We are about to celebrate the most significant milestone realized by the Foundation-the grand opening of the Atomic Testing Museum permanent exhibit galleries. The gala will happen in February 20, 2005. Again, I must extend many thanks to our staff, trustees, sponsors, and the Desert Research Institute, for helping us to achieve this milestone-the dream has indeed been realized! We can now invite the world in to share one of the most significant collections of Cold War memorabilia.

While this past year represented many highpoints in the last phase of this enormous undertaking, we have had to overcome a few stumbling blocks and have still risen to the occasion-this due in large part to the commitment and determination of everyone involved.

We have been fortunate to sponsor some key events, such as book signings and lectures conducted by Thomas C. Reed ("At the Abyss, An Insider's History of the Cold War"), and Senator Dina Titus ("Bombs in the Backyard: Atomic Testing and American Politics"). We were honored by the presence of Dr. Donald M. Kerr, Deputy Director for Science and Technology, Central Intelligence Agency, who spoke at the Foundation's sixth annual dinner meeting, held on October 19, 2004. I was ill and had to forego the event; however, I was able to "attend at a later date" by viewing the full-length videotape and was amazed by the draw of both current members and new faces who had come to see Dr. Kerr as well as a sneak peek at the permanent exhibits. It was heartwarming! In our Changing Exhibit Hall, July 31, 2004, marked the beginning of an eight-month exhibition of Peter Goin's photographic journal aptly named, "Nuclear Landscapes," along with items previously displayed in the Nevada Test Site History Center.

The past six months have been overwhelming. Fortunately, we have an incredible staff headed by Dr. William Johnson, who assumed the role of Interim Director a little over a year ago. I am pleased to announce, for those of you who may not already be aware, Bill has accepted our offer to officially become our Museum's Director. He has continued to do an outstanding job of leading the organization through this hectic and difficult period. Our staff includes talented museum professionals as well who continue to face the challenge of this mammoth project with eager anticipation.

Through the generosity of donations and Congressional appropriation we remain in an enviable position of being almost a debt-free project as we celebrate the Museum's grand opening.

I continue to be both amazed and proud of the Foundation's ability to function as a cogent and cohesive cadre-this IS the secret to our success. You ARE the reason that this project has become something we can all be proud of. Credit is due to each and every one of you who has given of yourself making this a great organization!

Our biggest concern is having enough volunteers to successfully open the museum. Please call Maggie Smith at (702) 794-5150 if you can help us. Thanks to all!

Regards,
Troy E. Wade II
Chairman/President
Nevada Test Site Historical Foundation