Alto Mourns the Loss of its Chairman

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Aug. 16, 2012) - Alto Ventures Ltd. ("Alto") (ATV.V) It is with great sadness that the Company reports the passing of its Chairman, Jerry Bulman, age 69. Jerry was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in November last year and succumbed to the disease with an exceptionally positive attitude and sense of humor that Jerry was known for during his successful years as a businessman in the resource sector.

Jerry Bulman was a founder of Alto in 1995 when he invested in mineral exploration properties in eastern Canada. As a board member of Alto Ventures, Jerry's contributions to the company were appreciated by both management and shareholders alike through his enthusiastic love for mineral exploration.

Rick Mazur, CEO stated, "It was a true pleasure to have known Jerry for so many years. His counsel and guidance through the ups and downs of the junior mineral exploration sector always focused on providing shareholders with an opportunity for success from their investment."

A funeral service is planned for the week of August 26th in Calgary. Details once formulated can be found by calling the Alto office.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD,

Rick Mazur, P. Geo., CEO & Director

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.