Ambassador of Guyana Odeen Ishmael Trying to Lift Little Guyana to New Heights by Larry Luxner One recent morning, while waiting to interview Guyanese Ambassador Odeen Ishmael, the embassyís receptionist was heard trying to assist a long-distance caller with information on tourist visas. Finally, after several minutes of polite conversation, the receptionistóher patience wearing thinótold the caller: ìWeíre very sorry, sir. You want to call the Embassy of Ghana, which is in Africa. This is Guyana, in South America.î An everyday occurrence at the embassy, this anecdote illustrates how little the majority of Americans know about Guyana, an Idaho-sized nation located north of Brazil and east of Venezuela. Even most inhabitants of South America are completely ignorant of the only English-speaking country in their midst.....more... Lt. Gen. Brent Scowcroft Adviser Urges U.S. to Lead Global Coalition Against Terrorism by John Shaw Brent Scowcroft resides near the top of any list of Washington Wise Men. Scowcroft is a member of that small cadre of Washington insiders who have held senior government posts, participated in important blue-ribbon panels to review controversial topics, and are frequently called upon to give their views on the international issue of the moment. However, Scowcroft, unlike many of his establishment brethren, is still very much plugged into Washingtonís power structure.....more... Singaporeís Envoy Pushes For Free-Trade Accord by Larry Luxner Singapore, the worldís only true city-state and one of the most prosperous nations in Southeast Asia, could sign a historic free-trade accord (FTA) with the United States as early as this June....more...

Culture Section Washington-Area Universities Open Up World of Learning by Anna Gawel Finding the right ìfitî when it comes to college can be a grueling process for both students and parents. Size, cost and academics are just some of the many considerations to take into account. But for students looking to pursue a degree in international studies, that right fit can be especially elusive....more... A Matter of Degree: Graduate and Post-Graduate Studies The unparalleled number of renowned international colleges in the Washington metropolitan area not only attracts legions of undergraduate students, it also lures many working professionals looking to broaden their horizons with a masterís degree, doctorate, or short-term coursework....more... Schools Focusing on Education For the International Community Privilege of Diplomatic Immunity Facing Challenges From All Sides by John Shaw Diplomatic immunity is an ancient concept that is facing a raft of contemporary challenges....more... The Ritalin Controversy Experts Debate Use of Drug to Curb Hyperactivity in Children by Gina Shaw Joshua, an adorable 5-year-old, has a personality that seems as impossible to control as his unruly blond hair. In his kindergarten class, heís up and down out of his seat every five minutes, never seems to follow the teacherís directions, and frequently can be found gazing out the window instead of paying attention.....more... Treating ADHD American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for treating ADHD Receiving Line ï Heartfelt Gesture at Sea ï American-Arab Banquet