DON BERRYMAN OF EARTHLINK NAMED 2006 ATLANTA TELECOM PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

ATLANTA – November 16, 2006 – The Atlanta Telecom Professionals (ATP), a non-profit organization dedicated to the continued professional development and extending the network of Atlanta's telecommunications community, has awarded Don Berryman, executive vice president and president, Municipal Networks of EarthLink, Atlanta Telecom Professional of the Year.

"I am honored to have been selected as the ATP's professional of the year in 2006, especially considering the distinguished list of nominees. This award recognizes EarthLink's past accomplishments and helps validate the emergence of the municipal Wi-Fi marketplace in the telecommunications industry," said Berryman. "I accepted this award on behalf of the many talented and innovative people at EarthLink without which our leadership position in the Municipal Wireless space would not be possible. This is a very special place to work and I'm confident many great things will continue to happen here."

In front of more than 400 of the industry's most influential people, ATP also honored Jack Plating, president-South Area for Verizon Wireless, with the 2006 ATP Innovation Award; Robert Shingler, president and CEO of Cypress Communications, with the 2006 ATP Leadership Award; and Elaine Mitchell Norman, vice president, technology, American Cancer Society, South Atlantic Division with the 2006 ATP Enterprise Award.

"It is an honor to be considered among the best of the best in telecom," said Jack Plating, president-South Area, Verizon Wireless. "We will continue to offer the best network, best products and services and best customer service with a keen eye on innovation and execution. We appreciate the recognition along the way."  

"We are honored to have the opportunity to recognize these individuals and all of the nominees for their tremendous contributions to the Atlanta telecom industry," said Jenifer Juarez, chairperson for the event and ATP's 2007 vice president. "The annual gala brings together the who's who in Atlanta telecom."

About Atlanta Telecom Professionals 

The Atlanta Telecom Professionals (ATP) is a non-profit organization created for the purpose of providing an environment for networking, the exchange of information, and the recognition of excellence within the Atlanta telecom community.  ATP exists to meet the professional development and networking needs of its members - telecom, cable, and Internet professionals in Atlanta and the Southeastern region of the United States.

To join ATP or for more information on the many benefits associated with ATP membership and a full calendar of ATP events, please visit the web site at www.telecompros.org.