Abstract: The present invention provides for a system and method for processing multiple electronic messages in one transmission, or data group, and responding individually to the service requests based on urgency indicators present in the data group. The disclosure describes a system that contains a switch and includes remote access devices, financial institution computers, and service provider computers all connected to the switch. Customers at remote access devices select desired services and the remote access devices construct a data group containing service requests consistent with the protocol described in the invention. The data group includes urgency indicators associated with each service requested. The urgency indicators can represent three different modes: transaction interactive, batch-interactive, or non-interactive.

Abstract: An apparatus for anchoring a flotation device is comprised of a plurality of adjustable straps attached at respective first ends thereof to a lower major surface of a flotation device which is in contact with the water. A suction device is attached at a second end of each strap opposite from the first end thereof, for securing the corresponding strap to a stationary object, such as the side of a swimming pool. By attaching selected ones of the straps to a stationary object and adjusting the respective lengths of the selected straps, the flotation device can be anchored in a substantially fixed position and desired orientation with respect to the statonary object. Thus, a sunbather can position the flotation device as desired with respect to the location of the sun to take full advantage thereof. The anchoring apparatus according to the present invention is suitable for attachment to flotation devices of various types and materials.