Brian D. Schmitt of Piedmont Bank Named Chairman of `Chip in for Children's'.

Business Editors

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 4, 2002

In past 6 years, organization has raised more than

$1.5 million for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

Brian D. Schmitt, President and CEO of Piedmont Bank, has been named Chairman of the Chip In for Children's Club, an organization that helps raise funds for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, the nonprofit pediatric healthcare system that includes two hospitals--Children's at Egleston and Children's at Scottish Rite.

The organization, now in its sixth year, is made up of executives from the Atlanta business community who volunteer their time to raise money through corporate marketing and entertainment opportunities with events of the Children's Sports Network. This incentive-based program offers volunteers the opportunity to earn prizes, such as golf trips and merchandise, based on sales success. Originally created in 1997 to raise money through the Senior PGA TOUR's Nationwide Championship, the Chip In for Children's Club has evolved into a fundraising arm for the entire Sports Network.

"Chip In for Children's Club is an organization that believes in having exceptional healthcare facilities for our children," said Schmitt. "I became involved four years ago, and I've been truly touched by the outpouring of support for our city's children. Because of the work we do, children are able to benefit from Children's, no matter their ability to pay."

In the last six years, the Chip In for Children's Club has helped raise more than $1.5 million for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Schmitt, his army of volunteers and Chip In organizers hope to raise more than $250,000 this year. The funds help Children's care for more than 380,000 children each year.

"Children's is a remarkable organization," added Schmitt. "I am truly honored to be Chairman of the Chip In for Children's Club and am excited about working with volunteers from the Atlanta business community to help this organization continue its mission."

More information on the Children's Sports Network and the Chip In for Children's Club is available at www.choa.org/sports.

Piedmont Bank is a community bank headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., that serves middle market businesses looking for more personalized relationship-based services, such as daily couriers dispatched to pick up customers' deposits. The philosophy at Piedmont Bank is founded on "relationship banking," the idea of a bank building and nurturing personal relationships with its customers. Piedmont Bank clearly represents a return to the comfortable, friendly style of personal banking with innovative service supported by modern technology and highly experienced management.

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta enhances the lives of children through excellence in patient care, research and education. With 430 licensed beds in two hospitals and more than 15,500 annual inpatient visits, Children's is one of the largest pediatric healthcare systems in the country. In 2001, Children's earned a score of 95 out of 100 from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Children's has been recognized for excellence in cardiology, cancer treatment, transplant services and many other pediatric specialties. To learn more about Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, visit the Web site at www.choa.org or call 404.250.kids.