More European air time is filled with low - budget game shows , variety hours , movies and talk shows , many of which are authorized knock - offs of their American counterparts .

More <norp>European</norp> air time is filled with low - budget game shows , <time>variety hours</time> , movies and talk shows , many of which are authorized knock - offs of their <norp>American</norp> counterparts .


One of France 's most popular Saturday night programs features semi-celebrities seeking out their grammar - school classmates for on - air reunions .

<cardinal>One</cardinal> of <gpe>France</gpe> 's most popular <date>Saturday</date> <time>night</time> programs features semi-celebrities seeking out their grammar - school classmates for on - air reunions .


A Flemish game show has as its host a Belgian pretending to be Italian .

A <norp>Flemish</norp> game show has as its host a <norp>Belgian</norp> pretending to be <norp>Italian</norp> .


One of Italy 's favorite shows , `` Fantastico , '' a tepid variety show , is so popular that viewers clamored to buy a chocolate product , `` Cacao Fantastico , '' whose praises were sung each week by dancing showgirls -- even though the product did n't exist .

<cardinal>One</cardinal> of <gpe>Italy</gpe> 's favorite shows , `` <work_of_art>Fantastico</work_of_art> , '' a tepid variety show , is so popular that viewers clamored to buy a chocolate product , `` <product>Cacao Fantastico</product> , '' whose praises were sung <date>each week</date> by dancing showgirls -- even though the product did n't exist .


Topping the cheese stunt , on another typical evening of fun on `` Wetten Dass , '' a contestant won a bet with the show 's host , Thomas Gottschalk , that he could identify 300 German dialects over the telephone .

Topping the cheese stunt , on <time>another typical evening</time> of fun on `` <work_of_art>Wetten Dass</work_of_art> , '' a contestant won a bet with the show 's host , <person>Thomas Gottschalk</person> , that he could identify <cardinal>300</cardinal> <norp>German</norp> dialects over the telephone .


A celebrity guest , U.S. Ambassador to West Germany Richard Burt , also won a bet that someone could pile up $ 150 worth of quarters on a slanted coin .

A celebrity guest , <gpe>U.S.</gpe> Ambassador to <gpe>West Germany</gpe> <person>Richard Burt</person> , also won a bet that someone could pile up $ <money>150</money> worth of quarters on a slanted coin .


Mr. Burt nonetheless paid the penalty as if he had lost , agreeing to spend a day with West German Foreign Minister Hans - Dietrich Genscher frying and selling their combined weight in potato pancakes .

Mr. <person>Burt</person> nonetheless paid the penalty as if he had lost , agreeing to spend <date>a day</date> with <norp>West German</norp> Foreign Minister <person>Hans - Dietrich Genscher</person> frying and selling their combined weight in potato pancakes .


If this seems like pretty weak stuff around which to raise the protectionist barriers , it may be because these shows need all the protection they can get .


European programs usually target only their own local audience , and often only a small portion of that .

<norp>European</norp> programs usually target only their own local audience , and often only a small portion of that .


Mega-hits in Germany or Italy rarely make it even to France or Great Britain , and almost never show up on U.S. screens .

Mega-hits in <gpe>Germany</gpe> or <gpe>Italy</gpe> rarely make it even to <gpe>France</gpe> or <gpe>Great Britain</gpe> , and almost never show up on <gpe>U.S.</gpe> screens .


Attempts to produce `` pan-European '' programs have generally resulted in disappointment .

Attempts to produce `` <norp>pan-European</norp> '' programs have generally resulted in disappointment .


One annual co-production , the three - hour - long `` Eurovision Song Contest , '' featuring soft - rock songs from each of 20 European countries , has been described as the world 's most boring TV show .

<cardinal>One</cardinal> <date>annual</date> co-production , the <time>three - hour</time> - long `` <work_of_art>Eurovision Song Contest</work_of_art> , '' featuring soft - rock songs from each of <cardinal>20</cardinal> <norp>European</norp> countries , has been described as the world 's most boring TV show .


Another , `` Jeux Sans Frontieres , '' where villagers from assorted European countries make fools of themselves performing pointless tasks , is a hit in France .

Another , `` <work_of_art>Jeux Sans Frontieres</work_of_art> , '' where villagers from assorted <norp>European</norp> countries make fools of themselves performing pointless tasks , is a hit in <gpe>France</gpe> .


A U.S. - made imitation under the title `` Almost Anything Goes '' flopped fast .

A <gpe>U.S.</gpe> - made imitation under the title `` <work_of_art>Almost Anything Goes</work_of_art> '' flopped fast .


For the most part , what 's made here stays here , and for good reason .


The cream of the British crop , the literary dramas that are shown on U.S. public television as `` Masterpiece Theater , '' make up a relatively small part of British air time .

The cream of the <norp>British</norp> crop , the literary dramas that are shown on <gpe>U.S.</gpe> public television as `` <work_of_art>Masterpiece Theater</work_of_art> , '' make up a relatively small part of <norp>British</norp> air time .


Most British programming is more of an acquired taste .

Most <norp>British</norp> programming is more of an acquired taste .


There is , for instance , `` One Man and His Dog , '' a herding contest among sheep dogs .

There is , for instance , `` <work_of_art>One Man and His Dog</work_of_art> , '' a herding contest among sheep dogs .


Also riveting to the British are hours of dart - throwing championships , even more hours of lawn bowling contests and still more hours of snooker marathons .

Also riveting to the <norp>British</norp> are <time>hours</time> of dart - throwing championships , <time>even more hours</time> of lawn bowling contests and <time>still more hours</time> of snooker marathons .


European drama has had better , though still mixed , fortunes .

<norp>European</norp> drama has had better , though still mixed , fortunes .


The most popular such shows focus on narrow national concerns .


A French knock - off of `` Dallas , '' called `` Chateauvallon '' and set in a French vineyard , had a good run in France , which ended after the female lead was injured in a real - life auto accident .

A <norp>French</norp> knock - off of `` <work_of_art>Dallas</work_of_art> , '' called `` <work_of_art>Chateauvallon</work_of_art> '' and set in a <norp>French</norp> vineyard , had a good run in <gpe>France</gpe> , which ended after the female lead was injured in a real - life auto accident .


`` Schwarzwaldklinik , '' -LRB- Black Forest Clinic -RRB- , a kind of German `` St . Elsewhere '' set in a health spa , is popular in Germany , and has spread into France .

`` <work_of_art>Schwarzwaldklinik</work_of_art> , '' -LRB- <work_of_art>Black Forest Clinic</work_of_art> -RRB- , a kind of <norp>German</norp> `` <work_of_art>St . Elsewhere</work_of_art> '' set in a health spa , is popular in <gpe>Germany</gpe> , and has spread into <gpe>France</gpe> .


Italy 's most popular series is a drama called `` La Piovra , '' or `` The Octopus , '' which chronicles the fight of an idealistic young investigator in Palermo against the Mafia .

<gpe>Italy</gpe> 's most popular series is a drama called `` <work_of_art>La Piovra</work_of_art> , '' or `` <work_of_art>The Octopus</work_of_art> , '' which chronicles the fight of an idealistic young investigator in <gpe>Palermo</gpe> against the <org>Mafia</org> .


It was front - page news in Italy earlier this year when the fictional inspector was gunned down in the series .

It was front - page news in <gpe>Italy</gpe> <date>earlier this year</date> when the fictional inspector was gunned down in the series .


Spain 's most popular mini-series this year was `` Juncal , '' the story of an aging bullfighter .

<gpe>Spain</gpe> 's most popular mini-series <date>this year</date> was `` <work_of_art>Juncal</work_of_art> , '' the story of an aging bullfighter .


`` The trend is pretty well established now that local programs are the most popular , with American programs second , '' says Brian Wenham , a former director of programs for the British Broadcasting Corp .

`` The trend is pretty well established now that local programs are the most popular , with <norp>American</norp> programs <ordinal>second</ordinal> , '' says <person>Brian Wenham</person> , a former director of programs for <org>the British Broadcasting Corp</org> .


`` Given a choice , everybody will watch a home - produced show . ''


But frequently there is n't much choice .


Thus , Europe has begun the recent crusade to produce more worthy shows of its own , programs with broader appeal .

Thus , <loc>Europe</loc> has begun the recent crusade to produce more worthy shows of its own , programs with broader appeal .


`` We 've basically got to start from scratch , to train writers and producers to make shows that other people will want to see , '' concedes Colin Young , head of Britain 's National Film Theatre School .

`` We 've basically got to start from scratch , to train writers and producers to make shows that other people will want to see , '' concedes <person>Colin Young</person> , head of <gpe>Britain</gpe> 's <org>National Film Theatre School</org> .


While some in the U.S. contend that advertising is the bane of television , here many believe that its absence is to blame for the European TV industry 's sluggish development .

While some in the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> contend that advertising is the bane of television , here many believe that its absence is to blame for the <norp>European</norp> TV industry 's sluggish development .


Until recently , national governments in Europe controlled most of the air time and allowed little or no advertising .

Until recently , national governments in <loc>Europe</loc> controlled most of the air time and allowed little or no advertising .


Since production costs were guaranteed , it did n't matter that a program could n't be sold abroad or put into syndication , as most American programs are .

Since production costs were guaranteed , it did n't matter that a program could n't be sold abroad or put into syndication , as most <norp>American</norp> programs are .


But not much money was spent on the shows , either , a situation that encouraged cheap - to - make talk and game shows , while discouraging expensive - to - produce dramas .


Now , however , commercial channels are coming to most European countries , and at the same time , satellite and cable technology is spreading rapidly .

Now , however , commercial channels are coming to most <norp>European</norp> countries , and at the same time , satellite and cable technology is spreading rapidly .


Just last week , Greece authorized two commercial channels for the first time ; Spain earlier began to allow commercial television alongside its state channels .

<date>Just last week</date> , <gpe>Greece</gpe> authorized <cardinal>two</cardinal> commercial channels for the first time ; <gpe>Spain</gpe> earlier began to allow commercial television alongside its state channels .


The result is a new and huge appetite for programming .


But perhaps to the consternation of those calling for quotas , most of this void is likely to be filled with the cheapest and most plentiful programming now available -- reruns -- usually of shows made in the U.S. .

But perhaps to the consternation of those calling for quotas , most of this void is likely to be filled with the cheapest and most plentiful programming now available -- reruns -- usually of shows made in the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> .


Sky Channel , a British - based venture of Australian - American press tycoon Rupert Murdoch , offers what must be a baffling cultural mix to most of its audience .

<org>Sky Channel</org> , a <norp>British</norp> - based venture of <norp>Australian - American</norp> press tycoon <person>Rupert Murdoch</person> , offers what must be a baffling cultural mix to most of its audience .


The financially struggling station offers programs obviously made available cheaply from its boss 's other ventures .


