US can be an onerous task. There is a much greater responsibility on the members themselves to manage the claims process and to communicate with the respective facilities, physician's billing offices and insurance companies directly, than what you have experienced in Canada. Not all families in the US have the same eligibility: Dependents of Attachés, liaison & exchange officers, personnel at NORAD detachments, and IMS students at War Colleges or Military Universities for example have optional benefits at US Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs) for medical coverage (not dental) under the NATO Standing of Forces Agreement and CAN-US Reciprocal Health Care Agreement in addition to carrying their Public Service Health Care Plan coverage. Information on this coverage can be found at the following Tricare Link [provided below]…” “…The choice between using Allianz Global Insurance (PSHCP) and Tricare can be a complicated one and we will be creating an advantages/disadvantages page to help (to be published). In the meantime, please feel free to contact us for advice on your particular situation [contact email provided below]. When in doubt, Allianz is probably your best choice, but there are times when using Tricare can be easier. Your dependents are not mandated to use an MTF for care, they are the option at all times to see the provider of their choice (within the scope of the PSHCP plan) and bill through Allianz Global Assistance (PSHCP). Dependents of Civilian University ATL students, Foreign Military Sales projects personnel or IMS students do not. You must rely 100% on your PSHCP coverage. Whether you are paying for medical services upfront and claiming later, or you are purchasing prescription medications, there are ways to save money in the US Health System. For example, if you are able to get discounts on prescriptions and then are claiming the amount through Allianz Global, that 20% of co-pay could be reduced. Our FAQ’s page provides some previous examples and helpful explanations.” [Link provided below] Important note: Because each case is different, we recommend contacting PSHCP (Great West Life and/or Allianz) prior to using any medical services or getting any medical procedures done that would require payment, in order to verify if they are covered and how much is reimbursed through your insurance plan. For more information about health and medical services in the US, please refer to the Health section of the CDLS Website [link provided below] or to the “Medical and Dental Care” section in the CDLS Welcome Book (available on the CDLS Website). You can also contact the CF Health Services Group HQ Detachment Washington at [email protected] (more contact information is available on the CDLS Website). The following are useful links and information related to Health and Medical Care for Canadian Forces military families in the US. Health Care for Dependents (CDLS Website) www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca Please note: You will be required to login if not on a DWAN computer using the member’s login info. PSHCP Health Care For Families www.pshcp.ca Medical Insurance for the PSHCP is handled through Allianz Global Assistance (formerly Mondial Assistance) – check the link on the CDLS Website: “Understand the PSHCP – Medical”: www.cdlswelfcw.forces.gc.ca 20 of 67 HEALTH AND MEDICAL DIRECTORY Fort Belvoir Community Hospital/ Fairfax Health clinic Direct Billing from your Health Provider to Allianz Global Assistance Allianz Global Assistance phone number: 1-800-363-1835 Email: [email protected] PSHCP Group Plan #: 55555 Your personal PSHCP certificate number: (available through your OR) Billing address: Allianz Global Assistance Public Service Health Care Plan Department PO Box 71987 Richmond, VA 23255-1987 CDLS Medical Claims - Forms www.fbch.capmed.mil/About/fairfax.aspx http://allianzassistance.com From the CDLS Website: “Direct billing is very common in the US In fact the US Health System is designed for providers to bill insurance companies directly. Therefore, you should be able to direct bill as well and have your health provider bill Allianz Global directly.” Find out how to bill directly by visiting the CDLS Website at: www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca/personnelsupport/interneteng.aspx?page=14867 www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca/personnelsupport/interneteng.aspx?page=12667 From the CDLS Website: “Dependent Claims: Under the MFSI's, the only Dependent Medical related expenses the CF can cover are excess amounts not paid by the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP) and travel to medical appointments/procedures greater than 50km and are not available in the local area.” You will find the following forms on the CDLS Website: TRICARE (US Medical Insurance) CF52 - Dependent Medical(R70)/Excess Dental Top Up CF52 - Dependent Travel Top Up www.tricare.mil More information is available about TRICARE through the CDLS(W) Website at: www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca/personnelsupport/interneteng.aspx?page=13163 TRICARE Nurse Advice Line: www.tricare.mil/ContactUs/CallUs/NAL.aspx Call 1-800-TRICARE (874-2273), Option 1 Suggestions to Save Money (by CDLS) www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca/personnelsupport/interneteng.aspx?page=14640 “There are always ways of saving money with the US Health System. Whether you are a CF Member or you are a Dependent with the PSHCP.” Helpful hints on how to save money are available on the CDLS Website at the link provided here above. 21 of 67 HEALTH AND MEDICAL DIRECTORY CF Families in the US - Frequently Asked Questions (and answers) www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca/personnelsupport/interneteng.aspx?page=13145 If you have a question about Health Care for CF Members and their dependents, you might want to check this CDLS Webpage before contacting the personnel of the CF Health Services Group HQ Det Washington – you might find the answer you’re looking for. MILITARY TREATMENT FACILITIES (MTF) The following is an excerpt from the Health Care information for CF Members on the CDLS Website regarding Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs) for CF members and their dependents: “For CF Personnel who are covered under the NATO SOFA or Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA), your first stop (except in cases of emergency) will be a US MTF. In many cases, it is the easiest option for your dependents as well. In order to access US facilities, CF members and their dependants must be entered into the Defense Enrolment and Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) database and should take the necessary steps to do so immediately. When you are access care, the number that you should use is the 9-digit Foreign ID Number of the CF Member (normally starts with a 9). Accredited personnel must complete the accreditation with the US Department of State and/or the Defense Department before enrolment can be submitted. CF members are to complete a DD1172, DEERS enrolment form for themselves and each eligible dependent.” More information about “How to Access Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs)” can be found on the CDLS Website. The following are links to US Military Treatment Facilities located in the D.C. Metro Area: Tricare – MTF Locator www.tricare.mil/mtf Search for an MTF near you by sorting the list alphabetically, regionally, or by state. Integrated Referral Management and Appointment Call Center (IRMAC) (DC Metro Area) 1-855-227-6331 Andrew Rader US Army Health Clinic Andrew Rader US Army Health Clinic 401 Carpenter Road, Building 525 Fort Myer, Virginia 22211 T: 703-696-2977 Clinic Hours: Mon, Tue & Fri 7:30am-4pm Wed 7:30am-12noon, 2-4pm Thursday: 7:30am-3pm www.capmed.mil/SitePages/Article.aspx?NewsID=14 The Integrated Referral Management and Appointment Call Center (IRMAC) can assist you with scheduling your appointment by contacting IRMAC at (855) 227-6331 OR (855) CAPMED1 from 0630-1600 to book your next appointment. TRICARE Online is also available to assist you with booking 24/7: https://www.tricareonline.com http://kacc.narmc.amedd.army.mil/sites/rader/default.aspx Rader Clinic DOES NOT have an Emergency Department. Nurse Advice Line: 1-800-874-2273 Option 1 22 of 67 HEALTH AND MEDICAL DIRECTORY Closed on weekends & holidays. Rader Appointment Line: 855-227-6331 Fort Belvoir Community Hospital 9300 DeWitt Loop Fort Belvoir, VA 22060, United States General Information: T: 571-231-3224, Option 4 www.fbch.capmed.mil/SitePages/Home.aspx Fort Belvoir Community Hospital DOES have an emergency room: (571) 231-3162. Map and Directions: www.fbch.capmed.mil/patients/directions.aspx Visitor Guidance: www.fbch.capmed.mil/patients/visiting.aspx Appointments: 855-227-6331 Malcolm Grow Medical Clinic (89th Medical Group) 1050 W. Perimeter Road Joint Base Andrews, MD 20762-6601 Hospital Operator: 240-857-5911 www.79mdw.af.mil/units/779thmedicalgroup/index.asp Malcom Grow Medical Clinic DOES NOT have an Emergency Department. Clinic Hours: Monday to Friday, 7am - 4:30pm only Appointment Call Center: 1-888-999-1212 Monday to Friday, 6am - 6pm Anacostia-Bolling Medical Clinic 238 Brookley Avenue, Building 1300 Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Washington, D.C. 20032-0101 www.79mdw.af.mil/units/579thmedicalgroup/index.asp Anacostia-Bolling Medical Clinic DOES NOT have an Emergency Department. Operator: 202-404-5512 Monday to Friday, 7am - 4:30pm only For Medical Emergencies: 911 Appointment Call Center: 1-888-999-1212 Monday to Friday, 6am - 6 pm Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center 2480 Llewellyn Avenue, STE 5800 Fort Meade, Maryland 20755-5129 Office Hours: 7:30am - 4:30pm http://kacc.narmc.amedd.army.mil/SitePages/Home.aspx Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center DOES NOT have an emergency room. Appointments: Monday to Friday, 6am - 4:30pm T: 301-677-8606 or 1-866-511-8748 Book Appointments Online: www.tricareonline.com To speak to a Primary Care Manager for an urgent medical condition after-hours (Prime only): 301-677-8800 Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) 8901 Rockville Pike www.wrnmmc.capmed.mil/SitePages/home.aspx WRNMMC DOES have Emergency Medicine to serve patients with 23 of 67 HEALTH AND MEDICAL DIRECTORY Bethesda, MD 1-800-526-7101 or 301-295-4611 Integrated Referral Management and Appointment Call Center Hours: 6:30am - 4pm Phone: 1-855-227-6331 or 855-CAPMED1 Joint Task Force National Capital Region Medical Command serious injuries or illnesses. Directions to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center: www.wrnmmc.capmed.mil/PatientVisitors/SitePages/Directions.aspx Parking and Commuter Options: www.wrnmmc.capmed.mil/PatientVisitors/SitePages/Parking.aspx Please note: The Navy Postgraduate Dental School located at Walter Reed will provide dental care to dependents 13 yrs and under (includes orthodontics). For more info, go to the Dental Care section below. www.capmed.mil/SitePages/Home.aspx Integrated Referral Management and Appointing Center for the National Capital Region: 855-227-6331 DENTAL CARE Public Service Health Care Dental Plan www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/hr-rh/bp-rasp/benefits-avantages/dcp-rsd/dcp-rsdeng.asp Great West Life www.greatwestlife.com Winnipeg Benefit Payments PO Box 3050, Stn Main Winnipeg, MB R3C 0E6 (Canada) Telephone: 1-800-957-9777 Fax: 204-946-8235 From the CDLS Website: “Great West Life, located in Winnipeg, is the company responsible for provided services, as outlined by the CFDCP, for Public Service employees and family members of Canadian Forces members. The plan does not change upon being posted to the United States. Claims will be processed using the same form, and continue to be sent to Winnipeg. Members should not expect all costs to be covered by the plan. Members and their spouses are encouraged to review the CFDCP guide to acknowledge plan annual limits and co-payment schedules.” Link to form (use Group Policy Number: 55777): www.greatwestlife.com/web5/groups/group/@public/documents/we b_content/s7_001159.pdf “As in Canada, if the Member anticipates the dental costs to be in excess of $400.00 CAD, a treatment plan should be obtained from the dentist. The treatment plan should be faxed to Great West Life. The adjudicator will advise which costs will be reimbursable. If orthodontics are required, it is recommended to contact Great West Life for details.” More information about Dental Coverage is available on the CDLS Website at: www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca/personnelsupport/interneteng.aspx?page=12969 Mouth Healthy created by the American Dental Association www.mouthhealthy.org ADA® Find-a-Dentist™ tool is located on the right end side. DC Pages – Dental Care Directory www.dcpages.com/directory/Health_and_Fitness/Dental_Care Dental Care directory for the Washington, D.C. Area. 24 of 67 HEALTH AND MEDICAL DIRECTORY LINKS TO OTHER HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES AND INFORMATION CVS Pharmacies www.cvs.com Discount program for American Automobile Association Members: http://www2.caremark.com/aaa/ CVS Minute Clinic: www.minuteclinic.com (18 months and older) Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP) T: 1-800-268-7708 Teletype: 1-800-567-5803 www.forces.gc.ca/en/caf-community-support-services-map/memberassistance-program.page A voluntary and confidential service initiated by the Canadian Forces (CF) to help Members (Regular Force, all Reserve Class Members, Cadets) and family members who have personal concerns that affect their personal well-being, and/or work performance. 