31.   Wine makers began to set aside and eventually bottle separate batches of merlot, which soon found a place as one of the most important California grapes.

32.   With the school year soon to start, computer makers have begun rolling out machines intended to wind up in knapsacks.

33.   Fourth-quarter losses at Xerox Corp. missed Wall Street expectations as the business machines maker began implementing new cost-reduction plans aimed at returning it to profitability.

34.   Trains, buses and airplanes were booked solid as holiday makers began trips to the countryside or abroad.

35.   Five auto makers have begun operations so far in Vietnam.