A White House spokesman condemned the truce suspension as `` deplorable '' but brushed off talk of renewing military funding for the insurgents .

A <org>White House</org> spokesman condemned the truce suspension as `` deplorable '' but brushed off talk of renewing military funding for the insurgents .


The Contra military command , in a statement from Honduras , said Sandinista troops had launched a major offensive against the rebel forces .

The <org>Contra</org> military command , in a statement from <gpe>Honduras</gpe> , said <org>Sandinista</org> troops had launched a major offensive against the rebel forces .


East German leader Krenz called the protests in his country a `` good sign , '' saying that many of those marching for democratic freedoms were showing support for `` the renovation for socialism . ''

<norp>East German</norp> leader <person>Krenz</person> called the protests in his country a `` good sign , '' saying that many of those marching for democratic freedoms were showing support for `` the renovation for socialism . ''


The Communist Party chief , in Moscow for talks with Soviet officials , also said East Germany would follow Gorbachev 's restructuring plans .

The <org>Communist Party</org> chief , in <gpe>Moscow</gpe> for talks with <norp>Soviet</norp> officials , also said <gpe>East Germany</gpe> would follow <person>Gorbachev</person> 's restructuring plans .


Thousands of East Germans fled to Czechoslovakia after the East Berlin government lifted travel restrictions .

<cardinal>Thousands</cardinal> of <norp>East Germans</norp> fled to <gpe>Czechoslovakia</gpe> after the <gpe>East Berlin</gpe> government lifted travel restrictions .


The ban on cross-border movement was imposed last month after a massive exodus of emigres to West Germany .

The ban on cross-border movement was imposed <date>last month</date> after a massive exodus of emigres to <gpe>West Germany</gpe> .


Also , a Communist official for the first time said the future of the Berlin Wall could be open to discussion .

Also , a <norp>Communist</norp> official for the first time said the future of <fac>the Berlin Wall</fac> could be open to discussion .


Health officials plan to extend a moratorium on federal funding of research involving fetal - tissue transplants .


The assistant HHS secretary said the ban `` should be continued indefinitely . ''

The assistant <org>HHS</org> secretary said the ban `` should be continued indefinitely . ''


While researchers believe such transplants could help treat diseases like Alzheimer 's , anti-abortionists oppose the research .


Rep. Dingell of Michigan plans to unveil today a proposal that would break with Bush 's clean - air bill on the issue of emissions that lead to acid rain .

Rep. <person>Dingell</person> of <gpe>Michigan</gpe> plans to unveil <date>today</date> a proposal that would break with <person>Bush</person> 's clean - air bill on the issue of emissions that lead to acid rain .


The Democrat 's proposal is described by government sources and lobbyists as significantly weaker than the president 's plan to cut utility emissions .

The <norp>Democrat</norp> 's proposal is described by government sources and lobbyists as significantly weaker than the president 's plan to cut utility emissions .


House - Senate conferees approved major portions of a package for more than $ 500 million in economic aid for Poland .

<org>House</org> - Senate conferees approved major portions of a package for <money>more than $ 500 million</money> in economic aid for <gpe>Poland</gpe> .


The plan relies heavily on $ 240 million in credit and loan guarantees in fiscal 1990 in hopes of stimulating future trade and investment .

The plan relies heavily on <money>$ 240 million</money> in credit and loan guarantees in <date>fiscal 1990</date> in hopes of stimulating future trade and investment .


South Africa accused armed Namibian nationalist guerrillas of crossing from bases in neighboring Angola , violating U.N. - supervised peace plans for the territory 's independence from Pretoria .

<gpe>South Africa</gpe> accused armed <norp>Namibian</norp> nationalist guerrillas of crossing from bases in neighboring <gpe>Angola</gpe> , violating <org>U.N.</org> - supervised peace plans for the territory 's independence from <gpe>Pretoria</gpe> .


South African troops were placed on alert .

<norp>South African</norp> troops were placed on alert .


Guerrilla leaders said Pretoria was attempting to sabotage next week 's elections in Namibia .

Guerrilla leaders said <gpe>Pretoria</gpe> was attempting to sabotage <date>next week 's</date> elections in <gpe>Namibia</gpe> .


Gunmen in Lebanon assassinated a Saudi Arabian Embassy employee , and the pro-Iranian Islamic Jihad took responsibility for the slaying to avenge the beheading of 16 terrorists by Riyadh 's government in September .

Gunmen in <gpe>Lebanon</gpe> assassinated a <org>Saudi Arabian Embassy</org> employee , and the <norp>pro-Iranian</norp> <org>Islamic Jihad</org> took responsibility for the slaying to avenge the beheading of <cardinal>16</cardinal> terrorists by <gpe>Riyadh</gpe> 's government in <date>September</date> .


Also in Beirut , a Moslem group vowed to kill Americans if the U.S. implements a policy to seize suspects abroad .

Also in <gpe>Beirut</gpe> , a Moslem group vowed to kill <norp>Americans</norp> if the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> implements a policy to seize suspects abroad .


Nixon concluded five days of private talks with Chinese leaders in Beijing , but apparently failed to ease strains in Sino - U.S. ties caused by China 's crackdown against pro-democracy protesters in June .

<person>Nixon</person> concluded <date>five days</date> of private talks with <norp>Chinese</norp> leaders in <gpe>Beijing</gpe> , but apparently failed to ease strains in <norp>Sino</norp> - U.S. ties caused by <gpe>China</gpe> 's crackdown against pro-democracy protesters in <date>June</date> .


Beijing 's rulers complained to the former president about U.S. `` interference '' in China 's domestic affairs .

<gpe>Beijing</gpe> 's rulers complained to the former president about <gpe>U.S.</gpe> `` interference '' in <gpe>China</gpe> 's domestic affairs .


Mexico 's President Salinas said the country 's recession had ended and the economy was growing again .

<gpe>Mexico</gpe> 's President <person>Salinas</person> said the country 's recession had ended and the economy was growing again .


In his first state of the nation address , Salinas pledged to continue his program of modernization and warned opposition politicians that impeding progress could cost them popular support .

In his <ordinal>first</ordinal> state of the nation address , <person>Salinas</person> pledged to continue his program of modernization and warned opposition politicians that impeding progress could cost them popular support .


Pakistan 's Bhutto defeated the first no - confidence motion in the nation 's 42 - year history , surviving the vote that could have brought down her 11 - month - old government .

<gpe>Pakistan</gpe> 's <person>Bhutto</person> defeated the first no - confidence motion in the nation 's <date>42 - year</date> history , surviving the vote that could have brought down her <date>11 - month - old</date> government .


The prime minister 's opponents claimed the balloting , 12 votes short of a majority in Islamabad 's 237 - seat assembly , was rigged .

The prime minister 's opponents claimed the balloting , <cardinal>12</cardinal> votes short of a majority in <gpe>Islamabad</gpe> 's <cardinal>237</cardinal> - seat assembly , was rigged .


The White House said the shipboard meetings next month between Bush and Soviet leader Gorbachev will take place in the waters off Malta .

<org>The White House</org> said the shipboard meetings <date>next month</date> between <person>Bush</person> and <norp>Soviet</norp> leader <person>Gorbachev</person> will take place in the waters off <gpe>Malta</gpe> .


The location was disclosed as the U.S. began planning the issues to be discussed at the Dec. 2 - 3 tete - a - tete .

The location was disclosed as the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> began planning the issues to be discussed at the <date>Dec. 2 - 3</date> tete - a - tete .


Bush unveiled a package of trade initiatives to help establish `` economic alternatives to drug trafficking '' in the Andean nations of South America .

<person>Bush</person> unveiled a package of trade initiatives to help establish `` economic alternatives to drug trafficking '' in the <norp>Andean</norp> nations of <loc>South America</loc> .


The president 's plan includes a commitment to help negotiate a new international coffee agreement .


Pan Am has subpoenaed several government agencies , including the CIA and FBI , to determine whether they were warned that a bomb had been planted aboard a jet that exploded over Scotland last December , killing 270 people .

<org>Pan Am</org> has subpoenaed several government agencies , including the <org>CIA</org> and <org>FBI</org> , to determine whether they were warned that a bomb had been planted aboard a jet that exploded over <gpe>Scotland</gpe> last <date>December</date> , killing <cardinal>270</cardinal> people .


The airline is attempting to show that Israel and West Germany warned the U.S. about the impending attack .

The airline is attempting to show that <gpe>Israel</gpe> and <gpe>West Germany</gpe> warned the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> about the impending attack .


Died : James A. Attwood , 62 , retired chairman and president of Mutual Life Insurance Co. of New York , Tuesday , in New York City , of an acute anemic condition .

Died : <person>James A. Attwood</person> , <date>62</date> , retired chairman and president of <org>Mutual Life Insurance Co.</org> of <gpe>New York</gpe> , <date>Tuesday</date> , in <gpe>New York City</gpe> , of an acute anemic condition .


Beauty Takes Backseat To Safety on Bridges


EVERYONE AGREES that most of the nation 's old bridges need to be repaired or replaced .


But there 's disagreement over how to do it .


Highway officials insist the ornamental railings on older bridges are n't strong enough to prevent vehicles from crashing through .


But other people do n't want to lose the bridges ' beautiful , sometimes historic , features .


`` The primary purpose of a railing is to contain a vehicle and not to provide a scenic view , '' says Jack White , a planner with the Indiana Highway Department .

`` The primary purpose of a railing is to contain a vehicle and not to provide a scenic view , '' says <person>Jack White</person> , a planner with <org>the Indiana Highway Department</org> .


He and others prefer to install railings such as the `` type F safety shape , '' a four - foot - high concrete slab with no openings .

He and others prefer to install railings such as the `` type F safety shape , '' a <quantity>four - foot - high</quantity> concrete slab with no openings .


In Richmond , Ind. , the type F railing is being used to replace arched openings on the G Street Bridge .

In <gpe>Richmond</gpe> , <gpe>Ind.</gpe> , the type F railing is being used to replace arched openings on <fac>the G Street Bridge</fac> .


Garret Boone , who teaches art at Earlham College , calls the new structure `` just an ugly bridge '' and one that blocks the view of a new park below .

<person>Garret Boone</person> , who teaches art at <org>Earlham College</org> , calls the new structure `` just an ugly bridge '' and one that blocks the view of a new park below .


In Hartford , Conn. , the Charter Oak Bridge will soon be replaced , the cast - iron medallions from its railings relegated to a park .

In <gpe>Hartford</gpe> , <gpe>Conn.</gpe> , <fac>the Charter Oak Bridge</fac> will soon be replaced , the cast - iron medallions from its railings relegated to a park .


Compromises are possible .


Citizens in Peninsula , Ohio , upset over changes to a bridge , negotiated a deal : The bottom half of the railing will be type F , while the top half will have the old bridge 's floral pattern .