25 of 67 EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS GENERAL Schooldigger www.schooldigger.com Schooldigger is a great site for school searches including information on test scores, rankings, school and district boundaries, student/teacher ratios, ethnic makeup, and scores of other useful metrics and information for over 120,000 elementary, middle, and high schools in the United States. Great Schools www.greatschools.org GreatSchools allows you to search for public, public charter and private schools in a district. Each school is ranked from 1-10, 10 being the highest. FOR MILITARY FAMILIES School Quest www.schoolquest.org School Quest is a site designed specifically for military families. It allows you to search for schools by installation or city and state. This site also provides demographics and test scores for each school. Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) www.militarychild.org Great site developed by the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC). You can find some great info/resources/guides for parents such as: Getting your Ducklings in a Row: A guide to eligibility and vaccination requirements for Kindergarten and First Grade entry. K-12 Core Curriculum Standards (United States) A Military Parent's Guide to School Policies and Transitions Military Impacted Schools Association (MISA) http://militaryimpactedschoolsassociation.org Military Impacted Schools Association (MISA) is a national organization of school superintendents. Their mission is to serve school districts with a high concentration of military children. OTHER RESOURCES Home School Legal Defense Association www.hslda.org Home School Legal Defense Association is a nonprofit advocacy organization who promotes homeschool-friendly legislation at the state and federal levels, and offers information and resources to encourage and support all homeschoolers. 26 of 67 EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS BY STATE OR DISTRICT DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA: District of Columbia Public Schools http://dc.gov/ District of Columbia Public Schools: http://dcps.dc.gov/ STATE OF VIRGINIA: Virginia Department of Education www.doe.virginia.gov The Virginia School Report Card: http://www.doe.virginia.gov/statistics_reports/school_report_card /index.shtml Arlington County – Public Schools www.arlington.k12.va.us Registration Information: http://www.apsva.us/site/Default.aspx?PageID=3005 Arlington County Summer School Programs: http://www.apsva.us/summerschool Fairfax County Public Schools www.fcps.edu/index.shtml Registration Information: www.fcps.edu/parents/start Fairfax County Summer School Programs: www.fcps.edu/news/summer Alexandria City Public Schools www.acps.k12.va.us Registration Information: www.acps.k12.va.us/enroll Alexandria City Public School Newcomer orientation video: http://acpsk12va.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=32 Alexandria City Summer School Programs: www.acps.k12.va.us/summer Falls Church City Public Schools http://www.fccps.org/ Registration Information: www.fccps.org/admissions/index.html STATE OF MARYLAND: Maryland Department of Education http://marylandpublicschools.org/msde Anne Arundel County Public Schools www.aacps.org Registration Information: www.aacps.org/studentservices/enroll.asp Anne Arundel County Summer School Programs: www.aacps.org/summer 27 of 67 EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS Montgomery County Public Schools www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org Registration Information: www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/parents/basics/enrollment Montgomery County Summer School Programs: www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/extendedhours/summ erschool Frederick County Public Schools www.fcps.org Registration Information: http://www.fcps.org/student-services/enrolling-a-student.cfm Frederick County Summer School Programs: http://www.fcps.org/academics/Summer-School.cfm FRENCH CLASSES Capitol Language Services LLC 4900 Connecticut Avenue, Washington, DC 20008 202-487-1857 www.capitollanguageservices.net Communikids (Falls Church) 510 North Washington Street, Suite 400, Falls Church IS Languages 7906 Woodmont Ave Bethesda, MD 20814 301-312-8847 www.communikids.com Language Stars (Northern Virginia and Maryland) Locations: Northern Virginia (Alexandria, Fairfax, McLean, Reston), Bethesda, Gaithersburg. Minilinguists.com www.languagestars.com Le Petit Centre Francophone PO Box 56 Rockville, MD 20851-0056 (301) 770-2937 Saturday Schools for European Languages (Bethesda) 9525 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814 Spanish, French, Italian for Pre-K through 6th grade Also: http://www.washingtonparent.com/featuredlistings/microsites/WA-140724-002.php#sthash.NlgUtTQ4.dpuf Programs: Preschool, enrichment (1½ to 8), summer programs (2½ - 6) www.islanguages.com Offering language classes for all ages including French. Group classes, private lessons, tutoring, online instructions, corporate solutions, before-and-after school, preschool programs. For more info, contact: [email protected]. Programs: Parents & Tots Classes (1-3), Kids Only Classes (3-5, 5-8 and 8-10), Language Scholars and Summer Camps www.minilinguists.com High Quality foreign language and theatre arts consulting and curriculum development for parents, homeschooling groups and schools. Summer immersion theatre in French, Spanish or Chinese. Petit Centre Francophone has offered quality group lessons in various locations to children from six months to eighteen years old. www.saturday-schools.org/french -or- http://myfrenchclasses.org Programs: French classes offered on Saturdays and Wednesdays for ages 4 to grade 9 students (2.5 hours in length). 9525 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814 28 of 67 TRAVEL AND TRANSPORTATION About.com - Washington DC Public Transportation Guide http://dc.about.com/od/transportation/a/DCPublicTrans.htm A complete guide to Washington DC’s public transportation systems. Commuter Connections www.commuterconnections.com “Commuter Connections is a regional network of transportation organizations coordinated by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. They offer a variety of commuter programs and services from ridesharing to bicycling and find the closest park and ride lot.” The Washington Post – Travel information www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dr-gridlock Dr. Gridlock column, which appears on Thursday in the Extra Section and on Sunday in the Metro Section. E-Z Pass for tool collection booths www.ezpassmd.com – For Maryland www.ezpassva.com – For Virginia Good for travel by car to Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Washington Metropolitan Transit Area Authority www.wmata.com Bus and metro schedules as well as fares and directions for Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia. Virginia – DOT511 www.511virginia.org Virginia Traffic Information. Arlington County Commuter Service (ACCS) www.commuterpage.com Provides an overview of transportation options throughout the area, with a particular focus on Arlington. iRide for Arlington Teens: www.commuterpage.com/pages/special-programs/iride-for-arlingtonteens Maryland Department of Transportation www.mdot.maryland.gov Maryland's official travel information service: www.md511.org/default.aspx Maryland Transit Association www.mtamaryland.com “MTA operates Local and Commuter Buses, Light Rail, Metro Subway, Maryland Area Regional Commuter (MARC) Train Service, and a comprehensive Paratransit (Mobility) system. MTA also manages the Taxi Access system, and directs funding and statewide assistance to Locally Operated Transit Systems (LOTS) in each of Maryland’s 23 counties, Baltimore City, Annapolis and Ocean City.“ 29 of 67 TRAVEL AND TRANSPORTATION DC Circulator Bus http://www.dccirculator.com/ New bus service operating in the heart of Washington DC. They cover three routes and the fare is only one dollar. DC Street Car – NEW in 2013: www.dcstreetcar.com “Washington DC’s public transportation will soon be expanded with a new streetcar system - a 37 mile, 8 line light rail. The DC streetcar will utilize overhead wires on the first two lines and move to wireless operation as the system expands. The first line, the H Street/Benning Road line, is expected to open in 2013.” Zipcar: Car-sharing company www.zipcar.com “Zipcar is a unique option for rental car services. They hire a variety of cars by the hour as well as by the day. Although there is a membership fee, the service includes; gas, insurance, parking, and 125 free miles. Cars are parked in neighbourhoods throughout the DC area and accessed using a client passcard. Intercity Bus Companies www.aibra.org (American Intercity Bus Riders Association – AIBRA) Greyhound Lines: https://www.greyhound.com/ Coach USA: www.coachusa.com Passenger train companies Amtrak – US National Railroad Passenger Corporation www.amtrak.com Virginia Rail Express (VRE) – Light-rail service covering the Northern Virginia area: www.vre.org For the MARC Train Service - Commuter Rail Line to Washington DC http://mta.maryland.gov/marc-train 30 of 67 EMPLOYMENT AND JOB SEARCH Working in the US Dependents are permitted to be employed on the local US economy, however, US law requires they have a US Visa, a Department of Homeland Security Departure Record (CBP I-94 A), an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and a Social Security Number (SSN) prior to commencement of employment. Note: You must have an EAD before applying for the SSN through a local SSA office. For more information about the official employment related documents required for dependent in the USA, please refer to the Protocol Section of the CDLS Website or contact the CDLS Protocol Coordinator: Email: [email protected] | Website: www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca (Login required) T: 202-682-7697 | Canadian Switch Network (CSN) 251-1740 x7697 Working at the Embassy of Canada in Washington, D.C. Working at the Canadian Embassy may be an option for some spouses. The Canadian Embassy hires approximately 50 Locally Engaged Staff (LES), primarily from the pool of qualified spousal applicants. This includes positions in the Office of the Ambassador, the Organization of American States, the Canadian Defence Liaison Staff (W), Public Works and Government Services Canada, the Province