In a Madrid hotel room recently , a viewer caught the end of a badly acted series about a fishing boat on Australia 's Great Barrier Reef , only to be urged by the British announcer to `` stay tuned for the further adventures of Skippy the Kangaroo . ''

In a <gpe>Madrid</gpe> hotel room recently , a viewer caught the end of a badly acted series about a fishing boat on <gpe>Australia</gpe> 's <loc>Great Barrier Reef</loc> , only to be urged by the <norp>British</norp> announcer to `` stay tuned for the further adventures of Skippy the Kangaroo . ''


Lisa Grishaw - Mueller in Bonn , Laura Colby in Milan , Tim Carrington in London and Carlta Vitzhum in Madrid contributed to this article .

<person>Lisa Grishaw - Mueller</person> in <gpe>Bonn</gpe> , <person>Laura Colby</person> in <gpe>Milan</gpe> , <person>Tim Carrington</person> in <gpe>London</gpe> and <person>Carlta Vitzhum</person> in <gpe>Madrid</gpe> contributed to this article .


British Aerospace PLC and France 's Thomson - CSF S.A. said they are nearing an agreement to merge their guided - missile divisions , greatly expanding collaboration between the two defense contractors .

<org>British Aerospace PLC</org> and <gpe>France</gpe> 's <org>Thomson - CSF S.A.</org> said they are nearing an agreement to merge their guided - missile divisions , greatly expanding collaboration between the <cardinal>two</cardinal> defense contractors .


The 50 - 50 joint venture , which may be dubbed Eurodynamics , would have combined annual sales of at least 1.4 billion -LRB- $ 2.17 billion -RRB- and would be among the world 's largest missile makers .

The <cardinal>50 - 50</cardinal> joint venture , which may be dubbed <org>Eurodynamics</org> , would have combined <date>annual</date> sales of <money>at least 1.4 billion</money> -LRB- <money>$ 2.17 billion</money> -RRB- and would be among the world 's largest missile makers .


After two years of talks , plans for the venture are sufficiently advanced for the companies to seek French and British government clearance .

After <date>two years</date> of talks , plans for the venture are sufficiently advanced for the companies to seek <norp>French</norp> and <norp>British</norp> government clearance .


The companies hope for a final agreement by year - end .

The companies hope for a final agreement by <date>year - end</date> .


The venture would strengthen the rapidly growing ties between the two companies , and help make them a leading force in European defense contracting .

The venture would strengthen the rapidly growing ties between the <cardinal>two</cardinal> companies , and help make them a leading force in <norp>European</norp> defense contracting .


In recent months , a string of cross-border mergers and joint ventures have reshaped the once - balkanized world of European arms manufacture .

In <date>recent months</date> , a string of cross-border mergers and joint ventures have reshaped the once - balkanized world of <norp>European</norp> arms manufacture .


Already , British Aerospace and French government - controlled Thomson - CSF collaborate on a British missile contract and on an air - traffic control radar system .

Already , <org>British Aerospace</org> and <norp>French</norp> government - controlled <org>Thomson - CSF</org> collaborate on a <norp>British</norp> missile contract and on an air - traffic control radar system .


Just last week they announced they may make a joint bid to buy Ferranti International Signal PLC , a smaller British defense contractor rocked by alleged accounting fraud at a U.S. unit .

<date>Just last week</date> they announced they may make a joint bid to buy <org>Ferranti International Signal PLC</org> , a smaller <norp>British</norp> defense contractor rocked by alleged accounting fraud at a <gpe>U.S.</gpe> unit .


The sudden romance of British Aerospace and Thomson - CSF -- traditionally bitter competitors for Middle East and Third World weapons contracts -- is stirring controversy in Western Europe 's defense industry .

The sudden romance of <org>British Aerospace</org> and <org>Thomson - CSF</org> -- traditionally bitter competitors for <loc>Middle East</loc> and Third World weapons contracts -- is stirring controversy in <loc>Western Europe 's</loc> defense industry .


Most threatened by closer British Aerospace - Thomson ties would be their respective national rivals , including Matra S.A. in France and Britain 's General Electric Co. PLC .

Most threatened by closer <org>British Aerospace - Thomson</org> ties would be their respective national rivals , including <org>Matra S.A.</org> in <gpe>France</gpe> and <gpe>Britain</gpe> 's <org>General Electric Co. PLC</org> .


But neither Matra nor GEC -- unrelated to Stamford , Conn. - based General Electric Co. -- are sitting quietly by as their competitors join forces .

But neither <org>Matra</org> nor <org>GEC</org> -- unrelated to <gpe>Stamford</gpe> , <gpe>Conn.</gpe> - based <org>General Electric Co.</org> -- are sitting quietly by as their competitors join forces .


Yesterday , a source close to GEC confirmed that his company may join the Ferranti fight , as part of a possible consortium that would bid against British Aerospace and Thomson - CSF .

<date>Yesterday</date> , a source close to <org>GEC</org> confirmed that his company may join the <org>Ferranti</org> fight , as part of a possible consortium that would bid against <org>British Aerospace</org> and <org>Thomson - CSF</org> .


Companies with which GEC has had talks about a possible joint Ferranti bid include Matra , Britain 's Dowty Group PLC , West Germany 's Daimler - Benz AG , and France 's Dassault group .

Companies with which <org>GEC</org> has had talks about a possible joint <org>Ferranti</org> bid include <org>Matra</org> , <gpe>Britain</gpe> 's <org>Dowty Group PLC</org> , <gpe>West Germany 's</gpe> <org>Daimler - Benz AG</org> , and <gpe>France</gpe> 's <org>Dassault</org> group .


But it may be weeks before GEC and its potential partners decide whether to bid , the source indicated .

But it may be <date>weeks</date> before <org>GEC</org> and its potential partners decide whether to bid , the source indicated .


GEC plans first to study Ferranti 's financial accounts , which auditors recently said included 215 million in fictitious contracts at a U.S. unit , International Signal & Control Group , with which Ferranti merged last year .

<org>GEC</org> plans <ordinal>first</ordinal> to study <org>Ferranti</org> 's financial accounts , which auditors recently said included 215 million in fictitious contracts at a <gpe>U.S.</gpe> unit , <org>International Signal & Control Group</org> , with which <org>Ferranti</org> merged <date>last year</date> .


Also , any GEC bid might be blocked by British antitrust regulators ; Ferranti is GEC 's main competitor on several key defense - electronics contracts , and its purchase by GEC may heighten British Defense Ministry worries about concentration in the country 's defense industry .

Also , any <org>GEC</org> bid might be blocked by <norp>British</norp> antitrust regulators ; <org>Ferranti</org> is <org>GEC</org> 's main competitor on several key defense - electronics contracts , and its purchase by <org>GEC</org> may heighten <org>British Defense Ministry</org> worries about concentration in the country 's defense industry .


A consortium bid , however , would diminish GEC 's direct role in Ferranti and might consequently appease ministry officials .

A consortium bid , however , would diminish <org>GEC</org> 's direct role in <org>Ferranti</org> and might consequently appease ministry officials .


A British Aerospace spokeswoman appeared unperturbed by the prospect of a fight with GEC for Ferranti : `` Competition is the name of the game , '' she said .

A <org>British Aerospace</org> spokeswoman appeared unperturbed by the prospect of a fight with <org>GEC</org> for <org>Ferranti</org> : `` Competition is the name of the game , '' she said .


At least one potential GEC partner , Matra , insists it is n't interested in Ferranti .

<cardinal>At least one</cardinal> potential <org>GEC</org> partner , <org>Matra</org> , insists it is n't interested in <org>Ferranti</org> .


`` We have nothing to say about this affair , which does n't concern us , '' a Matra official said Sunday .

`` We have nothing to say about this affair , which does n't concern us , '' a <org>Matra</org> official said <date>Sunday</date> .


The missile venture , the British Aerospace spokeswoman said , is a needed response to the `` new environment '' in defense contracting .

The missile venture , the <org>British Aerospace</org> spokeswoman said , is a needed response to the `` new environment '' in defense contracting .


For both Thomson and British Aerospace , earnings in their home markets have come under pressure from increasingly tight - fisted defense ministries ; and Middle East sales , a traditional mainstay for both companies ' exports , have been hurt by five years of weak oil prices .

For both <org>Thomson</org> and <org>British Aerospace</org> , earnings in their home markets have come under pressure from increasingly tight - fisted defense ministries ; and <loc>Middle East</loc> sales , a traditional mainstay for both companies ' exports , have been hurt by <date>five years</date> of weak oil prices .


The venture 's importance for Thomson is great .

The venture 's importance for <org>Thomson</org> is great .


Thomson feels the future of its defense business depends on building cooperation with other Europeans .

<org>Thomson</org> feels the future of its defense business depends on building cooperation with other <norp>Europeans</norp> .


The European defense industry is consolidating ; for instance , West Germany 's Siemens AG recently joined GEC in a takeover of Britain 's Plessey Co. , and Daimler - Benz agreed to buy Messerschmitt - Boelkow Blohm G.m.b . H .

The <norp>European</norp> defense industry is consolidating ; for instance , <gpe>West Germany 's</gpe> <org>Siemens AG</org> recently joined <org>GEC</org> in a takeover of <gpe>Britain</gpe> 's <org>Plessey Co.</org> , and <org>Daimler - Benz</org> agreed to buy <org>Messerschmitt - Boelkow Blohm G.m.b . H</org> .


In missiles , Thomson is already overshadowed by British Aerospace and by its home rival , France 's Aerospatiale S.A. ; to better compete , Thomson officials say , they need a partnership .

In missiles , <org>Thomson</org> is already overshadowed by <org>British Aerospace</org> and by its home rival , <gpe>France</gpe> 's <org>Aerospatiale S.A.</org> ; to better compete , <org>Thomson</org> officials say , they need a partnership .


To justify 50 - 50 ownership of the planned venture , Thomson would make a cash payment to British Aerospace .

To justify <cardinal>50 - 50</cardinal> ownership of the planned venture , <org>Thomson</org> would make a cash payment to <org>British Aerospace</org> .


Annual revenue of British Aerospace 's missile business is about 950 million , a Thomson spokesman said .

<date>Annual</date> revenue of <org>British Aerospace 's</org> missile business is <money>about 950 million</money> , a <org>Thomson</org> spokesman said .


British Aerospace 's chief missile products include its 17 - year - old family of Rapier surface - to - air missiles .

<org>British Aerospace 's</org> chief missile products include its <date>17 - year - old</date> family of <product>Rapier</product> surface - to - air missiles .


Thomson missile products , with about half British Aerospace 's annual revenue , include the Crotale surface - to - air missile family .

<org>Thomson</org> missile products , with <cardinal>about half</cardinal> <org>British Aerospace 's</org> <date>annual</date> revenue , include the <product>Crotale</product> surface - to - air missile family .


Interprovincial Pipe Line Co. said it will delay a proposed two - step , 830 million Canadian - dollar -LRB- US$ 705.6 million -RRB- expansion of its system because Canada 's output of crude oil is shrinking .

<org>Interprovincial Pipe Line Co.</org> said it will delay a proposed <cardinal>two</cardinal> - step , <money>830 million Canadian - dollar</money> -LRB- <money>US$ 705.6 million</money> -RRB- expansion of its system because <gpe>Canada</gpe> 's output of crude oil is shrinking .


