CenturyTel accepts grant applications

The foundation funds programs that support families, children, safety, substance abuse prevention, disaster relief, technology and economic development in CenturyTel’s service areas, which include Branson. Only proposals from eligible tax-exempt organizations in certain 501(c)(3) subsections, as defined by the Internal Revenue Service, will be considered.

The grants will be announced during the first quarter of 2008. In 2007, the foundation awarded $125,000 to agencies. More information and applications are available at www.centurytel.com.

In 2006, the publicly traded company (NYSE: CTL) partnered with a development group and the city of Branson to create the first CenturyTel Smart Park. The city has just begun infrastructure work on the park, which is also known as Branson Commerce Park.

In March, CenturyTel was named among Forbes magazine’s 400 Best Big Companies in America. It is CenturyTel’s eighth year on the list.

In the second quarter, CenturyTel reported net income of $78.4 million, up 7 percent, on operating revenues of $639 million, up 5 percent compared to the same period last year.

Shares closed Aug. 29 at $47.26, compared to a 52-week range of $38.80 to $49.94.