This past month I had the opportunity of attending the Mutual Concerns of Air and Space Museums Conference in Washington, DC. This annual conference brings together Air and Space Museum professionals from around the US and Canada to share ideas and to learn about new and innovative ways aviation museums can better serve their communities. It includes three days of panel discussions offering practical and in depth information to help grow your organization. The conference covers topics such as fund-raising, preparing the next generation of museum staff, planning and executing unique educational activities, archiving collections and exhibiting.

A prominent focus this year was how to effectively fund raise. Over the past decade, in this tough economic climate, museums have had to change their methods of raising money. Sponsorships are more difficult to obtain and you have to prove your worth to your community. We are planning several fund raising projects and we will continue to show current and future sponsors that we are a valuable asset to this community.

Special attention was also given to new marketing styles using social media. In this ever growing technological age, it is important that we are interacting more with our audience online. Look for the museum to continue upgrading and utilizing our website and Facebook page. If you haven't already "Liked" us on Facebook, be sure to do so today! https://www.facebook.com/ft1549 

Thank you for your continued support as we look forward to a great summer!