The investment seeks long-term capital appreciation. The fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus any borrowings for investment purposes, in common stocks of small and mid-capitalization companies organized in the United States that the Adviser believes should generate excess returns, as compared to the Russell 2500TM Growth Index, with below-market risk over time, namely companies with superior operating and financial characteristics and proven records of increasing earnings on a consistent and sustainable basis.