The Chamber recently received word from the Internal Revenue Service that the Foundation's application for tax-exempt status has been approved. This means that contributions made to the Foundation are tax deductible as charitable donations.

"Receiving this approval was so important for our fund raising efforts for the upcoming projects of the Foundation," said Foundation Board President Connie McFarland (Seaside). "With the Foundation as an approved charitable organization, our contributors will have the added benefit of being able to deduct their gifts to the Foundation on their taxes."

The first project for the newly formed Foundation will be to purchase the land and construct a building for the Chamber's office in Santa Rosa Beach. The site has been identified, a 175' x 330' lot at the northeast corner of LaCanosa Blvd. and Highway 98, and will be purchased from Regions Bank as sufficient funds are available. A Building Committee is being formed to identify the Chamber's needs in the new building and to begin work with an architect.

"This is a very exciting and important undertaking for the Chamber," said Executive Director Pamela A. Tedesco. "This building will provide the necessary space the Chamber will need to deliver a higher level of services for our membership and the community. And once that project is underway, we envision the Foundation becoming an active supporter and sponsor of many community cultural and educational events."

For information about making a donation to the Walton County Chamber of Commerce Foundation, please call Tedesco at 267-0683.