Mayor Dwight C. Jones today issued the following statement:

"I am very pleased Union First Market Bankshares Corporation will headquarter in downtown Richmond. Today’s announcement is encouraging news during a time of national economic distress and uncertainty. I see this merger as a positive step forward in rebuilding Richmond as a financial center.

"The banks of Union Bankshares have a long history of local banking and a strong commitment to the communities they serve, including a healthy presence here in greater Richmond. Jim and Bobby Ukrop have built First Market Bank with the same commitment to customer and community service that Ukrop’s customers have enjoyed for decades. I know Union First Market will be a responsible corporate citizen and community leader, and I look forward to working with them to build a better Richmond."

Contact: Tammy Hawley, (804) 646-3110