Participating Organization: National Conference of State Societies (NCSS) Celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the U.S. Cherry Blossom Princess Program

**PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

National Conference of State Societies (NCSS)
Celebrates the 75^th Anniversary of the U.S. Cherry Blossom Princess Program

The National Conference of States Societies (NCSS) celebrates the 75^th Anniversary of the U.S Cherry Blossom Princess Program in 2023. NCSS was chartered by Congress in April 1952. And is both a 501 (c) 3 and 501 (c) 4 non-profit organization representing the United States and its Territories. Our members include state and territorial expatriates including students, members of the military, active and retired lobbyists and government workers, members of Congress, and staff living in the national capital region. Our membership from the fifty-six state and territorial societies is approximately 20,000 people.

In 1948 NCSS joined the DC Commissioners in restarting the pre-war cherry blossom festival to rebuild friendly relations with Japan. The role of the state societies was to sponsor events and develop an educational and cultural exchange program. The Cherry Blossom Princesses participate in a robust and diverse schedule during the final week of the National Cherry Blossom Festival®.  All state societies are nonpartisan and include active participation by state members of Congress, many of whom have in the past and still serve as officers of state societies. For example, former President Lyndon B. Johnson was a president of the Texas State Society in 1955 when he was Senate Majority Leader. Former U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert was President of the Illinois State Society of Washington, DC from 1992 to 1994. Congressman Paul Ryan (WI) served as Honorary NCSS President while Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2015-2019.

On Friday night April 14^th, 2023, NCSS will select the 75^th U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen, during the Celebration of States and Territories Gala.  The new Queen is selected by a random “spin of the wheel”.  The new Queen will travel to Japan, representing the United States during the annual goodwill tour, meeting heads of state, the Japanese Prime Minister, and the Imperial Family.

Join NCSS, top officials, and diplomatic leaders for one of our nation’s most beloved spring traditions – featuring fabulous food created by the Capital Hilton’s amazing Chef and his team, fresh sushi prepared by the Sushi Chefs of Washington, delicious desserts, and an open bar.  Music and dancing start immediately with a program that includes special guests, the introduction of the 2023 Cherry Blossom Princesses, and the official coronation of the new United States Cherry Blossom Queen featuring the priceless MIKIMOTO Ceremonial Crown. Time: 6:30 PM to 10 PM Location: Capital Hilton, 1001 N. 16th St. NW, WDC 20001

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to:  www.statesocieties.org
Contact: Teresa Downs, V.P. NCSS
540.460.8598
vp@statesocieties.org