b'CHARITY OF THE MONTHMartin Auto MuseumC reated in 2005, the Martin Auto Museum is the brainchild of owner and founder Mel Martin. Mel saw a need to share a collection of vehicles that represent significant periods in automotive history. After 12 years of operation, Mel had more vehicles in storage than he did in the museum! It was time to move to a bigger building. In March of 2022, the new and improved Martin Auto Museum and Event Center opened on the northwest corner of 43rd Avenue and Thunderbird Road.The museum features over 140 vehicles, including classic cars, hot rods, customs, imports, and much more. It also has one of the largest collections of auto memorabilia, antique gas pumps, and signage anywhere. It is dedicated to the preservation of collectible and rare automobiles for educational purposes.Kids can enjoy the carousel, or a variety of driving and racing games. The guides and volunteers are experts on every piece in the museum! As a 501(c)(3), they ask for a $10 donation from their guests with children under 12 admitted for free! Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. 602-298-2377. 4320 W. Thunderbird Rd. ARIZONAREALCOUNTRY.COMArizonaRealCountry.com May 2022 65'