of Alberta Office, RCMP, Citizenship and Immigration Canada, and Canadian Border Services Agency. In order to be employed at the Embassy, you must be screened for Reliability Status and some positions require a Security Clearance. You are encouraged to arrange this through Spousal Employment Support Office (SESO) prior to leaving Canada if you are an A-1 visa holder. An additional option is to meet with the HR officer during your HHT to assess potential employment opportunities and security clearances. Should you wait to apply at post, it can take considerably longer (up to one month for reliability status and 6 months or more for Secret clearance). For help in getting started, contact the SESO Coordinator at [email protected]. Many of the LES positions are Level 4/5 Administrative positions that are often filled from the “Spousal Inventory” of pre-interviewed, pre-qualified candidates. Spouses are encouraged to send resumes to HR Recruitment and Development in advance of their house hunting trip (after posting message has been received, not the screening phase), indicating their security clearance level (if obtained) and the date when they would be available for work. Many positions become vacant in the summer months and spouses can only be hired once relocated. Feel free to contact the HR Department to discuss all of the short and long-term opportunities available: Mary-Jo Sutherland, HR Officer (Recruitment & Learning) at [email protected] or (202) 448-6487. The following are employment and job search links and information. Embassy of Canada (Washington) Mary-Jo Sutherland, HR Officer (Recruitment & Learning) Email: [email protected] T: 202-448-6487 501 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, D.C. 20001 United States CDLS Website - Protocol section http://can-am.gc.ca/washington/index.aspx?lang=eng The staff of Canadian missions consists of two categories: CanadaBased Staff and Locally Engaged Staff. Many opportunities come available in late Spring and Summer. More information is available at: http://can-am.gc.ca/washington/offices-bureaux/JobOpsOffreEmploi.aspx?lang=eng www.cdlsw-elfcw.forces.gc.ca/personnelsupport/interneteng.aspx?page=12229 Go to “Employment” Section for more information and for forms and documents. Service Canada - Employment Insurance www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/ei/information/outside_canada.shtml#fi 31 of 67 EMPLOYMENT AND JOB SEARCH (EI) Benefits for Dependents in USA EI All claims received from individuals residing outside of Canada are processed in the Ontario region, at the Service Canada Centre in Kingston. “If you are residing in the United States and claiming regular benefits, you must be available and actively seeking work and you must provide proof that you are legally authorized to work in the United States. You will also need to submit your Record of Employment (ROE) from your Canadian employer.” – Service Canada Website Service Canada Centre (Ontario Region) Sub-Unit of interstate claim processing 299 Concession Street PO Box 210 Kingston, ON K7K 2B9 It is recommended to contact the CDLS (W) Protocol Coordinator regarding Work Authorizations (EADs) as soon as possible in order to initiate the necessary paperwork before you arrive at post. More information about EI Benefits for Dependents in USA is available on the CDLS Website. Phone: 1-877-486-1650 Fax: 613-545-8934 DFAIT Spousal Employment Support Office (SESO) You may file your claim for Canadian Employment Insurance benefits online at: www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/ei/application/employmentinsurance.sh tml. http://lbp.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/documents/fsd-dse/seso-bsec/menueng.asp The Spousal Employment Support Office supports CDLS (W) spouses who are accredited to the Canadian Embassy Mission (and on a caseby-case basis for CF spouses posted to various locations in the United States who require security clearances at Canadian bases as part of employment requirements) through direct client service and the development of spousal employment tools and policies. Personnel Screening, Consent and Authorization Form (TBS/SCT 330-23E) www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/tbsf-fsct/330-23-eng.asp Individuals who require access to more sensitive information (or access to sensitive federal government sites and/or assets) because of their job will be required to sign the Security Clearance Form (TBS/SCT 33060E). The form can be found at: http://www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/tbsffsct/330-60-eng.asp. JOB SEARCH WEBSITES DC Jobs www.dcjobs.com Other sites: www.linkedin.com, www.monster.com, www.careerbuilder.com US MILITARY EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE/READINESS PROGRAMS Employment Assistance/Readiness programs and services offered through the US Family & MWR: 32 of 67 EMPLOYMENT AND JOB SEARCH Like the Canadian Military Family Resource Centres, the US Family & Moral, Wellness and Recreation programs and services include employment assistance and/or readiness programs. They offer a wide-range of workshops such as job search strategies, career exploration, dress for success, résumé writing, etc. They can also provide one-on-one assistance if needed. In addition to these offerings, the US Family and MWR program sponsors or holds regular job fairs and works with local companies wanting to hire military spouses. A valid DEERS Card (dependent) is required to use these programs and services. Links to these programs are provided below. JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL Fort Myer (Army): Army Community Services 202 Custer Road, Bldg 201 Fort Myer, VA Fort Myer Employment Readiness Program Manager: Judy Joyner Email: [email protected] T: 703-696-3510 or 703-696-3047/3510 www.jbmhhmwr.com Fort Myer (Army): Employment Readiness Program (ERP) “The ERP offers job seeking skills and education, help with completing applications & résumés, and access to information on vacancies in federal and local government agencies and commercial organizations. The ERP also sponsors job fairs and works with local companies wanting to hire military spouses.“ *Employment Readiness Program offerings are listed in the JBMHH Newsletter entitled “Life YOUniversity” and available online at www.jbmhhmwr.com MCCS Henderson Hall (Marine Corps): MCCS Henderson Hall (Marine Corps): Career Resource Center Location: Building 21 T: 703-614-6828 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am – 4:30pm Education and Career Services: Location: Building 29 T: 703-614-9104 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am – 4:30pm FORT BELVOIR Army Community Services: Building 200, 9800 Belvoir Road (18th and Belvoir Rd), Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 T: 703-805-4590 ERP Program Manager: Laureen DuPree T:703-805-1836/2605 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30 pm - 4:30 pm Career Resource Center: www.mccshh.com/CRMC.html “At the Career Resource Management Center, one can search the Internet for job search websites , view federal and private job announcements, and draft and post resumes. Both the Transition Assistance Management Program (TAMP) and the Family Member Employment Assistance Program (FMEAP) are located within the CRMC.” Education and Career Services: http://www.mccshh.com/education.html “The mission of the Education & Career Services at Henderson Hall is to stimulate the lifelong learning process by effectively communicating the educational programs offered and to provide the requisite information, tools and support to the learning process.” Calendar of events and activities (all): www.mccshh.com/Calendar.html http://belvoir.armymwr.com/us/belvoir/programs/acs Employment Readiness Program (ERP) “ERP seeks to prepare these people in identifying and developing personal marketable skills, whether or not they intend to enter the job market now. Services available include employment/career counseling, information and referral, job banks, job search workshops, resource library and outreach programs on request.” Follow ERP on Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Fort-BelvoirEmployment-Readiness-Program/203311909728027 Closed on the first Wed of every month 33 of 67 EMPLOYMENT AND JOB SEARCH from 12-4:30pm for professional development training. Closed on all Federal Holidays JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING 118 Brookley Ave, bldg. 13 Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-767-0450 Hours: Weekdays: 7:30am - 4pm Weekends & federal holidays: closed NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON Military Family Support Center – Joint Base Anacostia- Bolling: Building 13, Brookley Ave T: 202-767-0450 www.mywfr.com/programs/ecccc17e-bc1a-46c4-8afd-e8e62f13769c Family Employment The Family Employment Readiness Program (FERP) provides no cost consultations, programs and services to help families in the job search process. Consultants are available to guide spouses and family members on career planning, job seeking and resume writing, as well as to help them prepare for interviews and negotiate offers. www.cnic.navy.mil/ffr/family_readiness/fleet_and_family_support_pr ogram/family_employment.html Family Employment Assistance “The Fleet and Family Support Center helps family members make career decisions and develop employment search skills through education, information and referral and assistance programs. FFSC offers computer usage for job searching as well as workshops that include employment skills building, career planning, resume writing, Federal employment information and interviewing techniques.” Link to 411 magazine (MWR Programs and Services): http://issuu.com/jointbaseanacostiabolling (look for latest 411 issue) JOINT BASE ANDREWS Bldg 1191 Menoher Dr. JB Andrews, T: 301.981.7087 Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am – 4:30pm http://www.andrewsfss.com/mfsc/spouses.html Provides consultations (via e-mail and in person), tools and resources to assist spouses with the job search process. Spotlight Magazine (Force Support Squadron Monthly Newsletter): www.andrewsfss.com/spotlight.html Closed on Weekends, 11th Wing Family Days & Holidays FORT MEADE Fleet and Family Support Center: 2212 Chisholm Ave Fort Meade, MD 20755 T: 301-677-9014 www.public.navy.mil/fcc-c10f/niocmd/Pages/FleetandFamily.aspx Family Employment Readiness Program (FERP) “One of the biggest challenges facing a Navy spouse is having to search for a new job every two or three years. FERP provides a variety of services to enhance career planning and continuity. The program offers information on local job and volunteer opportunities, career counseling and referral in addition to seminars and workshops. The Ft. Meade Airman and Family Readiness Center offers a variety of services in alliance with the Army and Navy to include information, referral, and financial services, relocation assistance, transition assistance, employment programs, spouse orientations, and more!” AFRC Calendar of events: www.ftmeade.army.mil/calendar/index.html FORT DETRICK www.detrick.army.mil/ertp 34 of 67 EMPLOYMENT AND JOB SEARCH Community Support Center 1520 Freedman Drive T: 301-619-2197 E-mail: [email protected]. mil Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am – 4:30pm Employment Readiness & Transition Program (ERTP) “ERTP assists transitioning and relocating military and civilian personnel; and their family members by providing information, direction and training on how and where to look for employment; and other services necessary to minimize employment problems.” Fort Detrick event calendars: ACS: www.detrick.army.mil/acs/events.cfm DRIVERS LICENSING & REGISTRATION Licensing: Most states permit military members to retain their Canadian driver's permit provided that the car is registered in the province that issued the permit. The local state licensing authorities can give you advice concerning this privilege for you and your dependants. Renewal of Canadian driver's permits for you and your dependants is normally permitted. However, some provinces will not issue a driver's permit to other than a bona fide domicile address within the particular province. You are advised to contact your local provincial authorities and insurance provider concerning this privilege prior to departing Canada. As a general rule, driver's permits and automobile plates must be raised from the same province or state. Most states offer a driver’s license to eligible individuals over the age of 16; however, this may vary by state. An applicant must practice driving for a set number of hours and then pass the road test in order to obtain an initial driver’s license. To obtain a license from the state in which you live you can go to the DMV and apply to get your license switched from a Canadian license to an American license (it may vary by state but, generally you must be 19 to do this). Some states may ask you to do a written and/or road test to be granted a license in that state. The required documentation for obtaining a driver’s license is: a. Canadian license; b. Passport with the I-94 form attached; and c. Proof of U.S. residency in the form of a bill with the local address on it. Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles http://www.dmv.state.va.us/#/ Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles http://www.mva.maryland.gov/ Washington D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles http://dmv.dc.gov/ 35 of 67 PRACTICAL INFORMATION PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR CANADIANS LIVING IN THE US Government of Canada – Travel info for Canadians going to the US Driving practices in the United states http://travel.gc.ca/destinations/united-states www.usa.gov/Topics/Foreign-Visitors-Driving.shtml The driving laws in each state differ and it is your responsibility to know and obey the laws of the state where you are driving. Driving practices in the United States www.state.gov/documents/organization/234570.pdf This brochure was produced by the Office of Foreign Missions, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, United States Department of State: “The Office of Foreign Missions implements the Department’s program for the registration and licensing of motor vehicles operated in the United States by foreign mission members and their families. This brochure is designed to inform you of key OFM policies as well as safe and responsible driving practices with which you may not be familiar. It is important that you study this information carefully.” Metric to Imperial Conversion www.metric-conversions.org Another site: www.thecalculatorsite.com/conversions Washington, D.C. Weather http://dc.about.com/od/weather/a/WashWeather.htm Site provides average temperatures per month. Driving in the United States http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Driving_in_the_United_States Speed limits: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speed_limits_in_the_United_States Road signs: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Road_signs_in_the_United_States Driving Times and Distances http://dc.about.com/od/transportation/a/DrivingTimes.htm Driving Times and Distances from Washington D.C. Around the MidAtlantic Region Cell Phone Bans and Regulations in DC, VA and MD www.distraction.gov/stats-research-laws/state-laws.html District of Columbia - legislation: http://mlis.state.md.us/2010rs/billfile/SB0321.htm State of Virginia: http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?000+cod+46.2-1078.1 State of Maryland: http://mlis.state.md.us/2010rs/billfile/SB0321.htm Personal Safety http://mpdc.dc.gov/page/personal-safety 36 of 67 PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR CANADIANS LIVING IN THE US Carjacking Prevention D.C. Department of Transportation’s Website provides personal safety tips on the following topics: Curfew Law Emergency Preparedness Safety Gas Station Safety Personal Safety in Your Vehicle Bus and Train Personal Safety Be Aware of Your Surroundings Carjacking (more info included below) Safety for Runners, Walkers and Bicyclists Gun Safety Etc. http://mpdc.dc.gov/page/carjacking The following are additional Websites/organizations have useful information relating to carjacking and steps that you can take to limit your risk: www.mainesecurity.com/Preventing_Carjackings.htm www.lapdonline.org/crime_prevention/content_basic_view/1368 www.crimedoctor.com/carjacking.htm Sales Tax in the United States USA Gas Price Comparison For Canadians Canada–United States relations Bank of Canada - Exchange Rates Importing a U.S. Vehicle into Canada (BSF5048) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sales_taxes_in_the_United_States www.frugal-rv-travel.com/gas-price.html (RV Related Blog) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada%E2%80%93United_States_relatio ns www.bankofcanada.ca/rates/exchange www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca The US Customs Service must be notified 72 hours prior to export. Call 877-227-5511 or 703-526-4200 for information. 37 of 67 DISCOUNTS CANADIAN AND US MILITARY DISCOUNTS The CF Appreciation Program Please note: As a Canadian military member, you will need your US military ID Card (Common Access Card - CAC) to be eligible for US discounts or DEERS Card for family members, as applicable. www.cfappreciation.ca “The CF Appreciation Program was created to offer a variety of discounts to Canadian military personnel and their families in recognition of their sacrifices and dedication. The program expanded to include some of the world’s brands and major businesses, and is being enhanced and expanded into new markets… The program offers rate reductions and incentives that are exclusive to members of the Canadian Forces through the CF Appreciation Program website.” The Military Ticket Program (MTP) https://mtp.mwrsw.net/ “The Military Ticket Program (MTP) provides excellent vacation and recreational opportunities to all branches of the United States Armed Forces. MTP hotel vouchers, theme park admissions, tours, cruises and more are available at military installation Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) offices throughout the United States. Visit the professionals at the closest base MWR office for complete information on all the programs available exclusively to the military community.” Government and Armed Forces Travel Cooperative www.govarm.com “GovArm provides leisure and vacation travel services for government and military personnel, including retirees. With services ranging from condominium rentals, cruises, car rentals, hotel reservations, and vacation packages, there is something for everyone.” WAVY News 10 – Discounts for military members and their families http://www.military.com/discounts/20-military-discounts-inhamptons-roads.html Hosting webpage to advertise businesses that offer a discount to military members and their families. Hero Salute www.herosalute.com/cavatx/index.html Discounts available at SeaWorld®, Busch Gardens®, Adventure Island®, Water Country USA®, or Sesame Place® for military personnel and as many as three direct dependants. Military Living Website and Guides http://militaryliving.com/ This site has great information for military families who wish to receive military discounts and temporary military lodging throughout the United States and the World. They publish a variety of military travel guides (e.g. temporary lodging, RV camping guides, etc.). Many copies of the Military Living guides are available through your WMFRC Resource Library (on loan for a two-week period). 38 of 67 DISCOUNTS Disney World Military Salute Tickets Armed Forces Vacation Club Commissary Sales Army & Air Force Exchange Service www.disneymilitarysales.com – or – www.wdwinfo.com/discounts/discounts-military.htm www.afvclub.com www.commissaries.com/log_in/html/savings_aisle.cfm www.shopmyexchange.com The Army & Air Force Exchange Service offers quality goods and services at competitively low prices with superior service. You will find additional information about Commissary and Exchange at: www.military.com/spouse/military-life/militaryresources/commissary-exchange-mwr.html Military Discounts and Freebies (About.com) http://militaryfamily.about.com/od/moneyandfinances/tp/MilitaryDiscounts-And-Freebies.htm Listing of Military Discounts and Free Offers for Products and Services. Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Thrift Shops www.nmcrs.org/pages/thrift-shops1 “Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Thrift Shops enable service members and their families to purchase gently used clothing, uniforms, and household items at a very low cost. The sales income realized from thrift shops is returned to the Sailors, Marines and their families in the form of relief services. All items sold in NMCRS Thrift Shops were donated to the Society.” US MILITARY TICKETS AND TOURS OFFICES FORT MYER Leisure Travel Office: Fort Myer Community Center 228 McNair Road, Building 405 Fort Myer, VA 22211 T: 703-696-3469/70 www.jbmhhmwr.com/community-activity-center JBM-HH Thrift Shop: www.fortmyerthriftshop.org Bldg 224 Forrest Circle Fort Myer, VA, 22211 T: 703-527-0664 Office Hours: Tuesday - Friday – 11am to 6pm Saturday - Sunday – 12noon to 6 pm Mondays and Federal Holidays: Closed FORT BELVOIR www.belvoirmwr.com/Facilities/ComCenter/LTS.php Leisure Travel Services Center (LTS) Building 1200, 10300 Taylor Rd (off Belvoir Rd near Pence Gate), Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 T: 703-805-3714 39 of 67 DISCOUNTS JOINT BASE ANDREWS www.andrewsfss.com/itt.html Information, Tickets & Tours Office: Bldg 1235 Menoher Dr. T: 301-981-4109/5663 Office Hours: Visit Website for more details (Summer and Winter Hours) FORT GEORGE G. MEADE http://ftmeademwr.com/lts.php Leisure Travel Services: 6530B York Ave, Bldg 6530 T: 301-677-7354 Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm FORT DETRICK www.detrick.army.mil/leisuretravel Leisure and Travel Office: 1520 Freedman Drive, Room 143 Fort Detrick, Maryland 21702 301-619-2839 E-mail: [email protected] Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 9:30am – 4:30pm Closed: Saturday, Sunday & Holidays “Discount and Convenience tickets are available to all Fort Detrick and Department of Defense personnel. Government/Military ID's are required to purchase tickets.” OTHER DISCOUNTS http://freeindc.blogspot.com/ www.gasbuddy.com Blog about free and low-cost things to do in DC Gasbuddy.com Website provides local gas prices. http://gasprices.mapquest.com/#station /us/dc/washington www.culturalalliance.org/tickets/today.html To find out where the cheapest gas prices in Washington, D.C. (you can also search the site for other locations) Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington Half-price tickets to theatre and the performing arts in Metro DC. www.washingtonian.com/packages/foo d-drink/cheap-eats-2012/ The Washingtonian – Cheap Eats List www.washingtondckidsguide.com/coup ons.php Various coupons are available on this site for kids’ related activities and services. www.estatesales.net -andhttp://estatesales.org/ Estate Sales (also called Tag Sales in some part of the country) “An Estate Sale [….] is a means of liquidating the belongings of a family or estate. These are usually much more than garage or yard sales. They are used when someone is in need of a way to sell items due to 40 of 67 DISCOUNTS downsizing, moving, divorce, bankruptcy or death. The public is invited into the home and given the opportunity to purchase any item that is priced for sale.” – For more information on how it works, visit the following link: www.estatesales.net/learn/what-is-an-estate-sale.aspx Other sites about Estate Sales: www.facebook.com/pages/Estate-Sales-US-Estate-Sales-Garage-SalesYard-Sales-and-more/123295411073 www.oodle.com/local/washington-dc/ Oodle Marketplace Washington, DC. – Classified Ads Other D.C. Classified Ads: www.wow-coupons.com http://washingtondc.ebayclassifieds.com/ www.washingtonpost.com/2012/08/15/5c05921c-dc26-11e18e43-4a3c4375504a_page.html Wow Coupons - The site offers a wide variety