Since its independence, Singapore has been a symbol of organization and success, especially economically.  These days, however, the big news around town is about the economic downturn of the Southeast Asian region.  Singapore grew at 7.8% in 1997 - a tremendous amount considering that the goal of the United States is no more than 3% per year.  In the past quarter (third quarter), the Singapore economy shrunk by 1.5%.  If the fourth quarter also shrinks, it will be considered a recession.  The 1.5% decrease was the first contraction in 13 years, again, a tremendous feat.  Even the unemployment rate has crept up from only 2.3% to 4.5% in September and is expected to approach 7% in 1999.  The recent economic collapse of many of the Southeast Asia nations has hurt Singapore for several reasons.  As a major port, a tremendous amount of trade from countries like Indonesia and Malaysia come...