POWERNET GLOBAL CELEBRATES 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY,THRIVES DESPITE INDUSTRY DOWNTURN

Fairfield, OH (October 21, 2002)--PowerNet Global Communications will celebrate its tenth year in business this month with the completion of its new 60,000 square foot corporate facility in Fairfield. Unlike much of its competition, the company has achieved growing revenue and profitability within the telecom sector, while maintaining low levels of long-term debt.

"It's an exciting time for us," said Bernie Stevens, PowerNet Global founder and President/CEO. "Our steady growth is a by-product of our employees dedication. "We're operating in a difficult environment, but staying focused on our core values to continue growing as the industry adjusts to recent market upheavals."

Now offering nationwide long distance, high speed Internet, and data services to nearly a half million commercial and residential accounts, PowerNet began as a small long distance reseller in Stevens' West Chester home, in 1992. The private corporation, which employs over 225 at its headquarters and more than 75 in other locations across the country, pioneered flat rate charges coupled with excellent customer service.

PowerNet Global recently acquired Virginia-based Aleron Broadband Services, LLC. Aleron Broadband Services provides a scalable IP network that utilizes MPLS technology. Aleron offers high-speed Internet access at DS-3, OC-3 and above, as well as a nationwide wholesale dial-up footprint.