The deadline to send in your FRED taxes is approaching fast. Your contributions help FRED to continue our programs that benefit OPASTCO members, as well as their communities. Your 501(c)(3) form has been mailed to you with a return envelope. If you have not received one, you may follow the links below to print a copy of the form. Keep in mind when considering a donation that they are tax-deductible. FRED would like to thank you for continuing to support our programs during these challenging economic times.

Tax forms for Telco Members

Tax Forms for Associate Members

On April 19th, FRED will welcome fourteen students to Washington, D.C., to participate in the Leadership Through Learning Program. For a week, students will attend seminars, meet with their Senators and Representatives, explore the National Monuments, and interact with students from other rural communities around the nation.

The Leadership Through Learning program is made possible by NECA.

Help FRED cover the costs of our birthday celebration by registering to sponsor part of the event in July. By becoming a sponsor, you're creating more publicity for your company at OPASTCO's convention, while showing your support for FRED. You will also enable FRED to put more of the funds raised towards its programs. Sponsorships are tax-deductible and are available to both telco and associate members of OPASTCO.

FRED would like to thank those companies who gave donations last year when sending in their OPASTCO dues statements. To date, $70,600 has been donated! Your support has given FRED the opportunity to continue our programs that help OPASTCO members and their communities. Thank you!

Spring is right around the corner. Now is the perfect time to start thinking about your community's projects and to identify those areas of your town that can use a face lift. The Ethyl Grant program provides matching grants to OPASTCO member telephone companies that are involved with projects aimed at bettering their communities. Projects that will be considered include sprucing up downtown, eliminating an eyesore, constructing a playground, updating a community center and more. The grants range from $500 - $2,500. An estimated $10,000 in funding is available in 2009.

Applications will be reviewed in mid-April so don't delay. Send in your application today!

Thank you, Nortel Networks and Bennet & Bennet, PLLC for sponsoring this program.

April 19 - 24, 2009 - LTL Program in Washington, DC
July 27, 2009 - FRED's 20th Birthday Celebration
September 14, 2009 - Technology Grant Applications Due Date