Citizens in <gpe>Peninsula</gpe> , <gpe>Ohio</gpe> , upset over changes to a bridge , negotiated a deal : The bottom <cardinal>half</cardinal> of the railing will be type F , while the top <cardinal>half</cardinal> will have the old bridge 's floral pattern .


Similarly , highway engineers agreed to keep the old railings on the Key Bridge in Washington , D.C. , as long as they could install a crash barrier between the sidewalk and the road .

Similarly , highway engineers agreed to keep the old railings on <fac>the Key Bridge</fac> in <gpe>Washington</gpe> , <gpe>D.C.</gpe> , as long as they could install a crash barrier between the sidewalk and the road .


Tray Bon ?


Drink Carrier Competes With Cartons


PORTING POTABLES just got easier , or so claims Scypher Corp. , the maker of the Cup - Tote .

PORTING POTABLES just got easier , or so claims <org>Scypher Corp.</org> , the maker of <product>the Cup - Tote</product> .


The Chicago company 's beverage carrier , meant to replace cardboard trays at concession stands and fast - food outlets , resembles the plastic loops used on six - packs of beer , only the loops hang from a web of strings .

The <gpe>Chicago</gpe> company 's beverage carrier , meant to replace cardboard trays at concession stands and fast - food outlets , resembles the plastic loops used on <cardinal>six</cardinal> - packs of beer , only the loops hang from a web of strings .


The new carrier can tote as many as four cups at once .

The new carrier can tote as many as <cardinal>four</cardinal> cups at once .


Inventor Claire Marvin says his design virtually eliminates spilling .

Inventor <person>Claire Marvin</person> says his design virtually eliminates spilling .


Lids are n't even needed .


He also claims the carrier costs less and takes up less space than most paper carriers .


A few fast - food outlets are giving it a try .


The company acknowledges some problems .


A driver has to find something to hang the carrier on , so the company supplies a window hook .


While it breaks down in prolonged sunlight , it is n't recyclable .


And unlike some trays , there 's no place for food .


Spirit of Perestroika Touches Design World


AN EXCHANGE of U.S. and Soviet designers promises change on both sides .

AN EXCHANGE of <gpe>U.S.</gpe> and <norp>Soviet</norp> designers promises change on both sides .


An exhibition of American design and architecture opened in September in Moscow and will travel to eight other Soviet cities .

An exhibition of <norp>American</norp> design and architecture opened in <date>September</date> in <gpe>Moscow</gpe> and will travel to <cardinal>eight</cardinal> other <norp>Soviet</norp> cities .


The show runs the gamut , from a blender to chairs to a model of the Citicorp building .

The show runs the gamut , from a blender to chairs to a model of the <org>Citicorp</org> building .


The event continues into next year and includes an exchange program to swap design teachers at Carnegie - Mellon and Leningrad 's Mutchin Institute .

The event continues into <date>next year</date> and includes an exchange program to swap design teachers at <org>Carnegie - Mellon</org> and <gpe>Leningrad</gpe> 's <org>Mutchin Institute</org> .


Dan Droz , leader of the Carnegie - Mellon group , sees benefits all around .

<person>Dan Droz</person> , leader of the <org>Carnegie - Mellon</org> group , sees benefits all around .


The Soviets , who normally have few clients other than the state , will get `` exposure to a market system , '' he says .

The <norp>Soviets</norp> , who normally have few clients other than the state , will get `` exposure to a market system , '' he says .


Americans will learn more about making products for the Soviets .

<norp>Americans</norp> will learn more about making products for the <norp>Soviets</norp> .


Mr. Droz says the Soviets could even help U.S. designers renew their sense of purpose .

Mr. <person>Droz</person> says the <norp>Soviets</norp> could even help <gpe>U.S.</gpe> designers renew their sense of purpose .


`` In Moscow , they kept asking us things like , ` Why do you make 15 different corkscrews , when all you need is one good one ? ' '' he says .

`` In <gpe>Moscow</gpe> , they kept asking us things like , ` Why do you make <cardinal>15</cardinal> different corkscrews , when all you need is <cardinal>one</cardinal> good one ? ' '' he says .


`` They got us thinking maybe we should be helping U.S. companies improve existing products rather than always developing new ones . ''

`` They got us thinking maybe we should be helping <gpe>U.S.</gpe> companies improve existing products rather than always developing new ones . ''


Seed for Jail Solution Fails to Take Root


IT 'S A TWO BIRDS with one stone deal : Eggers Group architects propose using grain elevators to house prisoners .

IT 'S A <cardinal>TWO</cardinal> BIRDS with <cardinal>one</cardinal> stone deal : <org>Eggers Group</org> architects propose using grain elevators to house prisoners .


It would ease jail overcrowding while preserving historic structures , the company says .


But New York state , which is seeking solutions to its prison cell shortage , says `` no . ''

But <gpe>New York</gpe> state , which is seeking solutions to its prison cell shortage , says `` no . ''


Grain elevators built in the 1920s and '30s have six - inch concrete walls and a tubular shape that would easily contain semicircular cells with a control point in the middle , the New York firm says .

Grain elevators built in the <date>1920s</date> and <date>'30s</date> have <quantity>six - inch</quantity> concrete walls and a tubular shape that would easily contain semicircular cells with a control point in the middle , the <gpe>New York</gpe> firm says .


Many are far enough from residential areas to pass public muster , yet close enough to permit family visits .


Besides , Eggers says , grain elevators are worth preserving for aesthetic reasons -- one famed architect compared them to the pyramids of Egypt .

Besides , <org>Eggers</org> says , grain elevators are worth preserving for aesthetic reasons -- <cardinal>one</cardinal> famed architect compared them to the pyramids of <gpe>Egypt</gpe> .


A number of cities -- including Minneapolis , Philadelphia and Houston -- have vacant grain elevators , Eggers says .

A number of cities -- including <gpe>Minneapolis</gpe> , <gpe>Philadelphia</gpe> and <gpe>Houston</gpe> -- have vacant grain elevators , <person>Eggers</person> says .


A medium - sized one in Brooklyn , it says , could be altered to house up to 1,000 inmates at a lower cost than building a new prison in upstate New York .

A medium - sized one in <gpe>Brooklyn</gpe> , it says , could be altered to house <cardinal>up to 1,000</cardinal> inmates at a lower cost than building a new prison in upstate <gpe>New York</gpe> .


A spokesman for the state , however , calls the idea `` not effective or cost efficient .


EAST GERMANS RALLIED as officials reportedly sought Honecker 's ouster .

<norp>EAST GERMANS</norp> RALLIED as officials reportedly sought <person>Honecker</person> 's ouster .


In what was considered the largest protest in the Communist state 's 40 - year history , at least 120,000 demonstrators marched through the southern city of Leipzig to press demands for democratic freedoms , opposition activists said .

In what was considered the largest protest in the <norp>Communist</norp> state 's <date>40 - year</date> history , <cardinal>at least 120,000</cardinal> demonstrators marched through the southern city of <gpe>Leipzig</gpe> to press demands for democratic freedoms , opposition activists said .


Police did n't intervene .


Meanwhile , as the first of more than 1,300 East Germans trying to flee to the West through Poland renounced their citizenship , a West German newspaper reported that regional Communist officials demanded the dismissal of hard - line leader Honecker .

Meanwhile , as the <ordinal>first</ordinal> of <cardinal>more than 1,300</cardinal> <norp>East Germans</norp> trying to flee to the West through <gpe>Poland</gpe> renounced their citizenship , a <norp>West German</norp> newspaper reported that regional <norp>Communist</norp> officials demanded the dismissal of hard - line leader <person>Honecker</person> .


Secretary of State Baker , in a foreign policy speech , called for the reunification of Germany , saying it was the `` legitimate right '' of the German people .

Secretary of <org>State</org> <person>Baker</person> , in a foreign policy speech , called for the reunification of <gpe>Germany</gpe> , saying it was the `` legitimate right '' of the <norp>German</norp> people .


Gorbachev blamed the Soviet Union 's press for contributing to the nation 's mounting problems .

<person>Gorbachev</person> blamed <gpe>the Soviet Union 's</gpe> press for contributing to the nation 's mounting problems .


At a meeting Friday , the Kremlin leader complained about recent articles that raised the possiblity of civil unrest , and accused the media of fueling panic buying of goods by publishing stories about impending shortages .

At a meeting <date>Friday</date> , the <org>Kremlin</org> leader complained about recent articles that raised the possiblity of civil unrest , and accused the media of fueling panic buying of goods by publishing stories about impending shortages .


House - Senate conferees approved a permanent smoking ban on domestic airline routes within the continental U.S. and on flights of less than six hours to Alaska and Hawaii .

<org>House</org> - Senate conferees approved a permanent smoking ban on domestic airline routes within the continental <gpe>U.S.</gpe> and on flights of less than <time>six hours</time> to <gpe>Alaska</gpe> and <gpe>Hawaii</gpe> .


The curbs would cover all but a small percentage of flights , and represent an expansion of the current ban on flights of less than two hours .

The curbs would cover all but a small percentage of flights , and represent an expansion of the current ban on flights of <time>less than two hours</time> .


E. Robert Wallach was sentenced by a U.S. judge in New York to six years in prison and fined $ 250,000 for his racketeering conviction in the Wedtech scandal .

<person>E. Robert Wallach</person> was sentenced by a <gpe>U.S.</gpe> judge in <gpe>New York</gpe> to <date>six years</date> in prison and fined $ <money>250,000</money> for his racketeering conviction in the <org>Wedtech</org> scandal .


Wallach , an associate of ex-Attorney General Meese , was found guilty in August of taking $ 425,000 in illegal payoffs from the now - defunct defense contractor .

<person>Wallach</person> , an associate of ex-Attorney General <person>Meese</person> , was found guilty in <date>August</date> of taking $ <money>425,000</money> in illegal payoffs from the now - defunct defense contractor .


NASA resumed the countdown for today 's launch of the space shuttle Atlantis , and a federal appeals court in Washington dismissed a lawsuit by anti-nuclear groups to delay the flight because the plutonium - powered Galileo space probe was aboard .

<org>NASA</org> resumed the countdown for <date>today</date> 's launch of the space shuttle <product>Atlantis</product> , and a federal appeals court in <gpe>Washington</gpe> dismissed a lawsuit by anti-nuclear groups to delay the flight because the plutonium - powered <product>Galileo</product> space probe was aboard .


The space agency said it did n't expect weather or protesters to block the liftoff .


The Bush administration is preparing to extend a ban on federal financing of research using fetal tissue , government sources said .

The <person>Bush</person> administration is preparing to extend a ban on federal financing of research using fetal tissue , government sources said .


A temporary prohibition was imposed in March 1988 .

A temporary prohibition was imposed in <date>March 1988</date> .


While anti-abortion groups are opposed to such research , scientists have said transplanting such tissue could be effective in treating diabetes .


Delegates from 91 nations endorsed a ban on world ivory trade in an attempt to rescue the endangered elephant from extinction .

Delegates from <cardinal>91</cardinal> nations endorsed a ban on world ivory trade in an attempt to rescue the endangered elephant from extinction .


