This partnership enables BMA to offer its clients image exchange capabilities through Zions Bank, utilizing Zions' Electronic Cash Letter Clearing solution, powered by NetDeposit(R). NetDeposit is also a wholly owned subsidiary of Zions Bancorporation.

Long time banker and data processor Gary Matern, president of BMA says, "The passage of Check 21 legislation opens the door to unprecedented potential for our customers to improve the speed with which checks can be cleared. By partnering with Zions Bank, (BMA) customers will now be able to participate in image exchange and derive many advantages associated with Check 21. We are excited to extend this opportunity to our customers." Financial institutions taking advantage of this offering will reduce courier costs and legal expenses as well as charge-offs from returned checks.

C. Grant Hurst, senior vice president and manager of Zions Correspondent Banking Group, agrees. "Our relationship with BMA is a strong alliance that offers valuable benefits to both companies, but more importantly to BMA's clients. Our focus on reducing float, minimizing fraud and increasing operational efficiency is integral in delivering the services we provide. We are pleased to have an opportunity to work with a quality processor like BMA and its clients."

Both companies anticipate BMA's clients being able to utilize this system when Check 21 legislation becomes effective on October 28, 2004.