February 2026

Electrawatt

Celebrating 90 Years of Powering Our Communities

In 2026, RushShelby Energy, originally Shelby County REMC and Rush County REMC before merging in 1998, celebrates an incredible milestone: 90 years of serving our members and communities. This anniversary is more than a number. It represents nine decades of dedication, innovation, perseverance, and people who believed in a simple but powerful idea: when communities work together, they can build something stronger than any one individual ever could.

RushShelby Energy was built by local people who saw a need and chose to act. In the early days, bringing electricity to rural areas was not easy. It meant long hours with limited equipment, in tough conditions, and a lot of determination. Those first employees and founding members were driven by purpose. They weren’t just building power lines; they were building opportunity. With the flip of a switch, farms became more productive, homes became safer and more comfortable, and businesses gained the power they needed to grow. Entire communities were transformed, and everyday life changed forever.

Ninety years later, the tools and technology may look quite different, but the mission has not changed. We still exist to serve our members. We still show up in all kinds of weather, at all hours of the day and night. We still focus on safety, reliability, affordability, and community. And we still rely on teamwork to make it all happen. Behind every energized home and business stands a network of people whose work often goes unseen but never goes unfelt.

Every department, every crew, and every role plays a part in this legacy. From line workers and operations staff to member services, communications, engineering, IT, finance, and administration — each carries forward the work started nearly a century ago. The outages restored in the middle of the night, the member phone calls answered with patience, the meters installed, the safety programs taught, the youth events hosted, the rebates processed, the behind-the-scenes problem solving that keeps everything moving; all of it matters. All of it is RushShelby Energy.

Contributor:

As we look ahead, this milestone year is also a reminder that our story is still being written. The energy industry is changing faster than ever, and the future will bring new challenges, new technology, and new expectations. But if the past nine decades have proven anything, it is that RushShelby Energy knows how to adapt without losing sight of who we are. We are a cooperative. We are member-owned and deeply rooted in the communities we serve. We innovate while staying grounded and modernize while honoring tradition. We move forward together.

This year is an opportunity to honor the employees who came before us, to recognize the work being done right now, and to take pride in the role each of us plays in shaping the next chapter of RSE’s story.

Ninety years of power. Ninety years of service. And thanks to you, a strong future ahead.

Welcome Aboard!

RushShelby Energy is pleased to welcome Landon Browning and Hunter Parsons to the cooperative. Both Landon and Hunter joined the RSE team last month as Groundmen B.

We are excited to have them on board and look forward to watching them grow in their roles as they support our line crews and help serve our members. Please join us in welcoming Landon and Hunter to the RushShelby Energy family.

Electric Blanket Safety

STAY WARM with these HOT TIPS

Electric blankets can be a cozy way to fight the winter chill — but they must be used properly to prevent fire hazards and injuries. Follow these simple tips to stay warm and safe this season:

• Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Examine the blanket regularly for signs of wear or damage to make sure it is safe for continued use. Look for scorched fabric and cracks or breaks in wiring, plugs, and connectors.

• Listen for buzzing temperature control units and be aware of burning odor.

• Never leave unattended or use while sleeping. Turn off and unplug the blanket when it is not in use and make sure cords do not create a tripping hazard.

• Only use when completely unfolded. Folded blankets can overheat. Tucking can pinch the heat-producing wires, which creates a fire hazard.

• Do not put anything on top while operating, even a light bedspread or blanket. When covered by anything, including other bedding or pets, an electric blanket can overheat.

• Avoid use on adjustable beds because the cord and wires can become pinched.

• Blankets older than 10 years old should be replaced.

A little caution goes a long way. Staying safe with heating devices helps protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind all winter long.

Help Shape the Future of Your Cooperative

RushShelbyEnergyBoardofDirectorsOpportunity

RushShelby Energy’s board members are community-minded individuals who bring a wide range of experience and perspectives to the table. Our current board includes farmers, business owners, and other local professionals who use their unique skill sets to help guide long-term priorities and investments.

Because our directors live and work right here in the cooperative’s service territory, they serve as the “eyes and ears” of the community, providing valuable insight into local needs, concerns, and opportunities. Their leadership helps ensure the cooperative remains strong, responsive, and focused on the people we serve.

We recognize that a well-rounded board requires individuals with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints. That’s why we encourage local members who are interested in applying their talents to benefit their friends, neighbors, and communities to consider serving. More than anything, we are looking for people who care deeply about where they live and want to help our cooperative and communities thrive, now and in the future.

What It Means to Be a RushShelby Energy Director

Serving on the RushShelby Energy Board of Directors means making a meaningful local impact. Board members use their individual perspectives to help guide major decisions that affect the cooperative’s future and, in turn, the communities we serve.

