   security for an annuity holder When a North Carolina court ordered the liquidation of London Pacific Life and Annuity Company in 2004,  Amelia Cloninger , left, of San Diego, CA, thought she might lose her money. When she heard her annuity was being transferred to The Hartford, she still wasn’t sure what would happen. Now, after almost a year has passed, Amelia is more than happy. “The  people at The Hartford have been wonderful,” she notes. “I know  The Hartford has been around  for hundreds of years, but didn’t know how helpful they all would be. When I first received all the paperwork, I didn’t know what  to do.” Amelia contacted The Hartford’s Individual Annuity Contact Center in Simsbury, CT, and connected with two representatives, Dianne Bercian and Jen Wilbert. “I just adore them both. They were lovely  and very helpful and walked me through each step of what I had to do,” Amelia says. “If every one is like those two, I’ll be a very happy customer of The Hartford. I even sent them both a check, they were  so wonderful. It’s just what I do when people go out of their way for me.” Of course, the checks were returned to Amelia, but the good will and respect remain.  The Hartford’s “Principal First Preferred,” providing investors increased choice and flexibility with a withdrawal protection option at a reduced cost. In 2004 variable annuity sales topped $15 billion. In 2004, our  mutual fund  and 401(k) products both gained significant momentum with record sales. Retail mutual funds sales grew 23 percent over 2003 to reach $5.9 billion. Our 401(k) sales grew to $1.9 billion in 2004, up 37 percent from 2003. To suppor t increased growth in sales of mutual funds, 401(k) products, and other investments, The Hartford is building  on the distribution strength already in place for our industry- leading annuity business. We distribute our products primarily 11 Sales of 401(k)  up 37% to $1. 9 billion