Hal and Duval,
Let me offer you both a peice of advice with no strings attached. Read "The Intelligent Investor"
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/boo...sbn=0060555661
It was writtten during the great depression and is still considered the authoritive tome in injecting common sense into how you choose to place your money.
Amongst it's tips are simple but often overlooked things like asking your broker for refrences to contact before signing on, demanding that a broker take a lower fee on trades you suggested that make you both money, never accepting a mutual fund with fees of over 5%, etc.
It's written in such a manner as to be readable by all, and is worth it's weight in gold. It preaches restraint and constantly reminds you to consider what your broker is getting out of any deal he suggests. for something written 75 years ago, it reads as if it was written yesterday.
I suggest it to all.