Happy 4th of July!
Happy Independence Day!
Share the knowledge, grow the community, empower each other!
Happy 4th of July!
As an immigrant in the United States, embracing and participating in local traditions and celebrations is a wonderful way to connect with the community and feel a sense of belonging. One such celebration that holds great significance in American culture is Independence Day, also known as 4th of July. In this article, we will provide you with an easy guide on how to be a part of the July 4th festivities and fully enjoy this patriotic holiday.
Learn the History: Understand the roots of independence from British rule and the birth of the United States as a sovereign nation. July 4th became a federal holiday in 1941, but its roots trace back to the 18th century and the American Revolution. On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted for independence, and two days later, the Declaration of Independence, skillfully written by Thomas Jefferson, was adopted by delegates from the 13 colonies. To learn more, History.com
Attend Local Parades: Many cities and towns across the country organize parades on July 4th. These parades feature vibrant displays of patriotism, with marching bands, colorful floats, and community groups. Find out if there's a parade happening in your area and make plans to attend. You can witness the patriotic spirit firsthand and feel the sense of unity among fellow Americans.
Join Firework Displays: Fireworks are an iconic part of July 4th celebrations. Check local event listings to find firework displays happening near you. Gather your friends and family, pack a picnic, and head to a designated viewing spot. Witness the dazzling bursts of colors and lights in the night sky as you celebrate alongside your fellow community members.
Participate in Community Events: Many communities organize special events and festivals on July 4th. These can include live music performances, food stalls, games, and activities for all ages. Check local community centers, parks, or social media groups for information on these events. Participating in such events will not only be enjoyable but also provide an opportunity to meet new people and make connections.
Decorate Your Home: Join in the festive spirit by decorating your home with patriotic symbols and colors. Hang the American flag or adorn your porch with red, white, and blue decorations. This small gesture will showcase your enthusiasm for the holiday and help create a festive atmosphere.
Engage in Community Service: Another meaningful way to be part of the July 4th celebration is by engaging in community service. Many organizations organize volunteer opportunities on this day, such as food drives, park clean-ups, or assisting local charities. Contributing your time and effort to help others not only reflects the values of the holiday but also strengthens the sense of community.
#SettleWiseStance – Being part of the celebrations like decorating your home not only shows your patriotic spirit but also allows your neighbors and community members to appreciate and embrace the diversity and contributions of immigrants to the United States. Probably it may calm down the haters too.
While enjoying the parades and fireworks, it's important to prioritize safety and be prepared for any unexpected situations. In light of recent events, it's crucial to have a plan in place for emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the surroundings, identify the nearest exit points, and locate safe areas where you can take shelter in case of a mass shooting or other emergencies. Stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and if you notice anything suspicious, report it to the authorities immediately. By taking these precautions, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for everyone.
But don't let fear ruin the fun. Have a happy 4th of July, y'all!
US Visa Stamping within USA News(Official)
The process of obtaining a US Visa renewal typically involves leaving the United States and undergoing stamping in either the home country or a third-country that allows such procedures. However, recent developments bring hope for a change in this process. A pilot program is being considered to allow H1B visa holders to get their visa stamping done within the US. This initiative aims to address the long wait times for visa appointments and provide convenience for individuals seeking visa renewals.
To understand the significance of this potential change, it is important to look back at the history of domestic visa issuance in the US. Until 2004, the US Department of State provided visa stamping services within the country for various visa types, including C, E, H, I, L, O, and P. Initially, these services were intended for foreign government officials and employees of international organizations, but they were later extended to all individuals residing in the US. However, in 2004, the domestic visa issuance service was discontinued due to changes in visa interview requirements and the need for collecting biometrics within the US.
The idea of reinstating domestic visa issuance within the US was first mentioned in an interview with Julie Strufft from the US Department of State in February 2023. She revealed plans for a pilot program to test the option of visa renewals within the US, focusing primarily on H1B visa holders and other temporary visa categories. The pilot program aims to streamline the visa renewal process and reduce the need for individuals to leave the US for stamping.
This exciting development was further confirmed in a joint statement released by the US and Indian governments in June 2023. As part of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US, it was announced that a pilot program would be launched to allow H1B visa holders to get their visa stamping done within the US. This marks an important step toward facilitating visa renewals and addressing the challenges faced by individuals in obtaining their visa stamps.
While specific details of the pilot program are yet to be announced, this news brings hope to those facing issues with visa renewals. It signifies a potential shift in the visa application process and demonstrates the US government's willingness to explore alternative methods to streamline immigration procedures.
#SettleWiseStance – Getting a visa stamped outside the USA can be an arduous and painful process for immigrants. The long wait times, uncertain outcomes, and logistical challenges can cause immense stress and anxiety. We understand the frustration of having to plan weddings and important events around visa interview dates. But now, the prospect of renewing visas within the US is like a ray of hope and a blessing. It means no more navigating complex travel arrangements, worrying about visa interview dates, or putting life on hold for months. This new opportunity brings immense relief and opens doors to a smoother and more convenient visa renewal process, allowing immigrants to focus on their lives and careers with peace of mind.
