Baker Boyer Bank Reports Solid First Quarter Earnings, Builds for the Future

Date: April 27, 2005 BB Contact: Teresa Larson; (509) 526-1241; larsont@bakerboyer.com Subject: Baker Boyer Bank Reports Solid First Quarter Earnings, Builds for the Future Release: Immediate First quarter earnings at Baker Boyer Bank increased 16.1% over this time last year to $1.135 million, president and CEO Megan Clubb reported recently. "We have accomplished our number one goal of turning earnings around, and have produced solid financial performance in the first quarter of 2005," Clubb said. She added, "Cost management efforts, a widening net interest margin, and significant improvements in credit quality resulted in a considerable increase in earnings per share." Earnings per share are reported at $0.88, up 17% from March 2004. Baker Boyer Bank also demonstrates confidence in the future through the remodeling of two local branches this year. Construction on the bank's College Place branch began earlier this month, and includes an addition to the building, a third drive-thru lane, and extensive interior remodeling. The project is scheduled to be finished in July. Upon completion of the College Place branch, work will begin on the bank's branch located on Plaza Way in Walla Walla. Founded in 1869, Baker Boyer Bank is the oldest independently owned community bank in the state. It is headquartered in Walla Walla and has 9 branches, including business banking and trust offices in Kennewick and Yakima. It has 196 employees and $389 million in assets as of March 31, 2005. To learn more about Baker Boyer Bank, visit www.bakerboyer.com. PO Box 1796 7 W Main Walla Walla, WA 99362 800) 234-7923