FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                      98-56
                                             

                                                  Press Contact:
                                   John J. Nester (202) 942-7083
                                
                                
         SEC CHAIRMAN ARTHUR LEVITT,  MAINE OFFICIALS TO
             HOLD INVESTORS' TOWN MEETING IN BANGOR
                                
Mainers urged to make advance reservations to attend free program

     Washington, D.C.,  June 8, 1998 -- On Tuesday, June 30, U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Arthur Levitt, U.S.
Senator Susan Collins, and Christine Bruenn, Administrator of the
Maine Securities Division, will conduct an Investors' Town
Meeting in Bangor, Maine.  The free program will offer practical
tips on how to make informed investment decisions, monitor
investments, and avoid costly mistakes.

     The town meeting will be the 27th of a national series to
promote public understanding of the securities markets and
awareness of the risks and rewards of investing.

     "Americans are invested in the markets in record numbers,
and there are more financial products and investment
professionals than ever to choose from," Levitt said.  "Investors
who take time to get the facts are more likely to achieve
financial security, and they are better able to protect
themselves against potential fraud and abuse."

          The town meeting will take place at Husson College, One
College Circle, starting at 4:00 p.m., followed by investment
seminars at 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.  Doors will open at 3:00
p.m., when attendees can pick up free brochures and other
educational materials from financial service industry
associations and consumer groups.

     Admission is free, but reservations are recommended because
seating is limited.  To make reservations, call (877) 624-8551.
Reservations can also be made by fax at (207) 624-8590, or by e-
mail at townmeeting@state.me.us.
                                
                                
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