Make Plans to Attend the 92nd Annual FWSA Convention in Palm Springs

The Far West Ski Association recently distributed its registration materials to all club presidents, inviting club members, and especially your club leaders and future leaders, to attend the 92nd Annual FWSA Convention June 12-15, 2024 at the Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs.  The theme is “Changes in Latitude,” and is being hosted by the Orange Council of Ski Clubs.  With a combination of educational opportunities and social engagement, this convention is not to be missed.

The FWSA Convention offers a wealth of educational workshops, seminars and presentations designed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills. This year’s Snowsports Leadership Academy will be “Crowd Sharing” panel discussions - “Club Administrative and Financial Strategies,” and “Club Operational and Marketing Strategies.” All past, present and future ski club leaders including presidents, board of directors or other officers, can participate in the panel discussions and share how your club handles common organizational operations.  Contact Craig Caples, FWSA VP Membership, at membership@fwsa.org, to submit discussion topics.  The Public Affairs Panel will feature “Climate Change and the Future of Snowsports.”  Dave Tragethon, FWSA Environment Committee Chair, has assembled a panel of experts in this field, addressing one of the most important snowsports industry initiatives.  It will be an interactive panel, facilitating meaningful conversations and connections.  Contact Dave at environment@fwsa.org, if you have any topics you would like addressed.

Now is the time to submit your application for one of the many Club & Council Recognitions & Awards.  It is easy to do and a perfect opportunity to showcase the wonderful work your club is doing, in addition to recognizing your outstanding volunteers making it happen.  Detailed information can be found on the FWSA website at www.fwsa.org under Awards.  The deadline for entries is March 17.

Palm Springs, located in the heart of the breathtaking Coachella Valley, welcomes all with its captivating blend of desert beauty and vibrant city life.  Optional events feature:  a Pickleball Tournament, Legends Home Tour, Mini-Golf Tournament, Sante Spa Day, San Jacinto Aerial Tram, and the 28th Annual Pub Crawl, with stops downtown during the Street Fair.  The Resort features two large and luxurious pools, and the Oasis Pool is the setting for our private Pool Party hosted by Central Council.

Our 39th Annual Silent Auction and Snowsports Trade Show will be conducted on Friday evening, where ski resorts, tour operators, lodging and equipment suppliers will be available to answer questions to assist in planning your next snowsports/adventure trip or equipment purchase.  A portion of the Silent Auction proceeds will benefit the United States Adaptive Recreation Center (USARC) in Bear Mountain.

An Awards Banquet on Saturday evening will acknowledge industry partners, snowsports builders, and volunteers who work tirelessly to promote snowsports, paying tribute to the passion, dedication, and spirit of excellence that define the skiing community.  Musical entertainment will be provided by DJK Music Mixology.  The Convention will conclude on Sunday with the election of officers and business meeting.

Early Registration pricing and the last day to sign up for all activities ends on May 10, and our group discounted pricing for lodging ends on May 19.  For detailed information about registration and all Convention activities, visit www.fwsa.org.   Online registration will be available on or about February 28.  You can also contact: Debbi Kor and Jane Wyckoff, Convention Co-Chairs, at conventionchair@fwsa.org or Sheila Van Guilder, Host Council Convention Coordinator, at hostconventionchair@fwsa.org.  Join us in this opportunity to network, learn, and collaborate on the future of snowsports!