1.   The compromise enabled both sides to avoid a battle over discrimination and sexual harrassment, highlighted by the October confirmation hearings for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.

2.   A settlement would let both sides avoid the risk and expense of a retrial, which was slated to begin in January.

3.   Both sides also avoid offering solutions to budget-busting entitlements.

4.   GM was pleased that the two sides avoided a strike.

5.   It now appears the sides will avoid heavy legal expenses by not going around a third time.

6.   Of course, all sides can avoid the unknown by coming to terms before the hearing, or before Tagliabue makes his decision this week.

7.   Though both sides avoid specifics about TV advertising in Texas, Clinton apparently is outspending Dole.

8.   Union leaders have said they are not hopeful the two sides can avoid a strike.

9.   Previous South African statements have called on both sides to avoid steps that could harm peace talks.

10.   A senior Suu Kyi colleague said both sides must avoid provocations that could harm the dialogue.