While cooperative staff manage day-to-day operations, the board focuses on long-term strategy and governance. The board’s mission is to safeguard the vitality of the cooperative and represent the best interests of the membership.

Board members typically provide guidance on:

• Budgets and financial planning

• Cooperative goals and strategic direction

• Capital investments and system improvements

• Equipment, technology, and infrastructure upgrades

• Renewable energy investments and energy mix

• The cooperative’s role in economic and community development

The electric utility industry is undergoing significant change. Advancing technologies and growing interest in renewable energy are reshaping how electricity is produced, delivered, and used. As RushShelby Energy navigates these changes, board members play a critical role in helping chart the cooperative’s path forward. To best serve our membership, we need input from individuals who reflect the diversity of perspectives within our communities.

Interested in Serving Your Cooperative?

Serving on RushShelby Energy's board of directors is a unique opportunity to represent your neighbors and contribute to the success of our cooperative. You do not need to be an expert in electricity or business to serve. What matters most is a genuine passion for the community and a willingness to actively participate, learn, and lead.

RushShelby Energy seeks individuals who can represent the full range of members we serve. The board meets regularly, and directors are provided with training opportunities to support informed decision-making.

Board service offers a deeper understanding of the electric utility industry, the cooperative business model, and local economic development efforts.

Board Election Information

RushShelby Energy’s board elections will be held at the Annual Meeting on Thursday, July 9, 2026. The board consists of nine directors who set policy and guide the overall direction of the cooperative. Each year, members elect three directors. In 2026, Districts 1, 4, and 7 are up for election.

Any member who resides in a home served by RushShelby Energy and lives in one of the districts up for election may have their name placed on the ballot by completing a petition. Each petition must include 15 signatures from other RushShelby Energy members, from anywhere within the cooperative’s service territory.

Petitions will be available at our office beginning March 2, 2026, and must be completed and returned no later than May 1, 2026.

Additional information is available at www.rse.coop under the Bylaws section.

Board seats are currently held by: District 1 - Keith Theobald, District 2 - Carmen Hawk, District 3 - Ann Sipes, District 4 - Charles Smith, District 5 - Kenny Aulbach, District 6 - Robert Stroup, District 7 - Bruce Everhart, District 8 - Doug Wicker, and District 9 - Jill Koch.

Youth Opportunities

The deadlines for multiple youth experiences is fast approaching. Don't miss out on these exciting opportunties of a lifetime.

Indiana Youth Tour to Washington D. C. – Deadline February 13, 2026

Selected students spend seven unforgettable days exploring historic monuments and world-class museums, meeting Indiana’s congressional delegation on Capitol Hill, and connecting with young leaders from across the country. Sponsored entirely by RushShelby Energy, students not only gain a deeper understanding of American history and government but also return home with new friendships, stronger leadership skills, and memories that last a lifetime.

Student Art Calendar – Deadline:

February 27, 2026, 3:00 pm

Indiana Electric Cooperatives’ Student Art Contest is open to all K-12 students who want to showcase their artistic talents. A first-place artist will be selected for each grade level, and each winner will receive a $100 prize. Honorable mentions will also be selected and awarded $50 each. Winning artwork may be featured in Indiana Connection and exhibited throughout the annual meeting in Indianapolis.

RushShelby Energy Scholarship - Deadline: April 13, 2026

RushShelby Energy is proud to support local students by offering two $2,000 scholarships to high school and homeschooled seniors graduating in May 2026. To be eligible, applicants must be the child of a RushShelby Energy member and must live in a home served by RushShelby Energy. Scholarships will be awarded based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, community service, and a written essay.

This scholarship reflects our cooperative's commitment to education and to investing in the future of the communities we serve.

Camp

Kilowatt – Deadline: May 1, 2026

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Indiana Electric Cooperative has changed the original date and location for the 2026 Camp Kilowatt experience. The new location will be Happy Hollow Children's Camp in Nashville, Indiana. The date has changed to July 26-29, 2026. Camp Kilowatt is open to students entering seventh grade at the start of the 2026-2027 school year.

Just like in previous years at Camp Tecumseh, campers will enjoy a fun, hands-on experience while learning about electricity generation and transmission, watching a live line safety demonstration, and participating in exciting activities such as horseback riding, archery, zip lines, and water activities on Lilly Lake.

For more information or to apply, visit https://www.rse.coop/community/youth-activities/ or scan the QR code.

Watt's Good to Know

Score Big with Energy Savings!

Every super bowl MVP makes big plays, and you can too! Use the clues below to fill in the blanks and learn how you can help and save energy at home by making smart, efficient plays. Double check your work in the answer key.