October 12, 1997

Charles Johnson's Florida Marlins teammates fondly refer to him as ''Big Hungry.'' It's for the catcher's voracious appetite, but they could just as easily be talking about his work ethic. ''His approach to the game is special,'' said Warren Cromartie, the former major league outfielder who does a Marlins pre-game show for WQAM radio. ''You don't see many ballplayers with good fundamentals these days. He has them, because he makes sure not to take anything for granted.''

Relationship between John Osher, who owns Cap Toys Inc, and his stepson, Jay Tapper, who started Tapper Candies Inc to compete with candy division he built at Cap Toys, discussed as representative of psychological contests and day-to-day challenges that beset family businesses; both companies specialize in interactive candy, which combines toys and treats; table; photos; drawing (L)

Parker Posey, 28-year-old stick-thin mainstay of independent films, discusses her eccentric wardrobe, which consists entiely of costumes in the thrift store mode; interview; photos (S)

New Russian law strengthening dominance of Russian Orthodox Church has transformed Suzdal, with its imposing religious buildings, into battleground in conflict between church and smaller Orthodox factions; at issue is control of 15 churches breakaway Free Orthodox Church has been restoring; church critics hold it seeks to stifle dissent within its ranks and wrest religious property from minority Orthodox groups; map; photos (L)

Michelle Krebs assesses Mercedes Benz's new sport utility vehicle, ML320; table; photos (M)