Interprovincial , Canada 's biggest oil pipeline operator and a major transporter of crude to the U.S. , said revised industry forecasts indicate that Canadian oil output will total about 1.64 million barrels a day by 1991 , 8 % lower than a previous estimate .

<org>Interprovincial</org> , <gpe>Canada</gpe> 's biggest oil pipeline operator and a major transporter of crude to the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> , said revised industry forecasts indicate that <norp>Canadian</norp> oil output will total <quantity>about 1.64 million barrels</quantity> a day by <date>1991</date> , <percent>8 %</percent> lower than a previous estimate .


Canadian crude production averaged about 1.69 million barrels a day during 1989 's first half , about 1 % below the 1988 level .

<norp>Canadian</norp> crude production averaged <quantity>about 1.69 million barrels</quantity> a day during <date>1989 's first half</date> , <percent>about 1 %</percent> below the <date>1988</date> level .


`` The capability of existing fields to deliver oil is dropping , '' and oil exploration activity is also down dramatically , as many producers shift their emphasis to natural gas , said Ronald Watkins , vice president for government and industry relations with Interprovincial 's parent , Interhome Energy Inc .

`` The capability of existing fields to deliver oil is dropping , '' and oil exploration activity is also down dramatically , as many producers shift their emphasis to natural gas , said <person>Ronald Watkins</person> , vice president for government and industry relations with <org>Interprovincial</org> 's parent , <org>Interhome Energy Inc</org> .


Mr. Watkins said volume on Interprovincial 's system is down about 2 % since January and is expected to fall further , making expansion unnecessary until perhaps the mid-1990s .

Mr. <person>Watkins</person> said volume on <org>Interprovincial</org> 's system is down <percent>about 2 %</percent> since <date>January</date> and is expected to fall further , making expansion unnecessary until perhaps the <date>mid-1990s</date> .


`` There has been a swing of the pendulum back to the gas side , '' he said .


Many of Canada 's oil and gas producers say the outlook for natural gas is better than it is for oil , and have shifted their exploration and development budgets accordingly .

Many of <gpe>Canada</gpe> 's oil and gas producers say the outlook for natural gas is better than it is for oil , and have shifted their exploration and development budgets accordingly .


The number of active drilling rigs in Canada is down 30 % from a year ago , and the number of completed oil wells is `` down more than that , due to the increasing focus on gas exploration , '' said Robert Feick , manager of crude oil with Calgary 's Independent Petroleum Association of Canada , an industry group .

The number of active drilling rigs in <gpe>Canada</gpe> is down <percent>30 %</percent> from <date>a year ago</date> , and the number of completed oil wells is `` down more than that , due to the increasing focus on gas exploration , '' said <person>Robert Feick</person> , manager of crude oil with <org>Calgary 's Independent Petroleum Association of Canada</org> , an industry group .


Mr. Watkins said the main reason for the production decline is shrinking output of light crude from mature , conventional fields in western Canada .

Mr. <person>Watkins</person> said the main reason for the production decline is shrinking output of light crude from mature , conventional fields in western <gpe>Canada</gpe> .


Interprovincial transports about 75 % of all crude produced in western Canada , and almost 60 % of Interprovincial 's total volume consists of light crude .

<org>Interprovincial</org> transports <percent>about 75 %</percent> of all crude produced in western <gpe>Canada</gpe> , and <percent>almost 60 %</percent> of <org>Interprovincial</org> 's total volume consists of light crude .


Nearly all of the crude oil that Canada exports to the U.S. is transported on Interprovincial 's system , whose main line runs from Edmonton to major U.S. and Canadian cities in the Great Lakes region , including Chicago , Buffalo , Toronto and Montreal .

Nearly all of the crude oil that <gpe>Canada</gpe> exports to the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> is transported on <org>Interprovincial</org> 's system , whose main line runs from <gpe>Edmonton</gpe> to major <gpe>U.S.</gpe> and <norp>Canadian</norp> cities in the <loc>Great Lakes</loc> region , including <gpe>Chicago</gpe> , <gpe>Buffalo</gpe> , <gpe>Toronto</gpe> and <gpe>Montreal</gpe> .


Canada 's current oil exports to the U.S. total about 600,000 barrels a day , or about 9.1 % of net U.S. crude imports , said John Lichtblau , president of the New York - based Petroleum Industry Research Foundation .

<gpe>Canada</gpe> 's current oil exports to the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> total <quantity>about 600,000 barrels</quantity> a day , or <percent>about 9.1 %</percent> of net <gpe>U.S.</gpe> crude imports , said <person>John Lichtblau</person> , president of the <gpe>New York</gpe> - based <org>Petroleum Industry Research Foundation</org> .


That ranks Canada as the fourth - largest source of imported crude , behind Saudi Arabia , Nigeria and Mexico .

That ranks <gpe>Canada</gpe> as the <ordinal>fourth</ordinal> - largest source of imported crude , behind <gpe>Saudi Arabia</gpe> , <gpe>Nigeria</gpe> and <gpe>Mexico</gpe> .


Mr. Lichtblau said Canada 's declining crude output , combined with the fast - shrinking output of U.S. crude , will help intensify U.S. reliance on oil from overseas , particularly the Middle East .

Mr. <person>Lichtblau</person> said <gpe>Canada</gpe> 's declining crude output , combined with the fast - shrinking output of <gpe>U.S.</gpe> crude , will help intensify <gpe>U.S.</gpe> reliance on oil from overseas , particularly <loc>the Middle East</loc> .


`` It 's very much a growing concern .


But when something is inevitable , you learn to live with it , '' he said .


Mr. Lichtblau stressed that the delay of Interprovincial 's proposed expansion wo n't by itself increase U.S. dependence on offshore crude , however , since Canadian imports are limited in any case by Canada 's falling output .

Mr. <person>Lichtblau</person> stressed that the delay of <org>Interprovincial</org> 's proposed expansion wo n't by itself increase <gpe>U.S.</gpe> dependence on offshore crude , however , since <norp>Canadian</norp> imports are limited in any case by <gpe>Canada</gpe> 's falling output .


Under terms of its proposed two - step expansion , which would have required regulatory approval , Interprovincial intended to add 200,000 barrels a day of additional capacity to its system , beginning with a modest expansion by 1991 .

Under terms of its proposed <cardinal>two</cardinal> - step expansion , which would have required regulatory approval , <org>Interprovincial</org> intended to add <quantity>200,000 barrels</quantity> a day of additional capacity to its system , beginning with a modest expansion by <date>1991</date> .


The system currently has a capacity of 1.55 million barrels a day .

The system currently has a capacity of <quantity>1.55 million barrels</quantity> a day .


Population Drain Ends For Midwestern States


IOWA IS MAKING a comeback .


So are Indiana , Ohio and Michigan .

So are <gpe>Indiana</gpe> , <gpe>Ohio</gpe> and <gpe>Michigan</gpe> .


The population of all four states is on the upswing , according to new Census Bureau estimates , following declines throughout the early 1980s .

The population of all <cardinal>four</cardinal> states is on the upswing , according to new <org>Census Bureau</org> estimates , following declines throughout <date>the early 1980s</date> .


The gains , to be sure , are rather small .


Iowa , for instance , saw its population grow by 11,000 people , or 0.4 % , between 1987 and 1988 , the Census Bureau says .

<gpe>Iowa</gpe> , for instance , saw its population grow by <cardinal>11,000</cardinal> people , or <percent>0.4 %</percent> , <date>between 1987 and 1988</date> , <org>the Census Bureau</org> says .


Still , even that modest increase is good news for a state that had n't grown at all since 1981 .

Still , even that modest increase is good news for a state that had n't grown at all since <date>1981</date> .


Between 1987 and 1988 , North Dakota was the only state in the Midwest to lose population , a loss of 4,000 people .

<date>Between 1987 and 1988</date> , <gpe>North Dakota</gpe> was the only state in the <loc>Midwest</loc> to lose population , a loss of <cardinal>4,000</cardinal> people .


Six of the 12 midwestern states have been growing steadily since 1980 -- Illinois , Kansas , Minnesota , Missouri , South Dakota and Wisconsin .

<cardinal>Six</cardinal> of the <cardinal>12</cardinal> midwestern states have been growing steadily since <date>1980</date> -- <gpe>Illinois</gpe> , <gpe>Kansas</gpe> , <gpe>Minnesota</gpe> , <gpe>Missouri</gpe> , <gpe>South Dakota</gpe> and <gpe>Wisconsin</gpe> .


The Northeast has been holding its own in the population race .

The <loc>Northeast</loc> has been holding its own in the population race .


Seven of nine states have grown each year since 1980 , including New York , which lost 4 % of its population during the 1970s .

<cardinal>Seven</cardinal> of <cardinal>nine</cardinal> states have grown <date>each year</date> since <date>1980</date> , including <gpe>New York</gpe> , which lost <percent>4 %</percent> of its population during <date>the 1970s</date> .


And although Pennsylvania and Massachusetts suffered slight declines earlier in the decade , they are growing again .

And although <gpe>Pennsylvania</gpe> and <gpe>Massachusetts</gpe> suffered slight declines earlier in <date>the decade</date> , they are growing again .


At the same time , several states in the South and West have had their own population turnaround .

At the same time , several states in the <loc>South</loc> and <loc>West</loc> have had their own population turnaround .


Seven states that grew in the early 1980s are now losing population -- West Virginia , Mississippi , Louisiana , Oklahoma , Montana , Wyoming and Alaska .

<cardinal>Seven</cardinal> states that grew in <date>the early 1980s</date> are now losing population -- <gpe>West Virginia</gpe> , <gpe>Mississippi</gpe> , <gpe>Louisiana</gpe> , <gpe>Oklahoma</gpe> , <gpe>Montana</gpe> , <gpe>Wyoming</gpe> and <gpe>Alaska</gpe> .


Overall , though , the South and West still outpace the Northeast and Midwest , and fast - growing states like Florida and California ensure that the pattern will continue .

Overall , though , the <loc>South</loc> and <loc>West</loc> still outpace the <loc>Northeast</loc> and <loc>Midwest</loc> , and fast - growing states like <gpe>Florida</gpe> and <gpe>California</gpe> ensure that the pattern will continue .


But the growth gap between the Sun Belt and other regions has clearly started narrowing .

But the growth gap between <loc>the Sun Belt</loc> and other regions has clearly started narrowing .


More Elderly Maintain Their Independence


THANKS TO modern medicine , more couples are growing old together .


And even after losing a spouse , more of the elderly are staying independent .


A new Census Bureau study of the noninstitutionalized population shows that 64 % of people aged 65 to 74 were living with a spouse in 1988 , up from 59 % in 1970 .

A new <org>Census Bureau</org> study of the noninstitutionalized population shows that <percent>64 %</percent> of people <date>aged 65 to 74</date> were living with a spouse in <date>1988</date> , up from <percent>59 %</percent> in <date>1970</date> .


This does n't mean they 're less likely to live alone , however .


That share has remained at about 24 % since 1970 .

