On Thu, 7 Sep 2000 17:04:10 -0400, siobhan <[log in to unmask]>
wrote:

>And, yes, the Soviet Union DID ban microwaves...and still bans them.

http://www.bisnis.doc.gov/bisnis/isa/990630con.htm:

In Russia, microwaves have become popular in larger cities for
customers
with middle and high incomes.  According to surveys, the strongest
demand
is for low-cost Korean models (Daewoo, Samsung, Lucky Goldstar) priced
from
$100-$200.  As for more expensive items, Panasonic ($300 and up),
Delongi
($150-$300), and Whirpool $250-$500) have a small market of relatively
wealthy customers.  Russian consumers also have particular preferences
regarding microwaves: they should be thermometer and grill-shelf
equipped,
and have an easy-clean interior.

Philip Thrift
http://www.paleofitness.com