Five African nations , however , said they would continue selling the valuable tusks .

<cardinal>Five</cardinal> <norp>African</norp> nations , however , said they would continue selling the valuable tusks .


Mubarak held reconciliation talks with Gadhafi at the Egyptian resort of Mersa Metruh .

<person>Mubarak</person> held reconciliation talks with <person>Gadhafi</person> at the <norp>Egyptian</norp> resort of <fac>Mersa Metruh</fac> .


It was the Libyan leader 's first trip to Egypt in 16 years .

It was the <norp>Libyan</norp> leader 's <ordinal>first</ordinal> trip to <gpe>Egypt</gpe> in <date>16 years</date> .


They announced a reduction in formalities for travel , but did n't show any real signs of resuming full diplomatic ties .


The Egyptian president said he would visit Libya today to resume the talks .

The <norp>Egyptian</norp> president said he would visit <gpe>Libya</gpe> <date>today</date> to resume the talks .


Seoul and Pyongyang reached a tentative agreement to allow visits between families on the divided Korean peninsula .

<gpe>Seoul</gpe> and <gpe>Pyongyang</gpe> reached a tentative agreement to allow visits between families on the divided <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula .


Such family reunions would be the second since 1945 .

Such family reunions would be the <ordinal>second</ordinal> since <date>1945</date> .


Differences remained between the North and South Korean governments , however , over conditions for the exchanges .

Differences remained between the <norp>North and South Korean</norp> governments , however , over conditions for the exchanges .


Freed black nationalists resumed political activity in South Africa and vowed to fight against apartheid , raising fears of a possible white backlash .

Freed black nationalists resumed political activity in <gpe>South Africa</gpe> and vowed to fight against apartheid , raising fears of a possible white backlash .


The nation 's main white opposition party warned that the government 's release Sunday of eight black political prisoners risked bringing chaos and eventual black Marxist rule to the nation .

The nation 's main white opposition party warned that the government 's release <date>Sunday</date> of <cardinal>eight</cardinal> black political prisoners risked bringing chaos and eventual black <norp>Marxist</norp> rule to the nation .


The White House said Bush is `` fully satisfied '' with CIA Director Webster and the intelligence agency 's performance during the Oct. 3 failed coup in Panama .

<org>The White House</org> said <person>Bush</person> is `` fully satisfied '' with <org>CIA</org> Director <person>Webster</person> and the intelligence agency 's performance during the <date>Oct. 3</date> failed coup in <gpe>Panama</gpe> .


The Washington Post reported that unidentified senior administration officials were frustrated with Webster 's low - profile activities during the insurrection and wanted him replaced .

<org>The Washington Post</org> reported that unidentified senior administration officials were frustrated with <person>Webster</person> 's low - profile activities during the insurrection and wanted him replaced .


Poland 's legislature approved limits on automatic wage increases without special provisions for food price rises .

<gpe>Poland</gpe> 's legislature approved limits on automatic wage increases without special provisions for food price rises .


The vote was considered a test of the Solidarity - led government 's resolve to proceed with a harsh economic - restructuring program .

The vote was considered a test of the <org>Solidarity</org> - led government 's resolve to proceed with a harsh economic - restructuring program .


Norway 's King Olav V installed a three - party non-Socialist government as Gro Harlem Brundtland 's three - year - old Labor regime relinquished power .

<gpe>Norway</gpe> 's King <person>Olav V</person> installed a <cardinal>three</cardinal> - party <norp>non-Socialist</norp> government as <person>Gro Harlem Brundtland 's</person> <date>three - year - old</date> <org>Labor</org> regime relinquished power .


The 19 - member cabinet is led by Prime Minister Jan Syse , who acknowledged a `` difficult situation '' since the coalition controls only 62 seats in Oslo 's 165 - member legislature .

The <cardinal>19</cardinal> - member cabinet is led by Prime Minister <person>Jan Syse</person> , who acknowledged a `` difficult situation '' since the coalition controls <cardinal>only 62</cardinal> seats in <gpe>Oslo</gpe> 's <cardinal>165</cardinal> - member legislature .


El Salvador 's government opened a new round of talks with the country 's leftist rebels in an effort to end a decade - long civil war .

<gpe>El Salvador 's</gpe> government opened a new round of talks with the country 's leftist rebels in an effort to end a decade - long civil war .


A spokesman said the guerrillas would present a cease - fire proposal during the negotiations in Costa Rica that includes constitutional and economic changes .

A spokesman said the guerrillas would present a cease - fire proposal during the negotiations in <gpe>Costa Rica</gpe> that includes constitutional and economic changes .


The State Department said there was a `` possibility '' that some Nicaraguan rebels were selling their U.S. - supplied arms to Salvadoran guerrillas , but insisted it was n't an organized effort .

<org>The State Department</org> said there was a `` possibility '' that some <norp>Nicaraguan</norp> rebels were selling their <gpe>U.S.</gpe> - supplied arms to <norp>Salvadoran</norp> guerrillas , but insisted it was n't an organized effort .


Separately , Secretary of State Baker complained about a U.N. aide who last week told the Contras to disband as part of a regional peace accord .

Separately , Secretary of <org>State</org> <person>Baker</person> complained about a <org>U.N.</org> aide who <date>last week</date> told the <org>Contras</org> to disband as part of a regional peace accord .


Died : Cornel Wilde , 74 , actor and director , in Los Angeles , of leukemia ... .

Died : <person>Cornel Wilde</person> , <date>74</date> , actor and director , in <gpe>Los Angeles</gpe> , of leukemia ... .


Danilo Kis , 54 , Yugoslav - born novelist and essayist , Sunday , in Paris , of cancer .

<person>Danilo Kis</person> , <date>54</date> , <norp>Yugoslav</norp> - born novelist and essayist , <date>Sunday</date> , in <gpe>Paris</gpe> , of cancer .


The art of change - ringing is peculiar to the English , and , like most English peculiarities , unintelligible to the rest of the world .

The art of change - ringing is peculiar to the <norp>English</norp> , and , like most <norp>English</norp> peculiarities , unintelligible to the rest of the world .


-- Dorothy L. Sayers , `` The Nine Tailors ''

-- <person>Dorothy L. Sayers</person> , `` <work_of_art>The Nine Tailors</work_of_art> ''


ASLACTON , England


-- Of all scenes that evoke rural England , this is one of the loveliest : An ancient stone church stands amid the fields , the sound of bells cascading from its tower , calling the faithful to evensong .

-- Of all scenes that evoke rural <gpe>England</gpe> , this is one of the loveliest : An ancient stone church stands amid the fields , the sound of bells cascading from its tower , calling the faithful to evensong .


The parishioners of St. Michael and All Angels stop to chat at the church door , as members here always have .

The parishioners of <org>St. Michael and All Angels</org> stop to chat at the church door , as members here always have .


In the tower , five men and women pull rhythmically on ropes attached to the same five bells that first sounded here in 1614 .

In the tower , <cardinal>five</cardinal> men and women pull rhythmically on ropes attached to the same <cardinal>five</cardinal> bells that first sounded here in <date>1614</date> .


But there is also a discordant , modern note in Aslacton , though it ca n't be heard by the church - goers enjoying the peal of bells this cool autumn evening .

But there is also a discordant , modern note in <gpe>Aslacton</gpe> , though it ca n't be heard by the church - goers enjoying the peal of bells this cool <date>autumn</date> <time>evening</time> .


Like most of the other 6,000 churches in Britain with sets of bells , St. Michael once had its own `` band '' of ringers , who would herald every Sunday morning and evening service .

Like most of the other <cardinal>6,000</cardinal> churches in <gpe>Britain</gpe> with sets of bells , <org>St. Michael</org> once had its own `` band '' of ringers , who would herald every <date>Sunday</date> <time>morning</time> and <time>evening</time> service .


Now , only one local ringer remains : 64 - year - old Derek Hammond .

Now , only one local ringer remains : <date>64 - year - old</date> <person>Derek Hammond</person> .


The others here today live elsewhere .

The others here <date>today</date> live elsewhere .


They belong to a group of 15 ringers -- including two octogenarians and four youngsters in training -- who drive every Sunday from church to church in a sometimes - exhausting effort to keep the bells sounding in the many belfries of East Anglia .

They belong to a group of <cardinal>15</cardinal> ringers -- including two octogenarians and <cardinal>four</cardinal> youngsters in training -- who drive every <date>Sunday</date> from church to church in a sometimes - exhausting effort to keep the bells sounding in the many belfries of <gpe>East Anglia</gpe> .


`` To ring for even one service at this tower , we have to scrape , '' says Mr. Hammond , a retired water - authority worker .

`` To ring for even <cardinal>one</cardinal> service at this tower , we have to scrape , '' says Mr. <person>Hammond</person> , a retired water - authority worker .


`` We 've tried to train the youngsters , but they have their discos and their dances , and they just drift away . ''


Mr. Hammond worries that old age and the flightiness of youth will diminish the ranks of the East Anglian group that keeps the Aslacton bells pealing .

Mr. <person>Hammond</person> worries that old age and the flightiness of youth will diminish the ranks of the <norp>East Anglian</norp> group that keeps the <gpe>Aslacton</gpe> bells pealing .


History , after all , is not on his side .


According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago , nearly a third of England 's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them .

According to a nationwide survey taken <date>a year ago</date> , <cardinal>nearly a third</cardinal> of <gpe>England</gpe> 's church bells are no longer rung on <date>Sundays</date> because there is no one to ring them .


It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes .


The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells , as do the carillons of continental Europe , is considered by the English to be childish , fit only for foreigners .

The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells , as do the carillons of continental <loc>Europe</loc> , is considered by the <norp>English</norp> to be childish , fit only for foreigners .


Change - ringing , a mind - boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago , requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration .

Change - ringing , a mind - boggling exercise the <norp>English</norp> invented <date>380 years ago</date> , requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration .


Proper English bells are started off in `` rounds , '' from the highest - pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using , in larger churches , as many as 12 bells .

Proper <norp>English</norp> bells are started off in `` rounds , '' from the highest - pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using , in larger churches , as many as <cardinal>12</cardinal> bells .


Then , at a signal , the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking .


Each variation , or change , can occur only once , the rules state .


Ringers memorize patterns of changes , known as `` methods , '' which have odd - sounding names like Kent Treble Bob Major or Grandsire Caters .


A series of 5,000 or so changes is a `` peal '' and takes about three hours .

A series of <cardinal>5,000</cardinal> or so changes is a `` peal '' and takes <time>about three hours</time> .


A look at a Thursday night practice at St. Mary Abbot church in the Kensington district of London gives an idea of the work involved .

A look at a <date>Thursday</date> <time>night</time> practice at <org>St. Mary Abbot</org> church in the <gpe>Kensington</gpe> district of <gpe>London</gpe> gives an idea of the work involved .


