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STEARNS ASSISTS THE FLORIDA HORSE PARK IN GAINING NON-PROFIT STATUS

May 19, 2010

IRS DECISION IMPORTANT TO FLORIDA HORSE PARK FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
 

Washington, May 19, 2010 - “It is an honor to represent the heart of Florida’s horse-country and I appreciate this chance to help the Florida Horse Park in achieving its vision of becoming the centerpiece of the state’s equestrian community,” stated Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala). Stearns assisted the Florida Horse Park in its effort to secure 501© (3) status from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which was announced recently by the IRS.


Stearns helped expedite the case through the IRS bureaucracy and this new status will allow the Florida Horse Park to begin raising funds to meet its goal of becoming the center of the Florida equine industry. "The Horse Capital of the World" is home to the top five finishers in last weekend's Preakness Stakes and the winner of the Kentucky Derby.

Last November, a group of enthusiastic supporters of the Florida Horse Park got together and began the formation of a foundation. The Foundation was created for the purpose of raising awareness of the Florida Horse Park. The founding members submitted their tax exemption information to the IRS only to encounter mountains of red tape. 

Connie Duff Wise, Chairman of the Florida Horse Park and Liaison to the Foundation for the Florida Horse Park said, " I want to personally thank Congressman Stearns for helping the Foundation for the Florida Horse Park in obtaining their 501© (3) IRS status. Florida Horse Park is positioned as the jewel in the middle of the State, showcasing Florida’s vast equine and agricultural opportunities. We appreciate Congressman Stearns and his consistent attention to the growth and development of the Florida Horse Park and the ultimate economic impact of the Park on our State and county."