Today, we’d like to introduce you to Phil Mussman, our next feature in our “Why I Give” member series. Phil has visited Las Vegas over 100 times and was instantly intrigued by the iconic neon signs.
Q & A with Phil Mussman, The Neon Museum Member
Q: When/how did you get involved with The Neon Museum?
A: I was in Las Vegas for a business convention a few years ago and picked up an in-room magazine that had a feature on the museum. I was hooked right away.
Q: What attracted you to the museum?
A: I have visited Las Vegas over 100 times, for business and leisure. I was instantly intrigued with the huge neon signs. As the years went on and hotels were torn down and replaced, I have always had a place in my heart for those original signs that I saw as an awestruck 19-year-old.
Q: Why do you volunteer/donate/join? What motivates you to stay involved?
A: On my visits to the museum, I have seen it expand in so many interesting ways. Each time I have felt the connection become more and more meaningful.
Q: Do you have an anecdote about the museum you would like to share?
A: One of the most educational findings was on the Moulin Rouge Hotel and Casino. I’m fascinated by its Civil Rights storyline and have learned so much about this history through the sign at The Neon Museum.
Q: In your opinion, what is the most important work that The Neon Museum does?
A: In a world of “blow up the old and put up the new,” Las Vegas ranks right at the top. I think The Neon Museum does such important work in terms of respecting and show-casing the amazing visuals of the city through the years.
And in a world that continues to be more complicated, divisive and negative, The Neon Museum stands out as bright, colorful, artistic and FUN!
Q: What do you hope the organization will achieve over the next ten years?
A: I hope the museum continues to grow….adding to the collection, expanding its reach across the US and abroad, and continuing to build a community of individuals who develop a passion and love for the work that it does.
Q: Who do you think would enjoy a visit to The Neon Museum?
A: This is a great question, because frankly I could not imagine anyone who comes to the museum would leave without being wowed by the experience. I think it’s a matter of marketing and in some cases bringing the museum into the lives of individuals who are unaware of its existence.
Q: What’s your favorite sign and why?
A: The Stardust sign, it’s in a league of its own!
Learn more about the people of the Moulin Rouge, like Trailblazing Dancer Delcenia Boyd Jones.
