The Beta Gamma Sigma B-Zine

the BGS Electronic Magazine
February 2002

This B-Zine is designed to keep Beta Gamma Sigma members informed about current issues in the business world. Each month we will provide a set of articles addressing a current topic - some written by Beta Gamma Sigma and others that have been published by various printed and on-line publications. Let us know if you like the content and format of this email publication.

How would you like to save money for your childrens' college education - tax-free? How about funds for a grandchild, niece, nephew, or maybe even yourself - tax-free? Smart investors are considering so-called 529 plans, named after the tax code section they fall under, as a way to maximize their education savings.

529 Savings Plans - For Education and More?
by Tim Weatherby, Beta Gamma Sigma
529 plans are becoming very popular as a way to save for higher education expenses. Some savvy financial advisers are finding other beneficial uses.

Save for College - and Beat the Tax Man
by Terry Savage, MSN Money Central
"If you're saving (for college) another way, it's time to switch."

College Savings Without the Tax Bite
by SmartMoney.com
The SmartMoney.com College-Savings Package

Compare 529s
by Savingforcollege.com
Descriptions and links to all the state plans, investment results, recent federal and state developments and Savingforcollege.com's exclusive "5-Cap Ratings".

The 529 Solution
by Penelope Wang, CNN
State-run college savings plans (aka 529 plans) are a great new tool for parents. We tell you who should get a 529 and how to pick the right one.

The Pros and Cons of 529s
by Sarah Max, CNN
College savings plans aren't perfect, but new tax rules move them to the head of the class.

To share your comments and views about the various articles listed in this issue of the B-Zine, go to the Message Board feature on the BetaLink On-Line Community at www.memberconnections.com/olc/pub/BGS. Share your thoughts with other members of Beta Gamma Sigma around the world.

The February 2002 B-Zine / BetaLink Poll Question asks, "When were you inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma?" We asked this question once before, but we have much greater participation in BetaLink now. We would like to know when readers of the B-Zine joined the Society, so please respond. Even if you answered the survey question when it was asked last year, we would like your input.

To participate in the monthly poll question, you must be registered to participate in the Society's BetaLink On-Line Community. There you can access not only the poll question, but the Message Boards (with topics of interest to BGS members), Career Center, On-Line Membership Directory, and much more - all for free. And when you visit, be sure to register for the monthly giveaways - BGS logo merchandise. It's our way of saying, "Thanks for visiting the BetaLink On-Line Community."

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To take part in the B-Zine / BetaLink Poll Question, and to take advantage of all the great free features of the members-only BetaLink On-Line Community, visit www.memberconnections.com/olc/pub/BGS.

To share comments, opinions and suggestions on the Beta Gamma Sigma B-Zine, email the Society at bzine@betagammasigma.org.

For other questions about Beta Gamma Sigma, reach us by email at bgshonors@betagammasigma.org. You may also reach us by phone at 314-432-5650 or toll-free 1-800-337-4677.