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July/August 2010
Dear Friends,
I want to share a story of appreciation and generosity with you. Last month, one of our renewing members, Thomas Gray, came into the Museum with his wife Nyra, to give us a check for $125. Here is the story behind their generous contribution: Mr. Gray comes from a family of train porters and as you may know, in our Journey Gallery there is an interactive display Working on the 'Road -- highlighting the significance of railroads in the history of African Americans in the Northwest.
Thomas Gray honoring NAAM with his heartfelt contribution Photo by Nyra Gray
Mr. Gray's father and grandfather were both members of the Pullman Porters union, and each worked for the railroad for over 35 years. A retired Boeing engineer, Thomas Gray recently spoke to a group of Seattle School retirees about his family railroad memories including his own summer experience as a "chair-car attendant"; the educators thanked him with an honorarium of $125, which he decided to donate to NAAM. This is a story we love because it shows that our exhibitions connect, engage, and inspire people to support NAAM.
Our annual campaign is on and if you haven't received a letter from us yet, please don't wait -- you can donate online and your contribution will be matched dollar for dollar by our Bill and Melinda Gates matching grant.
If you appreciate jazz, you won't want to miss our most recent exhibition "After Hours: The Joint is Jumpin" highlighting the jazz scene that flourished in our region from the 1930s and beyond. There is lots happening at NAAM this summer -- including live jazz -please check our online calendar!
And don't forget that 1st and 2nd Tuesdays are free at NAAM - thanks to the City of Seattle Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs for their generous support.
Thank you for all you do to ensure that NAAM is alive with love!
 Kay Hubbard
Development Director
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