POULSBO — North Kitsap Herald sports and schools reporter Josh Farley put the first of what will likely be many awards feathers in his cap last week when he was formally recognized by the Suburban Newspapers of America.

Farley earned first place for his 2004 submission in the best feature series category entitled “Uncovering the Mysteries of Autism.”

While the Herald’s circulation is approximately 12,000, Farley’s June articles took top honors in the 15,000-35,000 bracket.

“I am very pleased that Josh received such a prestigious award that was culminated from his journalistic efforts,” said Herald publisher Rob White. “Josh’s achievement was the result of him taking on an assignment, understanding the challenges that may come with it and developing a series of articles that would inform and educate our community readers about the subject of autism. I believe he skillfully accomplished that.”

When asked how he felt when he was called into White’s office under the all too common pretenses of a “serious meeting” about his performance, Farley jokingly commented, “I thought I was going to be fired, as usual.”

The running joke was once again on him, he agreed.

“I was awestruck and feel amazing about winning it,” Farley remarked of the recognition. “It just shows when you work hard, good things happen.”

“The rewarding part (of the project) was getting to follow the story and see first hand the effects of what is an incredible program,” he commented, noting that the most difficult aspect was “framing into words all the incredible work that has been done.”

The article can be viewed at www.northkitsapherald.com, key word “autism.”