Orlando, Florida– May 3, 2006 -- The Printing Association of Florida today announced a record number of entries for the 19th annual Florida Print Awards, surpassing last year’s number of 853. For the first time, the award organizers reported 1017 entries from 68 printing companies and 188 entries from 18 schools. The entries represent the association’s membership base of 523 companies as well as middle, high school and universities. Conducted annually, the Florida Print Awards recognizes outstanding achievement in the graphic arts and printing industry on a statewide level. Winners will be recognized at an award banquet July 29, 2006 at the Association’s annual Print Management Conference at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, Orlando, Florida. “The Florida Print Awards’ event continues to grow in popularity as it provides our members with a vehicle to market themselves to their customer base,” said Michael H. Streibig, president of the Printing Association of Florida. “In addition, the Print Management Conference provides a venue for not only the awards, but education and networking for printers, students and creative professionals. Established in 1988, the Florida Print Awards provides association members, graphic arts and design students from the state of Florida to compete on a level playing field in 55 print and design categories. Entries are judged against those in the same division, allowing entrants to compete against other entrants of the same size and employee number. Winning entrees will receive a certificate suitable for framing and awards will be given in each category by division including best of category, award of excellence, judge’s award and sponsor’s award. In addition, a Golden Flamingo trophy will be given to the company that receives the most first place awards. In 2005, 67 companies were recognized for outstanding achievement at the Association’s 18th Florida Print Awards and Franklin/Trade Graphics, LLC received the Golden Flamingo trophy. In addition, winning companies leverage their award status through marketing, sales and media relations via self-promotion kits provided by the Printing Association of Florida. For more information on The Florida Print competition, the event, attendance, sponsorship or to exhibit at the conference, please contact Anne Gaither, director of education, programs and events at (407) 240-8009, email at [email protected], or visit the Printing Association of Florida’s web site at www.pafgraf.org,