MERIDIAN BANK WELCOMES BETH SPERRY

Beth Sperry has joined the staff of Meridian Bank as Assistant Vice President and Loan Officer

Alton, Il. September 13, 2007

Meridian Bank announced today that Beth Sperry has joined the staff of Meridian Bank as Assistant Vice President and Loan Officer.

"We are very excited to add Beth to our Business Development Team", said Brad Rench, President and Chief Executive Officer for the bank. Rench continued, "Beth will be a tremendous addition to the growing Alton Meridian Bank team. Her market knowledge and bank experience will make a significant impact in the Riverbend market."

Beth's primary focus will be Commercial, Retail, and Construction lending, along with deposit origination, and community involvement.

Beth has been in the banking industry for 18 years. She recently held the position of Vice President/Mortgage Loan Officer for Regions Bank where she also managed their local mortgage operations center. Beth is originally from Pike County and currently resides in Maryville. She has received several banking certifications.

-09/13/2007