Form990-PF
Click to see attachment

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Return of Private Foundation
or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust
Treated as a Private Foundation
Note. The foundation may be able to use a copy of this return to satisfy state reporting requirements.
OMB No. 1545-0052
2010
For calendar year 2010, or tax year beginning 01-01-2010 , and ending 12-31-2010
G
Check all that apply:
Name of foundation
BENTON TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION
 

Number and street (or P.O. box number if mail is not delivered to street address)2220 125TH ST NW   Room/suite
City or town, state, and ZIP code
RICE, MN563679701
A Employer identification number

26-1577232
B Telephone number (see page 10 of the instructions)

(320) 393-2115
C bullet
D 1. bullet
H Check type of organization:
2. bullet
I Fair market value of all assets at end
of year (from Part II, col. (c),
line 16)bullet$4,704,514J Accounting method:
 
(Part I, column (d) must be on cash basis.)
E bullet
F bullet
Part I Analysis of Revenue and Expenses (The total of amounts in columns (b), (c), and (d) may not necessarily equal the amounts in column (a) (see page 11 of the instructions).) (a) Revenue and
expenses per
books 		(b) Net investment
income 		(c) Adjusted net
income 		(d) Disbursements
for charitable
purposes
(cash basis only)
Revenue 1 Contributions, gifts, grants, etc., received (attach schedule)  
2 Check bullet
3 Interest on savings and temporary cash investments 434 434  
4 Dividends and interest from securities...... 157,398 157,398  
5a Gross rents..............      
b Net rental income or (loss)  
6a Net gain or (loss) from sale of assets not on line 10 33,923
b Gross sales price for all assets on line 6a 2,340,005
7 Capital gain net income (from Part IV, line 2)... 33,923
8 Net short-term capital gain.........  
9 Income modifications...........  
10a Gross sales less returns and allowances  
b Less: Cost of goods sold....  
c Gross profit or (loss) (attach schedule).....    
11 Other income (attach schedule).......      
12 Total. Add lines 1 through 11........ 191,755 191,755 0
Operating and Administrative Expenses 13 Compensation of officers, directors, trustees, etc. 0 0 0 0
14 Other employee salaries and wages......        
15 Pension plans, employee benefits.......        
16a Legal fees (attach schedule).........        
b Accounting fees (attach schedule)....... Click to see attachment 7,154 0 0 7,154
c Other professional fees (attach schedule).... Click to see attachment 3,015 0 0 3,015
17 Interest...............        
18 Taxes (attach schedule) (see page 14 of the instructions) Click to see attachment 2,344 1,384 0 0
19 Depreciation (attach schedule) and depletion...      
20 Occupancy..............        
21 Travel, conferences, and meetings.......        
22 Printing and publications..........        
23 Other expenses (attach schedule)....... Click to see attachment 34,870 13,266 0 21,604
24 Total operating and administrative expenses.
Add lines 13 through 23.......... 47,383 14,650 0 31,773
25 Contributions, gifts, grants paid........ 112,370 112,370
26 Total expenses and disbursements. Add lines 24 and 25 159,753 14,650 0 144,143
27 Subtract line 26 from line 12:
a Excess of revenue over expenses and disbursements 32,002
b Net investment income (if negative, enter -0-) 177,105
c Adjusted net income (if negative, enter -0-)... 0
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see page 30 of the instructions.
Cat. No. 11289X Form 990-PF (2010)
Form 990-PF (2010)
Page 2
Part II Balance Sheets Attached schedules and amounts in the description column
should be for end-of-year amounts only. (See instructions.)		 Beginning of year End of year
(a) Book Value (b) Book Value (c) Fair Market Value
Assets 1 Cash—non-interest-bearing...............      
2 Savings and temporary cash investments.......... 12,327 2,505 2,505
3 Accounts receivable bullet  
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts bullet        
4 Pledges receivable bullet  
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts bullet        
5 Grants receivable.................      
6 Receivables due from officers, directors, trustees, and other
disqualified persons (attach schedule) (see page 15 of the
instructions)....................      
7 Other notes and loans receivable (attach schedule) bullet  
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts bullet        
8 Inventories for sale or use...............      
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges...........      
10a Investments—U.S. and state government obligations (attach schedule)      
b Investments—corporate stock (attach schedule)........      
c Investments—corporate bonds (attach schedule)........      
11 Investments—land, buildings, and equipment: basis bullet  
Less: accumulated depreciation (attach schedule) bullet        
12 Investments—mortgage loans..............      
13 Investments—other (attach schedule)........... 4,449,281 Click to see attachment4,702,009 4,702,009
14 Land, buildings, and equipment: basis bullet  
Less: accumulated depreciation (attach schedule) bullet        
15 Other assets (describe bullet)      
16 Total assets (to be completed by all filers—see the
instructions. Also, see page 1, item I) 4,461,608 4,704,514 4,704,514
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses.......... 100  
18 Grants payable...................    
19 Deferred revenue..................    
20 Loans from officers, directors, trustees, and other disqualified persons    
21 Mortgages and other notes payable (attach schedule)......    
22 Other liabilities (describe bullet)    
23 Total liabilities (add lines 17 through 22).......... 100 0
Net Assets or Fund Balances bullet
and complete lines 24 through 26 and lines 30 and 31.
24 Unrestricted....................    
25 Temporarily restricted................    
26 Permanently restricted................    
bullet
and complete lines 27 through 31.
27 Capital stock, trust principal, or current funds......... 0 0
28 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, bldg., and equipment fund 0 0
29 Retained earnings, accumulated income, endowment, or other funds 4,461,508 4,704,514
30 Total net assets or fund balances (see page 17 of the
instructions).................... 4,461,508 4,704,514
31 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances (see page 17 of
the instructions).................. 4,461,608 4,704,514
Part III Analysis of Changes in Net Assets or Fund Balances
1 Total net assets or fund balances at beginning of year—Part II, column (a), line 30 (must agree
with end-of-year figure reported on prior year’s return)............... 1 4,461,508
2 Enter amount from Part I, line 27a...................... 2 32,002
3 Other increases not included in line 2 (itemize) bulletClick to see attachment 3 211,004
4 Add lines 1, 2, and 3.......................... 4 4,704,514
5 Decreases not included in line 2 (itemize) bullet 5 0
6 Total net assets or fund balances at end of year (line 4 minus line 5)—Part II, column (b), line 30.. 6 4,704,514
Form 990-PF (2010)
Form 990-PF (2010)
Page 3
Part IV
Capital Gains and Losses for Tax on Investment Income
(a) List and describe the kind(s) of property sold (e.g., real estate,
2-story brick warehouse; or common stock, 200 shs. MLC Co.) 		(b) How acquired
P—Purchase
D—Donation 		(c) Date acquired
(mo., day, yr.) 		(d) Date sold
(mo., day, yr.)
1 a PUBLICLY TRADED SECURITIES      
b
c
d
e
(e) Gross sales price (f) Depreciation allowed
(or allowable) 		(g) Cost or other basis
plus expense of sale 		(h) Gain or (loss)
(e) plus (f) minus (g)
a 2,340,005   2,306,082 33,923
b
c
d
e
Complete only for assets showing gain in column (h) and owned by the foundation on 12/31/69 (l) Gains (Col. (h) gain minus
col. (k), but not less than -0-) or
Losses (from col.(h))
(i) F.M.V. as of 12/31/69 (j) Adjusted basis
as of 12/31/69 		(k) Excess of col. (i)
over col. (j), if any
a       33,923
b
c
d
e
2 Capital gain net income or (net capital loss) Bracket If gain, also enter in Part I, line 7
If (loss), enter -0- in Part I, line 7		 Bracket 2 33,923
3 Net short-term capital gain or (loss) as defined in sections 1222(5) and (6):
If gain, also enter in Part I, line 8, column (c) (see pages 13 and 17 of the instructions).
If (loss), enter -0- in Part I, line 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 		Bracket 3  
Part V
Qualification Under Section 4940(e) for Reduced Tax on Net Investment Income
(For optional use by domestic private foundations subject to the section 4940(a) tax on net investment income.)

