(ATLANTA) -- February 27, 2003 -- Holly Mull & Associates (HMA), an Atlanta-based event production agency, was honored recently by the Georgia Festival and Events Association (GFEA) in the category of 'Best New Event.' Mull received the prestigious GAFFER award - Georgia's Finest in Festivals and Event Recognition - for the production of the inaugural Downtown Neighborhood Festival. This is Mull's second GAFFER award. She received her first GAFFER in 1997 for the 'Best Large Event in the State of Georgia' and her work producing the Atlanta 150.

"I am honored and thrilled to receive this award," said Holly Mull, president, Holly Mull & Associates. "I share this award with the Atlanta Downtown Neighborhood Association who had the original vision to create an event for downtown Atlanta to call its own."

The Atlanta Downtown Neighborhood Association (ADNA) is a not-for- profit civic association representing over 2,000 households residing in downtown Atlanta. It is committed to helping develop a better quality of life for downtown residents and businesses. The Downtown Neighborhood Festival is produced and managed by downtown residents who volunteer their time to the event. The award-winning event includes live entertainment, an artist market, children's activities, and a wide variety of food and beverages. This year's event is scheduled for May 16-18, 2003.

"This is an exciting time for Downtown Atlanta and receiving this award reinforces our passionate effort to revitalize what is at the heart of Atlanta's historic commercial district," said Maria Balais, co-chair. "We are extremely proud of this award and give kudos to the downtown Atlanta community for providing the boundless energy needed to make this event a meaningful success."

The Georgia Festivals and Events Association, Inc. is an affiliated organization with the International Festivals and Events Association, a registered non-profit association. Its purpose is to assist members in achieving the goals of their respective events by providing opportunities for education, promotion, networking and leadership development so as to enhance the quality of life within the community and promote a better understanding of the contributions of Special Events within the State of Georgia.

Holly Mull & Associates is an award-winning event production agency specializing in the creative and practical approach to the planning and execution of public and community-based events including festival, parades, grand openings and civic celebrations. As part of its full-service capabilities, HMA develops signature sponsorship programs and provides marketing and public relations services.

For more information,contact Nancy Tao at 404-378-4306