That share has remained at <percent>about 24 %</percent> since <date>1970</date> .


What has changed is that more of the young elderly are living with spouses rather than with other relatives , such as children .


In 1988 , 10 % of those aged 65 to 74 lived with relatives other than spouses , down from 15 % in 1970 .

In <date>1988</date> , <percent>10 %</percent> of those <date>aged 65 to 74 lived</date> with relatives other than spouses , down from <percent>15 %</percent> in <date>1970</date> .


As people get even older , many become widowed .


But even among those aged 75 and older , the share living with a spouse rose slightly , to 40 % in 1988 from 38 % in 1970 .

But even among those <date>aged 75 and older</date> , the share living with a spouse rose slightly , to <percent>40 %</percent> in <date>1988</date> from <percent>38 %</percent> in <date>1970</date> .


Like their younger counterparts , the older elderly are less likely to live with other relatives .


Only 17 % of those aged 75 and older lived with relatives other than spouses in 1988 , down from 26 % in 1970 .

<percent>Only 17 %</percent> of those <date>aged 75 and older</date> lived with relatives other than spouses in <date>1988</date> , down from <percent>26 %</percent> in <date>1970</date> .


The likelihood of living alone beyond the age of 75 has increased to 40 % from 32 % .

The likelihood of living alone beyond <date>the age of 75</date> has increased to <percent>40 %</percent> from <percent>32 %</percent> .


More people are remaining independent longer presumably because they are better off physically and financially .


Careers Count Most For the Well - to - Do


MANY AFFLUENT people place personal success and money above family .


At least that 's what a survey by Ernst & Young and Yankelovich , Clancy , Shulman indicates .

At least that 's what a survey by <org>Ernst & Young</org> and <org>Yankelovich , Clancy , Shulman</org> indicates .


Two - thirds of respondents said they strongly felt the need to be successful in their jobs , while fewer than half said they strongly felt the need to spend more time with their families .

<cardinal>Two - thirds</cardinal> of respondents said they strongly felt the need to be successful in their jobs , while <cardinal>fewer than half</cardinal> said they strongly felt the need to spend more time with their families .


Being successful in careers and spending the money they make are top priorities for this group .


Unlike most studies of the affluent market , this survey excluded the super-rich .


Average household income for the sample was $ 194,000 , and average net assets were reported as $ 775,000 .

Average household income for the sample was $ <money>194,000</money> , and average net assets were reported as $ <money>775,000</money> .


The goal was to learn about one of today 's fastest - growing income groups , the upper - middle class .

The goal was to learn about <cardinal>one</cardinal> of <date>today</date> 's fastest - growing income groups , the upper - middle class .


Although they represent only 2 % of the population , they control nearly one - third of discretionary income .

Although they represent <percent>only 2 %</percent> of the population , they control <cardinal>nearly one - third</cardinal> of discretionary income .


Across the board , these consumers value quality , buy what they like rather than just what they need , and appreciate products that are distinctive .


Despite their considerable incomes and assets , 40 % of the respondents in the study do n't feel financially secure , and one - fourth do n't feel that they have made it .

Despite their considerable incomes and assets , <percent>40 %</percent> of the respondents in the study do n't feel financially secure , and <cardinal>one - fourth</cardinal> do n't feel that they have made it .


Twenty percent do n't even feel they are financially well off .

<percent>Twenty percent</percent> do n't even feel they are financially well off .


Many of the affluent are n't comfortable with themselves , either .


About 40 % do n't feel they 're more able than others .

<percent>About 40 %</percent> do n't feel they 're more able than others .


While twothirds feel some guilt about being affluent , only 25 % give $ 2,500 or more to charity each year .

While <cardinal>twothirds</cardinal> feel some guilt about being affluent , <percent>only 25 %</percent> give $ <money>2,500</money> or more to charity <date>each year</date> .


Thirty - five percent attend religious services regularly ; at the same time , 60 % feel that in life one sometimes has to compromise one 's principles .

<percent>Thirty - five percent</percent> attend religious services regularly ; at the same time , <percent>60 %</percent> feel that in life one sometimes has to compromise one 's principles .


Odds and Ends


THE NUMBER of women and minorities who hold jobs in top management in the nation 's largest banks has more than doubled since 1978 .

THE NUMBER of women and minorities who hold jobs in top management in the nation 's largest banks has more than doubled since <date>1978</date> .


The American Bankers Association says that women make up 47 % of officials and managers in the top 50 banks , up from 33 % in 1978 .

<org>The American Bankers Association</org> says that women make up <percent>47 %</percent> of officials and managers in the top <cardinal>50</cardinal> banks , up from <percent>33 %</percent> in <date>1978</date> .


The share of minorities in those positions has risen to 16 % from 12 % ... .

The share of minorities in those positions has risen to <percent>16 %</percent> from <percent>12 %</percent> ... .


Per - capita personal income in the U.S. grew faster than inflation last year , according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis .

Per - capita personal income in the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> grew faster than inflation <date>last year</date> , according to <org>the Bureau of Economic Analysis</org> .


The amount of income divvied up for each man , woman and child was $ 16,489 in 1988 , up 6.6 % from $ 15,472 in 1987 .

The amount of income divvied up for each man , woman and child was $ <money>16,489</money> in <date>1988</date> , up <percent>6.6 %</percent> from $ <money>15,472</money> in <date>1987</date> .


Per capita personal income ranged from $ 11,116 in Mississippi to $ 23,059 in Connecticut ... .

Per capita personal income ranged from $ <money>11,116</money> in <gpe>Mississippi</gpe> to $ <money>23,059</money> in <gpe>Connecticut</gpe> ... .


There are 13.1 million students in college this fall , up 2 % from 1988 , the National Center for Education Statistics estimates .

There are <cardinal>13.1 million</cardinal> students in college <date>this fall</date> , up <percent>2 %</percent> from <date>1988</date> , <org>the National Center for Education Statistics</org> estimates .


About 54 % are women , and 44 % are part - time students .

<percent>About 54 %</percent> are women , and <percent>44 %</percent> are part - time students .


This small Dallas suburb 's got trouble .

This small <gpe>Dallas</gpe> suburb 's got trouble .


Trouble with a capital T and that rhymes with P and that stands for pool .


More than 30 years ago , Prof. Harold Hill , the con man in Meredith Willson 's `` The Music Man , '' warned the citizens of River City , Iowa , against the game .

More than <date>30 years ago</date> , Prof. <person>Harold Hill</person> , the con man in <person>Meredith Willson 's</person> `` <work_of_art>The Music Man</work_of_art> , '' warned the citizens of <gpe>River City</gpe> , <gpe>Iowa</gpe> , against the game .


Now kindred spirits on Addison 's town council have barred the town 's fanciest hotel , the Grand Kempinski , from installing three free pool tables in its new lounge .

Now kindred spirits on <gpe>Addison</gpe> 's town council have barred the town 's fanciest hotel , <org>the Grand Kempinski</org> , from installing <cardinal>three</cardinal> free pool tables in its new lounge .


Mayor Lynn Spruill and two members of the council said they were worried about setting a precedent that would permit pool halls along Addison 's main street .

Mayor <person>Lynn Spruill</person> and <cardinal>two</cardinal> members of the council said they were worried about setting a precedent that would permit pool halls along <gpe>Addison</gpe> 's main street .


And the mayor , in an admonition that bears a rhythmic resemblance to Prof. Hill 's , warned that `` alcohol leads to betting , which leads to fights . ''

And the mayor , in an admonition that bears a rhythmic resemblance to Prof. <person>Hill</person> 's , warned that `` alcohol leads to betting , which leads to fights . ''


The council 's action is yet another blow to a sport that its fans claim has been maligned unjustly for years .

The council 's action is yet another blow to a sport that its fans claim has been maligned unjustly for <date>years</date> .


`` Obviously they 're not in touch with what 's going on , '' says Tom Manske , vice president of the National Pocket Billiards Association .

`` Obviously they 're not in touch with what 's going on , '' says <person>Tom Manske</person> , vice president of <org>the National Pocket Billiards Association</org> .


Pool is hot in New York and Chicago , he insists , where `` upscale , suit - and - tie places '' are adding tables .

Pool is hot in <gpe>New York</gpe> and <gpe>Chicago</gpe> , he insists , where `` upscale , suit - and - tie places '' are adding tables .


With today 's tougher drunk driving laws , he adds , `` people do n't want to just sit around and drink . ''

With <date>today</date> 's tougher drunk driving laws , he adds , `` people do n't want to just sit around and drink . ''


Besides , rowdy behavior seems unlikely at the Grand Kempinski , where rooms average $ 200 a night and the cheap mixed drinks go for $ 3.50 a pop .

Besides , rowdy behavior seems unlikely at <org>the Grand Kempinski</org> , where rooms average $ <money>200</money> a night and the cheap mixed drinks go for $ <money>3.50</money> a pop .


At the lounge , manager Elizabeth Dyer wo n't admit patrons in jeans , T - shirts or tennis shoes .

At the lounge , manager <person>Elizabeth Dyer</person> wo n't admit patrons in jeans , T - shirts or tennis shoes .


But a majority of the Addison council did n't buy those arguments .

But a majority of the <gpe>Addison</gpe> council did n't buy those arguments .


Introducing pool , argued Councilwoman Riley Reinker , would be `` dangerous .

Introducing pool , argued Councilwoman <person>Riley Reinker</person> , would be `` dangerous .


It would open a can of worms . ''


Addison is no stranger to cans of worms , either .

<gpe>Addison</gpe> is no stranger to cans of worms , either .


After its previous mayor committed suicide last year , an investigation disclosed that town officials regularly voted on their own projects , gave special favors to developer friends and dipped into the town 's coffers for trips and retreats .

After its previous mayor committed suicide <date>last year</date> , an investigation disclosed that town officials regularly voted on their own projects , gave special favors to developer friends and dipped into the town 's coffers for trips and retreats .


The revelations embarrassed town officials , although they argued that the problems were n't as severe as the media suggested .


Now comes the pool flap .


`` I think there 's some people worried about something pretty ridiculous , '' Councilman John Nolan says .

`` I think there 's some people worried about something pretty ridiculous , '' Councilman <person>John Nolan</person> says .


`` I thought this was all taken care of in ` The Music Man .

`` I thought this was all taken care of in ` <work_of_art>The Music Man</work_of_art> .


The only thing Robert Goldberg could praise about CBS 's new show `` Island Son '' -LRB- Leisure & Arts , Sept. 25 -RRB- was the local color ; unfortunately neither he nor the producers of the show have done their homework .

The only thing <person>Robert Goldberg</person> could praise about <org>CBS</org> 's new show `` <work_of_art>Island Son</work_of_art> '' -LRB- <org>Leisure & Arts</org> , <date>Sept. 25</date> -RRB- was the local color ; unfortunately neither he nor the producers of the show have done their homework .


For instance : `` Haole '' -LRB- white -RRB- is not the ultimate insult ; `` Mainland haole '' is .


Richard Chamberlain dresses as a `` Mainland haole , '' tucking in a Hawaiian shirt and rolling up its long sleeves .