If section 4940(d)(2) applies, leave this part blank.
Was the foundation liable for the section 4942 tax on the distributable amount of any year in the base period?
If “Yes,” the foundation does not qualify under section 4940(e). Do not complete this part.
1 Enter the appropriate amount in each column for each year; see page 18 of the instructions before making any entries.
(a)
Base period years Calendar
year (or tax year beginning in) 		(b)
Adjusted qualifying distributions 		(c)
Net value of noncharitable-use assets 		(d)
Distribution ratio
(col. (b) divided by col. (c))
2009 221,183 4,046,934 0.054654
2008 150,232 4,314,422 0.034821
2007 0 205,403 0.0
2006      
2005      
2 Total of line 1, column (d) ...................... 2 0.089475
3 Average distribution ratio for the 5-year base period—divide the total on line 2 by 5, or by
the number of years the foundation has been in existence if less than 5 years. . . 		3 0.029825
4 Enter the net value of noncharitable-use assets for 2010 from Part X, line 5..... 4 4,514,315
5 Multiply line 4 by line 3....................... 5 134,639
6 Enter 1% of net investment income (1% of Part I, line 27b)........... 6 1,771
7 Add lines 5 and 6......................... 7 136,410
8 Enter qualifying distributions from Part XII, line 4.............. 8 144,143
If line 8 is equal to or greater than line 7, check the box in Part VI, line 1b, and complete that part using a 1% tax rate. See
the Part VI instructions on page 18.
Form 990-PF (2010)
Form 990-PF (2010)
Page 4
Part VI
Excise Tax Based on Investment Income (Section 4940(a), 4940(b), 4940(e), or 4948—see page 18 of the instructions)
1a Bulletand enter “N/A” on line 1. Bracket
Date of ruling or determination letter:   (attach copy of letter if necessary–see instructions)
b 1 1,771
hereBulletand enter 1% of Part I, line 27b...................
c All other domestic foundations enter 2% of line 27b. Exempt foreign organizations enter 4% of Part I, line 12, col. (b)
2 Tax under section 511 (domestic section 4947(a)(1) trusts and taxable foundations only. Others enter -0-) 2 0
3 Add lines 1 and 2............................ 3 1,771
4 Subtitle A (income) tax (domestic section 4947(a)(1) trusts and taxable foundations only. Others enter -0-). 4 0
5 Tax based on investment income. Subtract line 4 from line 3. If zero or less, enter -0- ..... 5 1,771
6 Credits/Payments:
a 2010 estimated tax payments and 2009 overpayment credited to 2010 6a 1,280
b Exempt foreign organizations—tax withheld at source....... 6b
c Tax paid with application for extension of time to file (Form 8868) 6c 1,000
d Backup withholding erroneously withheld ........... 6d  
7 Total credits and payments. Add lines 6a through 6d.............. 7 2,280
8 Enter any penalty for underpayment of estimated tax. if Form 2220 is attached. 8  
9 Tax due. If the total of lines 5 and 8 is more than line 7, enter amount owed.......Bullet 9  
10 Overpayment. If line 7 is more than the total of lines 5 and 8, enter the amount overpaid...Bullet 10 509
11 Enter the amount of line 10 to be: Credited to 2011 estimated taxBullet509 Refunded Bullet 11 0
Part VII-A
Statements Regarding Activities
1a
During the tax year, did the foundation attempt to influence any national, state, or local legislation or did
Yes
No
it participate or intervene in any political campaign? ....................
1a
 
