For immediate release

Nevada State Bank Helps Businesses Open the Door to the Future

LAS VEGAS - (January 20, 2009—Las Vegas) – Nevada State Bank (NSB) is celebrating the new year with a renewed commitment to lending and helping local businesses "open the door" to their future.

NSB is kicking off a statewide marketing campaign informing small businesses that the bank is willing and able to make loans to qualified borrowers. The campaign launched in early January in print, broadcast and radio.

"Nevada State Bank continues to be committed to our small business community," said Erich Bollinger, executive vice president and chief corporate banking officer of Nevada State Bank. "Nevada State Bank opens the door to the future that awaits small business owners."

NSB, celebrating 50 years of service in 2009, is a conservative bank that has never participated in subprime lending. Thus, the largest and oldest state-chartered bank in Nevada is a safe, secure and solid source for businesses looking for loans to strengthen their business.

Jack Kasarjian, president of X Bats, a Las Vegas-based manufacturer whose wood baseball bats are used by more than 300 Major League players, recently switched to NSB for his firm’s financial needs.

"It's refreshing to hear Nevada State Bank say, "Yes, we are in business," said Kasarjian.  "So many banks have shut down lending, which doesn't serve anyone, including the bank."

Many of the clients NSB works with expressed their gratitude that the bank is lending and is willing to take the time to understand their needs and goals.  

"The clients we've talked to have stated that it's more necessary than ever to have accessibility to cash in today's market," said Bollinger.

Glenn Katayama, treasurer of AGA Plumbing and Mechanical, said "having access to a line of credit from NSB gives his company the cash flow it needs to complete jobs."

"Contractors need startup money to purchase materials and pay salaries until they get paid by the owner of the project," said Katayama.  "Having the line of credit gives us the confidence to bid on projects, knowing we will be able to meet our day-to-day operating expenses."

Robert Myers, chief financial officer for Premier Image Corporation, said having additional working capital has several advantages in today's economy.  His company distributes high-end consumer goods such as luggage, purses and jewelry.  "The line of credit we received from NSB freed up capital and really opened the door for us," said Myers.  "Being more liquid not only gives us more staying power during a downturn, but also lets us take advantage of opportunities in the marketplace."

NSB has several events planned in 2009 to assist small business owners.  The first is Opening Doors 2009, a free event scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 17 at Mandalay Bay.  Speakers include U.S. Sen. Harry Reid, author Frank Abagnale (the inspiration behind the film "Catch Me If You Can"), and Small Business Administration Nevada District Director John Scott, as well as NSB executives. 

Nevada State Bank, with assets of more than $4.0 billion, is the fourth largest commercial bank in Nevada. Established in 1959, it is the oldest state-chartered bank in Nevada with a total of 77 branches statewide. It is a full-service bank offering a complete range of consumer and business services. Nevada State Bank is a subsidiary of Salt Lake City-based Zions Bancorporation (Nasdaq: ZION), one of the nation's premier financial services companies. With affiliates in 10 Western and Southwestern states, 135-year-old Zions Bancorporation has assets of $54.3 billion. For more information on Nevada State Bank, call 702.383.0009 or access www.nsbank.com.

Editor's note:  Contact Sandi Milton at Nevada State Bank for a list of local NSB clients available for interviews.