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