No
b
Did it spend more than $100 during the year (either directly or indirectly) for political purposes (see page 19 of
the instructions for definition)?.............................
1b
 
No
If the answer is “Yes” to 1a or 1b, attach a detailed description of the activities and copies of any materials
published or distributed by the foundation in connection with the activities.
c
Did the foundation file Form 1120-POL for this year?.....................
1c
 
No
d
Enter the amount (if any) of tax on political expenditures (section 4955) imposed during the year:
(1) On the foundation. bullet$ 0(2) On foundation managers.bullet$ 0
e
Enter the reimbursement (if any) paid by the foundation during the year for political expenditure tax imposed
on foundation managers.bullet$ 0
2
Has the foundation engaged in any activities that have not previously been reported to the IRS?.......
2
 
No
If “Yes,” attach a detailed description of the activities.
3
Has the foundation made any changes, not previously reported to the IRS, in its governing instrument, articles
of incorporation, or bylaws, or other similar instruments? If “Yes,” attach a conformed copy of the changes....
3
 
No
4a
Did the foundation have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?........
4a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a tax return on Form 990-T for this year?...................
4b
 
 
5
Was there a liquidation, termination, dissolution, or substantial contraction during the year?.........
5
 
No
If “Yes,” attach the statement required by General Instruction T.
6
Are the requirements of section 508(e) (relating to sections 4941 through 4945) satisfied either:
  • By language in the governing instrument, or
  • By state legislation that effectively amends the governing instrument so that no mandatory directions
    • that conflict with the state law remain in the governing instrument?................
    6
    Yes
     
    7
    Did the foundation have at least $5,000 in assets at any time during the year? If “Yes,” complete Part II, col. (c), and Part XV.
    7
    Yes
     
    8a
    Enter the states to which the foundation reports or with which it is registered (see page 19 of the
    instructions)bulletMN
    b
    If the answer is “Yes” to line 7, has the foundation furnished a copy of Form 990-PF to the Attorney
    General (or designate) of each state as required by General Instruction G? If “No,” attach explanation .
    8b
    Yes
     
    9
    Is the foundation claiming status as a private operating foundation within the meaning of section 4942(j)(3)
    or 4942(j)(5) for calendar year 2010 or the taxable year beginning in 2010 (see instructions for Part XIV on
    page 27)? If “Yes,” complete Part XIV...........................
    9
     
    No
    10
    Did any persons become substantial contributors during the tax year? If “Yes,” attach a schedule listing their names and addresses.
    10
     
    No
    11
    At any time during the year, did the foundation, directly or indirectly, own a controlled entity within the
    meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If "Yes," attach schedule. (see page 20 of the instructions) .......
    11
     
    No
    12
    Did the foundation acquire a direct or indirect interest in any applicable insurance contract before August 17, 2008?
    12
     
    No
    13
    Did the foundation comply with the public inspection requirements for its annual returns and exemption application?
    13
    Yes
     
    Website addressbulletWWW.BENTONTELECOMFOUNDATION.ORG
    14
    The books are in care ofbulletCHERYL SCAPANSKI TREASURER Telephone no.bullet (320) 393-2115
    Located atbullet220 125TH ST NWRICEMN ZIP+4bullet563679701
    15
    Section 4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trusts filing Form 990-PF in lieu of Form 1041.........bullet
    and enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year ......bullet
    15  
    16
    At any time during calendar year 2010, did the foundation have an interest in or a signature or other authority over
    a bank, securities, or other financial account in a foreign country? .................
    16
     
    No
    See page 20 of the instructions for exceptions and filing requirements for Form TD F 90-22.1. If "Yes", enter the name of the foreign country bullet  
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 5
    Part VII-B
    Statements Regarding Activities for Which Form 4720 May Be Required
    File Form 4720 if any item is checked in the “Yes” column, unless an exception applies.
    Yes
    No
    1a
    During the year did the foundation (either directly or indirectly):
    (1) Engage in the sale or exchange, or leasing of property with a disqualified person?
    (2) Borrow money from, lend money to, or otherwise extend credit to (or accept it from)
    a disqualified person?.........................
    (3) Furnish goods, services, or facilities to (or accept them from) a disqualified person?
    (4) Pay compensation to, or pay or reimburse the expenses of, a disqualified person?
    (5) Transfer any income or assets to a disqualified person (or make any of either available
    for the benefit or use of a disqualified person)?.................
    (6) Agree to pay money or property to a government official? (Exception. Check “No”
    if the foundation agreed to make a grant to or to employ the official for a period
    after termination of government service, if terminating within 90 days.).........
    b
    If any answer is “Yes” to 1a(1)–(6), did any of the acts fail to qualify under the exceptions described in Regulations
    section 53.4941(d)-3 or in a current notice regarding disaster assistance (see page 20 of the instructions)?...
    1b
     
     
    .........bullet
    c
    Did the foundation engage in a prior year in any of the acts described in 1a, other than excepted acts,
    that were not corrected before the first day of the tax year beginning in 2010?.............
    1c
     
