Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

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The Internal Revenue Service has approved the application by the Prescott Community Freenet Association for status as a non-profit organization. PCFA operates PCFA.ORG, which provides area computer users with low-cost access to the Internet.

In the agency's letter dated December 14, 1995, the IRS said PCFA can reasonably expect to be a "publicly supported organization" under code section 501(c)(3). Donors may deduct contributions made to PCFA under section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code.

The IRS gave permission for donors to rely upon the advance ruling from April 25, 1995 until 90 days after December 31, 1999, which is the end of PCFA's advance ruling period. At that time, PCFA will submit data to the IRS showing that it has been publicly supported. The IRS will then make its final determination.

Danny Stewart, secretary-treasurer of PCFA, said he was very happy to receive the letter, which arrived December 26, 1995. "It was a nice Christmas present," Stewart commented.

PCFA relies upon contributions to fund the PCFA.ORG computer system. The Prescott Schools and the Arkansas Public School Computer Network provide the Internet connection. However, they do not pay for the PCFA.ORG computer or for the local telephone lines. The number of telephone lines determines how many local users may be on line at one time.

Stewart said, "We really needed about $10,000 to start PCFA.ORG, pay for the equipment and pay for an ample number of phone lines for a year or so. PCFA received $3,910 in 1995. It pays $100 a month on the computer loan plus $45 per phone line."

"The money comes from individuals, users, civic organizations and businesses. PCFA.ORG not only provides local persons with access to the Internet, but also provides people around the world using the Internet with access to the Prescott and Nevada County area," Stewart added.

"Perhaps some one will visit PCFA.ORG and see what we have to offer, and will eventually bring their next business location here," is one of Stewart's wishes he hopes will come true.

Contributions may be sent to PCFA at 615 Oak Street in Prescott. Applications for accounts may be obtained by sending a self-addressed and stamped envelope, or by calling 887-1842 and logging in as 'new'.