Dangers lurk in growing reliance on satellites

Article Abstract:

The vulnerability of the world's increasing dependence on satellites has been demonstrated by the Galaxy IV outage that caused a major service disruption that affected paging services, credit card transactions and radio and TV broadcast. Aside from possible computer and equipment failure, orbiting satellites are expected to experience severe meteor-dust showers in Nov. 1998 as the earth passes through the thickest part of the dust tail of the Tempel-Tuttle comet. Paul Graziani, CEO of the satellite software developer Analytical Graphics, said the meteor shower could paralyze a world that has become very dependent on satellite communications.

Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing, World, Satellite Communications, Satellite Telecommunications, Services information, Satellite Communications Eqp, Satellite communications systems, Article

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More workers get options, too

Article Abstract:

Around 17 million workers are compensated with with company stock, while 5 million non-executives are getting stock optioons, according to the Employee Stock Ownership Plan Assn. In addition, nonk-executives hold 6%-10% of corporate stock in the late 1990s, compared to less than 2%$ in the early 1980s. Startup companies used stock options to compensate workers, while more established companies match employee contributions to 401(k) plans with company stock.

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Quality auditor OK'd Decatur plant

Article Abstract:

Lloyd's Register has been swept into the Firestone tire controversy after the renowned British company gave the QS-9000 certification to Firestone's facility in Decatur, IL, in 1997. QS-9000 is the automotive equivalent of the worldwide quality standard ISO-9000 but has been criticized as being ineffective. The certification also saved Firestone the task of having to open the Decatur plant for inspection by automakers.

Product standards, safety, & recalls, Tires, Tire Manufacturing (except Retreading), Tennessee, Bridgestone/Firestone North American Tire L.L.C.

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