    No
    2
    Taxes on failure to distribute income (section 4942) (does not apply for years the foundation was a private
    operating foundation defined in section 4942(j)(3) or 4942(j)(5)):
    a
    At the end of tax year 2010, did the foundation have any undistributed income (lines 6d
    and 6e, Part XIII) for tax year(s) beginning before 2010?...............
    If “Yes,” list the years bullet20, 20, 20, 20
    b
    Are there any years listed in 2a for which the foundation is not applying the provisions of section 4942(a)(2)
    (relating to incorrect valuation of assets) to the year’s undistributed income? (If applying section 4942(a)(2)
    to all years listed, answer “No” and attach statement—see page 20 of the instructions.) .........
    2b
     
     
    c
    If the provisions of section 4942(a)(2) are being applied to any of the years listed in 2a, list the years here.
    bullet20, 20, 20, 20
    3a
    Did the foundation hold more than a 2% direct or indirect interest in any business
    enterprise at any time during the year?.....................
    b
    If “Yes,” did it have excess business holdings in 2010 as a result of (1) any purchase by the foundation
    or disqualified persons after May 26, 1969; (2) the lapse of the 5-year period (or longer period approved
    by the Commissioner under section 4943(c)(7)) to dispose of holdings acquired by gift or bequest; or (3)
    the lapse of the 10-, 15-, or 20-year first phase holding period? (Use Schedule C, Form 4720, to determine
    if the foundation had excess business holdings in 2010.)....................
    3b
     
     
    4a
    Did the foundation invest during the year any amount in a manner that would jeopardize its charitable purposes?
    4a
     
    No
    b
    Did the foundation make any investment in a prior year (but after December 31, 1969) that could jeopardize its
    charitable purpose that had not been removed from jeopardy before the first day of the tax year beginning in 2010?
    4b
     
    No
    5a
    During the year did the foundation pay or incur any amount to:
    (1) Carry on propaganda, or otherwise attempt to influence legislation (section 4945(e))?
    (2) Influence the outcome of any specific public election (see section 4955); or to carry
    on, directly or indirectly, any voter registration drive?...............
    (3) Provide a grant to an individual for travel, study, or other similar purposes?
    (4) Provide a grant to an organization other than a charitable, etc., organization described
    in section 509(a)(1), (2), or (3), or section 4940(d)(2)? (see page 22 of the instructions)...
    (5) Provide for any purpose other than religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or
    educational purposes, or for the prevention of cruelty to children or animals?........
    b
    If any answer is “Yes” to 5a(1)–(5), did any of the transactions fail to qualify under the exceptions described in
    Regulations section 53.4945 or in a current notice regarding disaster assistance (see page 22 of the instructions)?
    5b
     
     
    .........bullet
    c
    If the answer is “Yes” to question 5a(4), does the foundation claim exemption from the
    tax because it maintained expenditure responsibility for the grant?............
    If “Yes,” attach the statement required by Regulations section 53.4945–5(d).
    6a
    Did the foundation, during the year, receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay
    premiums on a personal benefit contract?....................
    b
    Did the foundation, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract?....
    6b
     
    No
    If “Yes” to 6b, file Form 8870.
    7a
    At any time during the tax year, was the foundation a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
    b
    If yes, did the foundation receive any proceeds or have any net income attributable to the transaction? ....
    7b
     
     
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 6
    Part VIII
    Information About Officers, Directors, Trustees, Foundation Managers, Highly Paid Employees,
    and Contractors
    1 List all officers, directors, trustees, foundation managers and their compensation (see page 22 of the instructions).
    (a) Name and address (b) Title, and average
    hours per week
    devoted to position     		(c) Compensation
     (If not paid, enter
    -0-)     		(d) Contributions to
    employee benefit plans
    and deferred compensation     		(e) Expense account,
    other allowances
    DAN LIESER PRESIDENT
    1.00     		0 0 0
    2220 125TH ST NW
    RICE,MN563679701
    RAYMOND THOMPSON VICE PRESIDENT
    1.00     		0 0 0
    2220 125TH ST NW
    RICE,MN563679701
    JIM YOUNG SECRETARY
    1.00     		0 0 0
    2220 125TH ST NW
    RICE,MN563679701
    CHERYL SCAPANSKI TREASURER
    1.00     		0 0 0
    2220 125TH ST NW
    RICE,MN563679701
    CONRAD BRENNY DIRECTOR
    1.00     		0 0 0
    2220 125TH ST NW
    RICE,MN563679701
    RICHARD HERBST DIRECTOR
    1.00     		0 0 0
    2220 125TH ST NW
    RICE,MN563679701
    DOUG NEMETH DIRECTOR
    1.00     		0 0 0
    2220 125TH ST NW
    RICE,MN563679701
    ROGER SECORD DIRECTOR
    1.00     		0 0 0
    2220 125TH ST NW
    RICE,MN563679701
    2 Compensation of five highest-paid employees (other than those included on line 1—see page 23 of the instructions).
    If none, enter “NONE.”
    (a) Name and address of each employee paid more than $50,000 (b) Title, and average
    hours per week
    devoted to position     		(c) Compensation (d) Contributions to
    employee benefit
    plans and deferred
    compensation     		(e) Expense account,
    other allowances
    NONE
    Total number of other employees paid over $50,000...................bullet 0
    3 Five highest-paid independent contractors for professional services (see page 23 of the instructions). If none, enter "NONE".
    (a) Name and address of each person paid more than $50,000 (b) Type of service (c) Compensation
    NONE
    Total number of others receiving over $50,000 for professional services.............bullet0
    Part IX-A
    Summary of Direct Charitable Activities
    List the foundation’s four largest direct charitable activities during the tax year. Include relevant statistical information such as the number of organizations and other beneficiaries served, conferences convened, research papers produced, etc. Expenses
    1
     
