Friends---

First, I’d like to start by recognizing the amazing team behind the scenes of a record-breaking Industry Expo & Winter Warm-Up: Chair of National Events Alyssa Cardiello and Vice Chair Dillon Kalla, Industry Expo Director Steve Shanks, our mighty army of volunteers –of which we had over 175 helping throughout the week -and of course NGPA staff, Luke and Beau. PSP would be impossible without their help. Thank you, team!

To our presenting sponsors—United Airlines, our Industry Expo presenting sponsor, and American Airlines, our Winter Warm-Up presenting sponsor—your continued investment in NGPA means the world to us. We are truly grateful for your support. 

This year’s annual pilgrimage to the Coachella Valley seemed to come at just the right time. Excitement and positive energy could be felt all week long, as we welcomed our largest crowd ever; nearly 2,400! Congratulations to all who received their CJO in PSP, including over two dozen from American Airlines. NGPA member Ken Jillson’s cherry-red Aviat Husky A-1-C-200 stole the show at Saturday’s Fly-In. Pam Ann’s performance during the Scholarship & Fundraising Gala filled the room with laughter and joy. Our generous donors raised their paddles, pledging a staggering $188,000 during the evening! Over $400,000 in scholarships were awarded to 33 well-deserving members (you can read about them HERE). And, of course, who can forget the talents of Ongina and her fellow queens at Sunday’s Battle of the Skies drag bunch? 

Overall, the weekend was unequivocally a resounding success, thanks in no small part to the army of volunteers. The NGPA is powered by volunteers – please join me in recognizing their dedication to putting on another fabulous Industry Expo and WWU weekend.