Of the five ratios figured for profitability, return on assets, return onequity, efficiency, operating revenue growth and net earnings per sharegrowth, The Bank of Asheville far exceeded the median in four categories:return on average assets, return on average equity, efficiency and netearnings per share growth. For capital ratios, the Bank exceeded the median inloan loss reserve to loans and tangible equity to assets. The Bank alsooutperformed its peers in all categories of liquidity and in two of the threeasset quality measures (non-performing assets to total assets and reserve tonon performing assets).

Gordon Greenwood, President and CEO stated, "Given our current economicenvironment, we are extremely pleased with the results reflected in theDavenport Report, which valuates banks in a number of areas other than growthin assets. Having just celebrated our 11th year in operations, we think thisreport confirms our values and goals in establishing a financial institutionfor the long-term that provides above market return to our shareholders,exceptional quality service for our customers, and rewarding careeropportunities to our associates. We are excited about the future as the localcommunity bank and in the opportunities that will be available to improve uponthese accomplishments of past years."

This news release contains forward-looking statements. Such statements aresubject to certain factors that may cause the company's results to vary fromthose expected. These factors include changing economic and financial marketconditions, competition, ability to execute our business plan, items alreadymentioned in this press release, and other factors described in our filingswith the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not toplace undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflectmanagement's judgment only as of the date hereof. The company undertakes noobligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflectevents and circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

SOURCE Weststar Financial Services Corporation