St. Paul, MN – The Printing Industry of Minnesota held its annual Star of Excellence Awards Banquet, on April 29, 2010 at the University of Minnesota's  McNamara Alumni Center. The evening began with a keynote address by author and popular speaker, Harvey Mackay. Mr. Mackay was available to sign copies of his new book, Using Your Head to Get Your Foot in the Door.

The top awards recognized outstanding leadership, customer service, production and printed materials.

The Graphic Arts Industry Leader of the Year was awarded this year to Mark Carlson, Vice President, Heidelberg, USA. The past recipients select each new member of this elite list annually. The award has been given by PIM since 1972. Mark was chosen for his leadership in serving on the PIM Board support of PIM through donation of print services and participation in PIM events, and his support of the graphic arts industry through his activities in post-secondary education and representing industry interests to state and national government bodies. This award is presented to an outstanding individual who is truly an ambassador of print, and Mark certainly exemplifies that.

The evening was rounded out with the announcement of the Star of Excellence Best of Show. This year's winner, chosen by a panel of qualified judges, was Carlson Print Group Promotional Box, by Carlson Print Group, Eden Prairie.  A beautiful piece of work that was praised by the judges for its finishing techniques and fine printing execution, this piece is something to be proud of.

Banquet attendees voted for the Peoples' Choice Award, and IGH Solutions/Travel Tags were selected for their Alice in Wonderland piece.

Bill Marben, Daily Printing, Plymouth received the second annual Customer Service Representative of the Year Award. Bill was nominated for his outstanding work with customers and co-workers by Tom Moe, Daily Printing.

Scott Robinson, John Roberts Co., Minneapolis, receive the first annual Production Professional of the Year Award. Scott has also been nominated for the FlintGroup Production Professional award to be announced in Maryland in May.

PIM enjoys recognizing its members for their hard work, and the evening was a great success. PIM sponsors several member events throughout the year, including a Golf Outing and a Print Showcase trade show.