In late September, 2009, DCSki Columnist Jim Kenney was recognized by the West Virginia Division of Tourism with a “Stars of the Industry” Award for his reporting on skiing in West Virginia. Jim was the winner in the category “Best Web/Internet/E-Magazine Article” for his story titled Firsthand Report: Ski the Valley - Canaan and Timberline, West Virginia, which ran on DCSki on January 31, 2009. In this story, Jim described a mid-winter trip to Canaan Valley and Timberline Ski Resorts, capturing the essence of skiing in the region with solid writing and photos.

This is the second time that DCSki writers have received “Stars of the Industry” awards from the West Virginia Division of Tourism. In 2003, DCSki Columnist John Sherwood was recognized with the award for his reporting on West Virginia skiing.

The Stars of the Industry Award, proudly displayed at Jim Kenney’s house. The vase is engraved: “2009 West Virginia Division of Tourism’s Stars of the Industry Award; Best Web/Internet/E-Magazine Article; Jim Kenney”. Photo provided by Jim Kenney.