Columbia Information Technology Council Announces First Sponsor for Palmetto Pillar Awards

Nexsen Pruet Jacobs & Pollard Boosts Inaugural Event

COLUMBIA, S.C. - December 18, 2001 - The Columbia Information Technology Council (ITC) today announced that Nexsen Pruet Jacobs & Pollard is the premier event sponsor for the Greater Columbia ITC Palmetto Pillar Awards gala, scheduled for Feb. 7. The law firm is contributing additional support of the ITC as the sponsor of the Technology Development Award.

"Our firm has strongly supported Columbia's business community in the past, and we will continue to do so as Columbia increases its number of high-tech companies," said Michael Mann, intellectual property attorney with Nexsen Pruet. "We also advocate the mission of the ITC and what it represents for this area - making the Midlands a more attractive location for new and growing businesses in search of a nurturing environment. For this reason, sponsorship of this inaugural event is important to us."

"Having a firm of the caliber of Nexsen Pruet come onboard first is truly exciting for the ITC," said Walter Perkins, chairman of the ITC Recognition Committee and general manager of Adelphia Business Solutions. "Not only does this demonstrate their support of our efforts, but it also shows their commitment to the future of Columbia's high-tech community."

The ITC continues to accept nominations and sponsorships for the February event, which will be the first of its kind in Columbia to recognize the efforts of individuals and organizations creating new technologies or using them in innovative ways. Nexsen Pruet claims the first of three available event sponsorships. Only four award sponsorships remain. The Technology Development Award will specifically recognize a company or organization for the development of a new or improved technology-based product, process or service that may be utilized for internal purposes or commercial use. Nominations, which must be submitted by December 31, can be made on the web. Additional information is provided at www.itc.columbiachamber.com. "With the support of companies like Nexsen Pruet, the Greater Columbia ITC Palmetto Pillar Awards will be able to showcase some of Columbia's best technology products, services and talent," said ITC Chairman Cheryl Seminara.

Nexsen Pruet is a large general practice firm founded in 1945, with offices in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach, S.C., and in Charlotte, N.C. The firm provides a broad range of legal services to the business community and represents companies in local, state, national and international venues. For additional information, visit www.NPJP.com.

About the ITC The Columbia Information Technology Council is an assemblage of technology leaders promoting Columbia as a desirable location for IT companies. Drawing upon their combined knowledge and experience, the ITC identifies, cultivates and promotes those characteristics and facilities that IT businesses require for efficient and successful operations. Members endeavor to help develop a well-educated and dynamic workforce, provide guidance based on their professional expertise, and advance the amenities offered by the Greater Columbia Area. Additional information can be found on the Web at www.itc.columbiachamber.com.

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