Ten shirt - sleeved ringers stand in a circle , one foot ahead of the other in a prize - fighter 's stance , each pulling a rope that disappears through a small hole in the high ceiling of the ringing chamber .

<cardinal>Ten</cardinal> shirt - sleeved ringers stand in a circle , <cardinal>one</cardinal> foot ahead of the other in a prize - fighter 's stance , each pulling a rope that disappears through a small hole in the high ceiling of the ringing chamber .


No one speaks , and the snaking of the ropes seems to make as much sound as the bells themselves , muffled by the ceiling .


Totally absorbed , the ringers stare straight ahead , using peripheral vision -LRB- they call it `` rope - sight '' -RRB- to watch the other ropes and thus time their pulls .


Far above in the belfry , the huge bronze bells , mounted on wheels , swing madly through a full 360 degrees , starting and ending , surprisingly , in the inverted , or mouth - up position .

Far above in the belfry , the huge bronze bells , mounted on wheels , swing madly through a full <quantity>360 degrees</quantity> , starting and ending , surprisingly , in the inverted , or mouth - up position .


Skilled ringers use their wrists to advance or retard the next swing , so that one bell can swap places with another in the following change .


In a well - known detective - story involving church bells , English novelist Dorothy L. Sayers described ringing as a `` passion -LCB- that -RCB- finds its satisfaction in mathematical completeness and mechanical perfection . ''

In a well - known detective - story involving church bells , <norp>English</norp> novelist <person>Dorothy L. Sayers</person> described ringing as a `` passion -LCB- that -RCB- finds its satisfaction in mathematical completeness and mechanical perfection . ''


Ringers , she added , are `` filled with the solemn intoxication that comes of intricate ritual faultlessly performed . ''


`` Ringing does become a bit of an obsession , '' admits Stephanie Pattenden , master of the band at St. Mary Abbot and one of England 's best female ringers .

`` Ringing does become a bit of an obsession , '' admits <person>Stephanie Pattenden</person> , master of the band at <org>St. Mary Abbot</org> and one of <gpe>England</gpe> 's best female ringers .


It is a passion that usually stays in the tower , however .


More often than not , ringers think of the church as something stuck on the bottom of the belfry .


When their changes are completed , and after they have worked up a sweat , ringers often skip off to the local pub , leaving worship for others below .


This does not sit well with some clerics .


With membership of the Church of England steadily dwindling , strong - willed vicars are pressing equally strong - willed and often non-religious ringers to attend services .

With membership of <org>the Church of England</org> steadily dwindling , strong - willed vicars are pressing equally strong - willed and often non-religious ringers to attend services .


Two years ago , the Rev. Jeremy Hummerstone , vicar of Great Torrington , Devon , got so fed up with ringers who did n't attend service he sacked the entire band ; the ringers promptly set up a picket line in protest .

<date>Two years ago</date> , the Rev. <person>Jeremy Hummerstone</person> , vicar of <gpe>Great Torrington</gpe> , <gpe>Devon</gpe> , got so fed up with ringers who did n't attend service he sacked the entire band ; the ringers promptly set up a picket line in protest .


`` They were a self - perpetuating club that treated the tower as sort of a separate premises , '' the Vicar Hummerstone says .

`` They were a self - perpetuating club that treated the tower as sort of a separate premises , '' the Vicar <person>Hummerstone</person> says .


An entirely new band rings today at Great Torrington , several of whom are members of the congregation .

An entirely new band rings <date>today</date> at <gpe>Great Torrington</gpe> , several of whom are members of the congregation .


But there still are n't enough ringers to ring more than six of the eight bells .

But there still are n't enough ringers to ring more than <cardinal>six</cardinal> of the <cardinal>eight</cardinal> bells .


At St. Mary 's Church in Ilminster , Somerset , the bells have fallen silent following a dust - up over church attendance .

At <org>St. Mary 's Church</org> in <gpe>Ilminster</gpe> , <gpe>Somerset</gpe> , the bells have fallen silent following a dust - up over church attendance .


The vicar , W.D. Jones , refuses to talk about it , saying it would `` reopen the wound . ''

The vicar , <person>W.D. Jones</person> , refuses to talk about it , saying it would `` reopen the wound . ''


But C.J.B. Marshall , vicar of a nearby church , feels the fault is in the stairs from the bell tower that are located next to the altar .

But <person>C.J.B. Marshall</person> , vicar of a nearby church , feels the fault is in the stairs from the bell tower that are located next to the altar .


`` So crunch , crunch , crunch , bang , bang , bang -- here come the ringers from above , making a very obvious exit while the congregation is at prayer , '' he says .


Vicar Marshall admits to mixed feelings about this issue , since he is both a vicar and an active bell - ringer himself .

Vicar <person>Marshall</person> admits to mixed feelings about this issue , since he is both a vicar and an active bell - ringer himself .


`` The sound of bells is a net to draw people into the church , '' he says .


`` I live in hopes that the ringers themselves will be drawn into that fuller life . ''


The Central Council of Church Bell Ringers , a sort of parliament of ringing groups , aims to improve relations with vicars , says John C. Baldwin , president .

<org>The Central Council of Church Bell Ringers</org> , a sort of parliament of ringing groups , aims to improve relations with vicars , says <person>John C. Baldwin</person> , president .


It hopes to speak to students at theological colleges about the joys of bell ringing and will shortly publish a booklet for every vicar in the country entitled , `` The Bells in Your Care . ''

It hopes to speak to students at theological colleges about the joys of bell ringing and will shortly publish a booklet for every vicar in the country entitled , `` <work_of_art>The Bells in Your Care</work_of_art> . ''


Says Mr. Baldwin , `` We recognize that we may no longer have as high a priority in church life and experience . ''

Says Mr. <person>Baldwin</person> , `` We recognize that we may no longer have as high a priority in church life and experience . ''


Mr. Baldwin is also attacking the greater problem : lack of ringers .

Mr. <person>Baldwin</person> is also attacking the greater problem : lack of ringers .


One survey says that of the 100,000 trained bellringers in England today , only 40,000 of them still ring .

One survey says that of the <cardinal>100,000</cardinal> trained bellringers in <gpe>England</gpe> <date>today</date> , <cardinal>only 40,000</cardinal> of them still ring .


Also , ringers do n't always live where the bells need to be rung -- like in small , rural parishes and inner - city churches .


But the council 's program to attract and train ringers is only partly successful , says Mr. Baldwin .

But the council 's program to attract and train ringers is only partly successful , says Mr. <person>Baldwin</person> .


`` Right now , we 're lucky if after five years we keep one new ringer out of 10 , '' he adds .

`` Right now , we 're lucky if after <date>five years</date> we keep <cardinal>one</cardinal> new ringer out of <cardinal>10</cardinal> , '' he adds .


One bright sign is that a growing number of women have entered the once male - dominated field ; more than a third of the ringers today are women .

<cardinal>One</cardinal> bright sign is that a growing number of women have entered the once male - dominated field ; <cardinal>more than a third</cardinal> of the ringers <date>today</date> are women .


They are n't accepted everywhere , however .


The oldest bell - ringing group in the country , the Ancient Society of College Youths , founded in 1637 , remains male - only , a fact that 's particularly galling to women because the group is the sole source of ringers for Britain 's most prestigious churches , St. Paul 's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey .

The oldest bell - ringing group in the country , <org>the Ancient Society of College Youths</org> , founded in <date>1637</date> , remains male - only , a fact that 's particularly galling to women because the group is the sole source of ringers for <gpe>Britain</gpe> 's most prestigious churches , <org>St. Paul 's Cathedral</org> and <org>Westminster Abbey</org> .


This being Britain , no woman has filed an equal - opportunity suit , but the extent of the problem surfaced this summer in a series of letters to `` The Ringing World , '' a weekly newspaper for ringers .

This being <gpe>Britain</gpe> , no woman has filed an equal - opportunity suit , but the extent of the problem surfaced this <date>summer</date> in a series of letters to `` <org>The Ringing World</org> , '' a <date>weekly</date> newspaper for ringers .


One writer , signing his letter as `` Red - blooded , balanced male , '' remarked on the `` frequency of women fainting in peals , '' and suggested that they `` settle back into their traditional role of making tea at meetings . ''


In the torrent of replies that followed , one woman ringer from Solihull observed that `` the average male ringer leaves quite a lot to be desired : badly dressed , decorated with acne and a large beer - belly , frequently unwashed and unbearably flatulent in peals . ''

In the torrent of replies that followed , one woman ringer from <gpe>Solihull</gpe> observed that `` the average male ringer leaves quite a lot to be desired : badly dressed , decorated with acne and a large beer - belly , frequently unwashed and unbearably flatulent in peals . ''


Another women wrote from Sheffield to say that in her 60 years of ringing , `` I have never known a lady to faint in the belfry .

Another women wrote from <gpe>Sheffield</gpe> to say that in her <date>60 years</date> of ringing , `` I have never known a lady to faint in the belfry .


I have seen one or two men die , bless them .


The U.S. , claiming some success in its trade diplomacy , removed South Korea , Taiwan and Saudi Arabia from a list of countries it is closely watching for allegedly failing to honor U.S. patents , copyrights and other intellectual - property rights .

The <gpe>U.S.</gpe> , claiming some success in its trade diplomacy , removed <gpe>South Korea</gpe> , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> and <gpe>Saudi Arabia</gpe> from a list of countries it is closely watching for allegedly failing to honor <gpe>U.S.</gpe> patents , copyrights and other intellectual - property rights .


However , five other countries -- China , Thailand , India , Brazil and Mexico -- will remain on that so - called priority watch list as a result of an interim review , U.S. Trade Representative Carla Hills announced .

However , <cardinal>five</cardinal> other countries -- <gpe>China</gpe> , <gpe>Thailand</gpe> , <gpe>India</gpe> , <gpe>Brazil</gpe> and <gpe>Mexico</gpe> -- will remain on that so - called priority watch list as a result of an interim review , <gpe>U.S.</gpe> Trade Representative <person>Carla Hills</person> announced .


Under the new U.S. trade law , those countries could face accelerated unfair - trade investigations and stiff trade sanctions if they do n't improve their protection of intellectual property by next spring .

Under the new <gpe>U.S.</gpe> trade law , those countries could face accelerated unfair - trade investigations and stiff trade sanctions if they do n't improve their protection of intellectual property by <date>next spring</date> .


Mrs. Hills said many of the 25 countries that she placed under varying degrees of scrutiny have made `` genuine progress '' on this touchy issue .

Mrs. <person>Hills</person> said many of the <cardinal>25</cardinal> countries that she placed under varying degrees of scrutiny have made `` genuine progress '' on this touchy issue .


She said there is `` growing realization '' around the world that denial of intellectual - property rights harms all trading nations , and particularly the `` creativity and inventiveness of an -LCB- offending -RCB- country 's own citizens . ''


U.S. trade negotiators argue that countries with inadequate protections for intellectual - property rights could be hurting themselves by discouraging their own scientists and authors and by deterring U.S. high - technology firms from investing or marketing their best products there .

