Phyllis Lewis
Phyllis Lewis has received the national communications in radio award from the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (NEAFCS).
The award is for a CD of her twice-weekly broadcasts heard on KTHE in Thermopolis. Lewis, a University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service educator in Washakie County, began the broadcasts in November 1995.
"In the past, I've won second and third, so this was great to finally be first," says Lewis. She'll receive the award during the national meeting in Portland, Maine, in September.
KTHE reports more than 4,000 people listen to each broadcast, says Lewis.
"Generally, I focus on nutrition and food safety initiative topics," she said, "but I also promote Hot Springs County 4-H, area ag programs plus some general information, like getting food permits for the upcoming three-on-three basketball event."
She receives feedback. A farmer out on his tractor working and listening to the show had a question about that day's topic and called the radio station, which contacted Lewis. Following another episode, a doctor had his nurse call for more information about the nutrition program that day.
Lewis is a past recipient of the NEAFCS' national Distinguished Service Award and the Continued Excellence Award. She continues to serve on the group's national nominating committee and by-laws committee.
