10 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK: A group led by L.A. investor Al Checchi made a $4.05 billion offer for Northwest Airlines that bested three other suitors, including billionaire Marvin Davis Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park said its first-ever outside venture would be the opening of a Camp Snoopy in Mall of America in Minnesota.

THE NEWSMAKER

Junk-bond wizard Michael Milken submitted his resignation at Drexel Burnham Lambert Inc. and said he would launch his own financial consulting firm while awaiting trial on racketeering and securities fraud charges. He said his new firm would offer advice on everything from the Third World debt crisis to helping minorities obtain ownership stakes in companies.

THE NUMBERS

Dow Jones Industrial Average 2503.54

London gold $362/oz.

Automatic Putt Master $22

Sharp commercial copier $2,695