Synergy Events Recaps the PRSA-NY Big Apple Awards at the Hudson Theatre

Last night in New York City, the PRSA-NY chapter put on a terrific event, its annual Big Apple Awards, to honor the best campaigns and brightest professionals in the public relations industry. I have the pleasure of chairing the chapter's Professional Partners Committee, so I've seen first-hand the hard work and planning that went into making the event a huge success.

It was a fun evening at a fantastic new venue for the event, the Hudson Theatre at the Millenium Broadway Hotel.  The Rainbow Room, which was the most recent venue for the awards, featured a breathtaking view. But the Hudson Theatre seemed to give the night more of a true "event" feel, so kudos to Carol Davis- Grossman at The Charles Group (the chapter's administrative arm) for securing the venue. (By the way, the lamb chops were awesome!).

But the night was about honoring some of the best public relations campaigns and events by area firms. Time Warner Cable won the "Best of the Best" award for the "Let's Connect: Introducing Time Warner Cable's Mission & Values" campaign. (Full list of winners is here).

"The Big Apple Awards recognize the exceptional work of New York area public relations professionals. The winning organizations demonstrated a gold standard in public relations, a clear understanding of campaign objectives and flawless execution that delivered value and tangible results for their clients," said PRSA-NY President-elect, and Big Apple Awards Chair, Sandra Fathi.  

Perhaps my favorite part of the night was listening to the speeches from the individual award winners, including the classy and eloquent Deb Radman, one of my favorite people in the industry. Deb won the Dorf Award for outstanding accomplishments in mentoring PR practitioners.

I also want to applaud Art Stevens, former PRSA-NY president and past recipient of the Dorf Award and John W. Hill Award. Art handed out another $5,000 scholarship to a PR student at last night's event. This year's winner of the annual award was Kellie Jelencovich, CCNY PRSSA Chapter President.

Phil Lipof and Michelle Charlesworth, Co-Anchors of WABC-TV's Weekend Morning News, hosted the event for the sixth consecutive year. They did a wonderful job-as they do on Channel 7-and I know the chapter is grateful for their time and dedication. (By the way, I chatted with both of them for about 10 minutes after the event was over. As good as they are as journalists, they are both even better people).

Overall, the PRSA-NY Big Apple Awards was a huge success. The  venue was perfect, the networking was terrific and the winners received well-deserved recognition for their campaigns and accomplishments. Thanks to all of the sponsors, board members and volunteers who made it such a great event. We hope to see you next year!