<gpe>U.S.</gpe> trade negotiators argue that countries with inadequate protections for intellectual - property rights could be hurting themselves by discouraging their own scientists and authors and by deterring <gpe>U.S.</gpe> high - technology firms from investing or marketing their best products there .


Mrs. Hills lauded South Korea for creating an intellectual - property task force and special enforcement teams of police officers and prosecutors trained to pursue movie and book pirates .

Mrs. <person>Hills</person> lauded <gpe>South Korea</gpe> for creating an intellectual - property task force and special enforcement teams of police officers and prosecutors trained to pursue movie and book pirates .


Seoul also has instituted effective search - and - seizure procedures to aid these teams , she said .

<gpe>Seoul</gpe> also has instituted effective search - and - seizure procedures to aid these teams , she said .


Taiwan has improved its standing with the U.S. by initialing a bilateral copyright agreement , amending its trademark law and introducing legislation to protect foreign movie producers from unauthorized showings of their films .

<gpe>Taiwan</gpe> has improved its standing with the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> by initialing a bilateral copyright agreement , amending its trademark law and introducing legislation to protect foreign movie producers from unauthorized showings of their films .


That measure could compel Taipei 's growing number of small video - viewing parlors to pay movie producers for showing their films .

That measure could compel <gpe>Taipei</gpe> 's growing number of small video - viewing parlors to pay movie producers for showing their films .


Saudi Arabia , for its part , has vowed to enact a copyright law compatible with international standards and to apply the law to computer software as well as to literary works , Mrs. Hills said .

<gpe>Saudi Arabia</gpe> , for its part , has vowed to enact a copyright law compatible with international standards and to apply the law to computer software as well as to literary works , Mrs. <person>Hills</person> said .


These three countries are n't completely off the hook , though .

These <cardinal>three</cardinal> countries are n't completely off the hook , though .


They will remain on a lower - priority list that includes 17 other countries .

They will remain on a lower - priority list that includes <cardinal>17</cardinal> other countries .


Those countries -- including Japan , Italy , Canada , Greece and Spain -- are still of some concern to the U.S. but are deemed to pose less - serious problems for American patent and copyright owners than those on the `` priority '' list .

Those countries -- including <gpe>Japan</gpe> , <gpe>Italy</gpe> , <gpe>Canada</gpe> , <gpe>Greece</gpe> and <gpe>Spain</gpe> -- are still of some concern to the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> but are deemed to pose less - serious problems for <norp>American</norp> patent and copyright owners than those on the `` priority '' list .


Gary Hoffman , a Washington lawyer specializing in intellectual - property cases , said the threat of U.S. retaliation , combined with a growing recognition that protecting intellectual property is in a country 's own interest , prompted the improvements made by South Korea , Taiwan and Saudi Arabia .

<person>Gary Hoffman</person> , a <gpe>Washington</gpe> lawyer specializing in intellectual - property cases , said the threat of <gpe>U.S.</gpe> retaliation , combined with a growing recognition that protecting intellectual property is in a country 's own interest , prompted the improvements made by <gpe>South Korea</gpe> , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> and <gpe>Saudi Arabia</gpe> .


`` What this tells us is that U.S. trade law is working , '' he said .

`` What this tells us is that <gpe>U.S.</gpe> trade law is working , '' he said .


He said Mexico could be one of the next countries to be removed from the priority list because of its efforts to craft a new patent law .

He said <gpe>Mexico</gpe> could be one of the next countries to be removed from the priority list because of its efforts to craft a new patent law .


Mrs. Hills said that the U.S. is still concerned about `` disturbing developments in Turkey and continuing slow progress in Malaysia . ''

Mrs. <person>Hills</person> said that the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> is still concerned about `` disturbing developments in <gpe>Turkey</gpe> and continuing slow progress in <gpe>Malaysia</gpe> . ''


She did n't elaborate , although earlier U.S. trade reports have complained of videocassette piracy in Malaysia and disregard for U.S. pharmaceutical patents in Turkey .

She did n't elaborate , although earlier <gpe>U.S.</gpe> trade reports have complained of videocassette piracy in <gpe>Malaysia</gpe> and disregard for <gpe>U.S.</gpe> pharmaceutical patents in <gpe>Turkey</gpe> .


The 1988 trade act requires Mrs. Hills to issue another review of the performance of these countries by April 30 .

<law>The 1988 trade act</law> requires Mrs. <person>Hills</person> to issue another review of the performance of these countries by <date>April 30</date> .


So far , Mrs. Hills has n't deemed any cases bad enough to merit an accelerated investigation under the so - called special 301 provision of the act .

So far , Mrs. <person>Hills</person> has n't deemed any cases bad enough to merit an accelerated investigation under the so - called special <law>301 provision</law> of the act .


Judging from the Americana in Haruki Murakami 's `` A Wild Sheep Chase '' -LRB- Kodansha , 320 pages , $ 18.95 -RRB- , baby boomers on both sides of the Pacific have a lot in common .

Judging from the <norp>Americana</norp> in <person>Haruki Murakami 's</person> `` <work_of_art>A Wild Sheep Chase</work_of_art> '' -LRB- <org>Kodansha</org> , <cardinal>320</cardinal> pages , $ <money>18.95</money> -RRB- , baby boomers on both sides of the <loc>Pacific</loc> have a lot in common .


Although set in Japan , the novel 's texture is almost entirely Western , especially American .

Although set in <gpe>Japan</gpe> , the novel 's texture is almost entirely Western , especially <norp>American</norp> .


Characters drink Salty Dogs , whistle `` Johnny B. Goode '' and watch Bugs Bunny reruns .

Characters drink <product>Salty Dogs</product> , whistle `` <work_of_art>Johnny B. Goode</work_of_art> '' and watch Bugs Bunny reruns .


They read Mickey Spillane and talk about Groucho and Harpo .

They read <person>Mickey Spillane</person> and talk about <person>Groucho</person> and <person>Harpo</person> .


They worry about their careers , drink too much and suffer through broken marriages and desultory affairs .


This is Japan ?


For an American reader , part of the charm of this engaging novel should come in recognizing that Japan is n't the buttoned - down society of contemporary American lore .

For an <norp>American</norp> reader , part of the charm of this engaging novel should come in recognizing that <gpe>Japan</gpe> is n't the buttoned - down society of contemporary <norp>American</norp> lore .


It 's also refreshing to read a Japanese author who clearly does n't belong to the self - aggrandizing `` we - Japanese '' school of writers who perpetuate the notion of the unique Japanese , unfathomable by outsiders .

It 's also refreshing to read a <norp>Japanese</norp> author who clearly does n't belong to the self - aggrandizing `` we - <norp>Japanese</norp> '' school of writers who perpetuate the notion of the unique <norp>Japanese</norp> , unfathomable by outsiders .


If `` A Wild Sheep Chase '' carries an implicit message for international relations , it 's that the Japanese are more like us than most of us think .

If `` <work_of_art>A Wild Sheep Chase</work_of_art> '' carries an implicit message for international relations , it 's that the <norp>Japanese</norp> are more like us than most of us think .


That 's not to say that the nutty plot of `` A Wild Sheep Chase '' is rooted in reality .

That 's not to say that the nutty plot of `` <work_of_art>A Wild Sheep Chase</work_of_art> '' is rooted in reality .


It 's imaginative and often funny .


A disaffected , hard - drinking , nearly - 30 hero sets off for snow country in search of an elusive sheep with a star on its back at the behest of a sinister , erudite mobster with a Stanford degree .

A disaffected , hard - drinking , <cardinal>nearly - 30</cardinal> hero sets off for snow country in search of an elusive sheep with a star on its back at the behest of a sinister , erudite mobster with a <org>Stanford</org> degree .


He has in tow his prescient girlfriend , whose sassy retorts mark her as anything but a docile butterfly .


Along the way , he meets a solicitous Christian chauffeur who offers the hero God 's phone number ; and the Sheep Man , a sweet , roughhewn figure who wears -- what else -- a sheepskin .

Along the way , he meets a solicitous <norp>Christian</norp> chauffeur who offers the hero God 's phone number ; and <person>the Sheep Man</person> , a sweet , roughhewn figure who wears -- what else -- a sheepskin .


The 40 - year - old Mr. Murakami is a publishing sensation in Japan .

The <date>40 - year - old</date> Mr. <person>Murakami</person> is a publishing sensation in <gpe>Japan</gpe> .


A more recent novel , `` Norwegian Wood '' -LRB- every Japanese under 40 seems to be fluent in Beatles lyrics -RRB- , has sold more than four million copies since Kodansha published it in 1987 .

A more recent novel , `` <work_of_art>Norwegian Wood</work_of_art> '' -LRB- every <norp>Japanese</norp> under <date>40</date> seems to be fluent in Beatles lyrics -RRB- , has sold <cardinal>more than four million</cardinal> copies since <org>Kodansha</org> published it in <date>1987</date> .


But he is just one of several youthful writers -- Tokyo 's brat pack -- who are dominating the best - seller charts in Japan .

But he is just <cardinal>one</cardinal> of several youthful writers -- <gpe>Tokyo</gpe> 's brat pack -- who are dominating the best - seller charts in <gpe>Japan</gpe> .


Their books are written in idiomatic , contemporary language and usually carry hefty dashes of Americana .


In Robert Whiting 's `` You Gotta Have Wa '' -LRB- Macmillan , 339 pages , $ 17.95 -RRB- , the Beatles give way to baseball , in the Nipponese version we would be hard put to call a `` game . ''

In <person>Robert Whiting 's</person> `` <work_of_art>You Gotta Have Wa</work_of_art> '' -LRB- <org>Macmillan</org> , <cardinal>339</cardinal> pages , $ <money>17.95</money> -RRB- , the Beatles give way to baseball , in the <norp>Nipponese</norp> version we would be hard put to call a `` game . ''


As Mr. Whiting describes it , Nipponese baseball is a `` mirror of Japan 's fabled virtues of hard work and harmony . ''

As Mr. <person>Whiting</person> describes it , <norp>Nipponese</norp> baseball is a `` mirror of <gpe>Japan</gpe> 's fabled virtues of hard work and harmony . ''


`` Wa '' is Japanese for `` team spirit '' and Japanese ballplayers have miles and miles of it .

`` Wa '' is <language>Japanese</language> for `` team spirit '' and <norp>Japanese</norp> ballplayers have miles and miles of it .


A player 's commitment to practice and team image is as important as his batting average .


Polls once named Tokyo Giants star Tatsunori Hara , a `` humble , uncomplaining , obedient soul , '' as the male symbol of Japan .

Polls once named <org>Tokyo Giants</org> star <person>Tatsunori Hara</person> , a `` humble , uncomplaining , obedient soul , '' as the male symbol of <gpe>Japan</gpe> .