<person>Richard Chamberlain</person> dresses as a `` Mainland haole , '' tucking in a <norp>Hawaiian</norp> shirt and rolling up its long sleeves .


And the local expression for brother is `` brah , '' not `` bruddah . ''


And even if a nurse would wear flowers in her hair while on duty , if she were engaged she would know to wear them behind her left , not right , ear .


Sorry , the show does not even have the one redeeming quality of genuine local color .

Sorry , the show does not even have the <cardinal>one</cardinal> redeeming quality of genuine local color .


Anita Davis


Of all the ethnic tensions in America , which is the most troublesome right now ?

Of all the ethnic tensions in <gpe>America</gpe> , which is the most troublesome right now ?


A good bet would be the tension between blacks and Jews in New York City .

A good bet would be the tension between blacks and <norp>Jews</norp> in <gpe>New York City</gpe> .


Or so it must seem to Jackie Mason , the veteran Jewish comedian appearing in a new ABC sitcom airing on Tuesday nights -LRB- 9:30 - 10 p.m. EDT -RRB- .

Or so it must seem to <person>Jackie Mason</person> , the veteran <norp>Jewish</norp> comedian appearing in a new <org>ABC</org> sitcom airing on <date>Tuesday</date> <time>nights</time> -LRB- 9:30 - 10 <time>p.m. EDT</time> -RRB- .


Not only is Mr. Mason the star of `` Chicken Soup , '' he 's also the inheritor of a comedic tradition dating back to `` Duck Soup , '' and he 's currently a man in hot water .

Not only is Mr. <person>Mason</person> the star of `` <work_of_art>Chicken Soup</work_of_art> , '' he 's also the inheritor of a comedic tradition dating back to `` <work_of_art>Duck Soup</work_of_art> , '' and he 's currently a man in hot water .


Here , in neutral language , is the gist of Mr. Mason 's remarks , quoted first in the Village Voice while he was a paid spokesman for the Rudolph Giuliani mayoral campaign , and then in Newsweek after he and the campaign parted company .

Here , in neutral language , is the gist of Mr. <person>Mason</person> 's remarks , quoted <ordinal>first</ordinal> in <org>the Village Voice</org> while he was a paid spokesman for the <person>Rudolph Giuliani</person> mayoral campaign , and then in <org>Newsweek</org> after he and the campaign parted company .


Mr. Mason said that many Jewish voters feel guilty toward blacks , so they support black candidates uncritically .

Mr. <person>Mason</person> said that many <norp>Jewish</norp> voters feel guilty toward blacks , so they support black candidates uncritically .


He said that many black voters feel bitter about racial discrimination , so they , too , support black candidates uncritically .


He said that Jews have contributed more to black causes over the years than vice versa .

He said that <norp>Jews</norp> have contributed more to black causes over <date>the years</date> than vice versa .


Of course , Mr. Mason did not use neutral language .

Of course , Mr. <person>Mason</person> did not use neutral language .


As a practitioner of ethnic humor from the old days on the Borscht Belt , live television and the nightclub circuit , Mr. Mason instinctively reached for the vernacular .

As a practitioner of ethnic humor from <date>the old days</date> on <loc>the Borscht Belt</loc> , live television and the nightclub circuit , Mr. <person>Mason</person> instinctively reached for the vernacular .


He said Jews were `` sick with complexes '' ; and he called David Dinkins , Mr. Giuliani 's black opponent , `` a fancy shvartze with a mustache . ''

He said <norp>Jews</norp> were `` sick with complexes '' ; and he called <person>David Dinkins</person> , Mr. <person>Giuliani</person> 's black opponent , `` a fancy shvartze with a mustache . ''


If Mr. Mason had used less derogatory language to articulate his amateur analysis of the voting behavior of his fellow New Yorkers , would the water be quite so hot ?

If Mr. <person>Mason</person> had used less derogatory language to articulate his amateur analysis of the voting behavior of his fellow <norp>New Yorkers</norp> , would the water be quite so hot ?


It probably would , because few or none of the people upset by Mr. Mason 's remarks have bothered to distinguish between the substance of his comments and the fact that he used insulting language .

It probably would , because few or none of the people upset by Mr. <person>Mason</person> 's remarks have bothered to distinguish between the substance of his comments and the fact that he used insulting language .


In addition , some of Mr. Mason 's critics have implied that his type of ethnic humor is itself a form of racism .

In addition , some of Mr. <person>Mason</person> 's critics have implied that his type of ethnic humor is itself a form of racism .


For example , the New York state counsel for the NAACP said that Mr. Mason is `` like a dinosaur .

For example , the <gpe>New York</gpe> state counsel for the <org>NAACP</org> said that Mr. <person>Mason</person> is `` like a dinosaur .


People are fast leaving the place where he is stuck . ''


These critics fail to distinguish between the type of ethnic humor that aims at disparaging another group , such as `` Polish jokes '' ; and the type that is double - edged , aiming inward as well as outward .

These critics fail to distinguish between the type of ethnic humor that aims at disparaging another group , such as `` <norp>Polish</norp> jokes '' ; and the type that is double - edged , aiming inward as well as outward .


The latter typically is the humor of the underdog , and it was perfected by both blacks and Jews on the minstrel and vaudeville stage as a means of mocking their white and gentile audiences along with themselves .

The latter typically is the humor of the underdog , and it was perfected by both blacks and <norp>Jews</norp> on the minstrel and vaudeville stage as a means of mocking their white and gentile audiences along with themselves .


In the hands of a zealot like Lenny Bruce , this double - edged blade could cut both the self and the audience to ribbons .

In the hands of a zealot like <person>Lenny Bruce</person> , this double - edged blade could cut both the self and the audience to ribbons .


But wielded by a pro like Jackie Mason , it is a constructive form of mischief .

But wielded by a pro like <person>Jackie Mason</person> , it is a constructive form of mischief .


Why constructive ?


Because despite all the media prattle about comedy and politics not mixing , they are similar in one respect : Both can serve as mechanisms for easing tensions and facilitating the co-existence of groups in conflict .

Because despite all the media prattle about comedy and politics not mixing , they are similar in <cardinal>one</cardinal> respect : Both can serve as mechanisms for easing tensions and facilitating the co-existence of groups in conflict .


That 's why it 's dangerous to have well - intentioned thought police , on college campuses and elsewhere , taboo all critical mention of group differences .


As Elizabeth Kristol wrote in the New York Times just before the Mason donnybrook , `` Perhaps intolerance would not boil over with such intensity if honest differences were allowed to simmer . ''

As <person>Elizabeth Kristol</person> wrote in <org>the New York Times</org> just before the <person>Mason</person> donnybrook , `` Perhaps intolerance would not boil over with such intensity if honest differences were allowed to simmer . ''


The question is , if group conflicts still exist -LRB- as undeniably they do -RRB- , and if Mr. Mason 's type of ethnic humor is passe , then what other means do we have for letting off steam ?

The question is , if group conflicts still exist -LRB- as undeniably they do -RRB- , and if Mr. <person>Mason</person> 's type of ethnic humor is passe , then what other means do we have for letting off steam ?


Do n't say the TV sitcom , because that happens to be a genre that , in its desperate need to attract everybody and offend nobody , resembles politics more than it does comedy .


It is true that the best sitcoms do allow group differences to simmer : yuppies vs. blue - collar Bostonians in `` Cheers '' ; children vs. adults in `` The Cosby Show . ''

It is true that the best sitcoms do allow group differences to simmer : yuppies vs. blue - collar <norp>Bostonians</norp> in `` <work_of_art>Cheers</work_of_art> '' ; children vs. adults in `` <work_of_art>The Cosby Show</work_of_art> . ''


But these are not the differences that make headlines .


In `` Chicken Soup , '' Mr. Mason plays Jackie , a Jewish bachelor courting Maddie -LRB- Lynn Redgrave -RRB- , an Irish widow and mother of three , against the wishes of his mother -LRB- Rita Karin -RRB- and her brother Michael -LRB- Brandon Maggart -RRB- .

In `` <work_of_art>Chicken Soup</work_of_art> , '' Mr. <person>Mason</person> plays <person>Jackie</person> , a <norp>Jewish</norp> bachelor courting <person>Maddie</person> <person>-LRB- Lynn Redgrave -RRB-</person> , an <norp>Irish</norp> widow and mother of <cardinal>three</cardinal> , against the wishes of his mother -LRB- <person>Rita Karin</person> -RRB- and her brother <person>Michael</person> -LRB- <person>Brandon Maggart</person> -RRB- .


It 's worth noting that both disapproving relatives are immigrants .


At least , they both speak with strong accents , as do Jackie and Maddie .

At least , they both speak with strong accents , as do <person>Jackie</person> and <person>Maddie</person> .


It could n't be more obvious that `` Chicken Soup '' is being made from an old recipe .

It could n't be more obvious that `` <work_of_art>Chicken Soup</work_of_art> '' is being made from an old recipe .


And a safe one -- imagine if the romance in question were between an Orthodox Jew and a member of the Nation of Islam .

And a safe one -- imagine if the romance in question were between <norp>an Orthodox Jew</norp> and a member of <norp>the Nation of Islam</norp> .


Back in the 1920s , the play and movie versions of `` Abie 's Irish Rose '' made the theme of courtship between the assimilated offspring of Jewish and Irish immigrants so popular that its author , Anne Nichols , lost a plagiarism suit on the grounds that the plot has entered the public domain .

Back in <date>the 1920s</date> , the play and movie versions of `` <work_of_art>Abie 's Irish Rose</work_of_art> '' made the theme of courtship between the assimilated offspring of <norp>Jewish</norp> and <norp>Irish</norp> immigrants so popular that its author , <person>Anne Nichols</person> , lost a plagiarism suit on the grounds that the plot has entered the public domain .


And it has remained there , as evidenced by its reappearance in a 1972 CBS sitcom called `` Bridget Loves Bernie , '' whose sole distinction was that it led to the real - life marriage of Meredith Baxter and David Birney .

And it has remained there , as evidenced by its reappearance in a <date>1972</date> <org>CBS</org> sitcom called `` <work_of_art>Bridget Loves Bernie</work_of_art> , '' whose sole distinction was that it led to the real - life marriage of <person>Meredith Baxter</person> and <person>David Birney</person> .


Clearly , the question with `` Chicken Soup '' is not whether the pot will boil over , but whether it will simmer at all .

Clearly , the question with `` <work_of_art>Chicken Soup</work_of_art> '' is not whether the pot will boil over , but whether it will simmer at all .


So far , the bubbles have been few and far between .


Part of the problem is the tendency of all sitcoms , ever since the didactic days of Norman Lear , to preach about social issues .

Part of the problem is the tendency of all sitcoms , ever since <date>the didactic days</date> of <person>Norman Lear</person> , to preach about social issues .


To some extent , this tendency emerges whenever the show tries to enlighten us about ethnic stereotypes by reversing them .


For instance , Michael dislikes Jackie not because he 's a shrewd Jewish businessman , but because he quits his well - paying job as a salesman in order to become a social worker .

