Our stock option program is easy. In one simple telephone call or visit to our Web site, you can open a new account, have your questions answered and complete your stock option transaction. Our experienced traders are available during the following hours by calling: 1-800-338-3965 or 713-350-3760 Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (CST) We've outlined a sample procedure below to illustrate the simplicity of exercising your employee stock option. This procedure can be tailored to specifically suit your needs, or those of your company stock administrator.

Business Day 1

1. Optionee contacts company Stock Option Administrator about exercising an option. Administrator sends optionee the appropriate paperwork.
2. Optionee contacts us at 1-800-338-3965 or 713-350-3760 to discuss the stock option exercise. We inform the optionee of company loan interest, commissions and any other transaction fees.
3. We sell shares at the market price, confirm price with optionee, and mail out the trade confirmation and account documentation.
4. Optionee sends company Stock Option Administrator completed exercise paperwork.

Business Day 2

1. We wire funds to company for all options exercised.
2. We send loan documentation, and, if applicable, payment to customer.
3. Company instructs transfer agent to deliver shares to us.

Business Day 3

1. Optionee returns signed account documentation to us.
2. We record receipt of shares in optionee's account.

Business Day 4 or Later

1. If negotiable shares have been received, we send proceeds to optionee via check or wire transfer, as instructed. If shares are non-negotiable, proceeds are held until appropriate paperwork is received.