MERIDIAN BANK EXPANDING AGAIN!

Meridian Bank opens home mortage division

Alton, IL January 29, 2007 Meridian Bank announced today the opening of its new Home Mortgage Division located in the bank headquarters at 200 West Third Street in Alton, IL.

Elias “Lee” Montano joins Meridian Bank as Vice President of the Mortgage Division. Lee brings with him experience in running mortgage loan groups. Also joining Meridian are 11 mortgage specialists and full support staff. According to Lee , Meridian will be offering of full line of mortgage products from multiple sources as well as an online application process to make the entire process more convenient for customers. “We really have the ability to do everything the customer needs, and can close a loan quickly once we have the information. Both our current customers and new ones should take a look to see what we offer.”

Meridian Bank opened in Alton, IL in January 2005, originating from the State Bank of Eldred that started in 1910. In December 2006 Meridian acquired branches in Altamont and Carlyle.

Our expanding market now includes branches in four counties located at; 200 West Third Street, Alton, IL.; 5 West Lincoln , Altamont, IL; 801 12th Street, Carlyle, IL and 208 Locust Street, Eldred, IL. Meridian Bank continues to provide banking services throughout the metro east and surrounding counties.

The State Bank of Eldred had a long history of exceptional customer service and community involvement. Meridian Bank continues this tradition by maintaining a community bank focus, putting customer service first and offering an array of competitive financial products and services that excels in state of the art technology. Since opening the bank it has grown to over 53 million in assets. The bank recently implemented imaging. The process allows customers to view their checks and deposit items online and increases the protection of customers’ information.

President and CEO Brad S. Rench said, “The addition of our Mortgage Division and implementation of imaging program are both reflections of the banks strategic plan to put our customer first. Meridian Bank intends to become the preferred provider of financial services for businesses and individuals in the markets we serve. We are committed to providing our rapidly expanding customer base the best possible services. We continue to add new financial services and products with the latest advancements in technology for the benefit of our customers.”

For additional information, contact:

Brad Rench
200 W. Third St.
Alton, IL 62002
(618)462-8631

-01/29/2007