Three Board Members Retire
This year marks the end of an era as we say farewell to three extraordinary Board Members who are stepping down after decades of service. Collectively, they represent an incredible 101 years of dedication, leadership and commitment to our membership and mission. Their contributions have left a lasting imprint on our organization, and their legacy will continue to inspire future leaders.
Contributors: Cathy Rhoades and David Toll
Each of these individuals brought a unique voice and perspective to the boardroom. From championing member initiative to shaping policy and mentoring new leaders, their steady guidance and selfless service has been a cornerstone of our progress.
We are deeply grateful for their years of hard work, sacrifice and passion. Their commitment has strengthened our organization and enhanced the lives of countless members throughout the years.
As they step into a well-earned retirement from board duties, we extend a heartfelt thanks, and congratulations to Mark, Fred and Dean. You have truly made a difference.
YOUR VOTE. YOUR VOICE.
As we prepare for our upcoming annual meeting on July 10, your participation is more important than ever. With the retirement of three long-serving directors, we will be electing new board members to represent Districts 2, 5 and 8 for a three-year term.
DISTRICT 2
Carmen (Nigh) Hawk
My interest in running for a position on the Board of Directors stems from a profound desire to give back to the very community that shaped my formative years. As a child, I vividly remember attending annual meetings for the Shelby County REMC held at the Shelbyville High School. My parents felt that it was important for my siblings and I to go to the meetings and be a part of the democratic process. We would sit during meetings anxiously awaiting our turn to go up on stage and draw names for the door prizes from the big tumbler. We then got handed a dollar coin for our "help." In high school I traveled to Washington D.C. with students from around the country on the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour.
As an adult, I have also benefited from RushShelby Energy and the services they provide. Through Touchstone Energy we were able to build an energy efficient home, and my children have been able to attend Camp Kilowatt and the Youth Tour. The positive impact these organizations had on my
life motivates me to ensure that others can benefit similarly. By leveraging my experiences and insights gained from being an active participant, I aim to foster an inclusive environment where every voice is heard. My commitment is driven by a genuine passion for community development and collaboration with like-minded individuals dedicated to making meaningful changes.
Additionally, serving on the Board of Directors presents an opportunity for personal growth while making a tangible impact. By collaborating with fellow board members, I hope to address challenges faced by our organization effectively while promoting initiatives that resonate with our community's needs. My unique perspective as someone who has benefited from these services positions me well to advocate for continued support and development.
RushShelby Energy demonstrates a member-focused approach to providing electricity by a commitment to Core Values of Safety, Service and Communication. It's with my own commitment to further that mission that I am excited to pursue becoming a part of the RushShelby Energy Board of Directors.
I have experience in a variety of leadership capacities both professionally and personally including participation in local boards and committees. These experiences have uniquely prepared me to serve on the board of directors and assist with the leadership of RushShelby Energy. Listening to the issues of employees and constituents to work through and provide the best possible outcome for all involved are strengths I have used to assist in leading previously and I would bring those same skills to the RushShelby Energy Board.
Energy is essential to everything we do, both personally and in our places of employment. We must approach energy creation, imports and consumption with creativity and resourcefulness. We need to utilize the latest technology and modern practices to ensure we are providing low cost affordable energy for the consumer while at the same time positioning ourselves to support future economic growth and changing energy needs.
I appreciate your support in pursuing a role on the board of directors and will maintain a commitment to maintaining the Core Values of RushShelby Energy while also advocating for innovation that brings new efficiencies for the consumer.
Dr. Todd Hitchcock
DISTRICT 5
Kenny Aulbach
My interest to serve comes from growing up on a livestock farm that was served by Rush County REMC. It was the life blood of the farm.
A board member must keep the membership's best interests at heart and know the objectives of RushShelby Energy. Keeping the organization financially stable with the ability to grow when business demands.
Having been in the real estate business from 1987 until present, I work on projects that are 1-2 years out before projects are finalized.
My work involves appraisals, farm and commercial sales. My approach to the business is that I am dealing with the clients life time of work and accumulation. Keeping the client's best interest at the forefront. Then the decision is up to the clients.
In the future for RushShelby Energy, my hope is to have the ability to provide services to increase revenue for operations and have members feel they can contact board members with their concerns.
