NEW YORK - A larger trophy case is in order for the New York Apple Association (NYAA) as the organization has not won just one, but two new awards. Recently, the company earned Best of Show from the Greater Rochester American Advertising Federation for it’s The Big Flavor campaign in addition to a Cap Creal Communicator Award.

"I am so honored to receive an award like this. This is right up there with working side-by-side the New York apple growers in telling their story and spreading the word about The Big Flavor of New York apples," said Bob for Apples from New York, NYAA’s spokespuppet.

The Big Flavor includes a series of videos featuring Bob for Apples from New York, a news anchor for NYAA NEWS, a virtual news station, and field reporter (orchard reporter) Fiona. Using plenty of puns, he won the hearts and attention of the judges, a release explained.

NYAA featured Bob throughout this year's season to promote New York State apples in fun and knowledgeable ways. The organization reports that Bob has been busy working alongside the NYAA team to capture a library of recipe assets to share with apple lovers through social media, traditional media, and NYAA's website. It has over 300 recipes on its website and features some of Bob's favorites through social media and the website.

"The Big Flavor campaign is in full swing as we promote New York apples this season. New York has promotable volume and has several resources to assist retailers in moving New York apples," said Cynthia Haskins, President and Chief Executive Officer of NYAA.

The company also took home the Cap Creal Communicator Award.

The New York State Agricultural Society named Haskins and Tony Mikiciuk, NYAA's Social Media and Trade Advertising Director, as this year's Digital & Social Media Champions.

"We are honored to receive this award," Haskins said. "I am proud of the work that we accomplished. Telling the grower story is important as consumers want to know where their food comes from and who grows it and to learn why New York apples are all about The Big Flavor. And being able to tell The Big Flavor story through Bob for Apples from New York is a new way of capturing the attention of the trade and consumers of all ages."

Mikiciuk also commented on the win's significance for the company.

"Winning this award would not have been possible without the dedication of New York apple growers, who involved themselves and the apples they grow by being the focus of creative assets that we posted through social media and the trade," he said.

Cheers to NYAA on these awards!