of offline in-store retail printable and online coupons and discounts (retail, grocery, restaurant, travel, local, etc.) Other coupon-related sites: www.usacouponsavings.com www.destinationcoupons.com www.retailmenot.com 41 of 67 SOCIAL CLUBS Washington Club www.welcometowashingtonclub.org An all-volunteer, not-for-profit service organization for and by women with the aim to welcome international women to the Washington, DC area and provide them with a friendly social and educational environment. THIS for Diplomats http://thisfordiplomats.org/ THIS (The Hospitality and Information Service) is a non-profit volunteer organization which welcomes and assists diplomats and their families during their stay in Washington, DC through informative programs and services. The International Club of DC www.internationalclubdc.com An organization for internationally-minded professionals who enjoy international cultural experiences as well as social, educational, and outdoor events while helping the community. Navy Officers’ Wives Club – DC 1244 Patterson Ave, SE | Washington, D.C. 20003 www.noscdc.com “As a member of NOSC DC you will enjoy the opportunity to fellowship and forge long lasting friendships via our monthly meetings, luncheons, tours, groups, and special events.” Membership Form available on their Website. NOSCDC annual membership dues are $30.00. Contact: [email protected] Follow NOSCDC on Facebook: www.facebook.com/NOSCDC Air Force Officers’ Wives Club – DC AFOWC P.O. Box 8490 Washington, DC 20032 www.afoscdc.com “As a member, you may participate in our exciting and entertaining monthly functions, Zip Code Groups, Special Activities/Tours, and JAFOWL, and also receive the printed membership directory.” AFOWC annual membership dues are $45.00. Membership form available online: https://www.afoscdc.com/membership.html Follow AFOWC on Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Air-ForceOfficers-Wives-Club-Of-Washington-DC/159780757367671 Army Officers’ Wives Club – Greater Washington Area AOWCGWA PO Box 1124 Fort Myer, VA 22211 www.aowcgwa.org “You are eligible to become a member of AOWCGWA and participate in all events and activities if: you are a spouse of an accredited attache (Defense, Military, Air Force, Naval) or assistant attache assigned to embassies in Washington, DC; (OR) a spouse of a foreign officer assigned to duties in the National Capital Region. The international members are led by the International Liaison, Debbie Glaser who plans and organizes 3-4 special international events during the Club year. Attendance is voluntary and as your schedule permits. We welcome you to join our current membership of 80 ladies from over 30 countries!” 42 of 67 SOCIAL CLUBS AOWCGWA annual membership dues are $30.00 (payable online). Membership form available online. Contact: [email protected]. Marine Officers' Spouses' Club of Washington DC 1754 Fort Myer, VA 22211-0754 www.moscdc.org “MOSCDC is a diverse group of Military Officers' Spouses' (men, women, and retirees) who live across the capital region and beyond.” MOSCDC annual membership dues are $25.00. Membership form available online. ASSOCIATIONS ET GROUPES DE RENCONTRE POUR LES FRANCOPHONES Alliance française www.francedc.org L’Alliance Française de Washington, D.C. est un organisme à but nonlucratif qui n’a aucune affiliation avec le gouvernement français. Cet organisme géré par un conseil d’administration formé de Francoaméricains, offre des programmes éducatifs et culturels en français à ses membres. Washington Accueil www.washingtonaccueil.org « Association à but non lucratif destinée à permettre l'intégration des familles françaises, francophones et francophiles dans la région et avec nos amis des États Unis. » Veuillez noter : Il faut cotiser pour devenir membre (Minimum de 50$ par famille) et participer aux activités offertes. The Washington DC French Expat MeetUp Group www.meetup.com/expatfrench-16 Regroupement d’expatriés français (surtout de la France) à Washington. Forum for mainly expatriate French nationals living in the US and in the DC area to get together. 43 of 67 INFORMATION FOR DIPLOMATS US Department of State www.state.gov Official US Department of State Website THIS for Diplomats http://thisfordiplomats.org/ THIS (The Hospitality and Information Service) is a non-profit volunteer organization which welcomes and assists diplomats and their families during their stay in Washington, DC through informative programs and services. Diplomatic Connections www.diplomaticconnections.com “Diplomatic Connections provides a unique and essential marketing platform for key businesses seeking to partner with this exclusive, affluent community via our Website, Publications and Trade Shows.” – Source: www.diplomaticconnections.com/r5/display.asp?file=mission.asp Diplomatic Resources in DC: www.diplomaticconnections.com/r5/home.asp?initial_file=city.asp&sw itch_issue_id=12665 The International Club of DC www.internationalclubdc.com The International Club is open to all embassies. It boasts over 20,000 members from approximately 80 countries. It promotes cultural experiences as well as social, educational, and outdoor events, while helping the community. The Washington Diplomat www.washdiplomat.com An independent monthly newspaper with a readership of more than 120,000 that for more than 17 years has served as the flagship publication of the diplomatic community in Washington. Embassy.org www.embassy.org/embassies A resource of and for the Washington, D.C. foreign embassy community. 44 of 67 RELIGION AND PLACES OF WORSHIP The following was taken from the DFAIT Mission Report 2013: “The three predominant religious affiliations in the District of Columbia are Catholic, Baptist and Muslim. However, 60 different religious bodies have been identified by The Association of Religious Data Archives, covering every theology imaginable. Every neighbourhood has its churches, synagogues, temples and mosques. Specific information is available upon arrival at post. From both a cultural and historical perspective, Washington is host to a wealth of important religious monuments and museums. For example, the Washington National Cathedral, the sixth largest cathedral in the world; the Latrobe Church known as the “Church of Presidents”; the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception – more than 60 chapels representing Catholicism’s multi-ethnic communities; and the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center, a stunning new museum exploring faith and culture through activities for all ages. In addition, there is the Washington, DC Jewish Community Center; the National Museum of American Jewish Military History; the B’nai B’rith Klutznick National Jewish Museum, covering the sweep of Jewish history from antiquity to the present and the Holocaust Museum. There is also the Mt. Zion United Methodist Church and Heritage Center, which is the oldest African American church in the District. These, among others, are part of the rich heritage in DC worth exploring.” In addition to neighbourhood churches, Canadian military families are welcome to attend religious services at chapels located on US Military Bases. A directory of those chapels is provided here below. USA Churches www.usachurches.org USA Churches is an independent organization and not associated or sponsored by any specific denomination or church organization that provides a detailed national church directory. Arlington – Places of Worship Southern Maryland – Places of Worship http://www.arlingtonvirginia.com/community/worship http://somd.com/worship/ US MILITARY CHAPELS JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL Memorial Chapel: Fort Myer Post Chapel 101 McNair Road, Building 480 Fort Myer, VA Fort Myer T: 703-696-3532 Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm http://www.army.mil/jbmhh (Look in the menu for Chaplain’s Office) Protestant Service: Sunday 7:45am and 10:30am Tuesday Joshua Generation at 5:45pm Sunday Samoan Service at 2:30pm Catholic Service (Memorial Chapel): Daily Mass (Monday to Friday) at 12noon Saturday Mass at 5pm Sunday Mass at 9am Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Catholic Parish: http://www.jbmhhcatholicparish.com/ Arlington National Cemetery: http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/ Call 1-877-907-8585. 45 of 67 RELIGION AND PLACES OF WORSHIP NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON (WASHINGTON NAVY YARD) http://m.military.com/base-guide/naval-districtwashington/contact/chapels--chaplain-services/3133 Chapels & Chaplain Services 2770 Enterprise Way SW Bldg 72, Suite 134 Naval Support Activity - Anacostia Annex Washington, DC 20373-5804 T: 202-433-2058 Fax: 202-433-7099 Contact Chapel for Worship Service times. JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/ndw/installations/jbab.html Base Chapel 310 Angel Street, Suite 100 Washington, DC 20032 T: 202-767-5900 Fax: 202-404-8184 Monday to Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm Federal Holidays - closed JOINT BASE ANDREWS Contact Chapel for Worship Service times. www.andrews.af.mil/units/chapel.asp Chapel One 1345 Arkansas Road Andrews AFB, MD 20762 T: 301-981-2111 Monday to Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm Sat – closed Chapel Two 3715 Fetchet Drive Andrews AFB, MD 20762 T: 301-981-2111 By appointment only FORT GEORGE G. MEADE See site for worship service locations and times. http://www.ftmeade.army.mil/staff/chapel/chapel.html Chaplains Office (Army) 6th Armoured Cavalry Road See site for worship service locations and times. Fort Meade, MD 20755 T: 301-677-6865 T: (DSN) 312-622-3784 Fax 301-677-6864 Monday to Friday 7am - 4pm Holidays - closed Chaplain (Navy) Building 9804 Emory Road Fort Meade, MD 20755 T: 301-677-0306 T: (DSN) 312-622-0306 Fax 301-677-0418 Fax (DSN) 312-622-0418 46 of 67 RELIGION AND PLACES OF WORSHIP Monday to Friday 7:30am - 4pm Sat and Sun - Closed Holidays - Closed FORT BELVOIR www.belvoir.army.mil/services/chapels.asp Fort Belvoir Chaplains Office: 5950 12th Street, Building 1018 Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 T: 703-806-4316/4317 –or– 703-805-2742 See site for worship service locations and times. Woodlawn Chapel: 1801 Wright Road, Building 1801 (across from Commissary) T: 703-806-5911 Belvoir Chapel: 5950 12th Street Suite 101 (across from Dewitt Hospital) T: 703-806-3006 Fairfax Chapel: 5765 21st Street Contemporary Service (Chapel Next) Anderson Youth Center 5850 Langfitt Loop Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 T: 703-805-2742 47 of 67 FAMILY AND CHILDREN RELATED INFORMATION ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH INFORMATION AND LEARNING ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS ABOUT THE UNITED STATES US Government for Kids and Teens (select proper age-group) National Geographic US Atlas Learn about US States http://kids.usa.gov/ www.nationalgeographic.com/kids-usa-atlas www.50states.com/tools/#.UR-E8mt5mSM Series of links to educational tools related to the 50 United States. WEBSITES FOR KIDS Our Kids (Serving the DC Metro Area) www.our-kids.com “Our Kids LLC is the leading online resource guide for families in the DC metro area. We are Your Link to Family Fun(TM). Our Kids provides a one-stop website to find resources and activities that are fun for children and places that are "parent-friendly"” – Source: www.ourkids.com/about Public Libraries – Kids’ section Arlington (VA) Public Library – Fun Stuff for Kids: http://library.arlingtonva.us/locations/central-library/ Montgomery (MD) Public Library - Kidsite: http://montgomerycountymd.libguides.com/kids Anne Arundel (MD) Public Library – Kidsite: http://www.aacpl.net/ Fairfax County – Kids’ Corner State of Maryland – Kids’ Page www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes/includes/frame-tots.htm www.mdkidspage.org Information about Maryland tailored to children. THINGS TO DO IN DC METRO AREA National Children Museum National Children’s Museum 145 Fleet St. National Harbor, MD 20745 T: 301.392.2400 The Smithsonian Institute www.ncm.museum “Designed primarily for children age 8 and younger, the National Children’s Museum (NCM) is a nationally recognized cultural and educational institution serving children and families onsite and through national partners and programs.”