41.   Are mergers the answer to the coming challenges as many states deregulate and open their utilities to outside competitors?

42.   Are mergers the answer as many states prepare to give customers a choice in buying power and open their utilities to outside competitors?

43.   As a result, the merger is apt to result in few layoffs.

44.   Are more mergers on the horizon?

45.   As in the past, she refused to speculate on what she would do if the merger is defeated.

46.   As the landscape continues to change, what other huge mergers may be in the offing?

47.   Associated and First Financial said their merger was the best option to increase earnings.

48.   At the Federal Trade Commission, chief Robert Pitofsky has said future defense mergers are likely to raise antitrust problems.

49.   At the time, the firms said the merger was critical to their business and long-term survival.

50.   Bank mergers have been part of a recent consolidation of all kinds of financial services companies.