11.  But despite their numbers, they remain a quiet presence, largely absent from high-profile public positions, their ethnicity rarely invoked.

12.  But his public position on long-distance is less flexible.

13.  But neither has taken a public position on censure, and both declined comment Monday about the trial.

14.  But their last public positions were far apart, and the staff of the State Air Resources Board has recommended a ruling in favor of Los Angeles.

15.  But Vujovic, pressed later on CNN, stopped dropping hints and retreated to the previously stated public position.

16.  But to have his public position upgraded to a full-time job, Gibbons has to circumvent two roadblocks.

17.  By discussing a possible change in its dividend policy, Chrysler is doing little more than reiterating its own public position.

18.  Clinton has taken no public position on either issue, saying both are to be decided in so-called final status talks.

19.  Columbia has taken no public position on the allegations, pending the outcome of the internal inquiry.

20.  Gore has not taken a public position.