. Military discount now available. www.si.edu “Founded in 1846, the Smithsonian is the world's largest museum and 48 of 67 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH research complex, consisting of 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park and nine research facilities. Everything you need to know about the museums located in DC is on that Website including the National Zoo.” Newseum 555 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20001 Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day International Spy Museum 800 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004 T: 202-393-7798 www.newseum.org The Newseum Is located next to the Embassy of Canada, at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Sixth Street, N.W. in Washington, D.C. This 250,000-square-foot museum of news offers visitors an experience that blends five centuries of news history with up-to-the-second technology and hands-on exhibits. Consult Website for admission fees (military discount available). www.spymuseum.org “It is the only public museum in the United States solely dedicated to espionage and the only one in the world to provide a global perspective on an all-but-invisible profession that has shaped history and continues to have a significant impact on world events.” Consult their website for admission fees (military discount available) and hours of operation. Earth Treks 725 Rockville Pike (The Marlo Building) Rockville, MD 20852 T: 240-283-9942 My Gym Children's Fitness Center My Gym – Alexandria: 5810 Kingstowne Ctr., Alexandria, VA T: 703 971-5437 My Gym – Bethesda: 5110 Ridgefield Rd, Bethesda, MD T: 301 652-2820 Oh, Ranger! – Your Guide to the Parks www.earthtreksclimbing.com A supervised in-door climbing gym for kids (ages 6 and up). They host birthday parties. Earth Treks Rockville is located in the Marlo building, just south of downtown Rockville and 4 blocks south of the Rockville Metro Station (Red Line). www.mygym.com This is basically a fitness center for kids for ages 3 months to 13 years old. They offer various programs and classes such as: Tiny Tykes (3-13 months), Terrific Tots (2 1/2 years - 3 1/4 years), Whiz Kids Whiz Kids (4 1/2 - 6 years) and Cardio Kids (7 years - 13 years) to name a few. They also host frequent Parents Night Out evening where the kids are invited to come in for a fun evening of activities while their parents are enjoying a night out. There are two locations in the Washington DC Area. www.ohranger.com “Home of American Park Network ® the most comprehensive source of information on the US's favourite national parks and public lands” (including those located in Washington, D.C.) Clark's Elioak Farm 10500 Clarksville Pike Ellicott City, MD 21042 T: 410-730-4049 Open March 30 - Nov. 3rd Butlers Orchard 22200 Davis Mill Road www.clarklandfarm.com Located less than an hour away from Washington, DC Metro Area, the Clark’s Elioak Farm offers various activities such as petting farm animals, hayrides, cow train rides, pony rides, birthday parties, educational tours, enchanted forest tree maze, special weekend events and more… www.butlersorchard.com The Butlers Orchard is also located less than an hour away from 49 of 67 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH Germantown MD 20876 (East of Germantown off Route 27) T: 301-972-3299 Open mi-May - Christmas Washington, DC Metro Area. They host a variety of family-pleasing events such as Strawberry Blossom Tours, Bunnyland Festival (early spring), Pumpkin Festival (weekends in October), birthday parties, groups hayrides, etc. Event calendar: http://www.butlersorchard.com/field-trips-events/ Disney® – Family.go.com: Washington, D. C. Family Vacation http://spoonful.com/family-fun/travel This site proposes vacation plans filled with fun activities by age groups. You can also find great resources such as printable maps and fun facts about the attractions you are planning to visit. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Washington, DC Family Guides: www.washingtonkidsguide.com STATE OF VIRGINIA CITIES AND COUNTIES: http://editionsbyfry.com/Olive/ODE/WSP/Default.aspx?href=WSP/2012/01/15 Virginia Family Guides: http://virginiakidsguide.com/ Arlington County (VA) – Parks and Recreation: www.arlingtonva.us/departments/ParksRecreation/ParksRecreationMa in.aspx Arlington County: http://arlingtonkidsguide.com/ ArlingtonFamilies.com: www.arlingtonfamilies.com - a site from Arlington County for online resources about what's happening for families in Arlington, Virginia. Resources in Arlington, VA: http://gocitykids.parentsconnect.com/region/arlington-va-usa Fairfax County (VA) – Kids: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/kids Falls Church – Office for Children: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ofc City of Alexandria - Recreation: www.alexandriava.gov/recreation City of Alexandria Guide: http://www.alexandriakidsguide.com/ STATE OF MARYLAND COUNTIES: http://editionsbyfry.com/Olive/ODE/WSP/Default.aspx?href=WSP/2012/01/15 Maryland Family Guides http://marylandkidsguide.com/ Anne Arundel County (MD) – Recreation and Parks: www.aacounty.org/recparks/recreation/index.cfm Bethesda: http://bethesdakidsguide.com/ Frederick’s County (MD) – Children’s Programs: www.fcpl.org/programs/childrens-programs 50 of 67 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH SUMMER CAMP GUIDES YMCA – Children and Youth Programs and Services www.ymca.net/youth-development Information on the YMCA Youth Development Program including “Child Care”, “Education & Leadership”, “Swim, Sports & Play” and “Camp”. Washington Parent Magazine – Summer Camp Guide www.washingtonparent.com/guides/guide-camp.php “Washington Parent's camp guide includes programs for kids in areas like arts, dance, music, performance, sports, athletics, chess, video games, technology, horseback riding, outdoors, nature, rock climbing, YMCA, science, education and more.” DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Summer Camps http://dpr.dc.gov/ “Every year, the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) offers a variety of exciting urban camping opportunities for youth ages 3 to 17. These opportunities include sports camps, aquatic camps, therapeutic camps, and other day camps. Additionally, DPR partners with the District Department of Employment Services to host a number of exciting teen career camps.” (from Website) State of Virginia Cities and Counties Arlington County – Summer Camps: www.arlingtonva.us/departments/ParksRecreation/scripts/camps/Park sRecreationScriptsCampsMain.aspx Fairfax County – Summer Camps: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/rec_camps.htm City of Falls Church – Summer Camps: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/461/Camps City of Alexandria – Summer Camps: http://alexandriava.gov/recreation/info/default.aspx?id=12968#Summ erCamps State of Maryland Counties Anne Arundel County - Spring/Summer Guides 2013: http://www.aacounty.org/departments/recreationparks/recreation/programs/#.U2AK5e8U9hF Montgomery County Summer Camps: www6.montgomerycountymd.gov/rectmpl.asp?url=/content/rec/thing stodo/camps/index.asp Frederick County Summer Camps: http://www.recreater.com/ YOUTH PROGRAMS AND OFFERINGS 51 of 67 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH STATE OF VIRGINIA CITIES AND COUNTIES: Arlington County: Teen Programs: http://parks.arlingtonva.us/ Arlington Teens: www.arlingtonteens.com Fairfax County – For kids, teens and their parents: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/kids/ City of Falls Church – Sports Program (Teen and Adult): http://www.fallschurchva.gov/622/Activities City of Alexandria – Youth and Adult Sports League: http://alexandriava.gov/recreation/info/default.aspx?id=46110 STATE OF MARYLAND COUNTIES: Anne Arundel County: “Teen on the Go” Summer Camp: www.aacounty.org/RecParks/recreation/teen.cfm Fairfax County Youth Sports: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ncs/athletics/sportsdirectory.htm Montgomery County - Teen Events: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec/thingstodo/teens/events. html Frederick County – Cadets/Scouts: http://recreater.com/181/Scouts OTHER GUIDES AND RESOURCES FOR PARENTS Washington Parent Magazine Guides www.washingtonparent.com/guidestoc.php You will find many family guides such as: New & Expecting Parents Guide, Child Care Guide, Party & Family Fun Guide, Education Guide, Enrichment Guide, Parent & Child Guide, and more… Washington Family Magazine Guides www.washingtonfamily.com/guides You will find many family guides such as: Annual Back-to-School Guide, Annual Education Guide, Annual Guide to Theater & Arts, Annual Party Extravaganza, Annual Special Kids Guide, Annual Welcome to Washington, Baby & Maternity, Camps, Dentist & Orthodontist, Indoor Play Guide, Preschool & Child Care, Spring Break Camps/Holiday Camps, Tutoring, Therapy & Special Needs, Virtual Camp Fair and more… Washington Parent Source Book – Phone and Web Directory (2013) http://editionsbyfry.com/Olive/ODE/WSP/Default.aspx?href=WSP/2013/04/15 52 of 67 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH Copies of this booklet are available at the WMFRC. KidFriendly DC (Blog-type Website) http://kidfriendlydc.com/ KidFriendly DC is a resource for parents who take advantage of all the city’s great offerings for children. US MILITARY CHILD, YOUTH AND SCHOOL SERVICES (CYSS) OR CHILD & YOUTH PROGRAMS (CYP) A valid CAC (member) or DEERS Card (dependent) is required to use these programs and services. JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL www.jbmhhmwr.com/child-youth-school-age-services Joint Base Fort Myer-Henderson Hall 204 Lee Avenue, Suite 107 Fort Myer, Virginia 22211-1116 T: 703-696-3250 JBMHH - Family Moral, Welfare and Recreation (F & MWR): 102 Custer Road, Bldg 203, Fort Myer, VA 22211-1199 Army Community Service (ACS): T: 703-696-3510 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 4pm Follow JBMHH-MWR on Facebook: www.facebook.com/JBMHHACS JBMHH - Parent Outreach Services: 102 Carpenter St. Bldg 483 at Cody CDC. Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am-5pm T: 703-696-0313/4942/5313 Registration form: https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil Email for more info: [email protected] MCCS Henderson Hall – Marine & Family Programs: Building 29 T: 703-614-7200 Office Hours: Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 4:30pm M&FP Website: www.mccshh.com/MFS.html Child, Youth Teen Program: www.mccshh.com/CYTP.html Calendar of events and activities (all): www.mccshh.com/Calendar.html FORT BELVOIR Dept. of the Army, US Army Garrison, Fort Belvoir 9820 Flagler Road Fort Belvoir, VA 22060-5932 T: 703-805-2052/2055 http://belvoir.armymwr.com/us/belvoir/programs/ Fort Belvoir Directorate of Family, Moral, Welfare and Recreation Army Community Service (ACS): Building 200, 9800 Belvoir Road (18th and Belvoir Rd) Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 T: 703-805-4590 http://belvoir.armymwr.com CYSS Administrative Offices Markham School Age Center, Bldg. 950 9500 Barlow Road Fort Belvoir Office Numbers: CYSS Coordinator 703-805-9149 Registration Office 703-805-1908 NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON Naval Support Activity Washington www.cnic.navy.mil/ffr/family_readiness/fleet_and_family_support_pr ogram.html Parents that desire more information on the Naval District Washington 53 of 67 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH 1411 Parsons Ave SE, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20374-5001 T: 202-433-2219 Child and Youth Programs should visit the Regional Resource and Referral website: https://militarychildcare.cnic.navy.mil/mccconsumer/home/viewhome.action Installations – Child & Youth Programs: Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (See next for more info) NSA Annapolis NSA Bethesda NAS Patuxent River NSA South Potomac (Dahlgren and Indian Head) NSA Washington JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING JBAB Military and Family Support Center: 118 Brookley Avenue, Bldg 13 Washington , DC 20032 Phone: 202-767-0450 or 202-433-6151 Office Hours: Monday to Friday: 7:30am to 4pm JOINT BASE ANDREWS 11 FSS/FSFR 1191 Menoher Drive Andrews AFB, MD 20762-6421 Base Operator: 301-981-1110 www.mywfr.com/child-youth JBAB Child and Youth Programs Regional Resource and Referral: To get started, visit MilitaryChildCare.com. For questions/support, call 855-696-2934. Link to 411 magazine (MWR Newsletter): http://issuu.com/jointbaseanacostiabolling (look for latest issue of 411) Youth Programs: www.mywfr.com/programs/28bc40d7-8b30-4dbab6de-001bd148a196 www.andrewsfss.com/youth.html Military and Family Support Center: (11th Force Support Squadron) Bldg 1191 Menoher Dr. T: 301-981-7087 Office Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30am to 4:30pm www.andrewsfss.com/mfsc.html Follow MFSC on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AndrewsFSS Spotlight Magazine (Force Support Squadron Monthly Newsletter): www.andrewsfss.com/spotlight.html Youth Center: Bldg 4700 Yuma Rd. T: 301.981.5430/5636/ 5794/8336 FORT MEADE http://ftmeademwr.com/cyss.php Army: 830 Chisholm Ave Fort Meade, MD 20755 T: 301-677-5590 Navy: NAVIOCOM Maryland 9800 Savage Road Fort George G. Meade, MD 20755-5810 T: 301-688-6491 Fleet and Family Support Center: 2212 Chisholm Ave Ft Meade MD 20755 T: 301-677-9014/17/18 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 4 pm http://ftmeademwr.com/ Child, Youth & School Services Bldg. 1900 Reece Road, Fort Meade, Maryland 20755 T: 301-677-1149/1156/1104 Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 8am – 5pm 54 of 67 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH Event Calendar: http://ftmeademwr.com/cyss/middle/eventsCalendar.pdf 55 of 67 CHILD CARE SERVICES CHILD CARE SERVICES DIRECTORIES The Washington Parent Magazine www.washingtonparent.com/guides/gd-childcare.php Childcare and early education guide for parents available in the DC Metro area. The Washington Family Magazine www.washingtonfamily.com/guides/preschool_and_child_care.html Childcare and early education guide for parents available in the DC Metro area. About.com – Washington, DC Childcare http://dc.about.com/od/childcare/Childcare.htm “Locate childcare resources, daycare, nannies, and aupairs for families in Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia. Explore a wide range of childcare options in the Washington, DC area.” FINDING CHILDCARE PROVIDERS Child Care Aware® http://childcareaware.org/ 1-800-424-2246; TTY: 1-866-278-9428 Assists parents in finding the best information on locating quality child care and child care resources in their community. State by State Resources for Families: http://childcareaware.org/node/1405 Childcare finder: http://childcareaware.org/parents-andguardians/childcarefinder#section=searchbyzip Budgeting Your Child Care Options - Calculator: http://childcareaware.org/parents-and-guardians/helpfultools/calculator Evaluating a Child Care Provider (Checklist): http://www.childcareaware.org/parents-and-guardians/child-care101/evaluating-providers List of National Organizations: www.childcareaware.org/parents-and-guardians/helpfultools/national-organizations www.carelulu.com www.carelulu.com Source: www.learndc.org/earlychildhood/resource/carelulu CareLuLu is a free service that helps parents find the perfect child care center, preschool, or family child care provider. CareLuLu collects detailed information on licensed child care providers so you can find the best match for your family without spending hours on the phone or driving all over the city…. CareLuLu is easy, fast, and free! 56 of 67 CHILD CARE SERVICES www.care.com www.care.com Membership required – not covered by MFS. Visit their Website for more info. Find out what the going rate for a sitter is in your area (free tool): http://www.care.com/babysitting-rates www.urbansitter.com www.urbansitter.com Membership required – not covered by MFS. Visit their Website for more info. www.seekingsitters.com www.seekingsitters.com Membership required – not covered by MFS. Visit their Website for more info. www.sittercity.com www.sittercity.com Membership required – not covered by MFS. Visit their Website for more info. www.nannypoppinz.com 1-877-262-6694 Infant Toddler Family Day Care (ITFDC) www.nannypoppinz.com “NO UPFRONT APPLICATION OR MEMBERSHIP FEES. No fee is due, unless you find your perfect Nanny match.” – source: www.nannypoppinz.com (not covered by MFS). Visit their Website for more info. www.infanttoddler.com “ITFDC partners with Child Care Aware of America to operate Child Care Aware of Northern Virginia. Our service area includes: Arlington, Loudoun and Prince William Counties as well as the cities of Manassas, Manassas Park and Alexandria. If you are looking for care in a different area please contact Child Care Aware to find your local child care aware agency.” (See here below) Falls Church – Office for Children www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ofc Childcare resource for Fairfax County, Virginia. From in-home care to after-school programs. Maryland Family Network http://mdchildcare.org/mdcfc/network/network.html If you live in Maryland, the Maryland Family Network can: US MILITARY CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERS Help you find child care Help you find child care for children with a disability and/or special need Advise you in the event that you have a problem or difficulty with a provider And more… Canadian military families wishing to use any of the child development programs should visit the child care registration office located on US Military Bases for information regarding childcare options, available vacancies, and to complete the required enrolment papers. Please note that most US Military Child Development Centers have an established priority system based on various criteria (e.g. Single/Dual Active Duty Military, DoD civilian employees or Active Duty 57 of 67 CHILD CARE SERVICES Military/DoD Civilian employee with working or fulltime student spouse, etc.). Be prepared to be placed on a waiting list and be contacted when a vacancy becomes available for your child(ren). US MILITARY INSTALLATIONS (DOD WEBSITE) www.militaryinstallations.dod.mil Select “Family Child Care / Child Development Centers” under “Looking for specific program or service?” and enter your Zip Code to find the ones that are closest to you. FORT MYER (JOINT BASE MYER HENDERSON HALL) Register through Parent Central: 102 Carpenter St. Bldg 483 at Cody CDC Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am-5pm To download forms click this link: https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil T: 703-696-0313 / 4942 / 5313 Email for more info: [email protected]. mil NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON (WASHINGTON NAVY YARD) NDW Regional Resource and Referral www.jbmhhmwr.com/parent-central-services Child Development Center 102 Carpenter Road, Building 483 Fort Myer, VA 22211-1199 T: 703-696-3095 Fax: 703-696-3793 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:00am - 6:00pm Closed on Sat and Sun and on holidays. www.cnic.navy.mil/ffr/fleet_readiness/child_and_youth_programs.ht ml https://militarychildcare.cnic.navy.mil/mccconsumer/home/viewhome.action JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING www.mywfr.com/child-youth/child-development-centers Visit MilitaryChildCare.com to get started. For questions/support, call 855696-2934. Child Development Center I 4556 Arnold Ave JBAB, Bldg. 4456 T: 202-767-2890 Child Development Center II 4455 Arnold Ave Telephone: 202-404-8070 Child Development Center III 413 Robbins Rd Monday-Friday: 6am to 6pm Telephone: 202-433-0771 Hours of Operation – CDC I, II, III: Monday-Friday: 6am to 6pm Child Development Homes Joint Base Anacostia Bolling Child Development Homes (CDH) offer quality care in a loving, learning home environment for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. CDH offers flexible hours, 24/7 care, low child-toadult ratios and convenient locations. Homes may apply for accreditation from the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC). Location: Joint Base Anacostia Bolling, Bldg. 4472 58 of 67 CHILD CARE SERVICES T: 202-404-1454 Monday to Friday - 7:30am to 4:30pm JOINT BASE ANDREWS Central Registration Office: Bldg 4575 Virginia Ave. T: 301.981.9981/9982 Fax: 301.981.2106 Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 8am - 1pm, Wednesday, 1 - 4 pm, Friday, 8am - 12noon Closed on Weekends, 11th Wing Family Days & Holidays www.andrewsfss.com/cdc.html Child Development Center #1: Bldg 4575 Virginia Ave Andrews AFB, MD 20762-7002 T: 301.981.3055/3035 Child Development Center #2: Bldg 4783 San Antonio Blvd Andrews AFB, MD 20762-7002 Phone 301.981.3323/3324 Monday to Friday 6:30am - 6:30pm Child Development Center #3: JP Hoyer CDC, Bldg 3725 Fetchet Ave J.P. Hoyer Child Development Center Andrews AFB, MD 20762 T: 240.857.3207/3197 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:15am to 5:45pm, Closed on Weekends, 11th Wing Family Days & Holidays. FORT GEORGE G. MEADE Child, Youth & School Services T: 301-677-1149/1156/1104 Fax: 301-677-1148 Bldg. 1900 Reece Road, Fort Meade, Maryland 20755 http://www.ftmeademwr.com/cyss/cdc.php Child Development Center I 4725 Ruffner Road Fort Meade, MD 20755 T: 301-677-5201 Child Development Center II Building 3100 MacArthur Road Fort Meade, MD 20755 T: 301-677-6002 Child Development Center III 910 Ernie Pyle Road Fort Meade, MD 20755 T: 301-677-1530 FORT BELVOIR 5925 Meeres Road, Bldg 1745 Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 Phone: (703) 806-6540 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Closed Federal Holidays http://belvoir.armymwr.com/us/belvoir/categories/cys-services/ Parent Central Services: http://belvoir.armymwr.com/us/belvoir/programs/parent-c/ Fort Belvoir Child, Youth and School Services - North Post CDC: 5925 Meeres Road Building 1745 Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 Phone 703-806-6540 Fort Belvoir Child, Youth and School Services - South Post CDC: 59 of 67 CHILD CARE SERVICES 5952 12th Street, Building 1028 Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 Phone 703-806-4347 60 of 67 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND PERSONAL GROWTH PROGRAMS Washington, D.C. – Department of Parks and Recreation 1250 U Street, NW Washington, DC 20009 Email: [email protected] T: 202-673-7647 Arlington County – Parks and Recreation Classes 2100 Clarendon Boulevard, Suite 414, Arlington, VA 22201 T: 703-228-PLAY Fairfax County – Adult & Community Education (ACE) General Information: 703-658-2727 Registration: 703-658-1201 City of Alexandria - Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities 1108 Jefferson St. Alexandria, 22314 T:703-746-5414 Falls Church – Recreation and Parks Department Recreation & Parks 223 Little Falls Street Falls Church, VA 22046 T: 703-248-5077 (TTY: 711) [email protected] Anne Arundel County – Recreation and Parks 44 Calvert Street Annapolis, MD. 21401 T: 410-222-7000 Montgomery County – Recreation http://www.parks.wa.gov/ DPR Online Registration: http://register.asapconnected.com/Default.aspx?org=774 www.arlingtonva.us/departments/ParksRecreation/scripts/classes/Clas ses.aspx Great listing of fitness, arts, dance, music, swimming and wellness options for Arlington County residents. www.fcps.edu/is/ace/index.shtml ACE offers a comprehensive array of courses for the community with a focus on “Career and Technical Education”, “Language Classes” and “Personal and Academic Enrichment” http://alexandriava.gov/recreation/info/default.aspx?id=12344 Link to Community Program Guide (PDF): http://alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/ProgramGuide.pdf http://www.fallschurchva.gov/452/Recreation-Parks Link to classes and