For immediate release
March 2002

Contact: Cheri Baker, Ruppert Companies 301/482-0300

Key Managers Named Partners

Laytonsville, MD - Craig Ruppert, president and majority owner of the Ruppert Companies, announces the appointments of Lee Clarke, J. Kelly Lewis, and William F. Meissner as company partners. Clarke, Lewis, and Meissner join Ruppert, vice president Christopher Ruppert, and vice president Christopher Davitt as company partners.

"These three individuals exemplify the Ruppert values and have been rewarded for their efforts, their contributions, and their loyalty. The Ruppert Companies have always been the sum of the many people whose talents make us successful. Understanding that allows us to recognize that our employees are the most important facet of our company and I'm pleased that we're in a position now to make these promotions. Each of the new partners brings a unique talent and perspective to the ownership table, allowing for balanced future development."

The three have a combined tenure of 30 years. Clarke holds the position of Ruppert Companies Chief Financial Officer. Lewis is general manager of Ruppert Nurseries, Inc. Meissner is a Companies vice president and leads the day-to-day operations of both Ruppert Properties and Ruppert Ventures. The transaction took place on a recent management retreat in Torun, Poland.

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