Dear Fresno First Bank Shareholders, Customers, Ambassadors and Friends, I am pleased to announce that effective July 12, 2007 Richard “Rick” Whitsell has joined Fresno First Bank as President and Chief Executive Officer.  Brad Smith, who has been serving as interim President and Chief Executive Officer and Director will retain his Board position and will also assume expanded responsibilities as Vice Chair.  The appointment of Smith to Vice Chair and election of Whitsell to the Board was confirmed during our July 19, 2007 Board meeting. Smith joined Fresno First Bank in April 2007.  Among his many duties, a primary objective was to assess the long-term leadership goals of the Bank, develop the appropriate criteria and help the Board recruit his replacement.  A key objective for consideration was a person with a long-term record in community banking who shares our emphasis on a banking culture that is focused on delivery of premium service through personal relationships. Whitsell comes to Fresno First Bank from Modesto and has over 30 years of banking experience including President and CEO of two California banks.  He has a track record for achieving success in growth of assets and profitability while at the same time, providing leadership skills and support to his entire banking staff.  Smith states “Rick brings to the table a skill level that I have sought to employ in similar positions throughout my banking career.  I am confident he will do an outstanding job as President and CEO of Fresno First Bank and I am looking forward to working with him in my role as Vice Chair.” Whitsell brings a high level of energy and enthusiasm to leading our Bank into the future.  Whitsell says “This is an opportunity for me to work with a successful team of bankers who share my belief that a great bank is all about outstanding service, building relationships and adding value to our customers and our community.  My wife Joyce and I are looking forward to making our home in Fresno.” The appointment of Rick Whitsell as President and CEO and Brad Smith’s commitment to expand his role to serve as our Vice Chair brings an unprecedented level of executive leadership to Fresno First Bank.  As Chairman of the Board, I am looking forward to the future with these distinguished bankers in leadership roles at Fresno First Bank. Sincerely,   David N. Price, Chairman                                                                                                                         Fresno First Bank