camps: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/1295/Classes www.aacounty.org/recparks/recreation/index.cfm Link to AA Community Guide – Spring / Summer 2014: www.aacounty.org/RecParks/recreation/index.cfm#.U2ARfe8U9hE http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec/ Administrative Offices 4010 Randolph Road, Silver Spring T: 240-777-6800 US MILITARY HEALTH, WELLNESS AND PERSONAL GROWTH PROGRAMS A valid CAC (member) or DEERS Card (dependent) is required to use these programs and services. JOINT BASE FORT MYER-HENDERSON www.jbmhhmwr.com 61 of 67 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND PERSONAL GROWTH PROGRAMS HALL JBMHH MWR: 102 Custer Road, Bldg 203 Fort Myer, VA 22211-1199 Army Community Service (ACS): T: 703-696-3510 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 4pm MCCS HH – Marine & Family Programs: Building 12, Room 107 T: 703-614-7200 FORT BELVOIR JBMHH Moral, Welfare and Recreation (MWR): Follow JBMHH-MWR on Facebook: www.facebook.com/JBMHHACS Offerings are listed in the JBMHH Newsletter entitled “Life YOUniversity” and available online at www.jbmhhmwr.com (you need find and click on the “Life YOUniversity” button to open the latest edition). Fitness and Sports: www.jbmhhmwr.com/fitness-centers-sports MCCS Henderson Hall – Marine & Family Programs: M&FP Website: www.mccshh.com/MFS.html Public Health and Wellness: www.mccshh.com/Fitness.html Calendar of events and activities (all): www.mccshh.com/Calendar.html www.belvoirmwr.com Army Community Service (ACS): Building 200, 9800 Belvoir Road (18th and Belvoir Rd) Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 T: 703-805-4590 NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON Naval Support Activity Washington 1411 Parsons Ave SE, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20374-5001 T: 202-433-2219 JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING JBAB Military and Family Support Ctr: 118 Brookley Avenue, Bldg 13 / Bldg 72, Watson Road SW Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-767-0450 or 202-433-6151 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 4pm Fitness and Sports: www.belvoir.army.mil/services/fitness.asp http://cnic.navy.mil/regions/ndw/installations/nsa_washington.html Fitness and Sports: http://www.navymwrwashington.com/ www.mywfr.com www.mywfr.com/programs/979b022a-da6b-46d9-97fb-fd20e359ab58 Link to 411 magazine (MWR Newsletter): http://issuu.com/jointbaseanacostiabolling Follow JBAB-MFSC on Facebook: www.facebook.com/welcomeback/requests/#!/JBAB.MWR?fref=ts Fitness and Sports: www.mywfr.com/fitness-sports JOINT BASE ANDREWS www.andrewsfss.com/mfsc.html Military and Family Support Center (11th Force Support Squadron) Bldg 1191 Menoher Dr. T: 301-981-7087 Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am to 4:30pm, closed on Weekends, 11th Wing Family Days & Holidays. Follow MFSC on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AndrewsFSS FORT MEADE http://ftmeademwr.com/ Fort Meade MWR: 830 Chisholm Ave Ft Meade MD 20755 T: 301-677-5590 Spotlight Magazine (Force Support Squadron Monthly Newsletter): www.andrewsfss.com/spotlight.html Fitness and Sports: www.andrewsfss.com/fitness.html Fort Meade MWR Newsletter: http://ftmeademwr.com/newsletter/MWRnewsletter.pdf Follow Fort Meade MWR on Facebook: www.facebook.com/welcomeback/requests/#!/FtMeadeMWR?fref=ts 62 of 67 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND PERSONAL GROWTH PROGRAMS Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 4 pm FORT DETRICK Fort Detrick FMWR: 1520 Freedman Drive Fort Detrick, Maryland 21702 T: 301-619-3323 Athletics and Fitness: www.ftmeademwr.com/athletics/sports.php www.detrick.army.mil/mwr/index.cfm www.detrick.army.mil/mwr/index.cfm Follow FD-FMWR on Facebook: www.facebook.com/DetrickMWR Army Community Services: www.detrick.army.mil/acs/events.cfm Sports and Fitness: www.detrick.army.mil/mwr/fitnessCenter.cfm PET INFORMATION AND RESOURCES GENERAL Pet Lovers Companion P.O. Box 239 Mount Vernon, VA 22121 Phone: 703-780-4400 Email: [email protected] www.petloverscompanion.com “A-Z Directory of Products & Services – for everything Pets in the D.C. Metro.” Directory of Veterinarian Clinics and Animal Hospitals: www.petloverscompanion.com/list_cat/animal-hospitals-by-city Directory of Pet Sitters: www.petloverscompanion.com/list_cat/pet-sitting-services Calendar of Events: www.petloverscompanion.com/events LocalVets.com www.localvets.com “LocalVets.com is a directory of over 20,000 veterinarians and animal hospitals across the country.” Veterinarian USA Directory www.vetweb.net/veterinarian.html Find veterinarians in your area. Yelp.com - Best Veterinarians in Washington, DC www.yelp.ca/c/dc/vet For a directory of veterinarians in the DC Metro Area, click here: http://www.yelp.ca/search?find_desc=veterinarians&find_loc=virginia &ns=1&ls=97bae05d33dcbbe3#find_loc=Washington,+DC,+USA PoochPal.com www.poochpal.com Download their app to find dogs and owners in your local area using your smartphone for walking, playing, or just meeting up. TRAVELING WITH PETS TO THE US Canadian Food Inspection Agency www.inspection.gc.ca/animals/terrestrialanimals/imports/policies/live-animals/petimports/eng/1326600389775/1326600500578 For Canadian Military Families returning to Canada: www.inspection.gc.ca/animals/terrestrial63 of 67 PET INFORMATION AND RESOURCES animals/imports/policies/liveanimals/pets/eng/1326600389775/1326600500578 Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/animals/animal_import/animal_i mports_pets.shtml CATS AND DOGS “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has regulations on the importation of dogs and cats into the United States. In general, they require that dogs be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days prior to entry, except for puppies younger than 3 months and dogs originated or located for 6 months in areas considered to be free of rabies. A dog with an unexpired health certificate meets these requirements. We strongly suggest you visit the CDC web site at: www.cdc.gov/animalimportation/BringingAnimalToUs.html or call them at 1-800-232-4636 for more information on their regulations. There is no vaccination regulation for cats.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30333 T: 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) Tick Encounter Resource Centre (University of Rhodes Island www.cdc.gov Bringing an Animal into the United States: www.cdc.gov/animalimportation/BringingAnimalToUs.html http://www.tickencounter.org/ Ticks are becoming a more common pest problem in Canada, but they are still not nearly as common north of the border, as they are in the United States. It is important that your cat or dog be on Tick prevention medication and/or treatment throughout the year in order to protect your pet and yourself from the various diseases ticks can be vectors for. If you live in an area that is common for ticks and your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, you may want to invest in a tick removal tool and tick comb to check the pet at least once a day before they come into the house. The Resource Centre is an excellent source of information for all things tick related, and a valuable resource for someone new to the concept of these deceptively dangerous pests. http://www.tickencounter.org/ Tick Identification: http://www.tickencounter.org/tick_identification Tick Removal: www.tickencounter.org/prevention/how_to_remove_a_tick_video If you spot a tick in your area, you can help others by reporting it: http://www.tickencounter.org/tickspotters/submit_form 64 of 67 PET INFORMATION AND RESOURCES DOG FRIENDLY: BringFido.com - USA www.bringfido.com/destination/region/united_states/ “BringFido.com is a dog travel directory that provides unbiased reviews, detailed pet policy information, and online reservations at more than 25,000 pet friendly hotels through a partnership with Travelocity. Information is also available on thousands of bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds that welcome pets in 150 countries worldwide.” - www.bringfido.com/about Other Dog Friendly sites www.dogfriendly.com PET BOARDING, SITTERS, WALKERS Pet Lovers Companion – Directory of Pet Sitters: www.petloverscompanion.com/list_cat/pet-sitting-services Local directory of pet sitters. Pet Sitters – National Association of National Pet Sitters: http://www.petsitters.org/ Search their directory of pet sitters by species for your area. DogVacay.org http://dogvacay.com “DogVacay is a community where dog lovers can connect with one another to find and provide safe, convenient and affordable ways to care for their best friend.” Search by location. Rover.com www.rover.com “Rover.com connects dog parents with a nationwide network of dog lovers for hire, offering in-home dog boarding, dog sitting, and dog walking.” PET REGISTRATION AND LICENSES DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Department of Health 899 North Capitol Street NE, 2nd Floor Washington, DC 20002 T: 202-535-2323 Fax: 202-442-4817 Animal Disease Prevention Division Licenses, Permits and Fees: http://doh.dc.gov/service/animal-services Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:15 am to 4:45 pm STATE OF VIRGINIA Arlington County: Dog licences: http://www.arlingtonva.us/Departments/Treasurer/TreasurerDog Licensing.aspx Animal Welfare League of Arlington: http://www.awla.org/animal-control/ 65 of 67 PET INFORMATION AND RESOURCES Dog Parks: http://www.awla.org/resources/arlington-dog-parks/ http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/ParksRecreation/scripts/ dogs/CommunityCanineAreas.aspx City of Falls Church: http://www.fallschurchva.gov/178/Animal-Control City of Alexandria: Animal Welfare League of Alexandria: http://alexandriaanimals.org/ Pet licensing: http://alexandriaanimals.org/licensing-your-pet.html Fairfax County: Dog licences: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dta/dog_licenses.htm Dog Park: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rules/dogpark.htm STATE OF MARYLAND Anne Roundel County: www.aacounty.org/AnimalControl/index.cfm - Animal Control Homepage includes information on rabies clinics, dog parks, list of pet friendly hotels and lodging in MD, micro chipping program and much more... Montgomery County: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/animalservices Frederick County: https://frederickcountymd.gov/index.aspx?NID=15 MILITARY VETERINARY FACILITIES A valid CAC or DEERS Card is required to use these facilities. Joint Base Myer Henderson-Hall – Veterinary Treatment Facility www.jbmhh.army.mil/WEB/JBMHH/Services/VetTreatmentFacility.htm l 101 Jackson St, Bldg 239 Fort Myer, VA 22211-1199 (Beneath the water tower behind Conmy Hall) Appointments: (703) 696-3604 Fax: 703-696-0464 Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 0800-1530 By appointment only **Closed the last business day of each month for inventory Fort Belvoir – Veterinary Treatment Facility http://phc.amedd.army.mil/organization/Pages/VtfDetails.aspx?VtfID= 14&loc=VA 10015 Theote Road, Fort Belvoir Appointments available daily For an appointment call: 703 805-4336 Office Hours: 66 of 67 PET INFORMATION AND RESOURCES Monday to Friday, 8am to 2:40pm Upcoming Events: Saturday Clinic - Monthly Fort Meade – Veterinary Treatment Facility (VTF) 2018 Annapolis Rd., Fort Meade, MD 20755 T: 301 677-1300 Office Hours: 8am-4pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 8am-8pm Wednesday . Andrews Air Force Base – Veterinary Treatment Facility 1781 Arnold Avenue, Andrews AFB Appointments Available Daily For an appointment call: 240 857-2651 www.ftmeademwr.com/veterinary.php Fort Meade - Family Pet Care Center (Boarding Kennel): http://ftmeademwr.com/fpcc.php T: 301-677-4059 Additional information available at: http://phc.amedd.army.mil/organization/Pages/VtfDetails.aspx?VtfID= 53&loc=MD http://phc.amedd.army.mil/organization/Pages/VtfDetails.aspx?VtfID= 12&loc=MD Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 3:30pm 67 of 67
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