Ratings represent an evaluation of credit worthiness, conducted by independent financial analysis firms.  Credit ratings and research can help investors assess marketplace value and degree of investment risk.

Standard & Poor's (S&P), anda Moody's are leading global credit rating, research and risk analysis companies.  Their highest long-term rating is Aaa and the lowest is C.  Moody's uses numerical modifiers (1, 2, 3) in each rating classification while S&P uses plus and minus signs.

Short-term ratings by these agencies assess the ability of the company to repay short-term debt obligations. A1/P1 ratings (highest short-term rating) by Moody's and S&P respectively, indicate a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations; A02/P2 indicates satisfactory ability and A3/P3 indicates adequate ability to meet the short-term financial liabilities.

For further information on Moody's rating definitions and criteria please visit their corporate website at: www.moodys.com. For information on Standard & Poor's rating system visit their corporate website at: www.standardandpoors.com

(10/11/2011)