By John Stouffer

August 1, 1998

For the first time ever, the North American Snowsports Journalists Association will award not just one, but two snowboarders the coveted Carson White Golden Quill Award. The award, named after the founder of NASJA, honors individuals who have contributed significantly to the advancement of snow sports in North America.

Tom Sims and Jake Burton will be presented the award at NASJA's annual meeting at Mammoth Mountain, California in April of 1999. Not only is this the first time a member of the snowboarding industry has been given the award, but it's also the year that the organization has changed its name from Ski to Snowsports Journalists Association.

Burton and Sims are joining a pretty elite group. The award has also been presented to such ski legends as Doug Pfeiffer, a pioneer of freestyle skiing; filmmaker Warren Miller; Jerry Groswald, former CEO of Winter Park; and Dave McCoy, founder of Mammoth Mountain.

NASJA is a professional group of more than 400 writers, photographers, and broadcasters who present snow-related news, information, and features throughout the United States and Canada. The organization is currently trying to get more involved with the snowboarding industry. Anyone interested in more information should contact Steve Threndyle, the executive director, at: 309 E. 24th Ave., Vancouver, B.C., Canada V5V 1Z8, phone: (604) 877-1140; e-mail: [email protected]