WE GOT IT!!!!

Well, sort of. I called our case manager at the IRS, and he’s recommending our case for 501C3 non-profit approval. There is the possibility that it still may be reviewed, but he’s going to stamp it, close the case and send us the go ahead letter by Oct 14. After a 10 month wait for determination, I view this as nothing short of Divine intervention. YEAH!!!!!

Here is what 501C3 status means for us:

- We can now apply for State and Federal and Foundation grants (like Tony Hawk's) for funds. Big bucks available here.

- We’ll have to keep tight track of the money coming in and learn/follow federal non-profit guidelines. Anyone know a lawyer who might be willing to donate some legal time advising us? Or a good accountant for that matter.

- We'll need to kick-start our education programs...i.e. demonstrations, teaching sessions, etc. for those in the local area. This is our main mission...to teach folks how to skate safely and well.

So, what’s next? Well, we’ll meet this Friday, Oct 7 at 5pm at the temporary park at Cumberland Worship Center. Here is what were going to do:

- Decide what to do with the temporary park.
- Plan fundraising activities for the next month.
- Work on a strategy to meet with local officials to present our facility needs.

I’d like to have as many parents/adults there as possible. Skatepark board members please come as well. I look seeing you skate, blade and bike in a world class skatepark in Crossville in the near future.

- Frank