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Columbia Information Technology Council Announces Luncheon with Astronaut Charles Duke

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Contacts:
Mike Lee
Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce
(803) 733-1117

Cheryl Seminara
LogicSouth
(803) 732-7757

Rita Shoor
Shoor & Company
(803) 699-0710

Columbia Information Technology Council Announces Luncheon with Astronaut
Charles Duke

COLUMBIA, S.C. – October 9, 2001 – The Columbia Information Technology Council
(ITC) today announced a special monthly luncheon featuring a presentation by
distinguished NASA astronaut Brigadier General Charles Duke on October 31,
2001, at noon, in the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce's Palmetto Room.
Duke will speak on the relationship established between NASA, the ITC and the
chamber, as well as the technology opportunities existing in the Columbia area.

The luncheon is open to a limited number of Columbia ITC members. RSVPs should
be directed to the chamber at (803) 733-1152 by October 22.

"NASA has always been on the cutting edge of innovation, encouraging companies
to develop new technologies," said Ike McLeese, president of the Greater
Columbia Chamber of Commerce. "As a result of our recent trip to NASA's
facilities in Langley, Va., we established a relationship that could allow
Columbia companies to create new technologies for the agency, as well as find
new commercial uses for technologies developed by NASA scientists. General Duke
will discuss these new opportunities, his views of growing technological needs,
and from a military standpoint, his perception of current international
events."

As the lunar module pilot for NASA's Apollo 16 mission in 1972, Duke is the
10th of only 12 men to walk on the Moon, and the only former South Carolinian
to do so. He was named South Carolina's Man of the Year and inducted into the
South Carolina Hall of Fame in 1973. In 1975, Duke retired from NASA to enter
private business. He was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame in 1997.

"This new relationship with NASA could open many doors for Columbia's IT
community," said ITC Chairman Cheryl Seminara. "General Duke is a remarkable
technology success story from South Carolina. The ITC is truly pleased to have
him serving as a liaison to NASA."

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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