But other than the fact that besuboru is played with a ball and a bat , it 's unrecognizable : Fans politely return foul balls to stadium ushers ; the strike zone expands depending on the size of the hitter ; ties are permitted -- even welcomed -- since they honorably sidestep the shame of defeat ; players must abide by strict rules of conduct even in their personal lives -- players for the Tokyo Giants , for example , must always wear ties when on the road .

But other than the fact that besuboru is played with a ball and a bat , it 's unrecognizable : Fans politely return foul balls to stadium ushers ; the strike zone expands depending on the size of the hitter ; ties are permitted -- even welcomed -- since they honorably sidestep the shame of defeat ; players must abide by strict rules of conduct even in their personal lives -- players for <org>the Tokyo Giants</org> , for example , must always wear ties when on the road .


`` You Gotta Have Wa '' is the often amusing chronicle of how American ballplayers , rationed to two per team , fare in Japan .

`` <work_of_art>You Gotta Have Wa</work_of_art> '' is the often amusing chronicle of how <norp>American</norp> ballplayers , rationed to <cardinal>two</cardinal> per team , fare in <gpe>Japan</gpe> .


Despite the enormous sums of money they 're paid to stand up at a Japanese plate , a good number decide it 's not worth it and run for home .

Despite the enormous sums of money they 're paid to stand up at a <norp>Japanese</norp> plate , a good number decide it 's not worth it and run for home .


`` Funny Business '' -LRB- Soho , 228 pages , $ 17.95 -RRB- by Gary Katzenstein is anything but .

`` <work_of_art>Funny Business</work_of_art> '' -LRB- <org>Soho</org> , <cardinal>228</cardinal> pages , $ <money>17.95</money> -RRB- by <person>Gary Katzenstein</person> is anything but .


It 's the petulant complaint of an impudent American whom Sony hosted for a year while he was on a Luce Fellowship in Tokyo -- to the regret of both parties .

It 's the petulant complaint of an impudent <norp>American</norp> whom <org>Sony</org> hosted for <date>a year</date> while he was on a Luce Fellowship in <gpe>Tokyo</gpe> -- to the regret of both parties .


In sometimes amusing , more often supercilious , even vicious passages , Mr. Katzenstein describes how Sony invades even the most mundane aspects of its workers ' lives -- at the regimented office , where employees are assigned lunch partners -- and at `` home '' in the austere company dormitory run by a prying caretaker .

In sometimes amusing , more often supercilious , even vicious passages , Mr. <person>Katzenstein</person> describes how <org>Sony</org> invades even the most mundane aspects of its workers ' lives -- at the regimented office , where employees are assigned lunch partners -- and at `` home '' in the austere company dormitory run by a prying caretaker .


Some of his observations about Japanese management style are on the mark .

Some of his observations about <norp>Japanese</norp> management style are on the mark .


It 's probably true that many salarymen put in unproductive overtime just for the sake of solidarity , that the system is so hierarchical that only the assistant manager can talk to the manager and the manager to the general manager , and that Sony was chary of letting a young , short - term American employee take on any responsibility .

It 's probably true that many salarymen put in unproductive overtime just for the sake of solidarity , that the system is so hierarchical that only the assistant manager can talk to the manager and the manager to the general manager , and that <org>Sony</org> was chary of letting a young , short - term <norp>American</norp> employee take on any responsibility .


All of this must have been enormously frustrating to Mr. Katzenstein , who went to Sony with degrees in business and computer science and was raring to invent another Walkman .

All of this must have been enormously frustrating to Mr. <person>Katzenstein</person> , who went to <org>Sony</org> with degrees in business and computer science and was raring to invent another <product>Walkman</product> .


But Sony ultimately took a lesson from the American management books and fired Mr. Katzenstein , after he committed the social crime of making an appointment to see the venerable Akio Morita , founder of Sony .

But <org>Sony</org> ultimately took a lesson from the <norp>American</norp> management books and fired Mr. <person>Katzenstein</person> , after he committed the social crime of making an appointment to see the venerable <person>Akio Morita</person> , founder of <org>Sony</org> .


It 's a shame their meeting never took place .


Mr. Katzenstein certainly would have learned something , and it 's even possible Mr. Morita would have too .

Mr. <person>Katzenstein</person> certainly would have learned something , and it 's even possible Mr. <person>Morita</person> would have too .


Ms. Kirkpatrick , the Journal 's deputy editorial features editor , worked in Tokyo for three years .

Ms. <person>Kirkpatrick</person> , the <org>Journal</org> 's deputy editorial features editor , worked in <gpe>Tokyo</gpe> for <date>three years</date> .


More and more corners of the globe are becoming free of tobacco smoke .


In Singapore , a new law requires smokers to put out their cigarettes before entering restaurants , department stores and sports centers or face a $ 250 fine .

In <gpe>Singapore</gpe> , a new law requires smokers to put out their cigarettes before entering restaurants , department stores and sports centers or face a $ <money>250</money> fine .


Discos and private clubs are exempt from the ban , and smoking will be permitted in bars except during meal hours , an official said .

Discos and private clubs are exempt from the ban , and smoking will be permitted in bars except during <time>meal hours</time> , an official said .


Singapore already bans smoking in all theaters , buses , public elevators , hospitals and fast - food restaurants .

<gpe>Singapore</gpe> already bans smoking in all theaters , buses , public elevators , hospitals and fast - food restaurants .


In Malaysia , Siti Zaharah Sulaiman , a deputy minister in the prime minister 's office , launched a `` No - Smoking Week '' at the Mara Institute of Technology near Kuala Lumpur and urged other schools to ban on - campus smoking .

In <gpe>Malaysia</gpe> , <person>Siti Zaharah Sulaiman</person> , a deputy minister in the prime minister 's office , launched a `` No - Smoking Week '' at <org>the Mara Institute of Technology</org> near <gpe>Kuala Lumpur</gpe> and urged other schools to ban on - campus smoking .


South Korea has different concerns .

<gpe>South Korea</gpe> has different concerns .


In Seoul , officials began visiting about 26,000 cigarette stalls to remove illegal posters and signboards advertising imported cigarettes .

In <gpe>Seoul</gpe> , officials began visiting <cardinal>about 26,000</cardinal> cigarette stalls to remove illegal posters and signboards advertising imported cigarettes .


South Korea has opened its market to foreign cigarettes but restricts advertising to designated places .

<gpe>South Korea</gpe> has opened its market to foreign cigarettes but restricts advertising to designated places .


A marketing study indicates that Hong Kong consumers are the most materialistic in the 14 major markets where the survey was carried out .

A marketing study indicates that <gpe>Hong Kong</gpe> consumers are the most materialistic in the <cardinal>14</cardinal> major markets where the survey was carried out .


The study by the Backer Spielvogel Bates ad agency also found that the colony 's consumers feel more pressured than those in any of the other surveyed markets , which include the U.S. and Japan .

The study by the <org>Backer Spielvogel Bates</org> ad agency also found that the colony 's consumers feel more pressured than those in any of the other surveyed markets , which include the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> and <gpe>Japan</gpe> .


The survey found that nearly half of Hong Kong consumers espouse what it identified as materialistic values , compared with about one - third in Japan and the U.S. .

The survey found that <cardinal>nearly half</cardinal> of <gpe>Hong Kong</gpe> consumers espouse what it identified as materialistic values , compared with <cardinal>about one - third</cardinal> in <gpe>Japan</gpe> and the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> .


More than three in five said they are under a great deal of stress most of the time , compared with less than one in two U.S. consumers and one in four in Japan .

<cardinal>More than three</cardinal> in <cardinal>five</cardinal> said they are under a great deal of stress most of the time , compared with <cardinal>less than one</cardinal> in <cardinal>two</cardinal> <gpe>U.S.</gpe> consumers and <cardinal>one</cardinal> in <cardinal>four</cardinal> in <gpe>Japan</gpe> .


The Thai cabinet endorsed Finance Minister Pramual Sabhavasu 's proposal to build a $ 19 million conference center for a joint meeting of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund two years from now .

The <norp>Thai</norp> cabinet endorsed Finance Minister <person>Pramual Sabhavasu</person> 's proposal to build a <money>$ 19 million</money> conference center for a joint meeting of <org>the World Bank</org> and <org>International Monetary Fund</org> <date>two years</date> from <date>now</date> .


The meeting , which is expected to draw 20,000 to Bangkok , was going to be held at the Central Plaza Hotel , but the government balked at the hotel 's conditions for undertaking necessary expansion .

The meeting , which is expected to draw <cardinal>20,000</cardinal> to <gpe>Bangkok</gpe> , was going to be held at <org>the Central Plaza Hotel</org> , but the government balked at the hotel 's conditions for undertaking necessary expansion .


A major concern about the current plan is whether the new center can be built in such a short time .


Yasser Arafat has written to the chairman of the International Olympic Committee asking him to back a Palestinian bid to join the committee , the Palestine Liberation Organization news agency WAFA said .

<person>Yasser Arafat</person> has written to the chairman of <org>the International Olympic Committee</org> asking him to back a <norp>Palestinian</norp> bid to join the committee , the <org>Palestine Liberation Organization</org> news agency <org>WAFA</org> said .


An official of the Palestinian Olympic Committee said the committee first applied for membership in 1979 and renewed its application in August of this year .

An official of <org>the Palestinian Olympic Committee</org> said the committee <ordinal>first</ordinal> applied for membership in <date>1979</date> and renewed its application in <date>August of this year</date> .


The PLO in recent months has been trying to join international organizations but failed earlier this year to win membership in the World Health Organization and the World Tourism Organization .

The <org>PLO</org> in <date>recent months</date> has been trying to join international organizations but failed <date>earlier this year</date> to win membership in <org>the World Health Organization</org> and <org>the World Tourism Organization</org> .


A Beijing food - shop assistant has become the first mainland Chinese to get AIDS through sex , the People 's Daily said .

A <gpe>Beijing</gpe> food - shop assistant has become the first mainland <norp>Chinese</norp> to get AIDS through sex , <org>the People 's Daily</org> said .


It said the man , whom it did not name , had been found to have the disease after hospital tests .


Once the disease was confirmed , all the man 's associates and family were tested , but none have so far been found to have AIDS , the newspaper said .


The man had for a long time had `` a chaotic sex life , '' including relations with foreign men , the newspaper said .


The Polish government increased home electricity charges by 150 % and doubled gas prices .

The <norp>Polish</norp> government increased home electricity charges by <percent>150 %</percent> and doubled gas prices .


The official news agency PAP said the increases were intended to bring unrealistically low energy charges into line with production costs and compensate for a rise in coal prices .

The official news agency <org>PAP</org> said the increases were intended to bring unrealistically low energy charges into line with production costs and compensate for a rise in coal prices .


In happier news , South Korea , in establishing diplomatic ties with Poland yesterday , announced $ 450 million in loans to the financially strapped Warsaw government .

In happier news , <gpe>South Korea</gpe> , in establishing diplomatic ties with <gpe>Poland</gpe> <date>yesterday</date> , announced <money>$ 450 million</money> in loans to the financially strapped <gpe>Warsaw</gpe> government .


