Omnicom has long courted TBWA, as have many others who were attracted by its rapid growth and fledgling international network.

Cigarette makers have long courted black smokers and black men have the lung cancer rates to prove it.

Mr. Bush and his aides have long courted Hispanic votes.

The area has long courted tourists.

Colleges and universities have long courted international students and, increasingly, urge American students to include study abroad as part of their college experience.

West has long courted judges.

But he smiled now, enjoying the effect his new painting was having on the lovely, young barmaid he had courted all summer long.

India has long courted Iran, despite American objections.

In the boom years of the late 1990's, Ivy League students were often courted by corporate recruiters long before graduation.

As both producer and actor, Mr. Douglas, 48, has long courted controversy, or at least often found himself on the receiving end.