    2  
    3  
    4  
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 7
    Part IX-B
    Summary of Program-Related Investments (see page 23 of the instructions)
    Describe the two largest program-related investments made by the foundation during the tax year on lines 1 and 2. Amount
    1  
    2  
    All other program-related investments. See page 24 of the instructions.
    3  
    Total. Add lines 1 through 3...........................bullet0
    Part X
    Minimum Investment Return (All domestic foundations must complete this part. Foreign foundations,
    see page 24 of the instructions.)
    1
    Fair market value of assets not used (or held for use) directly in carrying out charitable, etc.,
    purposes:
    a
    Average monthly fair market value of securities...................
    1a
    4,575,645
    b
    Average of monthly cash balances.......................
    1b
    7,416
    c
    Fair market value of all other assets (see page 24 of the instructions)............
    1c
    0
    d
    Total (add lines 1a, b, and c).........................
    1d
    4,583,061
    e
    Reduction claimed for blockage or other factors reported on lines 1a and
    1c (attach detailed explanation) ..............
    1e
    0
    2
    Acquisition indebtedness applicable to line 1 assets..................
    2
    0
    3
    Subtract line 2 from line 1d..........................
    3
    4,583,061
    4
    Cash deemed held for charitable activities. Enter 1 1⁄2% of line 3 (for greater amount, see page 25
    of the instructions) ............................
    4
    68,746
    5
    Net value of noncharitable-use assets. Subtract line 4 from line 3. Enter here and on Part V, line 4
    5
    4,514,315
    6
    Minimum investment return. Enter 5% of line 5...................
    6
    225,716
    Part XI
    Distributable Amount bullet and do not complete this part.)
    1
    Minimum investment return from Part X, line 6....................
    1
    225,716
    2a
    Tax on investment income for 2010 from Part VI, line 5......
    2a
    1,771
    b
    Income tax for 2010. (This does not include the tax from Part VI.)...
    2b
     
    c
    Add lines 2a and 2b............................
    2c
    1,771
    3
    Distributable amount before adjustments. Subtract line 2c from line 1............
    3
    223,945
    4
    Recoveries of amounts treated as qualifying distributions................
    4
    0
    5
    Add lines 3 and 4.............................
    5
    223,945
    6
    Deduction from distributable amount (see page 25 of the instructions)...........
    6
    0
    7
    Distributable amount as adjusted. Subtract line 6 from line 5. Enter here and on Part XIII,
    line 1.................................
    7
    223,945
    Part XII
    Qualifying Distributions (see page 25 of the instructions)
    1
    Amounts paid (including administrative expenses) to accomplish charitable, etc., purposes:
    a
    Expenses, contributions, gifts, etc.—total from Part I, column (d), line 26 ..........
    1a
    144,143
    b
    Program-related investments—total from Part IX-B..................
    1b
    0
    2
    Amounts paid to acquire assets used (or held for use) directly in carrying out charitable, etc.,
    purposes................................
    2
     
    3
    Amounts set aside for specific charitable projects that satisfy the:
    a
    Suitability test (prior IRS approval required)....................
    3a
     
    b
    Cash distribution test (attach the required schedule) .................
    3b
     
    4
    Qualifying distributions. Add lines 1a through 3b. Enter here and on Part V, line 8, and Part XIII, line 4
    4
    144,143
    5
    Foundations that qualify under section 4940(e) for the reduced rate of tax on net investment
    income. Enter 1% of Part I, line 27b (see page 26 of the instructions)............
    5
    1,771
    6
    Adjusted qualifying distributions. Subtract line 5 from line 4...............
    6
    142,372
    Note: The amount on line 6 will be used in Part V, column (b), in subsequent years when calculating whether the foundation qualifies for
    the section 4940(e) reduction of tax in those years.
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 8
    Part XIII
    Undistributed Income (see page 26 of the instructions)
    (a)
    Corpus     		(b)
    Years prior to 2009     		(c)
    2009     		(d)
    2010
    1 Distributable amount for 2010 from Part XI, line 7 223,945
    2 Undistributed income, if any, as of the end of 2010:
    a Enter amount for 2009 only....... 41,445
    b Total for prior years:20, 20, 20 0
    3 Excess distributions carryover, if any, to 2010:
    a From 2005.......  
    b From 2006.......  
    c From 2007.......  
    d From 2008.......  
    e From 2009.......  
    fTotal of lines 3a through e......... 0
    4Qualifying distributions for 2010 from Part
    XII, line 4: bullet$ 144,143
    a Applied to 2009, but not more than line 2a 41,445
    b Applied to undistributed income of prior years
    (Election required—see page 26 of the instructions)    		 0
    c Treated as distributions out of corpus (Election
    required—see page 26 of the instructions)...     		0
    d Applied to 2010 distributable amount..... 102,698
    e Remaining amount distributed out of corpus 0
    5 Excess distributions carryover applied to 2010. 0 0
    (If an amount appears in column (d), the
    same amount must be shown in column (a).)
    6Enter the net total of each column as
    indicated below:
    a Corpus. Add lines 3f, 4c, and 4e. Subtract line 5 0
    b Prior years’ undistributed income. Subtract
    line 4b from line 2b ...........     		0
    c Enter the amount of prior years’ undistributed
    income for which a notice of deficiency has
    been issued, or on which the section 4942(a)
    tax has been previously assessed......     		0
    d Subtract line 6c from line 6b. Taxable
    amount—see page 27 of the instructions ...     		0
    e Undistributed income for 2009. Subtract line
    4a from line 2a. Taxable amount—see page 27
    of the instructions ...........     		0
    f Undistributed income for 2010. Subtract
    lines 4d and 5 from line 1. This amount must
    be distributed in 2011 ..........     		121,247
    7 Amounts treated as distributions out of
    corpus to satisfy requirements imposed by
    section 170(b)(1)(F) or 4942(g)(3) (see page 27
    of the instructions) ...........     		0
    8Excess distributions carryover from 2005 not
    applied on line 5 or line 7 (see page 27 of the
    instructions) .............     		0
    9Excess distributions carryover to 2011.
    Subtract lines 7 and 8 from line 6a ......     		0
    10 Analysis of line 9:
    a Excess from 2006....  
    b Excess from 2007....  
    c Excess from 2008....  
    d Excess from 2009....  
    e Excess from 2010....  
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 9
    Part XIV
    Private Operating Foundations (see page 27 of the instructions and Part VII-A, question 9)
    1a If the foundation has received a ruling or determination letter that it is a private operating
    foundation, and the ruling is effective for 2010, enter the date of the ruling.......bullet
     
