Press Release
Duane Morris Attorneys Help Secure Financing for San Diego Natural History Museum
SAN DIEGO, August 10, 2006 - When the San Diego Natural History Museum decided to feature the Dead Sea Scrolls as a major exhibition in 2007, its leaders realized that they needed to secure funds for the purchase and installation of special climate and ventilation systems to properly protect the scrolls from deterioration. The museum turned to Duane Morris, where lawyers led by Philadelphia partner David Flynn were part of an advisory team that helped the San Diego Natural History Museum secure $1.3 million in bond financing.
David, along with fellow Philadelphia partner Dianne Meyer, chair of the firm's Commercial Finance Practice Group, and San Diego partners Mikel Bistrow and Stuart Sorenson, worked with several other advisors to help negotiate a tax-exempt financing with both the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank and Wells Fargo. The newly acquired funds will allow the museum to upgrade the environmental control systems for its permanent exhibits and will enhance its ability to host other high-profile artifacts with similar environmental requirements.
"This is an exciting project for the San Diego Natural History Museum," said museum executive director Dr. Michael Hager. "The upgrade to our environmental systems will have a long-lasting impact on the museum. The financing transaction was complex, and could not have been completed without the help provided by Duane Morris and our other advisors."
Founded in 1874, the San Diego Natural History Museum is the oldest scientific institution in southern California. Through programs, exhibitions and collaborative scientific research, the museum aims to educate the public on and promote the study of regional and global natural history. The Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition will run from June 29, 2007, to December 31, 2007.
About Duane Morris
Duane Morris LLP, among the 100 largest law firms in the United States, is a full-service firm of more than 600 lawyers. In addition to legal services, Duane Morris has independent affiliates employing approximately 100 professionals engaged in other disciplines. With offices in major markets, and as part of an international network of independent law firms, Duane Morris represents clients across the nation and around the world.
