06 February 2006

Governor makes appointments to ensure ethical banking
Sebelius appoints three members to the State Banking Board

Serving both individuals and businesses, banks play an important role in promoting the economic prosperity of Kansas. To ensure ethical practices in the banking industry, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has appointed Michael Downing, Melvin Minor and Winton Allen Winter to the Kansas State Banking Board.

“Banks help sustain the economic vitality of our communities. Whether we’re going to a bank to get a business or home loan, or are depositing our hard-earned savings, we all want to know our money is safe and that our bank is run appropriately,” Governor Sebelius said.

The State Banking Board promotes competitiveness, financial stability, and sound banking practices, as part of its mission to protect consumers and promote public confidence in the state chartered banking industry. Each appointee will serve a **three-year term.

Downing, Ellis, is the president of the Ellis State Bank. Since 1989, he has worked at the bank in various capacities including as vice president/commercial loan officer and executive vice president. Previously, he was the field examiner for the Kansas State Banking Department.

Minor, Stafford, served as a member of the Board of Directors of the St. John National Bank for 20 years, between 1982 and 2002. He was a teacher at Willis High School and St. John High School. Minor served in the Kansas House of Representatives from 1990 to 2004.

Winter, Lawrence, is the CEO and president of Peoples Bank in Lawrence. Currently, he is a member of the Kansas Bar Association Fee Dispute Resolution Panel. He served as Kansas State Senator between 1982 and 1992.