June 21st, 2024 by WCBC Radio

Governor Jim Justice presented Chef Paul Smith with a Distinguished West Virginian Award after becoming the first state native to win the prestigious James Beard Award for culinary excellence. Smith claimed the coveted 'Best Chef: Southeast' award as part of the annual James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards in Chicago this month. Smith owns multiple restaurants in Charleston and is active in his community, volunteering for various local nonprofits and education groups.  Justice thanked Smith for his efforts in positively representing the state…