1.   In a sense, Esfandiar the returnee and Reza the expatriate mirror the obstacles facing those trying to modernize Iran.

2.   With the EchoStar deal, cable executives say they may be able to benefit from the distractions EchoStar and DirecTV will face trying to win regulatory approval.

3.   But those battles palled in comparison to the pressure he was facing recently trying to restore confidence in Belgian food at home and abroad.

4.   Refugees face difficulties trying to return home, and often appeal to the ombudsmen for help.

5.   Still reeling from the effects of hurricanes Luis and Marilyn, St. Maarten faces trying problems as it attempts to climb back on its feet.