DISTRICT 8
Jordan Barnard
I have lived in the area my whole life. I am invested in the community and want to continue to see this area thrive. With my background in finance, I know I can be a valuable member of the RushShelby Energy Board of Directors. Managing operating costs will allow our co-op to continue to offer reliable electricity at reasonable rates. This would be my top priority as a board member. It would be a privilege to be a part of this organiztion and serve its members.
Doug Wicker
I would be honored to serve on the board of directors of RushShelby Energy for District 8. Throughout my time as a member, I have admired the employees of the organization. They are always seemingly working to provide the best of service while also providing a sense of community throughout the member area with everything from the Community Day to youth activities that help educate the next generation. Working for a cooperative full-time myself, I have first-hand seen the value that member-owners can have on an organization. For members to have the opportunity to speak their ideas and concerns to their board of director representatives would be a tremendous privilege to be a part of. If elected, I will always have that open line of communication to help serve the membership. I will work to continue to help move the cooperative on its upwards trajectory. Seeking new opportunities for the cooperative to grow while still having the best interests of the membership in mind and to remain fiscally sustainable will be my top priorities.
Get Ready for Our 2025 Annual Meeting!
We're looking forward to seeing you at the annual meeting, where we'll celebrate you, our valued members, with an evening full of fun, food and festivities.
Mark your calendars for Thursday, July 10, from 4:00 to 7:30 PM at our headquarters. This year's event promises something for everyone, whether you're bringing the whole family or just coming to enjoy the evening.
Entertainment for all ages includes live music from the Highwater Troubadours and two high-voltage safety demonstrations that are always a crowd favorite. New this year, we're excited to introduce Touch a Truck (which will replace bucket truck rides) an interactive experience that's sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
To keep the mini members entertained, there will be an inflatable obstacle course, two performances by Silly Safaris, face painting and balloon animals with Funnie & Friends, and a photo booth to capture all the fun.
As in past years, you'll be able to explore a variety of booths and learn more about Wi-Power, Grassroots, Linemen Equipment, Operation RoundUp and more. Don't miss the opportunity to share your questions in the "Ask the CEO" booth.
Parking
Parking for the 2025 Annual Meeting will be available at the Manilla Volunteer Fire Department, located just west of RushShelby Energy. Please watch for directional signs posted along State Road 44 to guide you.
Important Note: The State Road 44 entrance to the fire department will be closed. To access the parking area, turn north onto Main Street in Manilla - this is the street between the post office and the On the Way Mini-Mart. One block north, you will be directed into the fire department's designated parking area.
Shuttle Service: Shuttle buses will run continuously from 3:45 until all attendees have returned to their vehicles after the meeting concludes.
Accessibility: If you bring someone with a disability, you may drop them off directly at the RushShelby Energy facility. Employees will be able to assist.
If any changes to parking arrangements are necessary, updated directions will be clearly marked with additional signage along State Road 44.
Voting
All members should have received a voting packet in the mail. This packet includes your registration card for the annual meeting, Board of Director candidate biographies and your ballot for the 2025 RushShelby Energy Board of Directors Election.
If you plan to attend the annual meeting, please bring your registration card with you.
You have several options for casting your vote:
• Mail in your completed paper ballot using the provided envelope.
• Vote online through your SmartHub account or mobile device.
• Vote in person at the annual meeting.
If you have any questions about the voting process, please call us at 765-544-2600.
ORU "Luck of the Draw" - The Easiest Scholarship You'll Ever Win!
Looking for a simple way to help pay for college? Operation RoundUp "Luck of the Draw" Scholarship might just be the easiest scholarship you'll ever win! At the 2025 Annual Meeting, four lucky students will each be awarded a $2,000 scholarship - just for showing up and qualifying.
This isn't your typical scholarship competition. There are no essays, no interviews and no GPA requirements. It's truly the Luck of the Draw!
Who Can Enter:
• Must be an active RushShelby Energy member, or a dependent or legal ward of an active member.
• Must be a graduating high school senior or a student up to 26 years old.
• Must be enrolled or planning to enroll full-time in an undergraduate program at an accredited 2- or 4-year college, university or vocational-technical school this fall.
Not Eligible:
• Families of RushShelby Energy employees, directors or Operation RoundUp Trustees.
