Safe Harbor Statement / Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release are considered "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and it is both companies' intent that such statements be protected by the safe harbor created thereby. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to statements regarding the expected costs savings arising out of the transaction; the ability to quantify and demonstrate cost savings; and the ability to obtain governmental approval of the transaction. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (a) the risk that the transaction may close more slowly than expected or not at all; (b) the risk that the cost savings arising out of the transaction may be less than anticipated, and (c) other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in each company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information in this release is as of October 24, 2005. Both companies disclaim any duty to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events, actual results or changes in expectations.