An illustrated guide to aspects of life in the United States is presented in Lao for recent Laotian arrivals. The guidelines address such topics as resettlement agencies, community relations and national customs, the U.S. government, local and long distance transport, mail and telephone communication systems, employment practices, the educational system, types of housing, medical care, money and banking, taxation, insurance, consumer education and protection, and the legal and law enforcement systems. A directory of important national, local, and emergency telephone numbers is appended. (RW)