I would suggest that you take a close look at IRS regulations relating to 501(c)(3) organizations. Yours might be so closely held by the for profit organization that you are in violation of the tax exempt provisions of the Code. If so, a presentation of the facts to the for-profit board might shake them up enough to get their cooperation. ------ Robert Handy Brazoria County Historical Museum 100 East Cedar Angleton, Texas 77515 (409) 864-1208 museum_bob [log in to unmask] http://www.bchm.org ---------- From: John Gavin, Old West Museum[SMTP:[log in to unmask]] Sent: Wednesday, February 10, 1999 2:47 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: (no subject) I am the curator of collections in a museum that has been in existence since 1978. It is the 501(c) 3 offshoot of a for-profit organization that retains very close ties, political and otherwise (a 100 year old organization run by volunteers; governance changes every three years, although the same people seem to circulate through the system). In fact, the museum houses both the museum, museum offices and the for-profit organization's offices. Although the operations are physically separated within the building, both entities have ownership of different portions. Some exhibits and storage are located in the for-profit organization's portion. Since 1978, archival objects and some three-dimensional objects have been given to the museum without the legal transfer of ownership (Donor Form) being generated. Recently, I attempted to have a blanket Donor Form signed by the current for-profit organization's board. The board refused to sign the Donor Form although they would have retained copyright and trademark rights on all items. It seems to be a control issue. One of their concerns is that the museum would toss things out! Of course, deaccessioning procedures were explained to them, but explaining museum strategy is like talking to the wall. They couldn't care less about proper museum procedures. They have been doing things their way for 100 years! Their response was "well, we'll just put the items on loan to the museum!" (@ 5000 objects, 1/3 of the collection). Their point of view is that they give the museum a lot of money (they don't give nearly as much as they think) so the museum should be willing to "store" the items. The director and I are very concerned about this situation, especially since we will be going through accreditation process in two years. Any opinions or suggestions on this problem will be greatly appreciated.