1.   In statements on Monday, both Asarco and Cyprus Amax said that their boards had authorized management to explore other options.

2.   Recognizing that evolution, the ATA board authorized a consulting contract.

3.   San Diego-based Excel said its board in September authorized management to explore a possible spin off of the unit, ERT Development.

4.   Ryder System Inc. said its board authorized another six-million-share stock buyback plan, to fund employee stock option plans.

5.   Scripps also said its board authorized the repurchase of as many Class A shares that could be issued in the acquisition.

6.   SGS-Thomson, said its supervisory board authorized the second public offering.

7.   The board also authorized an expensive new headquarters for school administrators, while those same administrators were authorizing questionable expenditures on consultants.

8.   The board also authorizes manufacturers and warehouses to place unrestricted orders for stainless steel as a result of a drop in military and foreign requirements for nickel.

9.   The board authorized the repurchase plan to begin in January.

10.   The company said its board authorized management to reach a sales agreement.