I wanted to give a quick update on my status. I did not get my visa in the desired time frame (that is, before Aug 9th). I started sending out emails from Aug 1st to the consulate. I did not receive any responses until Aug 7th. They asked for the applicants name and DOB and after that I received the file number. The file number does not really help as there is no way of checking the status online with the file number. I then decided to go in person on the Aug 9th, the same day as the travel the evening of Aug 9th. I informed the consulate that I will be walking in person on the 9th and hoping to get a visa in hand. I did not get any response to the message. I still decided to go in person, and luckily I did get the visa the same day and we completed our travel as planned. I hope no one has to wait till the last moment to get thier visa.