Upon graduating from college 35 years ago, Dr. Nick Riviera was already thinking of retirement. Since then, he has made deposits into his retirement fund on a semiannual basis in the amount of $500. Nick has just completed his final payment and is at last ready to retire. His retirement fund has earned 8.9% interest compounded semiannually.

a. How much has Nick accumulated in his retirement account?

b. In addition to all this, 15 years ago, Nick received an inheritance check for $15,000 from his beloved uncle. He decided to deposit the entire amount into his retirement fund. What is his current balance in the fund?