It is possible to do this in the report writer and options 1 and 2 should have given us the desired results. Evidently we are missing something and it is simple once we find it.

When you set the totals field in the group footer, choose the calulations button, then select SUM , and in the RESET combo box choose the name of the group. IF the totals field is in the group A footer the RESET should show Group A.