Enter a small business, business professional or work team that is 'paying it forward' at www.southernheroes.com

ATLANTA, July 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SouthernLINC Wireless, a Southern Company (NYSE: SO), announced today it has launched its fifth Southern Heroes promotion. From now through Aug. 31, 2009, go to www.southernheroes.com to nominate a small business, business professional or work team from Alabama, Florida, Georgia or Mississippi for a chance to be honored as a Southern Hero.

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Three eligible nominees that exemplify the Southern Heroes spirit through empowering their local communities, improving the quality of life of residents, and giving back to those in need will be selected as winners. In order to help further each Southern Hero's altruistic efforts, a $2009.00 contribution will also be made, in accordance with promotional rules, to an eligible, not-for-profit organization of each winner's choosing.

'There are countless small businesses and entrepreneurs that, despite challenging economic times, continue to instill charitable initiatives into their company cultures and business practices,' said Bob Dawson, president and CEO of SouthernLINC Wireless. 'With this in mind, SouthernLINC Wireless will honor three Southeastern businesses that are passionate about helping others and making a difference in their local communities as 2009 Southern Heroes.'

SouthernLINC Wireless will reward the winning Southern Heroes in several ways, including organizing a 'hometown celebration' to publicly acknowledge their achievements, promoting each Southern Hero's story to appropriate media outlets, and contributing to each Southern Hero's favorite charity.

No purchase is necessary to submit a nomination or be selected as a Southern Hero. To nominate a prospective Southern Hero, learn more about the promotion or view the official promotional rules, visit www.southernheroes.com.