A way to make money with Zero Risk
Are you looking for ways to make more money with zero risk? One simple and effective strategy is to move your emergency fund and savings from your current account to a high-yield savings account. Many people unknowingly miss out on potential interest earnings by keeping their funds idle in their current accounts. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of high-yield savings accounts and how they can help you earn more from your hard-earned money.
Take Advantage of Higher Interest Rates: High-yield savings accounts offer significantly higher interest rates compared to traditional savings or current accounts. By transferring your emergency fund and savings to a high-yield account, you can enjoy better returns on your money. The compounding effect of higher interest rates can significantly boost your savings over time.
Ensure Easy Accessibility: While the goal is to earn more on your savings, it's also crucial to have easy access to your funds when emergencies arise. High-yield savings accounts provide the convenience of quick and convenient access to your money whenever you need it. This way, you can maintain both liquidity and growth potential.
Safeguard Against Inflation: Inflation erodes the purchasing power of your money over time. By keeping your savings in a high-yield account, you can help protect your funds from the impacts of inflation. The higher interest rates offered by these accounts can counterbalance the effects of rising prices, ensuring that your money retains its value and grows.
Automatic Savings with Direct Deposits: To make the most of your high-yield savings account, consider setting up direct deposits from your salary. By automating your savings process, a portion of your income can be directed straight into your high-yield account, ensuring consistent contributions towards your financial goals. This strategy helps you build your savings effortlessly while taking advantage of the higher interest rates.
Research and Compare Account Options: Not all high-yield savings accounts are created equal. Take the time to research and compare different account options to find the one that suits your needs. Look for accounts with competitive interest rates, low fees, and features that align with your financial goals. Online banks and financial institutions often offer attractive rates, so explore these options as well.
#SettleWiseStance – I highly recommend starting with a Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU) savings account, where you can earn as high as 6.17% interest. Please click on this secured link to join DCU. Other options to consider are Discover Bank and local small banks and credit unions. Let us know if you want to get a joining bonus in any of them. Ensure that the financial institutions you choose are FDIC insured. Please be aware that stock brokerage accounts and crypto accounts are not ideal for storing your money, as most of them are not FDIC insured. Without FDIC insurance, there is a high risk of losing the entire savings.
Wiser Craving
Multiple subscribers reached out expressing their interest of learning few specific topics. If you want to read about any specific topic, Please let me know in the comments or email to author.settlewise@gmail.com
#WiserCraving Topic of this edition is Canada’s latest immigration update.
6 New Immigration Measures Announced By Canada
1. IRCC will be launching a new and dedicated pathway for permanent residency (PR) specific for employees available in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) sector.
2. Going forward IRCC will prioritize Startup Visa applications which have capital commitment or if an application has endorsement from trusted partner.
3. Startup visa applications under processing will get open work permit for the applicant and their family members for 3 years to work in Canada, while their application is under processing.
4. Over the course of this year, Canada will be developing new specific stream for employees working for tech companies irrespective of whether they have a job offer or not.
5. Canada will launch digital nomad strategy which will allow people who have foreign employer to come and work in Canada for up to 6 months and spend time in Canadian communities. If they receive a job offer from Canadian employer while they are here, then they will be allowed to continue to stay and work in Canada.
6. Lastly, Canada will start a new stream beginning July 16 to allow 10,000 H-1 B visa holders to come and work in Canada. This program will also extend study or work permits to their accompanying family members, fostering a supportive environment for their transition and settlement.
Watch the full speech by IRCC Minister here.
#SettleWiseStance – While more details to come in days, this is not only a significant opportunity for skilled professionals, but also a potential lifeline for those facing challenges in their current situations. For individuals who have recently experienced job losses due to layoffs, this stream offers a fresh start and the chance to continue their careers in a more stable environment. Moreover, for those waiting for their green cards with the risk of their children aging out, or individuals who have reached the maximum duration of their H-1B status and are still awaiting approvals for their perm, labor, or i-140, this new pathway to work in Canada provides a much-needed sense of security and relief. By opening its doors to these talented individuals, Canada is offering a lifeline to those seeking stability, career progression, and the opportunity to build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Canada offers an easier path to permanent residency and citizenship compared to the USA, with promising opportunities. As a Canadian citizen, you can explore work options in the USA through the TN visa program, opening doors for career growth and a brighter future.
If you have any further question, please ask it in the comments or email to author.settlewise@gmail.com . SettleWise team will try to get the answer for you.
Idioms and Phrases
Toe the line - to stay within the acceptable boundary or limits
Know the score - be aware of all relevant factors and variables
Move the goalposts - to set your sights or standards even higher; to make something more challenging
To take sides - to choose a team
We value your feedback! Please take a moment to share your thoughts on this episode and let us know what topics you would like to read about next. Your input guides us in delivering valuable and relevant content. Feel free to leave your feedback in the comments below.
Thanks for reading SettleWise! Was this email forwarded to you? That's wonderful! It shows how much they value you and believe that you would benefit from the content. Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Disclaimer: I am not a certified professional in the fields discussed. The content provided in this article is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The opinions and suggestions shared are intended to provide general information and assist you in making informed decisions. Please note that while I may mention specific products or services, I may earn referral income from some of the links provided, but no additional cost to you. Therefore, while you can continue reading and absorbing the information, please exercise your own judgment and seek professional advice when necessary.
Informative! Thanks for sharing! Much Appreciated 😊