Selected Financial and Operating Data

The following selected consolidated financial data for the fiscal years ended October 31, 1995 through 1999 are derived from the Company's audited consolidated financial statements. The data set forth below should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Company and the notes thereto and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" appearing elsewhere herein.

Selected Consolidated Operating Data

(1) Effective November 1, 1998, the Company changed its method of accounting for earnings realized on its irrevocable prearranged funeral trust funds and escrow accounts. Effective November 1, 1996, the Company changed its method of accounting for its irrevocable prearranged funeral trust funds and escrow accounts and cemetery sales. For further details, see Note 3 to the Company's consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. Information presented for fiscal year 1999 reflects the 1999 change in accounting principle; information presented for fiscal years 1998 and 1997 reflects the 1997 change in accounting principles; information presented for fiscal years 1996 and 1995 reflects results as originally reported under the accounting methods then in effect.
(2) Includes a nonrecurring, noncash charge of $76.8 million ($50.3 million, or $.51 per share, after-tax) recorded during the second quarter of fiscal year 1998 in connection with the vesting of the Company's performance-based stock options.
(3) Includes a nonrecurring, noncash charge of $17.3 million ($10.9 million, or $.15 per share, after-tax) recorded during the third quarter of fiscal year 1995 in connection with the vesting of the Company's performance-based stock options.
(4) Adjusted to reflect a three-for-two common stock split effected June 21, 1996 and a two-for-one common stock split effected April 24, 1998.