March 1, 2004
I am concerned about the elimination of the 12b-1 fee. It is our practice to maintain close contact with our clients to make certain that their investments are meeting their goals. We spend quite a bit of time analyzing the current portfolios and making recommendations, if necessary. We also monitor all kinds of withdrawals on these accounts for expenses, tax payments, educational needs, retirement and so forth. The 12b-1 fee is our source of revenue to provide ongoing service. I realize that many representatives may not stay in touch with investors and are not earning these fees, however, we are and if they are eliminated we will be required to charge fees in a different manner and I the total costs to the investors will probably be greater.