For instance , <person>Michael</person> dislikes <person>Jackie</person> not because he 's a shrewd <norp>Jewish</norp> businessman , but because he quits his well - paying job as a salesman in order to become a social worker .


Even more problematic is the incompatibility between sitcom preachiness and Mr. Mason 's comic persona .

Even more problematic is the incompatibility between sitcom preachiness and Mr. <person>Mason</person> 's comic persona .


The best moments in the show occur at the beginning and the end -LRB- and occasionally in the middle -RRB- , when Mr. Mason slips into his standup mode and starts meting out that old - fashioned Jewish mischief to other people as well as to himself .

The best moments in the show occur at the beginning and the end -LRB- and occasionally in the middle -RRB- , when Mr. <person>Mason</person> slips into his standup mode and starts meting out that old - fashioned <norp>Jewish</norp> mischief to other people as well as to himself .


But too often , these routines lack spark because this sitcom , like all sitcoms , is timid about confronting Mr. Mason 's stock in trade - ethnic differences .

But too often , these routines lack spark because this sitcom , like all sitcoms , is timid about confronting Mr. <person>Mason</person> 's stock in trade - ethnic differences .


I 'm not suggesting that the producers start putting together episodes about topics like the Catholic - Jewish dispute over the Carmelite convent at Auschwitz .

I 'm not suggesting that the producers start putting together episodes about topics like the <norp>Catholic</norp> - Jewish dispute over the <norp>Carmelite</norp> convent at <fac>Auschwitz</fac> .


That issue , like racial tensions in New York City , will have to cool down , not heat up , before it can simmer .

That issue , like racial tensions in <gpe>New York City</gpe> , will have to cool down , not heat up , before it can simmer .


But I am suggesting that they stop requiring Mr. Mason to interrupt his classic shtik with some line about `` caring for other people '' that would sound shmaltzy on the lips of Miss America .

But I am suggesting that they stop requiring Mr. <person>Mason</person> to interrupt his classic shtik with some line about `` caring for other people '' that would sound shmaltzy on the lips of <person>Miss America</person> .


At your age , Jackie , you ought to know that you ca n't make soup without turning up the flame .

At your age , <person>Jackie</person> , you ought to know that you ca n't make soup without turning up the flame .


The official White House reaction to a plunge in stock prices has a 60 - year history of calm , right up through Friday .

The official <org>White House</org> reaction to a plunge in stock prices has a <date>60 - year</date> history of calm , right up through <date>Friday</date> .


Treasury Secretary Nicholas Brady said in a statement Friday that the stock - market decline `` does n't signal any fundamental change in the condition of the economy . ''

<org>Treasury</org> Secretary <person>Nicholas Brady</person> said in a statement <date>Friday</date> that the stock - market decline `` does n't signal any fundamental change in the condition of the economy . ''


`` The economy , '' he added , `` remains well - balanced and the outlook is for continued moderate growth . ''


Sound familiar ?


Here 's what Ronald Reagan said after the 1987 crash : `` The underlying economy remains sound .

Here 's what <person>Ronald Reagan</person> said after the <date>1987</date> crash : `` The underlying economy remains sound .


There is nothing wrong with the economy ... all the indices are up . ''


Heard that before ?


After the 1929 crash , Herbert Hoover said : `` The fundamental business of the country ... is on a sound and prosperous basis .

After the <date>1929</date> crash , <person>Herbert Hoover</person> said : `` The fundamental business of the country ... is on a sound and prosperous basis .


James Robinson , 57 years old , was elected president and chief executive officer of this maker of magnetic recording heads for disk drives .

<person>James Robinson</person> , <date>57 years old</date> , was elected president and chief executive officer of this maker of magnetic recording heads for disk drives .


He has been president and chief executive officer of Amperex Electronics Corp. , a division of North American Philips Corp. , itself a subsidiary of N.V . Philips of the Netherlands .

He has been president and chief executive officer of <org>Amperex Electronics Corp.</org> , a division of <org>North American Philips Corp.</org> , itself a subsidiary of <org>N.V . Philips</org> of the <gpe>Netherlands</gpe> .


Charles J. Lawson Jr. , 68 , who had been acting chief executive since June 14 , will continue as chairman .

<person>Charles J. Lawson Jr.</person> , <date>68</date> , who had been acting chief executive since <date>June 14</date> , will continue as chairman .


The former president and chief executive , Eric W. Markrud , resigned in June .

The former president and chief executive , <person>Eric W. Markrud</person> , resigned in <date>June</date> .


The Senate 's decision to approve a bare - bones deficit - reduction bill without a capital - gains tax cut still leaves open the possibility of enacting a gains tax reduction this year .

The <org>Senate</org> 's decision to approve a bare - bones deficit - reduction bill without a capital - gains tax cut still leaves open the possibility of enacting a gains tax reduction <date>this year</date> .


Late Friday night , the Senate voted 87 - 7 to approve an estimated $ 13.5 billion measure that had been stripped of hundreds of provisions that would have widened , rather than narrowed , the federal budget deficit .

<date>Late Friday</date> <time>night</time> , the <org>Senate</org> voted <cardinal>87 - 7</cardinal> to approve an <money>estimated $ 13.5 billion</money> measure that had been stripped of <cardinal>hundreds</cardinal> of provisions that would have widened , rather than narrowed , the federal budget deficit .


Lawmakers drastically streamlined the bill to blunt criticism that it was bloated with special - interest tax breaks and spending increases .


`` We 're putting a deficit - reduction bill back in the category of being a deficit - reduction bill , '' said Senate Budget Committee Chairman James Sasser -LRB- D. , Tenn . -RRB- .

`` We 're putting a deficit - reduction bill back in the category of being a deficit - reduction bill , '' said <org>Senate Budget Committee</org> Chairman <person>James Sasser</person> -LRB- <norp>D.</norp> , <gpe>Tenn .</gpe> -RRB- .


But Senate supporters of the trimmer legislation said that other bills would soon be moving through Congress that could carry some of the measures that had been cast aside , including a capital - gains tax cut .

But <org>Senate</org> supporters of the trimmer legislation said that other bills would soon be moving through <org>Congress</org> that could carry some of the measures that had been cast aside , including a capital - gains tax cut .


In addition , the companion deficit - reduction bill already passed by the House includes a capital - gains provision .

In addition , the companion deficit - reduction bill already passed by the <org>House</org> includes a capital - gains provision .


House - Senate negotiations are likely to begin at midweek and last for a while .

<org>House</org> - Senate negotiations are likely to begin at <date>midweek</date> and last for a while .


`` No one can predict exactly what will happen on the House side , '' said Senate Minority Leader Robert Dole -LRB- R. , Kan . -RRB- .

`` No one can predict exactly what will happen on the <org>House</org> side , '' said <org>Senate</org> Minority Leader <person>Robert Dole</person> -LRB- <norp>R.</norp> , <gpe>Kan .</gpe> -RRB- .


But , he added , `` I believe Republicans and Democrats will work together to get capital - gains reform this year . ''

But , he added , `` I believe <norp>Republicans</norp> and <norp>Democrats</norp> will work together to get capital - gains reform <date>this year</date> . ''


White House Budget Director Richard Darman told reporters yesterday that the administration would n't push to keep the capital - gains cut in the final version of the bill .

<org>White House</org> Budget Director <person>Richard Darman</person> told reporters <date>yesterday</date> that the administration would n't push to keep the capital - gains cut in the final version of the bill .


`` We do n't need this as a way to get capital gains , '' he said .


House Budget Committee Chairman Leon Panetta -LRB- D. , Calif . -RRB- said in an interview , `` If that 's the signal that comes from the White House , that will help a great deal . ''

<org>House Budget Committee</org> Chairman <person>Leon Panetta</person> -LRB- <norp>D.</norp> , <gpe>Calif .</gpe> -RRB- said in an interview , `` If that 's the signal that comes from <org>the White House</org> , that will help a great deal . ''


The Senate 's decision was a setback for President Bush and will make approval of a capital - gains tax cut less certain this year .

The <org>Senate</org> 's decision was a setback for President <person>Bush</person> and will make approval of a capital - gains tax cut less certain <date>this year</date> .


Opponents of the cut are playing hardball .


Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell -LRB- D. , Maine -RRB- said he was `` confident '' that any House - Senate agreement on the deficit - reduction legislation would n't include a capital - gains tax cut .

<org>Senate</org> Majority Leader <person>George Mitchell</person> -LRB- <norp>D.</norp> , <gpe>Maine</gpe> -RRB- said he was `` confident '' that any <org>House</org> - Senate agreement on the deficit - reduction legislation would n't include a capital - gains tax cut .


And a senior aide to the House Ways and Means Committee , where tax legislation originates , said there are n't any `` plans to produce another tax bill that could carry a gains tax cut this year . ''

And a senior aide to <org>the House Ways and Means Committee</org> , where tax legislation originates , said there are n't any `` plans to produce another tax bill that could carry a gains tax cut <date>this year</date> . ''


One obvious place to attach a capital - gains tax cut , and perhaps other popular items stripped from the deficit - reduction bill , is the legislation to raise the federal borrowing limit .

<cardinal>One</cardinal> obvious place to attach a capital - gains tax cut , and perhaps other popular items stripped from the deficit - reduction bill , is the legislation to raise the federal borrowing limit .


Such legislation must be enacted by the end of the month .

Such legislation must be enacted by <date>the end of the month</date> .


The Senate bill was pared back in an attempt to speed deficit - reduction through Congress .

The <org>Senate</org> bill was pared back in an attempt to speed deficit - reduction through <org>Congress</org> .


Because the legislation has n't been completed , President Bush has until midnight tonight to enact across - the - board spending cuts mandated by the Gramm - Rudman deficit - reduction law .

Because the legislation has n't been completed , President <person>Bush</person> has until <time>midnight tonight</time> to enact across - the - board spending cuts mandated by the <law>Gramm - Rudman</law> deficit - reduction law .


Senators hope that the need to avoid those cuts will pressure the House to agree to the streamlined bill .

Senators hope that the need to avoid those cuts will pressure the <org>House</org> to agree to the streamlined bill .


The House appears reluctant to join the senators .

The <org>House</org> appears reluctant to join the senators .


A key is whether House Republicans are willing to acquiesce to their Senate colleagues ' decision to drop many pet provisions .

A key is whether <org>House</org> <norp>Republicans</norp> are willing to acquiesce to their <org>Senate</org> colleagues ' decision to drop many pet provisions .


`` Although I am encouraged by the Senate action , '' said Chairman Dan Rostenkowski -LRB- D. , Ill . -RRB- of the House Ways and Means Committee , `` it is uncertain whether a clean bill can be achieved in the upcoming conference with the Senate . ''

`` Although I am encouraged by the <org>Senate</org> action , '' said Chairman <person>Dan Rostenkowski</person> -LRB- <norp>D.</norp> , <gpe>Ill .</gpe> -RRB- of <org>the House Ways and Means Committee</org> , `` it is uncertain whether a clean bill can be achieved in the upcoming conference with the <org>Senate</org> . ''


Another big question hovering over the debate is what President Bush thinks .

