Overview
For one evening each year the Washington Seaplane Pilots Association (WSPA) has the pleasure of welcoming you and your guests to an evening of fun at the Museum of Flight. Our Annual Grounded Hogs Gala Dinner serves as our primary fundraiser to help fulfill the organization's mission to protect and grow seaplane access to Washington waters, promote safe and responsible seaplane operations, foster communications among owners, operators, service providers, and the community, and to facilitate events sharing the joy of seaplane flying in Washington and the Pacific Northwest.
Cost
Members, non-members, pilots, and non-pilots are welcome! This year, the cost per person is 110.00 for members and family, and 120.00 for non-members. Note that the price increase from previous years is due to a direct rise in cost in catering and the facility.
Cancellations
If you are unable to attend after registering, cancellations received before midnight on Thursday, February 16 will be refunded, minus a $25 cancellation fee. If you find you are unable to attend after this date has passed, you are welcome to send a substitute in your place; however, we are committed to the space and will be unable to offer refunds. If you have any questions regarding this policy or to identify a substitute, please contact us at admin@washingtonseaplanepilots.org.
Museum of Flight Access
Registered guests of the Grounded Hogs Gala can enjoy all that the Museum of Flight has to offer as admission is included with registration. Plan to arrive early and check in at the admissions desk. State that you are attending the WSPA Grounded Hogs Gala, and you will be given a private event wristband that will allow you to tour for the entire day leading up to the event. The Museum of Flight opens at 10 am and closes at 5 pm for event setup.
Program
This year, the event will be held in the incredible Museum of Flight Side Gallery. The evening will begin with a social hour, followed by an overview of initiatives and accomplishments from the past year. Douglas DeVries will then provide a presentation centered around his turbine Grumman Goose restoration and some grand adventures he's taken following the restoration. The evening will conclude with our popular raffle - with items and experiences sure to excite any pilot or aviation enthusiast.
Schedule
5:00 pm
Museum of Flight Closes to the Public for Event Setup.
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Reception & Social Hour with Cash Bar in the Museum of Flight Side Gallery
7:00 pm - 7:15 pm
Introduction from WSPA President, Stephen Ratzlaff
7:15 pm - 8:00 pm
Seated Dinner & Presentation by Douglas DeVries
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Raffle
10:00 pm
Conclude
Volunteers Needed
This event could not happen if it weren't for a thoughtful group of volunteers who selflessly donate their time to assist us with guest check-in, ticket sales, raffle setup, and other duties that make the event run smoothly. If you are interested in helping out, please contact Don Goodman via email (donaldjg56@gmail.com) or phone (360) 303-7076.
Raffle Donations
We are immeasurably grateful to receive a variety of generous donations to include in our raffle - from scenic flights and aviation gear, to flight lessons, avionics, books, photography, and aviation themed products and adventures! If you would like to contribute an item or experience, please contact us at admin@washingtonseaplanepilots.org. Every contribution is very much appreciated!
Register Early
The Grounded Hogs Gala coincides with the Northwest Aviation Conference and Trade Show. As such, we expect a large turnout of seaplane pilots, enthusiasts, and guests. Space is limited and we tend to sell out early, so be sure to reserve your tickets before we run out!
More Information
For more information, photos, and to view our sponsors, visit our event website: www.groundedhogs.com. If you have any questions, contact us at admin@washingtonseaplanepilots.org.
