Bank of the Sierra Announces Approval of Merger With Sierra National Bank.

Business Editors

PORTERVILLE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 19, 2000

James C. Holly, president and CEO for Bank of the Sierra (Nasdaq:BSRR), announced that the Special Meeting of the Shareholders of Sierra National Bank, was held on Tuesday, April 18, 2000.

At this meeting, an overwhelming majority of the shareholders voted in favor of the acquisition of Sierra National Bank with and into Bank of the Sierra. According to the Sierra National Bank Bylaws, at least 66-2/3% of the shareholders were required to vote in favor of the acquisition; and far more than that voted in favor of the acquisition.

"This is an historic day," said Jim Holly, who was also present at the Sierra National Bank shareholders meeting. "This is the first time that Bank of the Sierra has purchased a bank with all its branches. We are looking forward to regulatory approval so that we may commence business in Tehachapi, California City and at a second Bakersfield location as Bank of the Sierra."

Jack Conley, founding president and CEO of Sierra National Bank, noted, "It was a difficult decision to sell our bank. However, we feel confident that our customers will see a very positive change when the merger with Bank of the Sierra is complete; as a matter of fact, Bank of the Sierra will be able to offer Sierra National Bank customers a broader range of products and services, as well as expanded lending limits."

Both banks still await regulatory approval, which is expected to be received by the end of this month. At the present time, the acquisition is expected to be completed at the close of business on Friday, May 19, 2000, with the four branches re-opening on Monday, May 22, 2000, as Bank of the Sierra.

Bank of the Sierra is the largest independent bank headquartered in the South Valley, and operates twelve branch offices as well as five real estate centers, three ag credit centers and a bank card center. More information about Bank of the Sierra is available on the Bank's web site, www.bankofthesierra.com.