Another big question hovering over the debate is what President <person>Bush</person> thinks .


He has been resisting a stripped - down bill without a guaranteed vote on his capital - gains tax cut .


But Republican senators saw no way to overcome a procedural hurdle and garner the 60 votes needed to win the capital - gains issue on the floor , so they went ahead with the streamlined bill .

But <norp>Republican</norp> senators saw no way to overcome a procedural hurdle and garner the <cardinal>60</cardinal> votes needed to win the capital - gains issue on the floor , so they went ahead with the streamlined bill .


The Senate bill was stripped of many popular , though revenue - losing , provisions , a number of which are included in the House - passed bill .

The <org>Senate</org> bill was stripped of many popular , though revenue - losing , provisions , a number of which are included in the <org>House</org> - passed bill .


These include a child - care initiative and extensions of soon - to - expire tax breaks for low - income housing and research - and - development expenditures .


Also missing from the Senate bill is the House 's repeal of a law , called Section 89 , that compels companies to give rank - and - file workers comparable health benefits to top paid executives .

Also missing from the <org>Senate</org> bill is the <org>House</org> 's repeal of a law , called <law>Section 89</law> , that compels companies to give rank - and - file workers comparable health benefits to top paid executives .


One high - profile provision that was originally in the Senate bill but was cut out because it lost money was the proposal by Chairman Lloyd Bentsen -LRB- D. , Texas -RRB- of the Senate Finance Committee to expand the deduction for individual retirement accounts .

<cardinal>One</cardinal> high - profile provision that was originally in the <org>Senate</org> bill but was cut out because it lost money was the proposal by Chairman <person>Lloyd Bentsen</person> -LRB- <norp>D.</norp> , <gpe>Texas</gpe> -RRB- of <org>the Senate Finance Committee</org> to expand the deduction for individual retirement accounts .


Mr. Bentsen said he hopes the Senate will consider that measure soon .

Mr. <person>Bentsen</person> said he hopes the <org>Senate</org> will consider that measure soon .


To the delight of some doctors , the bill dropped a plan passed by the Finance Committee that would have overhauled the entire physician - reimbursement system under Medicare .

To the delight of some doctors , the bill dropped a plan passed by <org>the Finance Committee</org> that would have overhauled the entire physician - reimbursement system under <org>Medicare</org> .


To the detriment of many low - income people , efforts to boost Medicaid funding , especially in rural areas , also were stricken .

To the detriment of many low - income people , efforts to boost <org>Medicaid</org> funding , especially in rural areas , also were stricken .


Asked why senators were giving up so much , New Mexico Sen. Pete Domenici , the ranking Republican on the Senate Budget Committee , said , `` We 're looking like idiots .

Asked why senators were giving up so much , <gpe>New Mexico</gpe> Sen. <person>Pete Domenici</person> , the ranking <norp>Republican</norp> on <org>the Senate Budget Committee</org> , said , `` We 're looking like idiots .


Things had just gone too far . ''


Sen. Dole said that the move required sacrifice by every senator .

Sen. <person>Dole</person> said that the move required sacrifice by every senator .


It worked , others said , because there were no exceptions : all revenue - losing provisions were stricken .


The Senate also dropped a plan by its Finance Committee that would have increased the income threshold beyond which senior citizens have their Social Security benefits reduced .

The <org>Senate</org> also dropped a plan by its <org>Finance Committee</org> that would have increased the income threshold beyond which senior citizens have their <org>Social Security</org> benefits reduced .


In addition , the bill dropped a plan to make permanent a 3 % excise tax on long - distance telephone calls .

In addition , the bill dropped a plan to make permanent a <percent>3 %</percent> excise tax on long - distance telephone calls .


It no longer includes a plan that would have repealed what remains of the completed - contract method of accounting , which is used by military contractors to reduce their tax burden .


It also drops a provision that would have permitted corporations to use excess pension funds to pay health benefits for current retirees .


Also stricken was a fivefold increase in the maximum Occupational Safety and Health Administration penalties , which would have raised $ 65 million in fiscal 1990 .

Also stricken was a fivefold increase in the maximum <org>Occupational Safety and Health Administration</org> penalties , which would have raised <money>$ 65 million</money> in <date>fiscal 1990</date> .


A provision that would have made the Social Security Administration an independent agency was excised .

A provision that would have made <org>the Social Security Administration</org> an independent agency was excised .


The approval of the Senate bill was especially sweet for Sen. Mitchell , who had proposed the streamlining .

The approval of the <org>Senate</org> bill was especially sweet for Sen. <person>Mitchell</person> , who had proposed the streamlining .


Mr. Mitchell 's relations with Budget Director Darman , who pushed for a capital - gains cut to be added to the measure , have been strained since Mr. Darman chose to bypass the Maine Democrat and deal with other lawmakers earlier this year during a dispute over drug funding in the fiscal 1989 supplemental spending bill .

Mr. <person>Mitchell</person> 's relations with Budget Director <person>Darman</person> , who pushed for a capital - gains cut to be added to the measure , have been strained since Mr. <person>Darman</person> chose to bypass the <gpe>Maine</gpe> <norp>Democrat</norp> and deal with other lawmakers <date>earlier this year</date> during a dispute over drug funding in the <date>fiscal 1989</date> supplemental spending bill .


The deficit reduction bill contains $ 5.3 billion in tax increases in fiscal 1990 , and $ 26 billion over five years .

The deficit reduction bill contains <money>$ 5.3 billion</money> in tax increases in <date>fiscal 1990</date> , and <money>$ 26 billion</money> over <date>five years</date> .


The revenue - raising provisions , which affect mostly corporations , would :


-- Prevent companies that have made leveraged buy - outs from getting federal tax refunds resulting from losses caused by interest payments on debt issued to finance the buy - outs , effective Aug. 2 , 1989 .

-- Prevent companies that have made leveraged buy - outs from getting federal tax refunds resulting from losses caused by interest payments on debt issued to finance the buy - outs , effective <date>Aug. 2 , 1989</date> .


-- Require mutual funds to include in their taxable income dividends paid to them on the date that the dividends are declared rather than received , effective the day after the tax bill is enacted .

-- Require mutual funds to include in their taxable income dividends paid to them on <date>the date</date> that the dividends are declared rather than received , effective <date>the day</date> after the tax bill is enacted .


-- Close a loophole regarding employee stock ownership plans , effective June 6 , 1989 , that has been exploited by investment bankers in corporate takeovers .

-- Close a loophole regarding employee stock ownership plans , effective <date>June 6 , 1989</date> , that has been exploited by investment bankers in corporate takeovers .


The measure repeals a 50 % exclusion given to banks on the interest from loans used to acquire securities for an ESOP , if the ESOP owns less than 30 % of the employer 's stock .

The measure repeals a <percent>50 %</percent> exclusion given to banks on the interest from loans used to acquire securities for an ESOP , if the ESOP owns <percent>less than 30 %</percent> of the employer 's stock .


-- Curb junk bonds by ending tax benefits for certain securities , such as zero - coupon bonds , that postpone cash interest payments .

-- Curb junk bonds by ending tax benefits for certain securities , such as <cardinal>zero</cardinal> - coupon bonds , that postpone cash interest payments .


-- Raise $ 851 million by suspending for one year an automatic reduction in airport and airway taxes .

-- Raise <money>$ 851 million</money> by suspending for <date>one year</date> an automatic reduction in airport and airway taxes .


-- Speed up the collection of the payroll tax from large companies , effective August 1990 .

-- Speed up the collection of the payroll tax from large companies , effective <date>August 1990</date> .


-- Impose a tax on ozone - depleting chemicals , such as those used in air conditioners and in Styrofoam , beginning at $ 1.10 a pound starting next year .

-- Impose a tax on ozone - depleting chemicals , such as those used in air conditioners and in Styrofoam , beginning at $ <money>1.10</money> a pound starting <date>next year</date> .


-- Withhold income taxes from the paychecks of certain farm workers currently exempt from withholding .


-- Change the collection of gasoline excise taxes to weekly from semimonthly , effective next year .

-- Change the collection of gasoline excise taxes to <date>weekly</date> from <date>semimonthly</date> , effective <date>next year</date> .


-- Restrict the ability of real estate owners to escape taxes by swapping one piece of property for another instead of selling it for cash .

-- Restrict the ability of real estate owners to escape taxes by swapping <cardinal>one</cardinal> piece of property for another instead of selling it for cash .


-- Increase to $ 6 a person from $ 3 the international air - passenger departure tax , and impose a $ 3 - a - person tax on international departures by commercial ships .

-- Increase to $ <money>6</money> a person from $ <money>3</money> the international air - passenger departure tax , and impose a $ <money>3</money> - a - person tax on international departures by commercial ships .


The measure also includes spending cuts and increases in federal fees .


Among its provisions :


-- Reduction of Medicare spending in fiscal 1990 by some $ 2.8 billion , in part by curbing increases in reimbursements to physicians .

-- Reduction of <org>Medicare</org> spending in <date>fiscal 1990</date> by <money>some $ 2.8 billion</money> , in part by curbing increases in reimbursements to physicians .


The plan would impose a brief freeze on physician fees next year .

The plan would impose a brief freeze on physician fees <date>next year</date> .


-- Removal of the U.S. Postal Service 's operating budget from the federal budget , reducing the deficit by $ 1.77 billion .

-- Removal of <org>the U.S. Postal Service 's</org> operating budget from the federal budget , reducing the deficit by <money>$ 1.77 billion</money> .


A similar provision is in the House version .

A similar provision is in the <org>House</org> version .


-- Authority for the Federal Aviation Administration to raise $ 239 million by charging fees for commercial airline - landing rights at New York 's LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International Airports , O'Hare International Airport in Chicago and National Airport in Washington .

-- Authority for <org>the Federal Aviation Administration</org> to raise <money>$ 239 million</money> by charging fees for commercial airline - landing rights at <gpe>New York 's</gpe> <fac>LaGuardia</fac> and <fac>John F. Kennedy International Airports</fac> , <fac>O'Hare International Airport</fac> in <gpe>Chicago</gpe> and <fac>National Airport</fac> in <gpe>Washington</gpe> .


-- Increases in Nuclear Regulatory Commission fees totaling $ 54 million .

-- Increases in <org>Nuclear Regulatory Commission</org> fees totaling <money>$ 54 million</money> .


-- Direction to the U.S. Coast Guard to collect $ 50 million from users of Coast Guard services .

-- Direction to <org>the U.S. Coast Guard</org> to collect <money>$ 50 million</money> from users of <org>Coast Guard</org> services .


-- Raising an additional $ 43 million by increasing existing Federal Communications Commission fees and penalties and establishing new fees for amateur radio operators , ship stations and mobile radio facilities .

-- Raising <money>an additional $ 43 million</money> by increasing existing <org>Federal Communications Commission</org> fees and penalties and establishing new fees for amateur radio operators , ship stations and mobile radio facilities .


John E. Yang contributed to this article .

<person>John E. Yang</person> contributed to this article .


