Chamber selects DDS as Company/Entrepreneur of the Year

New Orleans, LA (January 29, 2001) – The Jefferson Chamber of Commerce selects local technology leader, Diamond Data Systems, Inc. as Company/Entrepreneur of the Year (2000) for small business. The awards ceremony took place during the Chamber's 2001 Annual Meeting and Installation Gala. The event was hosted at the Metairie Country Club.

The members of the 2000 Board of Directors reviewed the nominations for the Company/Entrepreneur of the Year. The winner was based on a set criterion, which the Chamber determined was paramount for local businesses to exhibit to be a role model to other member companies. Criteria includes: demonstrating leadership and drive within their field; employment growth, participates in Chamber events; responds to adversity in a positive manner; and resides and/or promotes business activity in the Jefferson Parish.

"When we began reviewing the nominated companies, we were looking for a company that truly stands out in their field," states Mark McGinnis, 2001 chairman of the board. "It was clear that Diamond Data Systems exhibits this and above and beyond our set criteria. They exemplify the mold of the ideal chamber member due to their leadership, growth, financial stability and their positive response to adversity over the life of their business."

Diamond Data Systems (DDS) was 2000's small business winner and received the Company/Entrepreneur of the Year award. This type of award was obtained due to the companys drive to make an effective presence in the software engineering, network engineering and IT contracting markets. Playing a key role with the Chamber organization is important to the corporate culture at DDS.

"Being recognized by the Jefferson Chamber for our hard work and dedication is an honor in itself," said Rick Gremillion, vice president of DDS. "From the very beginning of Diamond Data's existence, we have made a conscious effort to be actively involved in the community. It is very rewarding to be acknowledged by our peers and the local business community for our efforts to grow our business within the technology industry."

About Diamond Data Systems, Inc.
Diamond Data Systems, Inc., a total IT solutions provider founded and based in the New Orleans area for the past eight years, serves clients nationwide. The company is made up of four distinct divisions: software engineering services, network engineering services, technical contracting services and commercial off-the shelf software. In January 2000, DDS formed subsidiary, E-commerce Service Providers (www.1esp.com) to provide superior e-commerce solutions to businesses of all sizes. For more information about this company, please visit www.diamonddata.com or call 504.729.9100.

About The Jefferson Chamber of Commerce
The Jefferson Chamber of Commerce is a local business organization representing over 500 Business whose mission is to enhance the economic, civic, and cultural environment, and advance the quality of life in Jefferson Parish.