NetNews

For the second time, a reporter/producer at North Country Public Radio, the station housed at St. Lawrence University, has been recognized with a journalism award for stories on agriculture.

David Sommerstein received the 25th Annual "Cap" Creal Journalism Award by the New York State Agricultural Society this year; he also received the award for the previous year. The society was formed in 1932 to "promote and improve the agricultural industry through education, leadership development and recognition programs."

Sommerstein was recognized for stories about North Country area farmers who are looking at alternatives to dairy farming as a means of keeping their businesses viable. "I think it is really important to portray the diversity and subtleties of life on the farm in the North Country," Sommerstein said in a statement. "It helps neighbors better understand what farmers do, the challenges they face and the innovation and creativity they are using to redefine their livelihoods in a fast- changing industry."

A North Country Public Radio staff member since 2000, Sommerstein has received more than a dozen awards for his work.

Visit the North Country Public Radio Web site and hear Sommerstein's award-winning stories.

Posted: January 26, 2005