Volunteers, Bikes and Auctions Oh My!

I wanted to write today about a few odds and ends. A housekeeping blog of sorts, just to clear some things out that have been on my mind. Elizabeth Andrews said that “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” This could not be more true about our volunteers here at the Museum of Aviation . Simply put, we have an amazing staff of volunteers. It has been interesting for me, as a relative newcomer, to observe the interactions of the different staffs at the museum. The museum operates through a network of government employees, museum foundation employees and volunteers. All work together and play important roles, but one thing is for sure: the day-to-day operation of the museum would simply not be possible without our volunteers. Our wonderful Volunteer Program Administrator, Mr. Dan Hart, makes this possible. With that said, the Museum of Aviation is always looking for individuals who would like to spend a few hours each week working as a volunteer here. The basic requirements for the volunteer position are to be at least 18 years of age, have a pleasant attitude, a professional appearance, be dependable and have the desire to serve in a capacity that helps the museum and the community. For more information contact Dan Hart, Volunteer Program Administrator at 926-4242 or email dan.hart@museumofaviation.org

Cycling is something that I have loved for many years, and I have personally been mountain biking for over a decade now. The term “mountain” is used lightly, as the local geography here in Georgia really offers more hills than mountains. Regardless, there is an exceptional cycling opportunity coming up for the local community that provides fitness as well as a chance to get a unique view of Robins Air Force Base.  On June 26^th, the 116^th Air Control Wing (ACW), in conjunction with the Museum of Aviation and the Bike Store, will hold the first annual “Tour De Moose” bike ride. The Bike Store is a great local vendor that anyone involved in cycling in the area knows. There will be static display aircraft for riders to view while on base, tentatively to include an E-8C, C-130, C-5 and F-15. This will be a great chance to get up close and personal with some of these loud and noisy friends that roam the skies over Middle Georgia! For full details follow the link HERE .

If you are from the Warner Robins or Macon area, you probably know about this event. I am from the local area and always hear everyone talking about this event this time of year. All the talk relates to the Museum of Aviation Foundation’s 25^th Annual Auction and Raffle. The auction/raffle will take place on Saturday, July 17, 2010, features a chance to win a new car or truck or $25,000 and two additional cash prizes of $2,000 and $500. Not a bad way to spend a Saturday in July if you ask me. For more details follow the link HERE.

Stay tuned later this week for an update on the collections staff, as we work on an exhibit involving the museum’s MH-53M Pave Low IV. For those not familiar with this brute of a helicopter, it has an amazing history. Until next time!r