    b Check box to indicate whether the organization is a private operating foundation described in section or
    2a Enter the lesser of the adjusted net
    income from Part I or the minimum
    investment return from Part X for each
    year listed ..........     		Tax year Prior 3 years (e) Total
    (a) 2010 (b) 2009 (c) 2008 (d) 2007
             
    b 85% of line 2a .........          
    c Qualifying distributions from Part XII,
    line 4 for each year listed .....     		         
    d Amounts included in line 2c not used directly
    for active conduct of exempt activities ....     		         
    e Qualifying distributions made directly
    for active conduct of exempt activities.
    Subtract line 2d from line 2c ....     		         
    3 Complete 3a, b, or c for the
    alternative test relied upon:
    a “Assets” alternative test—enter:
    (1) Value of all assets ......          
    (2) Value of assets qualifying
    under section 4942(j)(3)(B)(i)    		          
    b “Endowment” alternative test— enter 2⁄3
    of minimum investment return shown in
    Part X, line 6 for each year listed...     		         
    c “Support” alternative test—enter:
    (1) Total support other than gross
    investment income (interest,
    dividends, rents, payments
    on securities loans (section
    512(a)(5)), or royalties) ....     		         
    (2) Support from general public
    and 5 or more exempt
    organizations as provided in
    section 4942(j)(3)(B)(iii)....     		         
    (3) Largest amount of support
    from an exempt organization    		          
    (4) Gross investment income          
    Part XV
    Supplementary Information (Complete this part only if the organization had $5,000 or more in
    assets at any time during the year—see page 27 of the instructions.)
    1Information Regarding Foundation Managers:
    aList any managers of the foundation who have contributed more than 2% of the total contributions received by the foundation
    before the close of any tax year (but only if they have contributed more than $5,000). (See section 507(d)(2).)
    bList any managers of the foundation who own 10% or more of the stock of a corporation (or an equally large portion of the
    ownership of a partnership or other entity) of which the foundation has a 10% or greater interest.
    2Information Regarding Contribution, Grant, Gift, Loan, Scholarship, etc., Programs:
    Check here bullet
    aThe name, address, and telephone number of the person to whom applications should be addressed:
    CHERYL SCAPANSKI
    2220 125TH ST NW
    RICE,MN56367
    (320) 393-2115
    bThe form in which applications should be submitted and information and materials they should include:
    MUST SUBMIT A DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INDIVIDUAL OR ORGANIZATION AND THE PROPOSED ACTIVITIES AND PURPOSES OF THE ORGANIZATION AND INDIVIDUAL. APPLICATION FORMS CAN BE FOUND ON THE FOUNDATION'S WEBSITE, WHICH IS WWW.BENTONTELECOMFOUNDATION.ORG.
    cAny submission deadlines:
    NONE
    dAny restrictions or limitations on awards, such as by geographical areas, charitable fields, kinds of institutions, or other
    factors:
    501(C)(3) ORGANIZATIONS; GOVERNMENT AGENCIES; CHURCHES; INDIVIDUAL GRANTS FOR TRAVEL, STUDY, OR SIMILAR PURPOSES; DISASTER RELIEF OR INDIVIDUAL ECONOMIC RELIEF AS DESCRIBED IN TREASURY REGULATIONS SECTION 1.170A-4A.
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 10
    Part XV
    Supplementary Information (continued)
    3 Grants and Contributions Paid During the Year or Approved for Future Payment
    Recipient If recipient is an individual,
    show any relationship to
    any foundation manager
    or substantial contributor
    		 Foundation
    status of
    recipient     		Purpose of grant or
    contribution     		Amount
    Name and address (home or business)
    aPaid during the year
    AMERICAN RED CROSS CENTRAL MN
    1301 WEST ST GERMAIN STREET
    ST CLOUD,MN56301     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) SUPPORT CHAPTER'S DISASTER RESPONSE 12,000
    CENTRAL MN YOUTH FOR CHRIST
    203 COOPER AVE N
    ST CLOUD,MN56303     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) START UP PROGRAM FOR STRUGGLING STUDENTS 10,000
    GREAT RIVER EDUCATIONAL ARTS THEATRE
    919 WEST ST GERMAIN ST
    ST CLOUD,MN56301     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) EXPAND COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS PROGRAM 6,000
    MLMB FIRST RESPONSE
    38626 63RD ST
    HILMAN,MN56338     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) PURCHASE RADIO SYSTEM 10,000
    AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY-BENTON COUNTY
    3721 23RD STREET SUITE 102
    ST CLOUD,MN56301     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) BENTON COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE 20,000
    FOLEY AREA CARE
    PO BOX 205
    FOLEY,MN56329     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) SUPPORT FOOD COMMODITIES PROGRAM 9,200
    GREAT RIVER FAITH IN ACTION
    13074 EDGEWOOD STREET
    BECKER,MN55308     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) IMPLEMENT CAREGIVER COACH PROGRAM 10,000
    HELPING HANDS OUTREACH
    511 SOUTH MAIN STREET
    HOLDINGFORD,MN56340     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) DEVELOP ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM 5,000
    INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED
    500 S WALNUT STREET
