51.  As any sentient New Yorker now knows, the murder rate is lower than it has been in nearly 30 years.

52.  Despite India's recalcitrance, a comprehensive nuclear-test ban enjoys nearly universal support.

53.  Despite its fabulous potential wealth, Congo itself was nearly bled dry by the time this latest war broke out in August 1998.

54.  Cussler and his dedicated group of volunteers have found nearly 60 wrecks.

55.  Demirel, 75, has been in public office for nearly all of his adult life.

56.  Desktop computers selling for less than $1,000 constitute nearly 40 percent of the market, and Apple doesn't have a single model in this category.

57.  DeSpain, 34, said she had worked on the composition for nearly two years before it became absolutely necessary to have it played in front of her contemporaries.

58.  Desperate to pay the rent, clients occasionally surrender nearly $200 in interest and preparation fees on a $500 refund.

59.  Despite a 1994 state law requiring fingerprinting and criminal background checks, nearly 3,000 school employees in Georgia have criminal records.

60.  Democratic consultant Peter Fenn notes that Clinton himself is hardly shying away from publicity, making news nearly every day since he left office.