THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, June 18, 1996 TAG: 9606180419
SECTION: BUSINESS PAGE: D1 EDITION: FINAL
LENGTH: 45 lines
Volkswagen recalls 950,000 cars worldwide
Volkswagen AG, a German automaker, said it's recalling 950,000 cars worldwide, including some Golfs, Jettas, Passats and Corrados, to correct a defect in their engine-cooling systems. The recall, including 500,000 in Germany, affects Golf and Jetta models built from 1983 to 1989 with 1.3-liter motors. It affects the Passat and Corrado models with four-cylinder engines built in 1988 and 1989. Volkswagen said it has set aside money to pay for the recall, which will be free for customers. (Bloomberg Business News)
Blue Shield making it easier to see specialists
HMOs are trying to eliminate one of their most frequent patient gripes by making it easier to see specialists. California Blue Shield became the latest Monday, saying it would allow members limited freedom to go to a specialist without permission from their regular doctor or the HMO. The catch: it'll cost at least $20. Most health maintenance organizations hold down medical expenses by requiring patients to get all visits to specialists pre-approved - even if the doctors provide everyday care such as gynecology or skin care. (AP)
First Union expands in Connecticut, Florida
First Union Corp. said that it will continue to expand in the Northeast by spending $379 million to buy Center Financial Corp., a deal that will give First Union a stronger presence in New Haven, Conn. Meanwhile, Charlotte-based First Union also said it will acquire Home Financial Corp., the holding company of Home Savings Bank, FSB, in Hollywood, Fla. First Union estimated the stock transaction at $336 million. Center Financial Corp., based in Waterbury, Conn., is the holding company for Centerbank, a state-chartered savings bank that has 33 of its 46 branches in New Haven County. (AP)
Transportation secretary plans U.K. airport talks
The United States will take a tough line in upcoming talks with the United Kingdom, insisting that the U.K. completely open up its airports to more U.S. carriers, Transportation Secretary Federico Pena said. Pena said the United States will require extensive access to U.K. airports, particularly London's Heathrow Airport, before it will consider an alliance between British Airways and American Airlines. Currently, only American and United Airlines Inc. are allowed to serve Heathrow, London's close-in airport with extensive connections to other countries. Delta Air Lines Inc., Trans World Airlines, Continental Airlines Inc. and other carriers have demanded Heathrow access, as well as more U.S. gateways to London. (Knight-Ridder/Tribune Business News) by CNB