Ever wanted to befriend an art museum? A support group called the FRIENDS of the Palmer Museum of Art has been making that possible since 1973.

The goal of the 600-member organization is to "help promote the museum and support it in it's educational and artistic endeavors," said Sally Kalin, president of the group. About 100 of the members are students.

Kalin said the group underwrites the costs of educational programs for school children, hosts opening receptions for art exhibits, and helps to pay for the acquisition and restoration of art in the museum's collection.

The FRIENDS sponsor the Festival of Trees, which Kalin said more than 10,000 people attend each holiday season. This year's festival was Travels with Dickens, transforming the museum into a Dickensian English village featuring trees decorated by individuals, businesses and community groups.

Members of the FRIENDS are invited to all the receptions, parties and trips sponsored by the group. Future trips include a March 22 Washington D.C. tour that will include visits to the National Gallery of Art and the newly restored Union Station, Kalin said. Kahren Arbitman, director of the Palmer Museum will give a tour of the Rembrandt Landscapes on display while at the Museum. Works owned by State College area citizens will also be on exhibit, Kalin said.

In May, the group is sponsoring a 14-day trip to Poland, which will include stops in Warsaw, Krakow, Gdansk, and many smaller cities. Barbara Schmalz, who is helping to arrange the trip, said the country's museums and architecture will be highlights, along with the springtime scenery and performing arts events.

On May 19, the FRIENDS will hold a "Black Tie and Boots Ball" -- a Texas style party -- as this year's big spring fundraiser. Kalin said University President and Mrs. Bryce Jordan will be honorary chairpersons of the event.

Kalin said members of the FRIENDS receive the group's mailings and are eligible for the trips, although they have no specific responsibilities. She said that many decide to help the museum and the FRIENDS by volunteering their time and helping in whatever way they are needed. Membership information is available at the museum office.

The group is financially supported by membership fees -- $10 for students, $25 for others --fundraising events, and donations included in the prices of the trips.