I omit what people who work to keep Museums working (by
sorting out such things as how on earth paying the bills could
be done or where on earth one can gets money or dealing with
organizative subjects) think on the
*artistic* guys who scorn at us (thank God other do not).
 So,  please ,a bit of respect.  We all leave our skins on the
Museum behalf.
more.
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I believe a museum manager does the following (not necessarily in this
order):

1.  Creates a line-up card
2.  Coddles the millionaire directors and curators who will become free
agents without said coddling
3.  Meets the opposing museum manager at city hall to exchange line-up cards
before the big event (probably the fundraising playoffs prior to the World
Budget Session)
4.  Tries to make certain the utlitiy interpreter does not speak when the
auditorium is loaded with potential donors.  Also tries to devise the line-up
card so that the designated development officer gets a chance to "hit" with
sponsors in scoring position. (Good managers use something called "the book"
for this--probably the Foundation Directory or something similar)
5.  Decides when and where to execute the "suicide squeeze" which is when the
manager goes on his or her knees and pleads that the facility will close
without monetary support
6.  Argues with the City Council member when they make a bad call on funding
7.  Tells the press after the deed is done that "we're just happy to have had
the opportunity to get here, and the good lord willing, we'll be back again
next year."

Good museum managers also cultivate good relations with museum owners
(especially if the owner has the last name "Steinbrenner").

Even Babe Ruth had a bad day....


Jay Smith
Reno County Museum
Hutchinson, Kansas

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Opinions expressed here are mine and do not necessarily reflect those of the
folks who authorize my paychecks.
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