    MORA,MN55051     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) FUND TRAINING AND EMPLOYEE SERVICES FOR DISABLED 2,500
    PEASE CHRIST REF-MILLE LACS CTY OPER CON
    117 W MAIN ST
    MILACA,MN56353     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) FUND EVENT FOR POOR REGARDING SERVICES 5,000
    BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF CENTRAL MN
    15 6TH AVENUE NORTH
    ST CLOUD,MN56303     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) PROVIDE YOUTH MENTORING PROGRAMS IN AREA SCHOOLS 7,500
    CENTRAL MN TASK FORCE ON BATTERED WOMEN
    PO BOX 367
    ST CLOUD,MN56302     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) SUPPORT YOUTH PROGRAMS-EARLY LIFE CHOICES 1,920
    RUM RIVER LIFE CHOICES CENTER
    121 SECOND AVE SW
    MILACA,MN56353     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) SUPPORT YOUTH PROGRAMS-CHOICES 2,000
    WATAB TOWNSHIP
    660 75TH ST NW
    RICE,MN56367     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT FOR FLOOD ASSESSMENT 1,000
    RICE FIRE DEPARTMENT
    205 MAIN STREET EAST
    RICE,MN56367     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) EQUIPMENT TO TEST LEVELS OF CARBON MONOXIDE 2,000
    IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH
    130 1ST AVENUE NORTHEAST
    RICE,MN56367     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) SUPPORT FOR THE FIVE AREA CHURCHES VBS 1,250
    BENTON COUNTY 4-H
    PO BOX 687
    FOLEY,MN56329     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) T-SHIRTS FOR 4-H MEMBERS EXHIBITING AT THE FAIR 1,000
    CENTRAL MN HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
    701 2ND STREET NORTH
    ST CLOUD,MN56303     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) ASSIST IN BUILDING HOME FOR POVERTY FAMILY 2,000
    ARC UNITED
    6112 322ND STREET
    ST CLOUD,MN56303     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) DEVELOP EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM FOR DISABLED 1,000
    MILACA FINE ARTS COUNCIL
    PO BOX 361
    MILACA,MN56353     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) ART PANELS FOR TRAVELING ART DISPLAY 1,000
    GIVE ME FIVE GROUP MENTORING PROGRAM
    500 HWY 23 W
    MILACA,MN56353     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) ASSIST IN MENTORING 6TH-8TH GRADE STUDENTS 1,000
    TRI COUNTY ACTION PROGRAM
    1210 23RD AVENUE SOUTH
    WAITE PARK,MN56387     		UNRELATED 501(C)(3) ASSISTANCE IN TAX PREP FOR LOW INCOME 1,000
    Total .................................bullet 3a 112,370
    bApproved for future payment
    Total ..................................bullet 3b 0
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 11
    Part XVI-A
    Analysis of Income-Producing Activities
    Enter gross amounts unless otherwise indicated. Unrelated business income Excluded by section 512, 513, or 514 (e)
    Related or exempt
    function income
    (See page 28 of
    the instructions.)
    1Program service revenue: (a)
    Business code     		(b)
    Amount     		(c)
    Exclusion code     		(d)
    Amount
    a
    b
    c
    d
    e
    f
    gFees and contracts from government agencies          
    2 Membership dues and assessments....          
    3Interest on savings and temporary cash investments     14 434  
    4 Dividends and interest from securities....     14 157,398  
    5 Net rental income or (loss) from real estate:
    aDebt-financed property......          
    bNot debt-financed property.....          
    6Net rental income or (loss) from personal property          
    7 Other investment income.....          
    8Gain or (loss) from sales of assets other than inventory     18 33,923  
    9 Net income or (loss) from special events:          
    10 Gross profit or (loss) from sales of inventory..          
    11 Other revenue: a
    b
    c
    d
    e
    12 Subtotal. Add columns (b), (d), and (e).. 0 191,755 0
    13Total. Add line 12, columns (b), (d), and (e)...................
    13191,755
    (See worksheet in line 13 instructions on page 28 to verify calculations.)
    Part XVI-B
    Relationship of Activities to the Accomplishment of Exempt Purposes
    Line No.
    DownArrow     		Explain below how each activity for which income is reported in column (e) of Part XVI-A contributed importantly to
    the accomplishment of the organization’s exempt purposes (other than by providing funds for such purposes). (See
    page 28 of the instructions.)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Page 12
    Part XVII
    Information Regarding Transfers To and Transactions and Relationships With Noncharitable Exempt Organizations
    1
    Did the organization directly or indirectly engage in any of the following with any other organization described in section
    Yes
    No
    501(c) of the Code (other than section 501(c)(3) organizations) or in section 527, relating to political organizations?
    a
    Transfers from the reporting foundation to a noncharitable exempt organization of:
    (1) Cash....................................
    1a(1)
     
    No
    (2) Other assets.................................
    1a(2)
     
    No
    b
    Other transactions:
    (1) Sales of assets to a noncharitable exempt organization....................
    1b(1)
     
    No
    (2) Purchases of assets from a noncharitable exempt organization..................
    1b(2)
     
    No
    (3) Rental of facilities, equipment, or other assets.......................
    1b(3)
     
    No
    (4) Reimbursement arrangements............................
    1b(4)
     
