Pownal, Vt., resident urgents region's families to consider hosting Russian students

POWNAL, Vt. -- Students from over 10 countries will be arriving in August to attend local high schools. The students have been chosen for their English skills, academic ability and maturity. Three kids who would like to have families in our area next year are scholarship students from Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan,
sponsored by the U.S. Government Future Leaders Exchange Program (FLEX) and administered by PAX
(Program of Academic Exchange), a non-profit educational foundation. Kara Lozier, an experienced
host mom herself, serves as local director and invites families in this area to consider hosting a FLEX
student for the 06/07 school year.

Kara Lozier of Pownal, Vt., would like families to open their hearts and homes to a "son" or "daughter" in a
faraway country. Of her experience hosting Dong Baek from South Korea, she says, "He has become another
'son' to me in every way and considers this his home. The bond he shares with every family member is
precious and we have all benefited from having him in our lives."

FLEX students are between the ages of 15 and 18. They speak excellent English, have full medical insurance
and a monthly stipend. They arrive in August and are selected in a merit-based competition out of 50
thousand applicants. These students are eager to share their customs and culture with their American
hosts. As young "ambassadors", they hope to live like average American teens for one school year, joining
sports teams, studying for exams, and participating fully in American family life!

PAX families are asked to provide students with meals, a place to sleep and study, and a warm, supportive
environment. Private rooms are not required and all types of families are welcome to apply, including
single parents, young couples and retirees. For information, interested families should call Kara
Lozier at 802-823-5006 or the PAX national office at (800) 555-6211, ext. 302. Or you can contact Kara by
email at karalozier@yahoo.com .