TAG Names Technology Legislators of the Year

Senator Barry Loudermilk and Representative Mike Dudgeon Recognized for Contributions to Georgia Technology. End Quote

Atlanta, GA (1888PressRelease) June 17, 2011 - The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG), the state's leading association dedicated to the promotion and economic advancement of Georgia's technology industry, today announced that Georgia Senator Barry Loudermilk (R-Cassville) and Representative Mike Dudgeon (R-Suwanee) have been awarded with the 2011 Technology Legislator of the Year Award. The award is given annually to lawmakers who demonstrate superior support and understanding of Georgia's technology issues and industry.

"Senator Loudermilk and Representative Dudgeon are two of the strongest supporters of the technology industry at the Capitol. They understand the important issues that impact technology firms and work tirelessly to see that Georgia is not only open for business, but open for innovation," said Tino Mantella, president and CEO of TAG.

Mantella continued, "Senator Loudermilk was the sponsor of Senate Resolution 68, which will develop a strategic plan for Georgia's science and technology industry and help make our state a nationwide leader for technology job and business development. His focus on restoring and growing Georgia' economy was demonstrated through his sponsorship of SR 68.

Rep. Dudgeon, in his first year, has already proven to be an effective leader in the state. His pro-business, pro-technology attitude, coupled with his knowledge of our education system, will continue to allow him to make Georgia a better place to start and grow a business."

"The technology industry is critical to growing our economy and putting Georgians back to work," said Senator Loudermilk. "As this industry grows, it is vital that we develop a structure that will not only support, but encourage its development statewide. I am very appreciative of this award and will continue to work to see that Georgia is a nationwide leader in technology."

"Having graduated from Georgia Tech and worked in Atlanta's technology sector for more than 20 years, I understand the impact this industry has on our state. We must ensure that Georgia fosters an environment that ripe for the high-paying jobs that come with technology businesses. This award is a true honor," said Rep. Dudgeon.

The awards will be presented to both lawmakers before a crowd of top technologist and stakeholders at a special gathering on June 14 held at GE Energy.

About The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG)
The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) is the leading technology industry association in the state, serving more than 13,000 members and hosting over 170 events each year. TAG serves as an umbrella organization for 30 industry societies, each of which provides rich content for TAG constituents. TAG's mission is to educate, promote, and unite Georgia's technology community to foster an innovative and connected marketplace that stimulates and enhances a tech-based economy. The association provides members with access to networking and educational programs; recognizes and promotes Georgia's technology leaders and companies; and advocates for legislative action that enhances the state's economic climate for technology. Additionally, the TAG Education Collaborative (TAG's charitable arm) focuses on helping science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education initiatives thrive. For more information visit the TAG website at www.tagonline.org or TAG's community website at www.tagthink.com. To learn about the TAG-Ed Collaborative visit http://www.tagedonline.org/.

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