Welcome to our unaccompanied tours (UT) blog, Foggy Bottom Rambles! We can share information, programs, and resources quickly with you and since blogs are a two way street, we (and the other readers) can hear from you. What's in a name you say? This blog reflects how we (back here in DC, Foggy Bottom area) provide information (rambles) to you. Find websites and information, upcoming webinars, programs and events. FLO does not endorse organizations or companies linked-to in this blog, the views they express, or the products/services they offer. Let us know what you think: contribute to the blog or email us at FLOAskUT@state.gov.

Tuesday, November 29, 2016




Attention FSFRC Members!


The Office of Overseas Employment at the Department of State recently released an urgent message for all members of the Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps (FSFRC). FSFRC members who have accepted or who may be considering accepting employment on a Personal Services Agreement (PSA) or a Civil Service position should read the message carefully on the FSFRC webpage.

Key Points

A temporary personnel software and payroll system incompatibility issue prevents FSFRC members in non-pay Reserve Status from being paid correctly for work performed on a PSA or in Civil Service position. A new payroll system, which is being implemented in 2017, will resolve this issue.

FSFRC members who accept employment on a PSA or a Civil Service position must first resign from the FSFRC before starting work.

These individuals may then reapply to join the FSFRC during open enrollment.

FSFRC Members who are currently working on a PSA should immediately contact PayIntakeExecutiveCo@state.gov.

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

If you are preparing to transition to Washington, DC and are starting your job search, you may want to sign up for the following FLO programs. 

The Network

Email subscription service for registered family members.

Receive emails with Non-Competitive Eligibility (NCE) and Washington area job vacancy announcements and other employment-related information including upcoming programs, workshops, job fairs and FLO services.

How does it work?

Email FLONetwork@state.gov with your personal email address, employee sponsor’s name and agency.

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

2017 FSYF / GEICO - Academic Merit Award


The Foreign Service Youth Foundation (FSYF) is committed to supporting Foreign Service youth by providing them with opportunities to challenge themselves, reflect upon their Foreign Service childhoods, and to be celebrated for their achievements. Since 2010, FSYF has been recognizing Foreign Service high school seniors and gap-year dependents for their outstanding achievements through the FSYF / GEICO College Scholarship. This year, FSYF is offering a one-time only competitive merit-based award with a first-place prize of $4,000 and a second-place prize of $2,000. High school seniors and gap-year dependents whose families are members of the Foreign Service Youth Foundation (FSYF) are eligible to apply. For more information on the award, how to apply, and how to join FSYF, go to www.fsyf.org. Deadline to apply is February 6, 2017.

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

FLO Website Feature: Eldercare


You can find information and resources on eldercare issues for Foreign Service employees and family members caring for elderly parents on FLO’s Eldercare webpage. This page includes specific information about long-distance caregiving, communicating with an elderly parent, paying for long-term care, housing options, putting parents on your orders, and more. Email FLOAskSupportServices@state.gov with questions. 

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Employment Opportunity in FLO: UT Specialist


Family members returning to or in the Washington, DC area may be interested in applying for the Unaccompanied Tour Support Specialist (GS-9) position in FLO. The incumbent of this position is responsible for providing information and support to employees and family members separated by service before, during and after these experiences, including providing assistance for reunion and reentry into life in the U.S. Duties will include working in person in front of groups as well as with individuals and via virtual platforms and printed media. The position is located in Washington, DC, and requires some travel. The application deadline for this position is 11:59 p.m. EST, November 16. See the vacancy announcement for details.
   

Tuesday, November 1, 2016


Managing the Stress of Change  
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
10:00—11:00 A.M. ET

Stress comes to all of us in one form or another. However , one of the greatest sources of stress is change! Change of location, change of routine, change of lifestyle, changes in   relationships due to separation, and the list goes on.

We hope you will join us to discuss effective management in dealing with change and the stress that comes along with it at our next webinar.

Participants will need a computer with a high-speed internet connection and computer speakers. The chat function will allow participants to post questions or comments during the presentation. 

To participate in the webinar visit:
Department of State Webinar.  enter as a guest and type your first name and your current or future post. 

Our partners from the Bureau of Medical Services Deployment Stress Management Program (DSMP) will facilitate the webinar and be available for a question and answer session.

Please request a copy of the digital participant workbook in advance of the webinar. We will refer to it throughout the session. Email FLOAskUT@state.gov to request a copy.

Please direct questions to FLO's Unaccompanied Tours office at 202-647-1076.