The former CEO resigned July 1, 2002 and endorsed Stockert for his position. However, later Williams criticized Stockert's effort to increase the company's performance. Williams says he and five new directors he is sponsoring can return the company to profitability.

The April 23 letter to shareholders warns them that "nothing less than the future of your company and the value of your investment is at stake" at the May 22 annual shareholders meeting in Downtown Atlanta. "We urge you to act now to protect the value of your shares" by signing, dating and mailing in a white proxy card, the letter says. It also warns shareholders to disregard Williams' gold proxy card.

The letter states "the stakes are high and the choice is clear. Despite the distractions caused by Williams, culminating in this proxy contest, your board of directors and current management continue to move forward with their plans to put your company on the right course and improve value for all shareholders."