As an added benefit, entrants receive written critique and evaluation by competent public relations professionals from outside the perimeters of agriculture communications experts.

NEW PRAGUE, MINNESOTA (AgPR) March 13, 2018 - The Agricultural Relations Council (ARC) today issued the annual "Call for Entries" for the highly-respected Golden ARC Awards. The annual contest allows agricultural public relations professionals to submit their best work for comparison to that of colleagues working in companies, agencies, associations and other organizations around the globe. New this year is a reduced price for entries.

As an added benefit, entrants receive written critique and evaluation by competent public relations professionals from outside the perimeters of agriculture communications experts. This years contest will be judged by members of the Maine Public Relations Council, in an arrangement with the Public Relations Society of America. This procedure differentiates the competition from other agricultural communications contests - allowing a fresh view by peers who are not directly or indirectly linked to the entries.

Judges will assess the entries based on a number of objectives, including audience analysis, creativity, execution and campaign results, especially measurability.

The highest ranking entry will receive the coveted Golden ARC de Excellence. Each category may have winners and merits. Winners will be recognized in the Golden ARC Awards Banquet at the ARC annual meeting, in Louisville, Kentucky on June 21.

Originated in 1990, the Golden ARC Awards Contest recognizes the best and brightest in agricultural public relations and is open to both ARC and non-ARC members. The 37 categories reflect the broad scope of contemporary public relations activities. To learn more about the competition, visit www.agrelationscouncil.org.

The format and requirements for the Golden ARC Awards are similar to other leading public relations awards programs, based on best practices for public relations campaigns and tactics. More information is available at the ARC website, www.agrelationscouncil.org/golden-arc-awards. Or call Amy Keith McDonald at 254/396-3535 or email her at amymcdonald@gandgcomm.com.

The Agricultural Relations Council is the only association dedicated to serving the unique needs of public relations professionals working in agriculture, food, fiber and other related industries. ARC is a conduit for problem-solving, idea-sharing and collaboration among members, who share a passion for excellence in public relations.