Indiana's Electric Cooperatives Invite K-12 Students to Enter 2026 Art Contest
Indiana's electric cooperatives, along with Indiana Connections magazine, are encouraging K-12 students statewide to participate in the Cooperative Calendar of Student Art Contest, a platform for young artists to showcase their creativity and win exciting prizes.
First-place winners from each grade level (K-12) will receive $200, with their artwork featured on the cover or as one of the 12 months in the 2026 wall calendar. Honorable mention artists will be awarded $75, and their work will also appear in the calendar.
Entries will be judged based on artistic merit, originality, creativity and how the artwork suits a wall calendar format. The contest is open to all Indiana public, private and home-schooled students in grades K-12 during the 2024-25 school year. Importantly, students do not need to live on RushShelby Energy lines to participate, making this contest accessible to students throughout the state.
"We are proud to be a part of recognizing and showcasing the artistic talents of our youth," said David Toll, Vice President of Administration & Member Engagement.
CALENDAR STUDENT ART CONTEST
(USPS 171-360 Published Monthly)
Contributors:
Cathy Rhoades and David Toll
Publication Office: 2777 S. 840 W. Manilla, IN 46150
Periodical Postage paid in Indianapolis, Indiana 46206
POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to: ELECTRAWATT
P.O. Box 55, Manilla, IN 46150
Information and details about the contest have also been mailed to local school art teachers to help spread the word. The 2026 calendar will be available at participating Indiana electric cooperative offices in fall 2025. Deadline to apply is February 28, 2025.
This is an excellent opportunity for students to gain recognition, share their artistic talents, and contribute to a cherished statewide tradition!
ELIGIBILITY
Indiana public, private or home-schooled students in kindergarten through 12th grade during the 2024-25 school year are eligible to enter the contest.
DETAILS AND DEADLINE
A complete set of rules and required entry forms are available at indianaconnection. org/for-youth/art-contest Artwork must be received by Feb. 28, 2025.
2018 - Knox Coen- Fairland Kindergarten/Cover
2020 - Lexy Harford- Shelbyville 12th Grade/December
2023 - Mira Smith - Fairland Honorable Mention - Kindergarten/Cover
Past Winners & Honorable Mentions
2019 - Lily May - Fairland Kindergarten/Cover
2021 - Knox Coen - Fairland Honorable Mention - 3rd Grade/March
2024 - McKenzie Haehl - Shelbyville Honorable Mention - 6th Grade/June
RushShelby Energy to Sponsor Students for Camp Kilowatt 2025
RushShelby Energy is excited to sponsor ten students to attend the annual Camp Kilowatt, held from June 4-7, 2025, at Camp Tecumseh in Brookston, Indiana. This four-day camp is open to sixth-grade students and offers a unique blend of traditional outdoor camp experiences along with educational opportunities focused on environmental stewardship, electrical safety and cooperative business models.
Camp Kilowatt was developed by a committee of electric cooperatives, including Hoosier Energy, Wabash Valley Power Alliance, Indiana Electric Cooperatives and other industry partners. The camp provides a fun and interactive way for students to learn about the essential role that electric cooperatives play in their communities.
Kristan Brinson, Member Services Representative and former camp chaperone, shared her enthusiasm for the program: "This is a great way for students to learn about the role of the electric cooperative in their community. On top of that, they get to experience all the fun of camp."
Students interested in attending can apply online at CampKilowatt.org, beginning December 2, 2024. Questions can be directed to Cathy Rhoades at 765-544-2938 or crhoades@rse.coop. Applications are due by March 3, 2025. Students do not need to be served by RushShelby Energy to apply.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity for learning and adventure!
Indiana Youth Tour Offers Local
Students a Chance to Explore D.C. and Learn About Government
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RushShelby Energy is excited to announce the 2025 Indiana Youth Tour, offering young Hoosiers a unique opportunity to visit Washington, D.C., explore American history, and gain a deeper understanding of their electric cooperative. The trip, scheduled for June 15-22, 2025, will bring together students selected by local electric cooperatives from across Indiana. This annual event is part of a broader national effort, with students from up to 46 other states also participating.
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According to Cathy Rhoades, Marketing/Member Services Coordinator for RushShelby Energy, this tour is more than just a chance to sightsee. "It's a great trip and a wonderful chance to see the sites, make new friends and learn how everyone, even young people, can make a difference in the political process," said Rhoades.
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Students will visit notable landmarks such as the Flight 93 Memorial, Gettysburg Battlefield, Arlington National Cemetery, National Museum of the Marine Corps and the Smithsonian museums. Additionally, they will tour the National Mall memorials and participate in a special youth event hosted by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. A highlight of the trip is a day on Capital Hill, where students will meet with Indiana's congressional delegation to discuss important issues.
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RushShelby Energy will sponsor two students for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Additional applicants will be placed on a waiting list for any potential openings. Students must live on RushShelby Energy lines to qualify. Online applications open beginning December 2, 2024. Deadline to apply is March 3, 2025.
For questions or more information about the 2025 Indiana Youth Tour, please contact Cathy Rhoades at 765-544-2938 or crhoades@rse.coop.
RushShelby Energy Scholarships
High school and homeschooled seniors graduating in May 2025 can apply for one of two $2,000 scholarships offered by RSE. Eligible applicants must be a child of an RSE member and reside in a home served by RSE. Applications will be evaluated on academic achievement, citizenship and involvement in school and community activities. A 750-1,500-word essay is also required.
Scholarships 2025
Visit www.rse.coop for full scholarship details and essay guidelines. Submit your application by April 14, 2025, to take advantage of this opportunity.
Page Day
This winter, high school students from across the state will have the opportunity to participate in a Page Day hosted by Indiana Electric Cooperatives on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
The day will feature a tour of the Indiana Statehouse, mock bill activity, speakers and educational activities. Participants will have the opportunityto meet state legislators.
High school students are eligible to participate. To apply, visit IECPageDay.org. The application deadline is January 7, 2025.
Congratulations to Chris Pile!
We are thrilled to announce that Chris has successfully completed all requirements and earned the title of Journeyman Lineman!
Pictured with Chris are his proud family: his wife Jessica and their children - Kenedie, Keagan, Madison, Grayson and Cora.
Way to go, Chris! We're proud of your hard work and dedication.
Quick Links
Holiday Closings
In observance of Christmas and New Year holidays, RushShelby Energy will be closed on Tuesday, December 24, and Wednesday, December 25, for Christmas. Additionally, we will be closed on Tuesday, December 31, and Wednesday, January 1, to celebrate the New Year.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a bright start to the new year from all of us at RushShelby Energy.
Happy Holidays!
Energy Efficiency Tip
If you're planning to purchase electronic gifts this holiday season, look for the ENERGY STAR® label, which indicates higher energy efficiency performance. Electronics that receive the ENERGY STAR® rating are up to 25% more efficient than standard products. This holiday season, give the gift of energy savings with ENERGY STAR® - rated electronics and equipment. Source: energystar.gov
Get ready for the new year! Our 2025 planners, pocket calendars and Farmers' Almanacs have arrived and are now available in the lobby. Whether you're planning your daily activities, tracking important dates or looking ahead with timeless farming wisdom, we've got you covered. Stop by and pick up yours today and start preparing for a productive and organized 2025!
Mini-Member Puzzle
HOLIDAY FUN WORD SEARCH
Can you find all the words associated with holiday fun in the puzzle below? Use the word bank to check your work.
WORD BANK
Jingle Bells Santa Claus Snowman
Candy Cane Mittens Hot Chocolate
