ATLANTA (Sept. 12, 2006) ¯ Smith, Gambrell & Russell LLP announces that Patrick M. Connolly has joined the law firm to lead its growing health care practice.

“Health care is a growing, heavily regulated and rapidly evolving industry with expanding needs for legal expertise,” Mr. Connolly said. “SGR is well equipped with all of the resources necessary to address the complex issues ahead for health care providers.”

Mr. Connolly has extensive experience negotiating large transactions and resolving complex regulatory issues for hospitals and other health care providers. His clients have included physician groups, hospitals, surgery centers, nursing homes, health care technology companies and integrated delivery systems.

Mr. Connolly previously served as senior legal counsel to a national hospital chain and as general counsel to two physician practice management companies. He is a 1975 graduate of Harvard Law School and also holds a master’s degree in Health Administration.

“The greatest challenge facing the health care industry is the convergence of an aging population and emerging technologies, which exacerbates the already difficult economic and ethical decisions inherent in delivering patient care,” Mr. Connolly said. “Hospitals and other providers must rise to the challenge amid increasing financial pressure and legal complexities.”