    No
    (5) Loans or loan guarantees..............................
    1b(5)
     
    No
    (6) Performance of services or membership or fundraising solicitations................
    1b(6)
     
    No
    c
    Sharing of facilities, equipment, mailing lists, other assets, or paid employees..............
    1c
     
    No
    d
    If the answer to any of the above is “Yes,” complete the following schedule. Column (b) should always show the fair market value
    of the goods, other assets, or services given by the reporting foundation. If the foundation received less than fair market value
    in any transaction or sharing arrangement, show in column (d) the value of the goods, other assets, or services received.
    (a) Line No. (b) Amount involved (c) Name of noncharitable exempt organization (d) Description of transfers, transactions, and sharing arrangements
    2a
    Is the foundation directly or indirectly affiliated with, or related to, one or more tax-exempt organizations
    described in section 501(c) of the Code (other than section 501(c)(3)) or in section 527?...........
    b
    If “Yes,” complete the following schedule.
    (a) Name of organization (b) Type of organization (c) Description of relationship
    BENTON COOPERATIVE TELEPHONE COMPANY 501(C)(12) - COMMON BOARD
    SignHere
    Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than taxpayer or fiduciary) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
    Bullet Bullet
    Signature of officer or trustee Date Title
    PaidPreparersUseOnly Preparer's SignatureBullet Date PTIN
    Firm's namebullet



    Firm's addressbullet







         		Firm's EINbullet
    Phone no.
    Form 990-PF (2010)
    Additional Data


    Software ID:  
    Software Version:  


    Form 990PF - Special Condition Description:
    Special Condition Description

    TY 2010 AccountingFeesSchedule
    Name:
    BENTON TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION
    EIN: 26-1577232
    Category Amount Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    ACCOUNTING EXPENSES 7,154 0 0 7,154

    TY 2010 GeneralExplanationAttachment
    Name:
    BENTON TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION
    EIN: 26-1577232
    Identifier Return Reference Explanation
    FOUNDATION START-UP PERIOD 2008 THROUGH 2011 DISCLOSURE FORM 990-PF FOUNDATION START-UP PERIOD 2008 THROUGH 2011 DISCLOSURE1) BENTON TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION WAS INCORPORATED ON DECEMBER 12, 2007. THE FOUNDATION'S START-UP PERIOD IS 2008 THROUGH 2011. THE FOUNDATION IS CALCULATING ITS MINIMUM DISTRIBUTION FOR ITS START-UP PERIOD PURSUANT TO REG. 53.4942(A)-3(B)(4)(II). 2) AMOUNTS SET ASIDE WILL ACTUALLY BE PAID WITHIN THE START-UP PERIOD (2008-2011) PURSUANT TO REG. 53.4942(A)-3(B)(4)(II).3) THE START-UP PERIOD WILL NOT BE COMPLETED BEFORE THE END OF THE ABOVE REFERENCED TAX YEAR (DECEMBER 31, 2010).4) ATTACHED AS EXHIBIT I IS A LIST OF THE DISTRIBUTABLE AMOUNTS DETERMINED IRC SEC. 4942(D) FOR ALL TAX YEARS TO-DATE IN THE FOUNDATION'S START-UP PERIOD.5) ATTACHED AS EXHIBIT II IS A LIST OF ACTUAL PAYMENTS MADE IN CASH OR ITS EQUIVALENT FOR EXEMPT PURPOSES DURING EACH TAX YEAR TO-DATE IN THE TAXPAYER'S START-UP PERIOD. EXHIBIT IDISTRIBUTABLE AMOUNTS UNDER IRC SEC. 4942(D)........DISTRIBUTABLE.......MINIMUMYEAR....AMOUNT..PERCENTAGE...AMOUNT2008....214,138. 20.00%......42,828. 2009....201,092. 40.00%......80,437. 2010....223,945. 60.00%.....134,367. 2011.............80.00% TOTAL DISTRIBUTABLE AMOUNTS 257,632. EXHIBIT II ACTUAL PAYMENTS FOR EXEMPT PURPOSES DURING EACH TAX YEAR .........ACTUAL YEAR.....PAYMENTS 2007... 0.2008... 151,815. 2009... 222,438. 2010... 144,143. 2011 TOTAL ACTUAL PAYMENTS...518,396.

    TY 2010 InvestmentsOtherSchedule2
    Name:
    BENTON TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION
    EIN: 26-1577232
    Category/ Item Listed at Cost or FMV Book Value End of Year Fair Market Value
    BERNSTEIN INVESTMENTS FMV 4,702,009 4,702,009

    TY 2010 OtherExpensesSchedule
    Name:
    BENTON TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION
    EIN: 26-1577232
    Description Revenue and Expenses per Books Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    MANAGEMENT EXPENSES 19,200 0 0 19,200
    INVESTMENT EXPENSES 13,266 13,266 0 0
    OFFICE EXPENSES 140 0 0 140
    INSURANCE EXPENSE 2,138 0 0 2,138
    MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSE 126 0 0 126


    TY 2010 OtherIncreasesSchedule
    Name:
    BENTON TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION
    EIN: 26-1577232
    Description Amount
    ADJUSTMENT TO MARKET VALUE OF INVESTMENTS 211,004


    TY 2010 OtherProfessionalFeesSchedule
    Name:
    BENTON TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION
    EIN: 26-1577232
    Category Amount Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    CONSULTING EXPENSES 3,015 0 0 3,015


    TY 2010 TaxesSchedule
    Name:
    BENTON TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION
    EIN: 26-1577232
    Category Amount Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    EXCISE TAX 960 0 0 0
    FOREIGN TAX 1,384 1,384 0 0