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## Financial Highlights 

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(a) In January 2003, the Company changed its fiscal year from December 31 to th e Saturday closest to January 31, effective for the year beginning February 2, 2003. 

(b) Includes merger-related costs of $1.1 million in cost of sales and $3.3 million in o perating expenses related to the merger with Dollar Express on May 5, 2000. These costs, $3.1 million net of taxes, reduced diluted net income  per common share by $0.02. 

(c) Comparable store net sales compare net sales for stores open throughout each  of the two periods being compared. Net sales per store are calculated for stores open throughout the entire period presented. 

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