In response to your overly optimistic , outdated piece on how long unemployment lasts -LRB- People Patterns , Sept. 20 -RRB- : I am in the communications field , above entry level .

In response to your overly optimistic , outdated piece on how long unemployment lasts -LRB- <work_of_art>People Patterns</work_of_art> , <date>Sept. 20</date> -RRB- : I am in the communications field , above entry level .


I was laid off in August 1988 , and after a thorough and exhausting job search , was hired in August 1989 .

I was laid off in <date>August 1988</date> , and after a thorough and exhausting job search , was hired in <date>August 1989</date> .


My unemployment insurance ran out before I found a job ; I found cutbacks and layoffs in many companies .


The statistics quoted by the `` new '' Census Bureau report -LRB- garnered from 1984 to 1986 -RRB- are out of date , certainly as an average for the Northeast , and possibly for the rest of the country .

The statistics quoted by the `` new '' <org>Census Bureau</org> report -LRB- garnered from <date>1984</date> to <date>1986</date> -RRB- are out of date , certainly as an average for the <loc>Northeast</loc> , and possibly for the rest of the country .


I think what bothered me most about the piece was that there seemed to be an underlying attitude to tell your readers all is well -- if you 're getting laid off do n't worry , and if you 're unemployed , it 's a seller 's market .


To top it off , you captioned the graph showing the average number of months in a job search as `` Time Off . ''

To top it off , you captioned the graph showing the average number of <date>months</date> in a job search as `` <work_of_art>Time Off</work_of_art> . ''


Are you kidding ?


Looking for a job was one of the most anxious periods of my life -- and is for most people .


Your paper needs a serious reality check .


Reva Levin


Cambridge , Mass .

<gpe>Cambridge</gpe> , <gpe>Mass .</gpe>


Moody 's Investors Service said it reduced its rating on $ 165 million of subordinated debt of this Beverly Hills , Calif. , thrift , citing turmoil in the market for low - grade , high - yield securities .

<org>Moody 's Investors Service</org> said it reduced its rating on <money>$ 165 million</money> of subordinated debt of this <gpe>Beverly Hills</gpe> , <gpe>Calif.</gpe> , thrift , citing turmoil in the market for low - grade , high - yield securities .


The agency said it reduced its rating on the thrift 's subordinated debt to B - 2 from Ba - 2 and will keep the debt under review for possible further downgrade .


Columbia Savings is a major holder of so - called junk bonds .

<org>Columbia Savings</org> is a major holder of so - called junk bonds .


New federal legislation requires that all thrifts divest themselves of such speculative securities over a period of years .

New federal legislation requires that all thrifts divest themselves of such speculative securities over <date>a period of years</date> .


Columbia Savings officials were n't available for comment on the downgrade .

<org>Columbia Savings</org> officials were n't available for comment on the downgrade .


FRANKLIN SAVINGS ASSOCIATION -LRB- Ottawa , Kan. -RRB- --

<org>FRANKLIN SAVINGS ASSOCIATION</org> -LRB- <gpe>Ottawa</gpe> , <gpe>Kan.</gpe> -RRB- --


Moody 's Investors Service Inc. said it downgraded its rating to B - 2 from Ba - 3 on less than $ 20 million of this thrift 's senior subordinated notes .

<org>Moody 's Investors Service Inc.</org> said it downgraded its rating to B - 2 from Ba - 3 on <money>less than $ 20 million</money> of this thrift 's senior subordinated notes .


The rating concern said Franklin 's `` troubled diversification record in the securities business '' was one reason for the downgrade , citing the troubles at its L.F. Rothschild subsidiary and the possible sale of other subsidiaries .

The rating concern said <org>Franklin</org> 's `` troubled diversification record in the securities business '' was <cardinal>one</cardinal> reason for the downgrade , citing the troubles at its <org>L.F. Rothschild</org> subsidiary and the possible sale of other subsidiaries .


`` They perhaps had concern that we were getting out of all these , '' said Franklin President Duane H. Hall .

`` They perhaps had concern that we were getting out of all these , '' said <org>Franklin</org> President <person>Duane H. Hall</person> .


`` I think it was a little premature on their part .


Just when it seemed safe to go back into stocks , Wall Street suffered another severe attack of nerves .


Does this signal another Black Monday is coming ?

Does this signal <event>another Black Monday</event> is coming ?


Or is this an extraordinary buying opportunity , just like Oct. 19 , 1987 , eventually turned out to be ?

Or is this an extraordinary buying opportunity , just like <date>Oct. 19 , 1987 ,</date> eventually turned out to be ?


Here 's what several leading market experts and money managers say about Friday 's action , what happens next and what investors should do .

Here 's what several leading market experts and money managers say about <date>Friday</date> 's action , what happens next and what investors should do .


Joseph Granville .


`` I 'm the only one who said there would be an October massacre , all through late August and September , '' says Mr. Granville , once a widely followed market guru and still a well - known newsletter writer .

`` I 'm the only one who said there would be an <date>October</date> massacre , all through <date>late August</date> and <date>September</date> , '' says Mr. <person>Granville</person> , once a widely followed market guru and still a well - known newsletter writer .


`` Everyone will tell you that this time is different from 1987 , '' he says .

`` Everyone will tell you that this time is different from <date>1987</date> , '' he says .


`` Well , in some ways it is different , but technically it is just the same .


If you 're a technician , you obey the signals .


Right now they 're telling me to get the hell out and stay out .


I see no major support until 2200 .

I see no major support until <date>2200</date> .


I see a possibility of going to 2200 this month . ''

I see a possibility of going to <cardinal>2200</cardinal> <date>this month</date> . ''


Mr. Granville says he would n't even think of buying until at least 600 to 700 stocks have hit 52 - week lows ; about 100 stocks hit new lows Friday .

Mr. <person>Granville</person> says he would n't even think of buying until at least <cardinal>600</cardinal> to <cardinal>700</cardinal> stocks have hit <date>52 - week</date> lows ; <cardinal>about 100</cardinal> stocks hit new lows <date>Friday</date> .


`` Most people , '' he says , `` have no idea what a massacre pattern looks like . ''


Elaine Garzarelli .


A quantitative analyst with Shearson Lehman Hutton Inc. , Ms. Garzarelli had warned clients to take their money out of the market before the 1987 crash .

A quantitative analyst with <org>Shearson Lehman Hutton Inc.</org> , Ms. <person>Garzarelli</person> had warned clients to take their money out of the market before the <date>1987</date> crash .


Friday 's big drop , she says , `` was not a crash .

<date>Friday</date> 's big drop , she says , `` was not a crash .


This was an October massacre '' like those that occurred in 1978 and 1979 .

This was an <date>October</date> massacre '' like those that occurred in <date>1978</date> and <date>1979</date> .


Now , as in those two years , her stock market indicators are positive .

Now , as in <date>those two years</date> , her stock market indicators are positive .


So she thinks the damage will be short - lived and contained .


`` Those corrections lasted one to four weeks and took the market 10%-12 % down , '' she says .

`` Those corrections lasted <date>one to four weeks</date> and took the market <percent>10%-12 %</percent> down , '' she says .


`` This is exactly the same thing , as far as I 'm concerned . ''


Thus , she says , if the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped below 2450 , `` It would just be a fluke .

Thus , she says , if the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped below <cardinal>2450</cardinal> , `` It would just be a fluke .


My advice is to buy . ''


As she calculates it , the average stock now sells for about 12.5 times companies ' earnings .

As she calculates it , the average stock now sells for <cardinal>about 12.5</cardinal> times companies ' earnings .


She says that ratio could climb to 14.5 , given current interest rates , and still be within the range of `` fair value . ''

She says that ratio could climb to <cardinal>14.5</cardinal> , given current interest rates , and still be within the range of `` fair value . ''


Ned Davis .


Friday 's fall marks the start of a bear market , says Mr. Davis , president of Ned Davis Research Inc .

<date>Friday</date> 's fall marks the start of a bear market , says Mr. <person>Davis</person> , president of <org>Ned Davis Research Inc</org> .


But Mr. Davis , whose views are widely respected by money managers , says he expects no 1987 - style crash .

But Mr. <person>Davis</person> , whose views are widely respected by money managers , says he expects no <date>1987</date> - style crash .


`` There was a unique combination in 1987 , '' he says .

`` There was a unique combination in <date>1987</date> , '' he says .


`` Margin debt was at a record high .


There was tremendous public enthusiasm for stock mutual funds .


The main thing was portfolio insurance , '' a mechanical trading system intended to protect an investor against losses . ``


A hundred billion dollars in stock was subject '' to it .

<money>A hundred billion dollars</money> in stock was subject '' to it .


In 1987 , such selling contributed to a snowball effect .

In <date>1987</date> , such selling contributed to a snowball effect .


Today could even be an up day , Mr. Davis says , if major brokerage firms agree to refrain from program trading .

<date>Today</date> could even be <date>an up day</date> , Mr. <person>Davis</person> says , if major brokerage firms agree to refrain from program trading .


Over the next several months , though , he says things look bad .

Over <date>the next several months</date> , though , he says things look bad .


`` I think the market will be heading down into November , '' he says .

`` I think the market will be heading down into <date>November</date> , '' he says .


`` We will probably have a year - end rally , and then go down again .

`` We will probably have a <date>year - end</date> rally , and then go down again .


Sort of a two - step bear market . ''

Sort of a <cardinal>two</cardinal> - step bear market . ''


He expects the downturn to carry the Dow Jones Industrial Average down to around 2000 sometime next year .

He expects the downturn to carry the Dow Jones Industrial Average down to around <cardinal>2000</cardinal> sometime <date>next year</date> .


`` That would be a normal bear market , '' he says .


`` I guess that 's my forecast . ''


Leon G. Cooperman .


`` I do n't think the market is going through another October '87 .

`` I do n't think the market is going through <date>another October '87</date> .


I do n't think that 's the case at all , '' says Mr. Cooperman , a partner at Goldman , Sachs & Co. and chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset Management .

I do n't think that 's the case at all , '' says Mr. <person>Cooperman</person> , a partner at <org>Goldman , Sachs & Co.</org> and chairman of <org>Goldman Sachs Asset Management</org> .


Mr. Cooperman sees this as a good time to pick up bargains , but he does n't think there 's any need to rush .

Mr. <person>Cooperman</person> sees this as a good time to pick up bargains , but he does n't think there 's any need to rush .


`` I expect the market to open weaker Monday , but then it should find some stability . ''

`` I expect the market to open weaker <date>Monday</date> , but then it should find some stability . ''


He ticks off several major differences between now and two years ago .

He ticks off several major differences between <date>now</date> and <date>two years ago</date> .


Unlike 1987 , interest rates have been falling this year .

Unlike <date>1987</date> , interest rates have been falling <date>this year</date> .


Unlike 1987 , the dollar has been strong .

Unlike <date>1987</date> , the dollar has been strong .


And unlike 1987 , the economy does n't appear to be in any danger of overheating .

And unlike <date>1987</date> , the economy does n't appear to be in any danger of overheating .