In a victory for environmentalists , Hungary 's parliament terminated a multibillion - dollar River Danube dam being built by Austrian firms .

In a victory for environmentalists , <gpe>Hungary</gpe> 's <org>parliament</org> terminated a <money>multibillion - dollar</money> <loc>River Danube</loc> dam being built by <norp>Austrian</norp> firms .


The Nagymaros dam was designed to be twinned with another dam , now nearly complete , 100 miles upstream in Czechoslovakia .

The <gpe>Nagymaros</gpe> dam was designed to be twinned with another dam , now nearly complete , <quantity>100 miles</quantity> upstream in <gpe>Czechoslovakia</gpe> .


In ending Hungary 's part of the project , Parliament authorized Prime Minister Miklos Nemeth to modify a 1977 agreement with Czechoslovakia , which still wants the dam to be built .

In ending <gpe>Hungary</gpe> 's part of the project , <org>Parliament</org> authorized Prime Minister <person>Miklos Nemeth</person> to modify a <date>1977</date> agreement with <gpe>Czechoslovakia</gpe> , which still wants the dam to be built .


Mr. Nemeth said in parliament that Czechoslovakia and Hungary would suffer environmental damage if the twin dams were built as planned .

Mr. <person>Nemeth</person> said in <org>parliament</org> that <gpe>Czechoslovakia</gpe> and <gpe>Hungary</gpe> would suffer environmental damage if the twin dams were built as planned .


Czechoslovakia said in May it could seek $ 2 billion from Hungary if the twindam contract were broken .

<gpe>Czechoslovakia</gpe> said in <date>May</date> it could seek <money>$ 2 billion</money> from <gpe>Hungary</gpe> if the twindam contract were broken .


The Czech dam ca n't be operated solely at peak periods without the Nagymaros project .

The <norp>Czech</norp> dam ca n't be operated solely at peak periods without the <gpe>Nagymaros</gpe> project .


A painting by August Strindberg set a Scandinavian price record when it sold at auction in Stockholm for $ 2.44 million .

A painting by <person>August Strindberg</person> set a <norp>Scandinavian</norp> price record when it sold at auction in <gpe>Stockholm</gpe> for <money>$ 2.44 million</money> .


`` Lighthouse II '' was painted in oils by the playwright in 1901 ...

`` <work_of_art>Lighthouse II</work_of_art> '' was painted in oils by the playwright in <date>1901</date> ...


After years of decline , weddings in France showed a 2.2 % upturn last year , with 6,000 more couples exchanging rings in 1988 than in the previous year , the national statistics office said .

After <date>years</date> of decline , weddings in <gpe>France</gpe> showed a <percent>2.2 %</percent> upturn <date>last year</date> , with <cardinal>6,000</cardinal> more couples exchanging rings in <date>1988</date> than in <date>the previous year</date> , the national statistics office said .


But the number of weddings last year -- 271,124 -- was still well below the 400,000 registered in 1972 , the last year of increasing marriages .

But the number of weddings <date>last year</date> -- <cardinal>271,124</cardinal> -- was still well below <cardinal>the 400,000</cardinal> registered in <date>1972</date> , <date>the last year</date> of increasing marriages .


The Internal Revenue Service has threatened criminal sanctions against lawyers who fail to report detailed information about clients who pay them more than $ 10,000 in cash .

<org>The Internal Revenue Service</org> has threatened criminal sanctions against lawyers who fail to report detailed information about clients who pay them <money>more than $ 10,000</money> in cash .


The warnings , issued to at least 100 criminal defense attorneys in several major cities in the last week , have led to an outcry by members of the organized bar , who claim the information is protected by attorney - client privilege .

The warnings , issued to <cardinal>at least 100</cardinal> criminal defense attorneys in several major cities in <date>the last week</date> , have led to an outcry by members of the organized bar , who claim the information is protected by attorney - client privilege .


The IRS warnings stem from a 1984 law that requires anyone who receives more than $ 10,000 in cash from a client or customer in one or more related transactions `` in the course of trade or business '' to report the payment on a document known as Form 8300 .

The <org>IRS</org> warnings stem from a <date>1984</date> law that requires anyone who receives <money>more than $ 10,000</money> in cash from a client or customer in one or more related transactions `` in the course of trade or business '' to report the payment on a document known as Form 8300 .


The form asks for such details as the client 's name , Social Security number , passport number and details about the services provided for the payment .

The form asks for such details as the client 's name , <org>Social Security</org> number , passport number and details about the services provided for the payment .


Failure to complete the form had been punishable as a misdemeanor until last November , when Congress determined that the crime was a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison .

Failure to complete the form had been punishable as a misdemeanor until <date>last November</date> , when <org>Congress</org> determined that the crime was a felony punishable by <date>up to 10 years</date> in prison .


Attorneys have argued since 1985 , when the law took effect , that they can not provide information about clients who do n't wish their identities to be known .

Attorneys have argued since <date>1985</date> , when the law took effect , that they can not provide information about clients who do n't wish their identities to be known .


Many attorneys have returned incomplete forms to the IRS in recent years , citing attorney - client privilege .

Many attorneys have returned incomplete forms to the <org>IRS</org> in <date>recent years</date> , citing attorney - client privilege .


Until last week , the IRS rarely acted on the incomplete forms .

Until <date>last week</date> , the <org>IRS</org> rarely acted on the incomplete forms .


`` This form forces a lawyer to become , in effect , a witness against his client , '' said Neal R. Sonnett , president of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers .

`` This form forces a lawyer to become , in effect , a witness against his client , '' said <person>Neal R. Sonnett</person> , president of <org>the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers</org> .


`` The IRS is asking lawyers to red - flag a criminal problem to the government , '' added Mr. Sonnett , a Miami lawyer who has heard from dozens of attorneys who received letters in recent days and has himself received the computer - generated IRS forms sent by certified mail .

`` The <org>IRS</org> is asking lawyers to red - flag a criminal problem to the government , '' added Mr. <person>Sonnett</person> , a <gpe>Miami</gpe> lawyer who has heard from <cardinal>dozens</cardinal> of attorneys who received letters in <date>recent days</date> and has himself received the computer - generated <org>IRS</org> forms sent by certified mail .


Mr. Sonnett said that clients who pay cash may include alleged drug dealers who do n't have domestic bank accounts .

Mr. <person>Sonnett</person> said that clients who pay cash may include alleged drug dealers who do n't have domestic bank accounts .


These individuals may not necessarily be under investigation when they hire lawyers .


Mr. Sonnett said there also may be other circumstances under which individuals would n't want the government to know they had retained criminal defense lawyers .

Mr. <person>Sonnett</person> said there also may be other circumstances under which individuals would n't want the government to know they had retained criminal defense lawyers .


Filling out detailed forms about these individuals would tip the IRS off and spark action against the clients , he said .

Filling out detailed forms about these individuals would tip the <org>IRS</org> off and spark action against the clients , he said .


The defense lawyers ' group formed a task force this week , chaired by New York attorney Gerald Lefcourt , to deal with the matter .

The defense lawyers ' group formed a task force <date>this week</date> , chaired by <gpe>New York</gpe> attorney <person>Gerald Lefcourt</person> , to deal with the matter .


The American Bar Association 's House of Delegates passed a resolution in 1985 condemning the IRS reporting requirement .

<org>The American Bar Association 's</org> <org>House of Delegates</org> passed a resolution in <date>1985</date> condemning the <org>IRS</org> reporting requirement .


Michael Ross , a New York lawyer who heads the ABA 's grand jury committee , said that lawyers are prohibited by the ABA 's code of ethics from disclosing information about a client except where a court orders it or to prevent the client from committing a criminal act that could result in death .

<person>Michael Ross</person> , a <gpe>New York</gpe> lawyer who heads the <org>ABA</org> 's grand jury committee , said that lawyers are prohibited by the <org>ABA</org> 's code of ethics from disclosing information about a client except where a court orders it or to prevent the client from committing a criminal act that could result in death .


Mr. Ross said he met with officials of the IRS and the Justice Department , which would bring any enforcement actions against taxpayers , to discuss the issue last May .

Mr. <person>Ross</person> said he met with officials of the <org>IRS</org> and <org>the Justice Department</org> , which would bring any enforcement actions against taxpayers , to discuss the issue <date>last May</date> .


At that meeting , he said , the Justice Department assured him that enforcement procedures would n't be threatened against attorneys without further review and advance notice .

At that meeting , he said , <org>the Justice Department</org> assured him that enforcement procedures would n't be threatened against attorneys without further review and advance notice .


Mr. Ross said IRS officials opposed the Justice Department 's moderate stance on the matter .

Mr. <person>Ross</person> said <org>IRS</org> officials opposed <org>the Justice Department 's</org> moderate stance on the matter .


But in the letters sent in recent days , Christopher J. Lezovich of the IRS computing center in Detroit , told attorneys that `` failing to voluntarily submit the requested information could result in summons enforcement action being initiated . ''

But in the letters sent in <date>recent days</date> , <person>Christopher J. Lezovich</person> of the <org>IRS</org> computing center in <gpe>Detroit</gpe> , told attorneys that `` failing to voluntarily submit the requested information could result in summons enforcement action being initiated . ''


In some cases , the IRS asked for information dating back to forms it received in 1985 .

In some cases , the <org>IRS</org> asked for information dating back to forms it received in <date>1985</date> .


A spokesman for the IRS confirmed that `` there has been correspondence mailed about incomplete 8300s , '' but he declined to say why the letters were sent to lawyers now .

A spokesman for the <org>IRS</org> confirmed that `` there has been correspondence mailed about incomplete 8300s , '' but he declined to say why the letters were sent to lawyers now .


Individuals familiar with the Justice Department 's policy said that Justice officials had n't any knowledge of the IRS 's actions in the last week .

Individuals familiar with <org>the Justice Department 's</org> policy said that <org>Justice</org> officials had n't any knowledge of the <org>IRS</org> 's actions in <date>the last week</date> .


Lawyers worry that if they provide information about clients , that data could quickly end up in the hands of prosecutors .


Prosecutors need court permission to obtain the tax returns of an individual or a business .


But they have obtained 8300 forms without court permission and used the information to help develop criminal cases .


Some criminal lawyers speculated that the IRS was sending the letters to test the issue .

Some criminal lawyers speculated that the <org>IRS</org> was sending the letters to test the issue .


In a number of recent cases , federal courts have refused to recognize attorneys ' assertions that information relating to fees from clients should be confidential .


THE WAR OVER FEDERAL JUDICIAL SALARIES takes a victim .


Often , judges ease into more lucrative private practice with little fanfare , but not federal Judge Raul A. Ramirez in Sacramento , Calif .

Often , judges ease into more lucrative private practice with little fanfare , but not federal Judge <person>Raul A. Ramirez</person> in <gpe>Sacramento</gpe> , <gpe>Calif</gpe> .