• Previous winners of RushShelby Energy or Luck of the Draw Scholarships.
How to Enter:
• Download and complete the application at www.rse.coop/community/scholarships.
• Bring your application and supporting documents to the 2025 Annual Meeting.
• Visit the Operation RoundUp booth before 7 PM to submit your entry.
Winners will be drawn and announced at 7:15 PM. You must be present to win.
Don't miss this opportunity - it could be the easiest $2,000 you'll earn toward your education!
2025 Annual Meeting - Schedule of Events
3:30 - Off-site parking at Manilla Fire Department
3:45 - Shuttle bus service begins
4:00 - Doors open - kid's activities, •meal service • Highwater Troubadours begin
4:30 & 5:30 - Silly Safaris Shows
4:30 & 6:00 - High Voltage Demonstrations
5:00 - 6:00 - Chat with the CEO
7:00 - Voting closes • All door prizes will be given away
7:15 - Operation RoundUp - Luck of the Draw Scholarship winners announced • Board of director election winners announced • Word from the CEO
7:30 - Meeting concludes
2024 Luck of the Draw Scholarship winners.
Quick Links
RushShelby Energy is proud to recognize several dedicated team members for their years of service and commitment.
Tom Simpson, Propane Meter Reader and Facilities Maintenance Technician, will be celebrating 10 years with RushShelby Energy on June 1. His hard work and versatility have made a lasting impact on our operations and our team.
Also reaching a 10-year milestone on June 1 is Cameron Cox, Journeyman Lineman. Cameron's expertise and dedication to safety and reliability have been invaluable to our members and our mission.
Chris Pile, Journeyman Lineman, is celebrating 5 years of service on June 10. His contributions continue to strengthen our team and ensure quality service in the field.
On The Cover
Steve Stephenson's granddaughter, Marilyn, is featured on the cover of this month's newsletter after helping him earn an Honorable Mention - and a $50 bill credit. Marilyn is pictured enjoying a sweet ice cream treat from Thornburg Concessions at last year's annual meeting. The good news? Thornburg Concessions will be back again this year! So be like Marilyn - come out, join the fun and treat yourself to some ice cream.
2026 Planner Contest
Entries for the 2026 Planner Contest are rolling in! The grand prize winner will have their photo featured on the cover of the 2026 Planner and receive a $250 bill credit. Additionally, 12 honorable mentions will each receive a $50 bill credit and have their photos showcased on the cover of the newsletters in 2026. For complete details and entry rules visit our website at www.rse.coop. The deadline to enter is August 22, 2025 - don't miss this chance to share your talent and earn rewards.
Retirement Checks Coming Soon
RushShelby Energy will soon be mailing out general retirement checks to eligible members. If your patronage refund is less than $75.00, it will automatically be applied to your account and reflect on your statement.
When you signed up for electric with RushShelby Energy, you did more than just connect to the grid - you became a member/owner of our electric cooperative. Whether you've been with us for decades or just recently joined our service area, you share in the benefits of membership. This is just one of the many ways we demonstrate the value of being part of a cooperative.
Dear RushShelby Energy Member -
You are hereby notified that the annual meeting of the members of RushShelby Energy Rural Electric Cooperative, Incorporated will be held at RushShelby Energy, 2777 S 840 W, Manilla, Indiana, on Thursday, July 10, 2025. The doors will open at 4:00 PM (EDST), which will also mark the beginning of the registration period.
You are advised that there are three (3) directors to be elected at this year's annual meeting. The districts open for election are Districts 2, 5 and 8.
The following candidates have submitted petitions to appear on the ballot:
District 2 - Carmen (Nigh) Hawk, Dr. Todd Hitchcock
District 5 - Kenny Aulbach
District 8 - Jordan Barnard, Douglas Wicker
Voting will open at 4:00 PM and close at 7:00 PM. Election results will be announced at 7:15 PM.
This year's meeting will offer a festive atmosphere for the whole family, complete with exhibits, displays, children's activities, entertainment and a meal. All door prize drawings will begin at 7:00 PM.
Please remember to bring the registration card you received in the mail. All members in good standing on the date of the meeting are eligible to register and participate.
We look forward to welcoming you and celebrating another year of cooperative success together.
Cooperatively yours,
Jill Koch
Secretary,
Board of Directors