August 16, 2008 – 6:51 pm
Richie Mathes the engaging “ah-shucks” fellow from SE Kentucky, who one the hearts of everyone has been featured in his home town newspaper, The Times Tribune. Check out his recollections.
“Richie made several good friends while at the program. Sadly, two of his friends returned home to their respective countries, The Republic of Georgia and Russia, to find their nations on opposite sides of a military conflict. The American has stayed in contact with his two European friends via Facebook, applying the diplomatic skills he learned during the summer program to help his friends cope with the stress of their current circumstances. “
August 15, 2008 – 1:19 pm
Kenneth Sydhagen shares his diary on the US Embassy Web Site in Oslo. Kenneth writes that
“I can without doubt say that it has been the time of my life. Spending a month in the U.S. has given me lifelong friendships, invaluable knowledge and great memories”.
Kenneth write a wonderful diary of his BFTF for the embassy site. Check it out at the link above. Diary 1 & 2.
Also if you have published on-line your memories or press stories are posted, be sure and send us that link.
Don’t miss James La Vela’s Video “Artyom at the Newseum.” wonderful footage of many Diplomats exploring the museum and more.
Kitsch, see diplomats photos
The BFTF seemed so short but the month long marathon of activities, work, and late nights showed. Get some rest . . .

As you may know, the Diplomats recently organized a fantastic talent show where the host families, mentors, and fellow students. Below are some videos from the evening, filled with grace, talent, and surprise! These are only a few of the many spectacular acts that we had the pleasure of witnessing, but hopefully you will gain a better appreciation of how amazing the 2008 Diplomats truly are. Enjoy! Read More »
The Loudenian Crier is keeping a live blog on the proceedings of the first session of the first parliament of the Republic of Loudenia. You can follow the discussions here.



From Left to Right: (a) Dr. Allan Louden and Ma’am Colleen Graffy, (b) the Demarcos, (c) Lusine and Bibigul
From Loudenian Crier
Security Service Spokesman Theo Yakah reported that Datii’s absence this morning was because she had ” been captured by the FARC rebels and they are demanding a ransom.” He further stated that he would be entering into negotiations for her release. No further information about these negotiations was released, but Datii’s safe return demonstrates a successful conclusion. Nevertheless, the question remains of whether negotiations with a group recognized by Loudenia as a terrorist organization, especially negotiations involving a ransom, were the best solution to this crisis.
-Matt Westwood
“The immigrant can help the nation as much as the nation can help the immigrant. Carnegie, Charlie Chaplin and Albert Einstein, for example, were all immigrants.“
~Chris Cleave, Reporter, London Guardian