On Tuesday , the judge called a news conference to say he was quitting effective Dec. 31 to join a San Francisco law firm .

On <date>Tuesday</date> , the judge called a news conference to say he was quitting effective <date>Dec. 31</date> to join a <gpe>San Francisco</gpe> law firm .


The reason : the refusal of Congress to give federal judges a raise .

The reason : the refusal of <org>Congress</org> to give federal judges a raise .


`` A couple of my law clerks were going to pass me in three or four years , and I was afraid I was going to have to ask them for a loan , '' the judge quipped in an interview .

`` A couple of my law clerks were going to pass me in <date>three or four years</date> , and I was afraid I was going to have to ask them for a loan , '' the judge quipped in an interview .


Federal judges make $ 89,500 annually ; in February , Congress rejected a bill that would have increased their pay by 50 % .

Federal judges make $ <money>89,500</money> <date>annually</date> ; in <date>February</date> , <org>Congress</org> rejected a bill that would have increased their pay by <percent>50 %</percent> .


Judge Ramirez , 44 , said it is unjust for judges to make what they do .

Judge <person>Ramirez</person> , <date>44</date> , said it is unjust for judges to make what they do .


`` Judges are not getting what they deserve .


You look around at professional ballplayers or accountants ... and nobody blinks an eye .


When you become a federal judge , all of a sudden you are relegated to a paltry sum . ''


At his new job , as partner in charge of federal litigation in the Sacramento office of Orrick , Herrington & Sutcliffe , he will make out much better .

At his new job , as partner in charge of federal litigation in the <gpe>Sacramento</gpe> office of <org>Orrick , Herrington & Sutcliffe</org> , he will make out much better .


The judge declined to discuss his salary in detail , but said : `` I 'm going to be a high - priced lawyer . ''


DOONESBURY CREATOR'S UNION TROUBLES are no laughing matter .

<work_of_art>DOONESBURY</work_of_art> CREATOR'S UNION TROUBLES are no laughing matter .


Cartoonist Garry Trudeau is suing the Writers Guild of America East for $ 11 million , alleging it mounted a `` campaign to harass and punish '' him for crossing a screenwriters ' picket line .

Cartoonist <person>Garry Trudeau</person> is suing <org>the Writers Guild of America East</org> for <money>$ 11 million</money> , alleging it mounted a `` campaign to harass and punish '' him for crossing a screenwriters ' picket line .


The dispute involves Darkhorse Productions Inc. , a TV production company in which Mr. Trudeau is a co-owner .

The dispute involves <org>Darkhorse Productions Inc.</org> , a TV production company in which Mr. <person>Trudeau</person> is a co-owner .


Mr. Trudeau , a Writers Guild member , also was employed as a writer for Darkhorse , which was covered by a guild collective - bargaining agreement .

Mr. <person>Trudeau</person> , a <org>Writers Guild</org> member , also was employed as a writer for <org>Darkhorse</org> , which was covered by a guild collective - bargaining agreement .


The guild began a strike against the TV and movie industry in March 1988 .

The guild began a strike against the TV and movie industry in <date>March 1988</date> .


In his lawsuit , Mr. Trudeau says the strike illegally included Darkhorse , and the cartoonist refused to honor the strike against the company .

In his lawsuit , Mr. <person>Trudeau</person> says the strike illegally included <org>Darkhorse</org> , and the cartoonist refused to honor the strike against the company .


A spokesman for the guild said the union 's lawyers are reviewing the suit .


He said disciplinary proceedings are confidential and declined to comment on whether any are being held against Mr. Trudeau .

He said disciplinary proceedings are confidential and declined to comment on whether any are being held against Mr. <person>Trudeau</person> .


Mr. Trudeau 's attorney , Norman K. Samnick , said the harassment consists mainly of the guild 's year - long threats of disciplinary action .

Mr. <person>Trudeau</person> 's attorney , <person>Norman K. Samnick</person> , said the harassment consists mainly of the guild 's <date>year - long</date> threats of disciplinary action .


Mr. Samnick said a guild disciplinary hearing is scheduled next Monday in New York .

Mr. <person>Samnick</person> said a guild disciplinary hearing is scheduled <date>next Monday</date> in <gpe>New York</gpe> .


Mr. Samnick , who will go before the disciplinary panel , said the proceedings are unfair and that any punishment from the guild would be unjustified .

Mr. <person>Samnick</person> , who will go before the disciplinary panel , said the proceedings are unfair and that any punishment from the guild would be unjustified .


In addition to the damages , the suit seeks a court order preventing the guild from punishing or retaliating against Mr. Trudeau .

In addition to the damages , the suit seeks a court order preventing the guild from punishing or retaliating against Mr. <person>Trudeau</person> .


ABORTION RULING UPHELD :


A federal appeals court upheld a lower court ruling that the U.S. can bar the use of federal funds for family - planning programs that include abortion - related services .

A federal appeals court upheld a lower court ruling that the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> can bar the use of federal funds for family - planning programs that include abortion - related services .


A Department of Health and Human Services rule adopted in 1988 prohibits the use of so - called Title X funds for programs that assist a woman in obtaining an abortion , such as abortion counseling and referrals .

A <org>Department of Health and Human Services</org> rule adopted in <date>1988</date> prohibits the use of so - called <law>Title X</law> funds for programs that assist a woman in obtaining an abortion , such as abortion counseling and referrals .


The rule also prohibits funding for activities that `` encourage , promote or advocate abortion . ''


Title X funds are the single largest source of federal funding for family - planning services , according to the opinion by the Second U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York .

<law>Title X</law> funds are the single largest source of federal funding for family - planning services , according to the opinion by <org>the Second U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals</org> in <gpe>New York</gpe> .


The panel ruled that the restrictions do n't violate the freedom of speech of health care providers and that the limits on counseling services do n't violate the rights of pregnant women .


INQUIRY CLEARS TEXAS JUDGE of bias in comments on homosexual murder victims .

INQUIRY CLEARS <gpe>TEXAS</gpe> JUDGE of bias in comments on homosexual murder victims .


Dallas District Judge Jack Hampton had sparked calls for a judicial inquiry with his remarks to the press last December , two weeks after sentencing an 18 - year - old defendant to 30 years in state prison for killing two homosexual men in a city park .

<gpe>Dallas</gpe> District Judge <person>Jack Hampton</person> had sparked calls for a judicial inquiry with his remarks to the press last <date>December</date> , <date>two weeks</date> after sentencing an <date>18 - year - old</date> defendant to <date>30 years</date> in state prison for killing <cardinal>two</cardinal> homosexual men in a city park .


The judge was quoted as referring to the victims as `` queers '' and saying they would n't have been killed `` if they had n't been cruising the streets picking up teenage boys . ''


But Robert R. Murray , a special master appointed by the Texas Supreme Court , said Judge Hampton did n't breach any judicial standards of fairness , although he did violate the state 's judicial code by commenting publicly on a pending case .

But <person>Robert R. Murray</person> , a special master appointed by <org>the Texas Supreme Court</org> , said Judge <person>Hampton</person> did n't breach any judicial standards of fairness , although he did violate the state 's judicial code by commenting publicly on a pending case .


Observing that the judge `` has never exhibited any bias or prejudice , '' Mr. Murray concluded that he `` would be impartial in any case involving a homosexual or prostitute '' as a victim .

Observing that the judge `` has never exhibited any bias or prejudice , '' Mr. <person>Murray</person> concluded that he `` would be impartial in any case involving a homosexual or prostitute '' as a victim .


Mr. Murray also said Judge Hampton 's comments did n't discredit the judiciary or the administration of justice .

Mr. <person>Murray</person> also said Judge <person>Hampton</person> 's comments did n't discredit the judiciary or the administration of justice .


The report is subject to review by the State Commission on Judicial Conduct , which is empowered to impose sanctions .

The report is subject to review by <org>the State Commission on Judicial Conduct</org> , which is empowered to impose sanctions .


GAF TRIAL goes to round three .

<org>GAF</org> TRIAL goes to round <cardinal>three</cardinal> .


Attorneys in the third stock - manipulation trial of GAF Corp. began opening arguments yesterday in the Manhattan courtroom of U.S. District Judge Mary Johnson Lowe .

Attorneys in the <ordinal>third</ordinal> stock - manipulation trial of <org>GAF Corp.</org> began opening arguments <date>yesterday</date> in the <gpe>Manhattan</gpe> courtroom of <gpe>U.S.</gpe> District Judge <person>Mary Johnson Lowe</person> .


In an eight - count indictment , the government has charged GAF , a Wayne , N.J. , specialty chemical maker , and its Vice Chairman James T. Sherwin with attempting to manipulate the common stock of Union Carbide Corp. in advance of GAF 's planned sale of a large block of the stock in November 1986 .

In an <cardinal>eight</cardinal> - count indictment , the government has charged <org>GAF</org> , a <gpe>Wayne</gpe> , <gpe>N.J.</gpe> , specialty chemical maker , and its Vice Chairman <person>James T. Sherwin</person> with attempting to manipulate the common stock of <org>Union Carbide Corp.</org> in advance of <org>GAF</org> 's planned sale of a large block of the stock in <date>November 1986</date> .


The first two GAF trials ended in mistrials earlier this year .

The <ordinal>first</ordinal> <cardinal>two</cardinal> <org>GAF</org> trials ended in mistrials <date>earlier this year</date> .


This trial is expected to last five weeks .

This trial is expected to last <date>five weeks</date> .


SWITCHING TO THE DEFENSE :


A former member of the prosecution team in the Iran / Contra affair joined the Chicago firm of Mayer , Brown & Platt .

A former member of the prosecution team in the <gpe>Iran</gpe> / Contra affair joined the <gpe>Chicago</gpe> firm of <org>Mayer , Brown & Platt</org> .


Michael R. Bromwich , a member since January 1987 of the three - lawyer trial team in the prosecution of Oliver North , became a partner in the Washington , D.C. , office of the 520 - lawyer firm .

<person>Michael R. Bromwich</person> , a member since <date>January 1987</date> of the <cardinal>three</cardinal> - lawyer trial team in the prosecution of <person>Oliver North</person> , became a partner in the <gpe>Washington</gpe> , <gpe>D.C.</gpe> , office of the <cardinal>520</cardinal> - lawyer firm .


He will specialize in white - collar criminal defense work .


Mr. Bromwich , 35 , also has served as deputy chief and chief of the narcotics unit for the U.S. attorney 's office for the Southern District of New York , based in Manhattan .

Mr. <person>Bromwich</person> , <date>35</date> , also has served as deputy chief and chief of the narcotics unit for the <gpe>U.S.</gpe> attorney 's office for <loc>the Southern District of New York</loc> , based in <gpe>Manhattan</gpe> .


Xinhua News Agency , Nanjing , December 16 , by wire -LRB- reporter Fang Zhou -RRB- -

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Nanjing</gpe> , <date>December 16</date> , by wire -LRB- reporter <person>Fang Zhou</person> -RRB- -