* A.M. Best is a large third party independent reporting and rating company that rates companies on the basis of their financial strength, operating performance, and ability to meet obligations to policyholders. Best's ratings range from A++ (Superior) to F (Liquidation). A+ is the second highest rating out of 15.

  Standard & Poor's Corporation, another highly respected rating firm, rates companies on the basis of claims-paying ability, capitalization, earnings track record, and level of asset risk. S&P's ratings range from AAA to CC. Standard and Poor's awarded its "AA-" rating (Very Strong) for insurer financial strength on December 5, 2006, to Midland National as part of the Sammons Financial Group. The AA- rating, which is the fourth highest out of 22, reflects the financial strength of Midland National Life Insurance Company and North American Company for Life and Health Insurance, members the Sammons Financial Group.

  Weiss Rating, Inc. is an independent rating firm that rates companies on the basis of fiscal strength. Weiss Ratings range from A+ to F. Midland National's A- rating is the third highest of 16 and places Midland National on the Weiss RECOMMENDED LIST.

  The Ward's 50 Benchmark Group is derived from an in-depth analysis completed by the Ward Group, a Cincinnati-based management consulting firm specializing in the insurance industry.