Ruppert Completes Second Term as Federal Reserve Board Director
January 21, 2002

Contact: Cheri Baker (301) 482-0300

Laytonsville, MD - Craig Ruppert, president and owner of the Ruppert Companies, recently completed his second and final consecutive three-year term as a Director for the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, one of twelve banks that make up the U.S. Federal Reserve System.

"Serving in this capacity for the past six years has been a great experience, both personally and professionally," stated Ruppert at a Richmond retirement dinner. "This opportunity allowed me not only to participate - in a very small way - in our country's monetary policy, but gave me a great appreciation and understanding of what the Fed does, how it works, who runs it, and why it's important to everyone. The educational opportunities fraom all perspectives - economics, business, human relations - have been huge. I have a new respect for the institution and have acquired a strong desire to use - and share - the knowledge that I have learned along the way."

During his tenure as a director, Ruppert also served as a member of the bank's executive committee, the committee on buildings, the committee on financial strategic planning, and the committee on research, public affairs, and community affairs.

Richmond Federal Reserve president, Al Broaddus, notes that "Craig was an extraordinarily energetic and enthusiastic director of the Bank. He.regularly contacted businesses across a range of industries in his geographic area and reported their views on emerging economic and financial conditions. We will miss his unique perspective and upbeat attitude during our deliberations, but.can count on him to continue serving as a highly effective ambassador for the Federal Reserve."

The Ruppert Companies owns and operate Ruppert Nurseries, Inc., Ruppert Properties, and Ruppert Ventures.