<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT A
AGREEMENT REGARDING THE JOINT FILING OF
SCHEDULE 13D
------------------------------
The undersigned hereby agree as follows:
(i) Each of them is individually eligible to use the Schedule 13D to
which this Exhibit is attached, and such Schedule 13D is filed on behalf of each
of them; and
(ii) Each of them is responsible for the timely filing of such Schedule
13D and any amendments thereto, and for the completeness and accuracy of the
information concerning such person contained therein; but none of them is
responsible for the completeness or accuracy of the information concerning the
other persons making the filing, unless such person knows or has reason to
believe that such information is inaccurate.
EVEREST PARTNERS LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
(d.b.a. EVEREST PARTNERS, L.P.)
By its General Partner
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
EVEREST MANAGERS, L.L.C.
Dated: August 30, 2000 By: /s/ David M. W. Harvey
----------------------------
Name: David M. W. Harvey
Title: Managing Member
EVEREST MANAGERS, L.L.C.
Dated: August 30, 2000 By: /s/ David M. W. Harvey
----------------------------
Name: David M. W. Harvey
Title: Managing Member
Dated: August 30, 2000 By: /s/ David M. W. Harvey
----------------------------
Name: David M. W. Harvey
JAM PARTNERS, L.P.
Dated: August 30, 2000 By: /s/ Seymour Jacobs, General Partner
-----------------------------------------
Name: Seymour Jacobs, General Partner
Dated: August 30, 2000 By: /s/ Seymour Jacobs
------------------------
Name: Seymour Jacobs
Dated: August 30, 2000 By: /s/ Nick A. Becker
------------------------
Name: Nick A. Becker
</TABLE>
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