...the Artifact Preservation Building... ...will be an 8,640 square foot structure that will be used for long term storage of both streetcars that are not in displayable condition and our supply of spare parts for the Museum’s collection of trolley cars. This building allow us to properly preserve three streetcars that are currently sitting outside under tarps as well as other streetcars that are currently stored in our restoration shop - thus freeing up important space for other streetcar restoration projects. It would also house thousands of rare trolley parts that are currently outside, in old boxcars or are taking up restoration shop space.

Also, when the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 went into law earlier this month, it extended a provision allowing individuals aged 70 1/2 or older to "roll over" up to $100,000 from their individual retirement accounts (aka "IRAs") directly to a charity like the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. Because this contribution can be transferred directly to PTM, this amount is NOT recognized as income and therefore is exempt from federal income tax liability. Consequently, it also can not be claimed as a charitable contribution, but does count toward the annual Required Minimum Distribution. For application to tax year 2012, this provision will expire at Midnight this Thursday January 31st, 2013. There is still time to take advantage of this special opportunity for 2012 tax filing, but you much act soon. In the event you prefer not to impact your 2012 tax filing, the ATR Act also extends this "roll over" provision for tax year 2013. You may want to contact your tax advisor on this provsion.