DALLAS AGENCY JOINS WORLDCOM PUBLIC RELATIONS GROUP

Michael A. Burns & Associates becomes exclusive Metroplex member of worlds largest network of independent public relations firms

DALLAS – May 7, 2002 – Michael A. Burns & Associates (MB&A) was one of 11 new members from six countries that were welcomed into the Worldcom Public Relations Group, the worlds largest network of independently owned public relations counseling firms, at its annual meeting in Rome, Italy.

MB&A, now one of the largest independently owned, Dallas-based agencies, also received its certificate of compliance with the newly adopted Worldcom uniform management standards, noted MB&A president Michael Burns.

Our ability to immediately comply with the Worldcom standards validates the steps weve taken to become the Southwests premier PR agency and strengthens our ability to serve clients anywhere in the world," he said.
At the meeting, Worldcom also announced that despite last years sluggish economy and the impact of September 11, member firms combined fee income for 2001 was approximately $198.8 million, up from $196 million the year before.

About Worldcom Public Relations Group
Worldcom is comprised of approximately 100 partner firms with offices in more than 30 countries on six continents, more than 1,600 employees and net fee income of nearly US$200 million. The organization serves national, international and multi-national clients needing in-depth marketing and communications support and expertise from professionals who understand the language, culture and customs of the domestic and foreign arenas in which they operate. For more information, please visit www.worldcomgroup.com.

About Michael A. Burns Inc. & Associates
Michael A. Burns & Associates Inc. is a Dallas-based public relations firm specializing in business, financial communications and investor relations. Founded in 1989, MB&A provides clients with strategic counsel in addition to full or partial program implementation. Serving clients both in the United States and internationally in an array of industries, MB&A has especially positioned itself in the finance, venture capital and business-to-business sectors. For more information, go to www.mbapr.com.